Quincy Medical Group is hosting a session this weekend to help families better understand how trauma impacts children.
“We’re just here to kind of help you bring some things to light. Maybe some things that you did know, maybe some things you didn’t know. Just want to be here as a resource and a support and do it as a community,“ said Marissa Radcliffe, QMG Community Health Worker.
QMG is hosting a free education day Sat. March 7, providing practical tools to support children’s emotional wellbeing.
Behavioral health therapist Kathleen Nelson, MSEd, LCPC will lead the session, helping parents identify Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), such as divorce or abuse.
“By learning what ACEs are and how they affect development, parents and caregivers can better support their children and strengthen family relationships,” said Radcliffe.
This event is for anyone that oversees children, from parents to teachers, and it’ll include an educational seminar, hands-on activities, and a small lunch — leaving participants equipped with tools they can use immediately to encourage mental health and resilience in their families.
Radcliffe emphasizes that this isn’t blaming parents, but offering ways for families to grow through trauma — whether it’s a pressing issue now, or something generational.
“Trauma impacts children in so many ways, that we might not think about. It may affect the way they learn, it might affect the way they engage with other kids, but it also can affect the relationship that they have with the adults in their life,” said Radcliffe. “We want to be better in a sense for ourselves, for our kids, our grandkids, our nieces, the kid that comes over from down the street. We just want to be able to put some insight into how we interact with these kids, but also how we function and move as adults as well.”
The event is on Sat. March 7 at 1025 Maine Street, first floor, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Seats are limited, so reserve your spot by calling 217-222-6550, ext. 3697 or click the link here.