November 8, 2019 Pediatrician For President Educates & Activates Community In October 2019, Pediatrician For President launched his campaign to educate, motivate, and activate supporters and community leaders on early childhood issues. About Are you passionate about improving the health and wellbeing of children in the United States of America? Consider supporting Pediatrician For President in his campaign to engage, entertain, and educate the community on the following concepts: there is a national need to put a greater focus on Kids Health (and everything that impacts health); science and evidence-based medicine is important and should guide our path; and we could all spread more kindness and appreciate the kindness we receive. Pediatrician For President is a project established by Kids Plus Pediatrics. While Dr. Todd Wolynn will be portraying the character of Pediatrician For President, Wolynn is not running for president. About the Issues Pediatrician For President launched his campaign on the following beliefs: 1. Significant changes and investments are needed in Kids Health. Currently, the United States healthcare system is failing kids. “We need care – not coverage!” Moms, dads, caregivers, and community health are suffering and must be addressed to support the healthy development and wellbeing of children. We need meaningful Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) solutions. Human dignity and respect must be given to nurture the best in people. 2. Science is good (not perfect) but continues to improve and is a key to guiding our path. Research is necessary to continue to improve science and its guidance and requires significant support. We must reaffirm what science indicates as fact and dispel myths. Anti-science efforts must be combated and their ulterior motives to monetize, polarize, and politize must be exposed. 3. Kindness is abundant and renewable if we’re mindful and generous. This is not a plea for civility. Rather, the campaign seeks to remind us to keep our hearts open. The campaign will never suggest that people should not be angry. However, the campaign is rooted in a positive approach and with the intention to bring necessary change. We are all human, we are all connected, and compassion is good. Compassion puts us on the path to bring change to resolve suffering. Why Should You Support? Pediatrician For President: is completely aligned with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) policies and positions and will frequently direct and refer to AAP policies, statements, and resources; is kind, passionate, and respectful: he will never sling mud, swear, or insult; emulates Mister Rogers’ from his deep, true nurturing of his Congressional testimony combined with ‘Kid President’ matter-of-fact awesomeness; and his superpowers are his Pediatrician’s desire to help kids and families, his trust of the community, and his drive to bring about positive change The Plan Pediatrician For President is a centrist campaign – similarly to how the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) achieves bi-partisan support with a “Put Kids First” agenda. The campaign believes that kids, science, and kindness are three issues that many community members are passionate about and are willing to stand behind to make the United States of America and the world a better place. Pediatrician For President will never attack, celebrate, or acknowledge any particular political party or candidate. Rather, he will stay focused on the issues while reminding everyone about what makes us human and connected. Pediatricians, Pediatric Providers, and Pediatric Practices are some of the most trusted professions and organizations in the United States of America. While initial support may come from these groups, the campaign hopes families, friends, and their friends will rally behind this effort to better the lives of children and the community. Follow the Campaign Thus far, Pediatrician For President has stops planned in New Orleans, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., New York, Philadelphia, Miami, Denver, San Francisco, and more! In cities across the United States of America, the candidate will visit healthcare workers, universities, landmarks, and other key opportunities. In fact, he’ll even be shaking a lot of hands, holding babies, and taking selfies with fans. Don’t worry – he will be carrying Purell! If you’re interested in following his progress, follow Pediatrician For President on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. There, he will be sharing posts and photo updates about the campaign and his journey. Will you support his campaign to help improve kid’s health and wellbeing?
July 25, 2019 House Committee Holds Hearing On Childhood Trauma On July 11, Elijah E. Cummings, the Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, convened a hearing entitled “Identifying, Preventing, and Treating Childhood Trauma: A Pervasive Public Health Issue that Needs Greater Federal Attention.” About Convening to hear directly from trauma survivors, public health experts, and government officials, the hearing examined the long-term consequences of childhood trauma and the insufficiency of the federal response to this urgent public health issue. The Committee on Oversight and Reform provided the following background information: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kaiser Permanente conducted a landmark study that found adults who had suffered “adverse childhood experiences” were at much higher risk for leading causes of death in the United States, including heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, and suicide. Extensive research demonstrates that exposure to community violence, homelessness, unsafe neighborhoods, bullying, racial and ethnic discrimination, income insecurity, natural disasters, intergenerational trauma, or historical trauma also increases the likelihood of negative health outcomes. The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) recently issued a report on Children Affected by Trauma that reviewed the various approaches and challenges to supporting children affected by trauma in six states. GAO found that “Trauma is a widespread, harmful, and costly public health problem, and is especially detrimental to children.” Key Takeaways The hearing included the following key takeaways: Childhood trauma is a pervasive public health issue with long-term negative effects that cost the United Stated billions of dollars. Congress recently passed legislation that recognizes the severe consequences of childhood trauma, but current programs and initiatives are insufficient to address this public health issue. Some states and localities are implementing promising programs to help prevent and treat childhood trauma that can inform federal solutions, but they are facing resource constraints that limit their ability to do so. The United States needs a comprehensive federal approach that recognizes the severe impact of childhood trauma and prioritizes prevention and treatment. *Information provided by the House Committee on Oversight and Reform
June 3, 2019 The 10th Annual PA Infant Mental Health Conference Join the Pennsylvania Association for Infant Mental Health (PA-AIMH) on August 1 and 2 for the 10th Annual PA Infant Mental Health Conference. Keynote Topics PA-AIMH strives to provide a meaningful professional learning environment for all cross-sector professionals working with very young children and their families. Keynote topics will include: Infant and early childhood mental health-focused policy and messaging; Clinical interventions; Disaster and critical incident response; and Reflective supervision and practice. PQAS and Act 48 credits available for professionals in the Early Childhood Education system. Keynote Speakers Jordana Ash, LCSW, IMH-E Director of Early Childhood Mental Health Director, State of Colorado Sherryl Scott Heller, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, Tulane University Joy Osofsky, Ph.D. Professor of Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and Public Health Head, Division of Pediatric Mental Health, Louisiana State University Christopher Watson, Ph.D., IMH-E Director of the Center for Reflective Practice at the Center for Early Education and Development, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Registration To register, visit the event website. Registration cost: Member: $315 General: $350 More Information For more information, visit the event website. For questions, contact PA-AIMH via email at pa-aimh@pa.-aimh.org.
May 16, 2019 Foster Care Awareness and National Mental Health Month Did you know that May is Foster Care Awareness Month and National Mental Health Month? In recognition of these important subjects, Every Child Inc. has highlighted information and statistics for individuals to consider as we work to better support Pennsylvania’s children, families, caregivers, and community members. Foster Care Facts Approximately 13,000 – 15,000 PA children are currently in foster care and part of the child welfare system. Between 400,000 – 500,000 children in the U.S. are in foster care each year. In 2013, more than 8,000 youth 13 and older lived in the foster care system in PA. One in four PA youth who “age out” of the system experience homelessness and/or struggle with mental health challenges such as depression, substance abuse, and anxiety disorders, with nearly 1 in 4 youth having been arrested since leaving care. Young PA women in foster care are two and a half times more likely to become pregnant by 19 than young women were not in foster care. Mental Health Facts ADHD, behavior problems, anxiety, and depression are the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children. Treatment rates vary among different mental disorders: Nearly 8 in 10 children (78.1%) aged 3-17 years with depression received treatment. 6 in 10 children (59.3%) aged 3-17 years with anxiety received treatment. More than 5 in 10 children (53.5%) aged 3-17 years with behavior disorders received treatment. Mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders begin in early childhood: 1 in 6 U.S. children aged 2–8 years (17.4%) had a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder.
May 9, 2019 Historic Increases for Early Learning & Development Programs The House Appropriations Committee recently approved the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education spending bill for FY2020, which outlines funding for early care and learning programs critical to babies’ development. The first three years are a time in development unmatched by any other later point in life. But the recently released State of Babies Yearbook: 2019 reveals troubling early warning signs that too many young children face conditions that place their development – and our future – at risk. About the Bill The bill includes historic increases to key early learning and development programs that can help to reverse this path we have set for our future, including: An increase of $2.4 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant; $525 million increase in the set-aside for the expansion of Early Head Start, including through EHS-Child Care Partnerships; Doubling of the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Grant Program, to a total of $10 million; and An increase of $21.3 million for Part C Early Intervention. By laying the foundation today for 12 million infants and toddlers living in the U.S., we are investing in our society’s future. Learn More To learn more, see Zero to Three’s full statement. *Information provided by Zero to Three
Day of “SELF” Discovery Conference The Day of “SELF” Discovery Conference is held each year to celebrate individuals who are involved in their own personal Recovery Journey! About This Conference serves as a way to learn tools to help promote Recovery, learn about available resources and services, share experiences related to personal recovery journeys, as well as a time to network and renew friendships made in previous years at the Conference. Ultimately, this Conference is held each year to celebrate the infinite possibilities that lie within each of us! The 19th annual Day of “Self” Discovery Conference, “Caravan To Wellness: Just For The Health Of It!” will focus on knowledge and awareness to improve the overall mental and physical wellness of conference attendees. In addition to some very stimulating workshops and presentations, the conference includes continental breakfast, lunch, raffles, and prizes as a part of the day’s activities. The Joyce King “EveryDay People” Award will be highlighted during the lunch break. Joyce King believed strongly that people who receive behavioral health and/or addiction services should have a voice in their treatment and that their voices must be heard! The conference will also include a Recovery Panel Presentation. Registration For the registration form, agenda, and more information, see the event PDF. Registrations must be submitted before May 30, 2019, via mail or fax.
Resources for Families in the Wake of Tragedy In response to the violent events happening in communities throughout the United States of America, Trying Together hopes to support young children, their families, and the caregivers who interact with them by recognizing available community-based and online resources. Trying Together extends our heartfelt sympathy to the families and friends of those lost and to those injured or traumatized by such horrific events. Thank you to all of the public health and safety professionals who respond and provide service to affected communities across America, and thank you to the organizations and individuals that extend your hands and services in support. Mental Health Services and Supports resolve Crisis Services A 24-hour, 365-day crisis service, free to all residents of Allegheny County, that provides crisis counseling and support, referrals, and intervention services for adults, teens, and their loved ones: 1-888-796-8226 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline A network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 1-800-273-8255 For Deaf and Hard of Hearing: 1-800-799-4889 En Espanol: 1-888-628-9454 Be Well Pittsburgh Identifies free or low-cost mental health services in Pittsburgh, including hotlines, warm lines, counseling, support groups, and more. Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh Counseling & Other Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Low Cost/Sliding Scale Mental Health Treatment Services Locator Highmark Caring Place Peer Support Group for children, adolescents, and families who have lost a loved one The Compassionate Friends: Pittsburgh Chapter Support Group for those who have lost children, grandchildren, or siblings UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Supportive Care Department Bereaved Parent Support Group Articles and Resources Israel Trauma Coalition Practical Advice for Parents: How to Help Your Child Following a Trauma American Counseling Association Coping in the Aftermath of a Shooting Fred Rogers Productions Thoughts from Fred Rogers: Tragic Events Anti-Defamation League Gun Violence and Mass Shootings Empowering Young People in the Aftermath of Hate (In English and En Espanol) Fran Sherman in USA Today How to talk to your kids about school shootings Dr. Debi Gilboa in NEXT Pittsburgh How to talk to your kids about the mass shooting in Pittsburgh PA Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) Helping Children and Families Cope After a Traumatic Event Helping Children After a Traumatic Experience A Caregiver Guide Coping with Grief After Community Violence Helping Children Cope With Trauma At School Talking to Children about Hate Crimes and Anti-Semitism The Psychological Impact of the Recent Shooting Tips for Parents on Media Coverage Parent Guidelines for Helping Youth after the Recent Shooting Helping School-Age Children with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers Helping Youth After Community Trauma: Tips for Educators After a Crisis: Helping Young Children Heal Guiding Adults in Talking to Children About Death and Attending Services Child Trends Resources to help children in the wake of a school shooting The National Child Traumatic Stress Network How to talk to children about hate crimes and antisemitism Additional Lists Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s list of information and resources
May 7, 2019 Parents Moving Forward Together | Conference Join the Allegheny Family Network for “Parents Moving Forward Together,” a one-day mental health conference focused on supporting our region’s children, caregivers, and educators. Workshops Legislative Panel with Rep. Dan Miller Building Leadership Qualities Connecting Trauma Through Stories Dissecting the IEP Teens: Intense Emotions and Suicidality Registration This event is free, but registration is required for lunch and child care. To register, call 412.246.2030. See the event’s Facebook page. Transportation Buses are available for specific areas. See the bus schedule here. Parking will be available onsite for $5. Free parking is available for Allegheny Family Network families. Share this flyer with your network.
May 3, 2019 Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health: Why It Matters Save the date to join professionals across disciplines to explore the most critical topics related to infant and early childhood mental health (IECMH) at this free conference. Continuing Education Credits for a wide range of professionals will be available, including physicians, nurses, home visitors, early and primary educators, and many others. About Breakout sessions will offer behavioral health clinicians, pediatricians, home visitors, early childhood educators, ECMH consultants, family members, child welfare workers, and early intervention providers the opportunity to explore issues related to IECMH most relevant to their field. Keynote sessions will highlight the key themes within IECMH research that are critical for all of the systems that support families with young children. Registration For more information or to register, visit the event’s webpage. For questions, please contact Patrick Webster at 412.667.6701 or websterp2@upmc.edu.
October 18, 2018 Stages of Youth Development Training Join APOST at United Way of Southwestern PA for one of three sequential trainings, Stages of Youth Development. In this workshop, you’ll learn about the various stages of youth development from childhood to adolescence, with a focus on the five domains – cognitive, social, emotional, physical, spiritual/connection to community. Develop an informed approach to working with children at various stages of development and practice positive interactions to build awareness at your own programs. Register here.
