ADHD Essentials for Parents ***please register using the poster only***

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Presented By: Tanya Keto (MEd), Registered Psychologist
Clinic Director of AVERY Family and School Psychology Services

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviours, or over-activity. There are three different types of ADHD, depending on which symptoms are strongest in the individual, and each of these subtypes may impact children differently. Neurological deficits, not unwillingness, keep kids with attention deficit disorder from learning and behaving in expected ways. Adults are key in setting these students on a path to success! In this session, we will discuss ADHD diagnosis, the ADHD brain, ADHD as a disorder of Executive Functioning, treatment, and setting kids up for success.

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Intro to Circle of Security ***please register using the poster only*** ** NOT RECORDED

Noon - 1:00 PM

Presented by: Jan McInnis, Program Facilitator, Families Matter

Jan's background is in Diploma of Social Work. Worked for 10 years supporting parents with developmental disabilities and 10 years providing parent coaching and visit supervision to individuals. She has facilitated Parent/Child Mother Goose and The Roots of Empathy programs. She has been facilitating COSP since 2014 with groups and individuals.

Brief description: The Circle of Security is a relationship based early intervention program designed to enhance attachment security between parents and children. Decades of university-based research have confirmed that secure children exhibit increased empathy, greater self-esteem, better relationships with parents and peers, enhanced school readiness, and an increased capacity to handle emotions more effectively when compared with children who are not secure. Please join Jan for a 1-hour session that reviews some of the key concepts from the Circle of Security attachment-based parenting program.

The Effects of Screen Time and Social Media on Children’s Development & Mental Health ***please register using the poster only***

Noon - 1:30 PM

Presented by: Cheryl Gilbert MacLeod, Ph.D., R. Psych
The Family Psychology Place

Screens and social media can influence children's development and mental health, sometimes leading to increased anxiety, sleep issues, or challenges with self-esteem. Learn how to support your children by understanding the impact they have, and the role of setting healthy boundaries for screen time, encouraging open conversations about online experiences, modelling balanced digital habits, and fostering resilience and well-being in a digital age.

Collaborative Problem Solving Approach for Children, Youth and Families ***IN-PERSON SESSION, Please register using the poster only***

1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Presenters:

Rhonda Kent, MA Counselling, RSW, Registered Psychologist, Clinical Supervisor, Early Childhood & Perinatal Mental Health, Recovery Alberta

T.C.R. Wilkes, B.Sc., M.B., ChB., M. Phil., D.C.H., F.R.C.P. (Edin), F.R.C. Psych., F.R.C.P.(C), D.L.F.A.P.A., I.A.A.P., Professor Emeritus, Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Consulting Child, Adolescent, Family Psychiatrist & Analyst, Recovery Alberta

Objectives:
1. To learn about the difference between triggers/expectations, lagging skills and challenging behavior.
2. To understand the rationale for helping children and youth develop 5 common lagging skills for better adaptation.
3. To learn the advantages of collaborative vs. coercive approaches with children and youth.

Session LOCATION:
Hull Services – Social Room 2266 Woodpark Ave SW, Calgary

Parenting your Teen with Confidence ***please register using the poster only***

Noon - 1:30 PM

Presented by Tanya Du Plessis, Program Facilitator, B.A.
Families Matter

Parenting teens can feel like walking a tightrope between holding boundaries and staying connected. Join us for this one hour session to equip caregivers with practical, relationship-centered tools to strengthen connection while fostering independence and resilience.

Navigating Technology with our Youth ***please register using the poster only*** *NOT being recorded*

Noon - 1:30 PM

Presented by: Andrea Halwas Larsen, PhD, CT, REACE, Associate Therapist and Education Coordinator of Juno House

This session is facilitated by a therapist from Juno House who has years of both clinical and facilitating experience. Juno House was founded in 2008 as a Centre of Excellence for adolescent girls and young women who are experiencing anxiety-based mental health issues of self harm, obsessive compulsive disorders, depression and eating disorders.

Technology is everywhere: the good, the bad and the ugly. Our youth need to learn how to navigate this world and how to be critical about their relationship with tech.

This session is not only about technology’s impact on youth, but is also about a child’s healthy brain development and the necessary parenting role in creating healthy, emotionally regulated and integrated brains. It will teach the foundation of a child’s emotional brain development, how to grow it, and how technology can dangerously hijack it.

This 90-minute session will provide participants with:
• an understanding of the basic neuroscience behind healthy brain development,
• the dangers of technology for healthy brain development,
• technology use rules to help you and your child manage tech use,
• strategies to connect to your child including how to be an emotion coach and build a relationship that can be stronger than their relationship with their tech.

*NOT being recorded*

Can We Talk: Sex Ed for Parents ***please register using the poster only*** ** NOT RECORDED

10:00 AM - Noon

Presented by:
Diana Wark (She/Her), Parent Program Coordinator for Centre for Sexuality

Join us for an interactive workshop to learn how to navigate those sometimes awkward but essential conversations that foster well-being, healthy relationships and informed decision-making. We empower parents with knowledge, skills and confidence to engage in open, honest and supportive conversations about sexuality and sexual health with their children.

This session we will explore puberty including the physical and emotional changes. We will examine how to support young people during puberty and gain tools to discuss sexuality and learn tools for decision making with teens.

** Session is NOT recorded

Supporting Fathers in their Parenting Journey ***please register using the poster only***

Noon - 1:30 PM

Presented by Michael Bautista, Program Facilitator, Families Matter.

Fathers play an integral role in the development and mental well-being of their children; however, we often disregard the needs of fathers in their parenting journey.

This presentation will explore some common themes and myths associated with fatherhood and provide participants with ways to encourage father involvement. Strategies around engagement will also be reflected on which will further highlight the importance of how we can support fathers in their parenting journey.

Community Drug Awareness ***please register using the poster only*** *NOT being recorded*

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Presented by: Izabella Almasi, B.A., M.A., Community Outreach Coordinator,
YouthLink Calgary Police Interpretive Centre

This presentation will:

• Provide parents, guardians, and adults who work closely with youth with the information they need to feel empowered to begin conversations about drug safety.
• Cover a variety of topics, including the risks of both legal and illegal drugs; the ongoing opioid crisis and its impact on youth; common myths about drugs and drug use; and how youth are using social media and the internet to access illegal substances.
• Provide an overview of cannabis use and vaping among teens and young adults.
We will conclude the presentation with tips on how you can keep the youth in your life safe and informed.

NOT being recorded

Unmasking ADHD in Girls: Insights, Strategies, and Next Steps ***please register using the poster only***

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Presented by:
Dr. Alethea Heudes, Registered Psychologist

This presentation explores how ADHD can present differently in girls, why it is often overlooked or misunderstood, and how it impacts their day-to-day lives. Participants will leave with strategies, tools, and guidance on next steps for seeking a diagnosis and/or accessing support

Understanding Your Child’s IPP: How Parents Can Advocate and Provide Meaningful Support ***please register using the poster only***

11:00 AM - Noon

Presented by: Tanya Leukefeld, Bachelor of Psychology

This workshop, “IPP’s: What Can Parents Do?”, empowers parents with knowledge and practical tools to support their child’s IPP journey. Participants will learn about the purpose and structure of IPPs, how to effectively advocate for their child’s needs, and practical strategies to support learning at home. Join us to feel more confident supporting your child’s success!

Growing Resilient Teens ***please register using the poster only*** *NOT being recorded*

Noon - 1:30 PM

Presented by: Andrea Halwas Larsen, PhD, CT, REACE, Associate Therapist and Education Coordinator of Juno House

This session is facilitated by a therapist from Juno House who has years of both clinical and facilitating experience. Juno House was founded in 2008 as a Centre of Excellence for adolescent girls and young women who are experiencing anxiety-based mental health issues of self harm, obsessive compulsive disorders, depression and eating disorders.

Before high school graduation, 1/3 of adolescent girls will experience depression, anxiety disorders, self-harm or an eating disorder. However, parents, coaches and teachers have extraordinary healing powers to support our teens as they develop into young adulthood.

Resilience is not taught, it is grown in our children. There are ways that we can help our children become more resilient starting within our relationship first.

This 90-minute session will provide participants with:
• a basic introduction of interpersonal neurobiology and anxiety,
• the essential role emotions play in mental well-being,
• how to identify emotions in your child,
• strategies to have a better relationship with your child including how to be an emotion coach.

NOT being recorded

Mental health for highly sensitive teens; unique struggles for these emotional feelers ***please register using the poster only*** *NOT being recorded*

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Presented by: Tracy Fields, BSW, MSW in partnership with Tracy Fields Counselling

Highly sensitive teens are often misunderstood by parents and teachers as they often have stronger emotional reactions. In this presentation, learn why this happens, and the necessary tools required to help these teens manage their emotions so they don't become derailed.

NOT being recorded

Sleep Matters: Understanding and Supporting Teen Sleep ***please register using the poster only***

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Mary MacLeod, MSc, Community Health, Cumming School of Medicine; Director of Research, Family Sleep Institute; Founder of De Somno; Member of International Pediatric Sleep Association, Behavioural Sleep Medicine Association, and International Association of Child Sleep Consultants.

Teen sleep is biologically different from child or adult sleep. This session highlights what affects healthy sleep and offers actions that can help improve sleep in this age group influencing learning, mood, mental health, decision-making, and overall wellbeing.

Mental Health & Youth ***please register using the poster only***

Noon - 1:30 PM

Presented by: Community Health Promotion Services (CHPS), Recovery Alberta

It is normal for children and youth to experience various types of emotional distress as they develop and mature. To promote positive mental health, it is important to be aware of mental illnesses, recognize signs, engage in meaningful conversations, and support a balanced life. This presentation will support you in gaining a greater understanding of mental health and reflect on how you can support the young people in your life.

Navigating Technology with our Youth ***please register using the poster only*** *NOT being recorded*

Noon - 1:30 PM

Presented by: Andrea Halwas Larsen, PhD, CT, REACE, Associate Therapist and Education Coordinator of Juno House

This session is facilitated by a therapist from Juno House who has years of both clinical and facilitating experience. Juno House was founded in 2008 as a Centre of Excellence for adolescent girls and young women who are experiencing anxiety-based mental health issues of self harm, obsessive compulsive disorders, depression and eating disorders.

Technology is everywhere: the good, the bad and the ugly. Our youth need to learn how to navigate this world and how to be critical about their relationship with tech.

This session is not only about technology’s impact on youth, but is also about a child’s healthy brain development and the necessary parenting role in creating healthy, emotionally regulated and integrated brains. It will teach the foundation of a child’s emotional brain development, how to grow it, and how technology can dangerously hijack it.

This 90-minute session will provide participants with:
• an understanding of the basic neuroscience behind healthy brain development,
• the dangers of technology for healthy brain development,
• technology use rules to help you and your child manage tech use,
• strategies to connect to your child including how to be an emotion coach and build a relationship that can be stronger than their relationship with their tech.

*NOT being recorded*

Mental Health & Youth ***please register using the poster only***

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Presented by: Community Health Promotion Services (CHPS), Recovery Alberta

It is normal for children and youth to experience various types of emotional distress as they develop and mature. To promote positive mental health, it is important to be aware of mental illnesses, recognize signs, engage in meaningful conversations, and support a balanced life. This presentation will support you in gaining a greater understanding of mental health and reflect on how you can support the young people in your life.

Talking to Youth with Complex Needs About Sexuality ***please register using the poster only***

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Presenter: Primary Care Alberta (PCA), Sexual & Reproductive Health, Calgary Zone

Presenter bio: PCA Sexual & Reproductive Health is a leader in sexual health, providing integrated clinical, education and health promotion services in the Calgary zone. Our educators deliver affirming, objective and accessible comprehensive sexuality education to community, school and professional groups. Committed to using evidence-informed approaches, we support Albertans develop the knowledge, attitudes and skills to enhance their own healthy sexuality through life.


Everyone, no matter their ability, deserves sexual health information, but people with disabilities are often left out of these conversations. In this session, you will learn how to talk about sexual health and sexuality with youth who have complex needs.

Youth Crime ***please register using the poster only*** *NOT being recorded*

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Presented by: Taylore Saban, Community Outreach Coordinator,
YouthLink Calgary Police Interpretive Centre

Participants will learn:

- How and why young people engage in criminal behaviour, as well as the lasting impact on their lives and communities.
- Current trends in youth crime, challenging popular media and common misconceptions, and the risk factors associated with young offenders.
- Consequences of youth crime through the implementation of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the use of extrajudicial measures in youth sentencing, and the reality of youth incarceration.
- What protects youth, families, and communities from engaging in risky behaviour, and numerous youth-focused resources available within Calgary.

Understanding OCD: An Overview of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ***please register using the poster only***

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Presented by: Lisa Skriver, MEd. RPsych.

This session will focus on understanding what OCD is, who is affected by OCD, and the treatments available. There will also be information about resources and support available for individuals with OCD and their families.

Can We Talk: Childhood (0-12yrs) Development and Sexuality ***please register using the poster only*** ** NOT RECORDED

10:00 AM - Noon

Presented by:
Diana Wark (She/Her), Parent Program Coordinator for Centre for Sexuality

Join us for an interactive workshop to learn how to navigate those sometimes awkward but essential conversations that foster well-being, healthy relationships and informed decision-making. We empower parents with knowledge, skills and confidence to engage in open, honest and supportive conversations about sexuality and sexual health with their children.

This session we will learn about childhood milestones. Explore why and how to use correct words for body parts, establish boundaries and discuss consent for the very young to elementary school age children. Get your questions answered and learn how to answer your little ones’ questions.

** Session is NOT recorded