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We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
From time to time, the Waterloo Region Family Network (WRFN) is asked to distribute information on behalf of third parties. WRFN provides general information to self-advocates and families of children with special needs. The information provided on this website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider. WRFN is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. You are urged to use independent judgment when considering any resource.
WORKSHOPS:
DADS MATTER
November 24th, Thursday from 6:00-7:30pm In-Person: Downtown Community Centre (Kitchener)
DADS AND MALE-IDENTIFIED CAREGIVERS AND THEIR CHILDREN AGES 4-6 YEARS
Join us in the gym for the opportunity to:
Learn how to be your child’s #1 fan and coach, learn the basics of soccer, and learn how to increase parent patience, healthy communication, and understanding of how important it is to spend time with your child.
TRAUMA INFORMED PARENTING WORKSHOP
Starting January 17, Tuesdays from 5:30-7:00pm (8-weeks)
A group for nonbinary and female-identifying pre-teens grade 6-8. Through activities, games, and art kids will learn healthy ways to cope with anxious or low feelings while reducing isolation. This group will support participants in developing CBT and mindfulness skills.
In-person: Carizon, 400 Queen St. S. Kitchener.
1. Wednesday, January 18 (Part 1) and Wednesday, January 25 (Part 2) from 9:30am-12:00pm | 2. Wednesday, March 22 (Part 1) and Wednesday, March 29 (Part 2) from 6:00-8:30pm In-Person: 645 Westmount Rd. E. Kitchener (all sessions)
PARENTS/CAREGIVERS
These workshops are offered for parents/caregivers of children who have experienced trauma. The purpose is to assist caregivers with understanding trauma and what it means to parent their child from a trauma-informed perspective. There are two sessions in the series: Part one focuses on defining trauma and its symptoms. Part Two provides strategies and tools for caregivers to assist their child in dealing with trauma. Part One must be completed prior to Part Two. No cost – funded by the Ministry of Health.
CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS:
Starting January 17, Tuesdays from 5:30-7:00pm (8-weeks)
A group for nonbinary and female-identifying pre-teens grade 6-8. Through activities, games, and art kids will learn healthy ways to cope with anxious or low feelings while reducing isolation. This group will support participants in developing CBT and mindfulness skills.
In-person: Carizon, 400 Queen St. S. Kitchener.
Starting January 19, Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm (8-weeks)
In this group, children will have the opportunity to learn strategies for managing their big emotions through interactive discussions, games and activities. Participants will learn new skills including how to regulate and calm their bodies, thoughts and emotions.
In-person: Carizon, 645 Westmount Rd. E. Kitchener.
Starting January 19, Thursday's from 4:00-5:30pm (8-weeks)
Connect with other youth in our in-person group through games, art, play, and conversation. We will explore a wide range of issues that are important to you and explore new ways to connect with others!
In-person: Forest Heights Community Centre, 1700 Queen’s Blvd, Kitchener.
Starting January 19, Thursdays, 5:00-6:00pm (8-weeks)
Social skills are tricky! Through activities, discussions, and social interaction, this group teaches children how to problem solve and how to handle challenges in social situations.
In-person: Carizon, 645 Westmount Rd. E. Kitchener.
Starting January 18, Wednesdays from 5:00-6:00pm (8-weeks) Virtual
Play isn’t just fun; it’s how children learn about their world. Adults engaging and being present in play is a “hands-on” way to establish a deep connection and strengthen relationships. Our weekly, virtual, family group sessions will focus on arts & crafts, active games, and activities (materials provided).
Starting January 18, Wednesdays from 6:30-7:30pm (8-weeks) Virtual
In this virtual group, families will participate in discussions and activities promoting healthy lifestyle and family wellbeing. Every other week will be a cooking session where families shop for, prepare, and cook a meal together. Families in the group then join together for a virtual family meal. On alternate weeks we will be learning and interacting through healthy activities and play.
Starting January 17th, Tuesdays from 6:00-7:30pm (8-weeks) In-Person: Downtown Community Centre (Kitchener).
This program will help you to:
– Relate better to and connect with your child
– Commit more quality time with your child
– Teach your children about important topics like emotions, health, and communication
Starting January 17, Tuesdays from 3:30-5:00pm (8-weeks) In-person: Victoria Hills Community Centre, 10 Chopin Drive, Kitchener.
Looking for a place to meet new people and make new connections through games, activities and sports? Join our YEAH! – Youth Empowerment and Healing – newcomer youth group to support one another and share experiences that matter to you in a safe and encouraging environment. We want to hear what you’re interested in and we will share ideas and resources together to help you reach your goals!
Starting January 18, Wednesdays from 6:00-7:30pm (8-weeks) In-person: Carizon, 400 Queen St. S. Kitchener.
AGES 14-17, FEMALE-IDENTIFYING, NON-BINARY, WATERLOO REGION
A group for non-binary and female-identified youth aged 14-17 years old that focuses on increasing self-esteem, improving mood, and developing healthy relationships. Through a combination of art, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques, participants will build on their strengths, reduce isolation, and learn healthy ways to cope with anxious or low feelings.
Male-Identified: Starting January 26, Thursdays from 6:00-8:00pm | Female-Identified: Starting January 16, Mondays from 1:00-3:00pm In person: Carizon, 400 Queen St. S. Kitchener.
This is a skills-based group to learn about where our anger comes from and how to express and manage our emotions in healthier ways.
Starting January 24, Tuesdays from 10:00-11:30am (8-weeks) Virtual
There is no training for becoming a parent. Although exciting, the transition to having a new baby at home can also be challenging. Transitioning to Parenthood is an 8-week series where you can talk with others who have a new baby, or a child up to age 2, and be connected to community resources and information by our EarlyON and Carizon (CPNP) team including a clinician (MSW). Topics include: Exploring the role of new parents; Coping with parenting stressors and the impact of COVID-19; What is post-partum depression?; Circles of support; Attachment theory; And community supports. *Participants do not have to be 18+.
Starting January 12, Thursdays from 1:30-3:00 pm Virtual
This group is a support group for people who are looking to gain and receive support around the challenges of living with chronic pain. As this is an open group, group membership will be different in each group and members can attend the weeks that work for them. Participants can register at anytime.
Starting January 18, Wednesdays from 2:30-4:30pm Virtual
This group provides education and support for women who have experienced any form of abuse and are working towards setting better boundaries in their lives. Group sessions include opportunities for discussion, reflection, and making personal connections.
Starting January 17, Tuesdays from 10:30-11:30am (10-weeks) Virtual
The First Time Parents Group is a 10-week, parenting support and educational program for first time parents and caregivers. Come together and build a community! Join us to talk about breastfeeding, introduction to solids, infant safety, sleep, and much more! *Participants do not have to be 18+
Starting January 18, Wednesdays from 1:00-2:30pm (10-weeks) In-person: Early ON Cambridge.
Join our Program Coordinator, Registered Dietitian, other pregnant individuals, and their support people, to talk about your healthy pregnancy! We offer: Prenatal Vitamins, Vitamin D Drops, Grocery Gift Cards, Breast Feeding Support, Referrals to other community supports, Information about healthy eating during pregnancy, Tips on cooking healthy meals, budgeting for your family and much more! *Participants do not have to be 18+.
In person: Starting January 23, Mondays from 5:30-7:30pm | Virtual: Starting January 19, Thursdays from 1:00-3:00pm In-person: Carizon, 400 Queen St. S. Kitchener or Virtual
This group provides education and support for women who have experienced emotional or physical abuse within their intimate relationships.
Starting January 20, Fridays from 10:00am-12:00pm In-person: Carizon, 400 Queen St. S. Kitchener.
An engaging, interactive, skills-based group for adults struggling with anxiety. Group members will learn how certain behaviours reinforce anxiety, develop tools to better tolerate and accept uncomfortable emotions, and practice new ways to move towards the things that matter in their lives.
Two sessions (6-weeks) to choose from: 1. January 16-February 27, Monday’s from 1:00-3:00pm | 2. January 18-March 1, Wednesday’s from 1:00-3:00pm Virtual
Would you like to feel more confident about managing your money? Does thinking about money make you feel stressed and worried? This 6-week group is for you! Facilitators are experienced in the emotional piece that goes along with thinking about finances.
Starting January 20, Fridays from 10:00-11:30pm (8-weeks)
Do you find parenting in a new culture stressful? Are you looking for ways to connect with your child? Join us to Talk it Through with parents just like you where you can learn and share strategies.
Starting January 19, Thursdays from 1:00-3:00pm (12-weeks)
A supportive space for members with similar experiences to identify what triggers their trauma reactions and practice the skills necessary to cope and feel grounded. Discussion includes effect of trauma on brain and body; self-care; mindfulness; emotion regulation; connecting thoughts and feelings; decision making a coping; planning for the future.
Multiple sessions. See below. In-person for sessions 2 and 4: 645 Westmount Rd. E. Kitchener
Multiple Sessions:
At times, all parents feel lost or without a clue about what our child might need from us. Imagine what it might feel like if you were able to make sense of what your child was really asking from you. The Circle of Security® Parenting™ program is based on decades of research about how secure parent-child relationships can be supported and strengthened. (Circle of Security International, 2019).
Using the COSP™ model developed by the Circle of Security originators, our trained facilitators work with parents and caregivers to help them to:
Starting January 26, Thursdays from 1:00-3:00pm In person: Carizon, 400 Queen St. S. Kitchener.
A group for women who have experienced emotional or physical abuse, focusing on safety, building self-esteem, ending the cycle of violence, and learning how to be healthy in relationships. Understanding Me is a pre-requisite for this group.
Male-Identified: Starting January 26, Thursdays from 6:00-8:00pm | Female-Identified: Starting January 16, Mondays from 1:00-3:00pm
This is a skills-based group to learn about where our anger comes from and how to express and manage our emotions in healthier ways.
In person: Carizon, 400 Queen St. S. Kitchener.
To register for any groups or workshops, email groups@carizon.ca or call 519-743-6333 ext. 3250
