Liz Leroux, MSW. RSW

Manager, YWCA Child & Family Services

YWCA of Calgary

Child Support Program at Sheriff King Home

Impact of Witnessing Domestic Violence

Heightened arousal Separation anxiety Nervous & anxious

behaviors Changes in play

Sleep disturbancesRegressionActing out behaviorsInternalizing behaviors

Child Support Program Philosophy

Designed to meet therapeutic needs of children & adolescents staying at SKH

Children recognized as clients with unique needs

Child Support Counsellors will support and advocate for children during their stay at the shelter

Child Support Program Goals

Provide a supportive relationship with children in a safe environment

Support children in identifying and expressing feelings

Facilitate development of problem-solving skills

Develop safety plans with children

Child Support Program Goals

Provide info around nature and forms of abuse and responsibility for violence

To facilitate the processing of traumatic experiences

To support moms with non-abusive parenting strategies

Empower moms to interact and take responsibility for their children

The Playroom

A safe, nurturing place for “kids to be kids” Child-centered play Inclusive setting, wheelchair accessible Opportunity for mom to have a break Not a day-care setting

The Playroom Hours

Preschool (0-5) Monday- Friday: 9:30-11:30AM

1:00- 3:00 PM

except Wednesday: 1:00-2:15 PM

Summer Hours: Monday- Friday: 9:30-11:30AM

School-aged Children(6+) Tuesday &Thursday: 3:30- 4:30 PM

Kids Club: Thursday after school

Summer Hours: Monday- Friday:1:00-3:00

PM, except Wednesdays 1:00-2:15PM

Assessment & Intervention

Assessment Parenting Intake Children’s Intake Playroom Observations Play Themes

Interventions Child–centered play Resources & Referrals Parenting Strategies &

Support Safety Planning with

School-aged children Worry Buddies Kids Klub Journaling Relaxation Techniques