CHERYL MOCK
Development of Self-Regulation in Young Children
Denver Location
The sensory system influences behavior for both typical children and those with sensory processing issues due to genetics, trauma, or general developmental delay. Effective behavior management depends on correctly identifying when negative behaviors are willful and when they can’t be helped. Understanding the roles of sensory processing, emotional regulation, and arousal modulation in daily life activities provides a valuable perspective on how to interpret inappropriate behaviors and how to correct them. In this session we will look at an overview of the brain systems and balanced development and review the relationship to diagnoses such as sensory processing disorder, ADHD, attachment disorders, PTSD, and learning disabilities. Then we’ll explore practical ideas for helping children maintain a “Just Right” state of arousal and functional behavior. This will include Q&A time to discuss specific situations or behavior issues you may already have in mind.
MEGAN MAGEL
Growing a Heart for Teens
Denver Location
We can all agree that teenagers today face many complicated challenges. Not only are they experiencing the dramatic neurological and physiological changes in development, those who have experienced trauma are also trying to fill in gaps or overcome abuse or neglect from childhood. Join us as we address teen brain development and how it impacts their navigation through the challenges of our times. By increasing understanding of their developmental process, we are able to learn how to meet our teenagers where they are at by balancing unrelenting grace and nurturing structure.
SADIE DODSON
Sharing the Stories of Our Culture
Denver Location
Foster kids often come to us feeling violated, broken, unloved, unlovable, shameful, bad, and/or unimportant to anyone. Healing comes through building safety and trust. In order for us to do that we must help them feel seen, heard, loved, lovable, valuable, and precious. One way we can do this is through listening to their stories, learning about their culture and background, and helping them embrace these parts of themselves. Paying attention to their stories gives us the opportunity to highlight the points of light in the darkness. Through stories we are able to show them their worth in God’s kingdom.
ALEXANDRA KUYKENDALL
Living Well: How Our Habits and Margins Impact Our Ability to Serve
NOCO Location
As caretakers we are well versed in putting others’ needs above our own. In fact, as Christians we can make a justified case for sacrificial service. At the same time we know we are only as effective in caring for those with high needs as we are healthy. Attending to our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs is not about being selfish, but about being effective servants. We want to be people who are interruptible, allowing enough space for God to move in our lives, without neglecting our mission of caring for vulnerable kids. Gain practical steps to be intentional about stewarding time and energy so that your daily life’s habits and margins set you up for success as you care for others.
CHURCH MINISTRY BREAKOUT
Denver Location
Wondering how to serve foster/adoption families better in your community? Join us for an interactive Q&A session where local church leaders share their experiences and creative ideas for supporting foster/adoption families through the local church ministry.
Featured Ministry Leaders:
Featured Ministry Leaders:
- Pastor Mark Gomez, Sola Church
- Emily Stam, Fellowship Denver Church