Workshops
Wednesday Workshops
11:00 am – 12:30 pm Choose One
A1 WHY CYC?!?...Remember, Reconnect & Renew your passion.
MELISSA HARE, ONTARIO
Participants will network and reconnect with the reasons and motivations that led them to become a CYC.
Participants will share and discuss why we have decided to join this challenging, yet rewarding field. As we discuss
our careers, we will examine the most challenging and rewarding experiences and share lessons learned. We will
look at how to pay attention to the 'small moments' in the difficult times, as well, as how to let go of our personal
goals and views focusing solely on the child. The goal is for you to leave, remembering why you are a CYC, re-
loving this field, motivated to achieve excellence, and reconnected to your passion for the work!
A2 So, You Want to Market Your Resources!
DEB COCKERTON, ONTARIO
Our ingenuity, imagination and learned skills can be our best resources. Do you have an idea for a program
resource, workshop or webinar to market to other CYC’s? This workshop will give you an action plan template for
development and market readiness. We will review best practice guidelines and give you an avenue of distribution
that is targeted directly to other Child and Youth Care professionals worldwide.
Learn how your programs and facilitation skills can produce income, as well as help other CYC’s who need field
tested programs and information for their resource toolkit and professional development.
A3 The Art of Kid Whispering: Discovering the Inside Kid
MARK FREADO, Cal Farley, OHIO
Participants will examine the impact of trauma and patterns of self-defeating behaviors in young people. The ability
of professional and para-professional staff to connect with troubled and troubling youth in the most meaningful and
therapeutic manner depends primarily on the effectiveness of their listening skills. Words matter and yet it is well
known that the meaning of communication, particularly in times of stress, is expressed non-verbally or through meta-
communication. This workshop will provide opportunities for learning through presentation, discussion, and
practical application.
A4 Our Tsunami: How We Make It Work with CYC’s.
GILLES CHARRON (CYC Certified), Children’s Hospital of Eastern
Ontario, ONTARIO
With the added pressures that have engulfed our Mental Health system due to the high volume of referrals, as well
as the increasing acuity and complexity of presenting problems, the surge in demand for services has impacted
and added stressors to our already limited resources. To address this issue, the Children’s Hospital of Eastern
Ontario had to become innovative in its response to the needs of children and youth and their families: one
measure taken was to call upon the CYC’s of the hospital to deal with these increasingly challenging circumstances.
In this presentation, I will talk about the implementation of new services established and staffed by CYC’s and why
our discipline was chosen to respond to the increased needs for services. Examples of these newly implemented
services include: Centralized Intake; Transitional Mental Health Services for Youth: Professional Practice Leader;
Case Coordinators for Day Treatment and Inpatient Units; CYCs in the Emergency Dept and Manager for the
inpatient unit.
I would like to share the unique skills that CYCs bring to the table that CHEO has recognized as being invaluable in
handling many of these overwhelming circumstances in our Mental Health system, raising the profile and
responsibilities of our already well-established and recognized discipline.
A5 Expanding Child and Youth Care Practise; Working with
People of all Ages
CHERYL SKIRVING-MILLS, Bartimaeus Inc., ONTARIO
ANNA D’AGOSTINO, Bartimaeus Inc., ONTARIO
Throughout this presentation we will discuss what the core skills are of Child and Youth Care and the transferability
of these core skills to other fields of practice. This workshop will discuss case studies of traditional and non
traditional service delivery of child and youth care to assist in illuminating the evolution of our practice. Throughout
our presentation we will provide a component of interaction/discussion to ensure participants are connecting to the
material being presented.
A6 Child Sexual Abuse Images Online: Confronting the Problem
– Research, Policy, Practice
DR. JENNIFER MARTIN, Ryerson University, ONTARIO
The phenomenon of child sexual abuse images online is a critical social problem with serious implications. In June
2014, I organized a symposium titled “Child Sexual Abuse Images Online: Confronting the Problem – Research,
Policy, Practice that was funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the
School of Child and Youth Care at Ryerson University. The symposium brought together academics, policy makers,
child advocates, practitioners, and other key stake holders who respond to child sexual abuse to examine and share
current knowledge about child sexual abuse images online, identify key priorities, and determine critical strategies
and vital next steps. This presentation will report on the outcomes of that symposium.
1:45 – 5:00 PM Choose One
D1 Trauma-Informed Care in Youth Care Practice
ANGELA COMISH, Chisolm Services For Children, NOVA SCOTIA
HEIDI HOLLOWAY, Chisolm Services For Children, NOVA SCOTIA
TRAVIS SAMPSON, Chisolm Services For Children, NOVA SCOTIA
MIKE SHEA, Chisolm Services For Children, NOVA SCOTIA
This panel of presenter’s objective is to facilitate a learning experience with a focus on practical interventions using
a therapeutic trauma informed care approach with children who have experienced complex trauma.
The workshop will provide participants with an overview of the neurobiological principles that are the foundation for
trauma-informed care as well as group activities and discussions.
Discussions:
1. Challenges that individuals who have experienced complex trauma have with feelings identification, internal
emotional regulation and emotional responses when they are experiencing emotional, environmental, internal or
sensory triggers.
2. Case example discussions will be used as a tool to compare traditional residential care approaches in contrast to
Trauma informed care practices.
3. Our learning experience as Youth Care Worker going through the transition of a new program and approach and
all it encompasses.
D2 Out of Focus! – Connecting Youths with Their Inner Stories
LEON FULCHER, Transformaction International, NEW ZEALAND
THOM GARFAT, Transformaction International, CANADA
Long-standing traditions of story-telling about child and youth care are maintained in every culture. Traditional and
contemporary family stories and interpersonal accounts are all important with young people learning to know and
feel belonging, develop mastery and prepare for independence as young adults. Digital video provides a medium
through which youth workers may keep pace with contemporary youths offering opportunities to communicate in
ways that help young people re-adjust OUR prejudgments and interpretations to connect on more meaningful
levels. In small groups, participants will first create a story line, then plan their shoot before using a smart phone to
produce a short film (maximum 3 minutes) and sharing it with colleagues.
D3 Introduction to Emotional Fitness® - Finding Balance as Child
and Youth Care Workers
CHLOE MUNGALL, Emotional Fitness Centre Inc., NEW
BRUNSWICK
VALERIE DAIGLE, Emotional Fitness Centre Inc., NEW
BRUNSWICK
DARREN DUGUAY, Emotional Fitness Centre Inc., NEW
BRUNSWICK
One of the biggest problems faced by Child and Youth Care Workers is stress related illnesses/ compassion fatigue.
The tools of Emotional Fitness® will assist CYCW's in recognizing the emotional and mental strain they may
unintentionally place on themselves. Through “Listening Power”, CYCW's can develop a deeper self-awareness.
“Inner Balancing” teaches the tools through experiential learning on how to process and work through stressors.
The tools of Emotional Fitness® are of great benefit to workers and clients alike. Through learning to better listen
to ourselves and others we can avoid misunderstandings and false perceptions of ourselves and others.
Emotional Fitness® tools develop healthier relationships with self and others.
D4 Restorative and Peacemaking Practices Across the
Child/Youth Life Span: This IS Beyond Believing!
RICK KELLY, George Brown College, ONTARIO
MANDY MAYHEW, CYW grad; George Brown College
KASSIE WISKE, CYW grad; George Brown College
JOE BLAKE, CYW grad; George Brown College
SARA GOETZ, CYW grad; George Brown College
TANITIA MUNRO, CYW grad; George Brown College
In an interactive and engaging fashion this workshop will profile how students, grads and the “old guy” from the
CYW program have applied the Restorative model for a variety of child/ youth settings and situations over the past
10 years. This work demonstrates how using this approach can span the continuum from prevention to treatment
to trauma. Profiling work from as young as Grade 3’s, to clinical settings to youth justice to gang involved youth, the
developmental reach of this model is revealed.
The workshop demonstrates the use of art, drama, role-play, skill teaching and youth voice to achieve a restorative
consciousness. This session not only highlights ways of working with children and youth, but principles that apply to
ourselves, as teams and in the workplace.
OR
1:45 – 3:15 PM Choose One
B1 Portage Atlantic “Only you can do it, but you can’t do it alone”
PORTAGE ATLANTIC STAFF, Portage Atlantic, NEW BRUNSWICK
Portage Atlantic, a substance abuse rehabilitation program for youth, will present an outline of its organization and
programming. The bilingual residential program helps youth identify the cause of their problems, focus on the
coping mechanisms that will help them face these issues and carry out the necessary strategies to overcome them;
but this cannot be achieved alone. The mantra at Portage is “Only you can do it, but you can’t do it alone” hence
the premise of our presentation. With such careful investment in the residential treatment of youth at risk,
networking with other organizations is a critical feature in mental health and addictions rehabilitation
programming. Bridging these connections leverage and support important feats made through treatment.
B2 Don’t Make Me Go In There!
JESSICA HADLEY, Project Neecheewam, MANITOBA
We work in a demanding and challenging field that often exposes it’s workers to high stress and traumatic
situations. This workshop looks at how Staff, Supervisors, and Human Resources can support each other through
crisis moments that impact, not only our ability to do the work, but our decision to stay in the field. Together we will
look at the pressures that we put on ourselves to be the "perfect" Child and Youth Care Practitioner, how we can
develop supportive work environments, and how Human Resources can be used as a support before a professional
crisis takes a personal toll.
B3 Acquired Brain Injury: How Child and Youth Counselors are
Reshaping Rehabilitation.
JOSH FURLONGER, Bartimaeus, ONTARIO
Rehabilitation Support Workers (RSW) play a vital role in the care and recovery of individuals following the
devastating effects of a motor vehicle accident, specifically, when a Traumatic Brain Injury is sustained. As
extensions of the health care professionals in Ontario, Child and Youth Counselors are being called upon to fill the
role of an RSW.
The ideal RSW will understand behavior; it's causality in addition to effective and efficient management strategies,
they will show compassion and empathy, they will be professional and educated, and they will be adaptable; the
ideal RSW is a Child and Youth Counselor. This movement transcends the typical role of the CYC, it is providing a
new and exciting opportunity for CYC’s looking to expand their horizons and utilize their skills and experiences in a
new and remarkable field. CYC’s are reshaping rehabilitation.
B4 If Id’a thrown that chair at you, it would'a hit you: Seeing
difficult behaviors through the lens of meaning and resilience.
STEPHANIE BROCKETT, University of Victoria, BRITISH
COLUMBIA
Ben Anderson-Nathe, Portland State University, OREGON
This interactive workshop expands on the article in Relational Child and Youth Care Practice. Resilience and
behavioral interventions are not limited to residential settings. Many of the youth we work with across contexts
engage in behaviors that can be difficult to manage. Behaviors typically framed as problematic or negative are
often strategic survival skills. This workshop will explore vignettes and examples from the experience of the
presenters as well as workshop participants, focusing on ways of reframing behaviors within the context and history
of the youth.
B5 Social capital supports a healthy transition from care.
DR. KIM SNOW, Ryerson University, ONTARIO
Social capital consists of functional, informational and expressive supports that are present at the societal or group
level as well as at the relational level. The Voyager Project, is a peer centred program that supports young people
leaving care to pursue their educational aspirations (Snow, 2013). Fostering a sense of belonging and
interconnectedness, providing opportunities for social and vocational skill development and by facilitating 'weak
ties' and network bridges the program serves as a support network for care leavers (Snow et. al 2013). Lessons
learned about peers as social capital and the power of network development will be discussed.
AND
3:30 – 5:00 PM Choose One
C1 Four Steps to the Next Stage
KIARAS GHARABAGHI, Ryerson University, ONTARIO
In this workshop (conversation), Kiaras will propose four key steps that the field of Child and Youth Care must take
in order to move beyond its current limits. The steps relate to four broad dimensions of our practice: from local to
global, from verbal to written, from isolation to high visibility, and from complacent to disruptive. The fundamental
purpose of this workshop is to engage participants in the development of meaningful plans to evolve the profession
that nevertheless may garner the excitement and participation of a wide spectrum of CYCs.
C2 Denied and Dismissed: Supporting Youth in Accessing the
Justice System
WOLFGANG VACHON, Humber College, ONTARIO
Racialized, street involved and otherwise marginalized youth often have negative experiences with the justice
system; the impact frequently causes them to see laws as exclusionary and oppressive. CYC practitioners
frequently do not have sufficient knowledge of legal recourses to effectively ally with youth in accessing justice. This
session will introduce a training program developed with lawyers, CYCs and marginalized young people to train
practitioners in legal rights and relational practices to support youth access to justice. After an initial discussion of
the program, processes will be explored to build the participants’ own capacity to support young people in obtaining
justice.
C3 Fund Raising Success: It’s in the Programs!
MARTY FREADO, Marty Freado Associates LLC, OHIO
Program staff are key to your fund raising success as they are the closest to the heart of your mission. Donors
want to hear from the experts about the people who are helped with their financial support. The experts are those
who work directly in the programs. Too often, the fund raising staff and the program staff operate in separate
camps. This session will provide tips for creating the partnership of fund raising and program for the essential
“culture of fund raising” to support the program needs for your organization.
C4 Addressing FASD in NB: A collaborative based approach to
building capacity
DR. NICOLE LEBLANC, George Dumont Hospital, NEW
BRUNSWICK
In an era of limited health care resources, the need to work collaboratively is essential to improving the care that we
offer to children and their families. The challenges become even more apparent when we are working with children
who have complex needs and their families. In this presentation, we will discuss our NB model for addressing the
needs of individuals affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder through prevention, diagnosis, intervention and
support services. We will also discuss the process of developing the NB Centre of Excellence for FASD and how
our model aims to improve the quality of care for these individuals by leveraging partnerships and building capacity
in our communities.
C5 Youth workers’ discursive constructions of practice with
suicidal youth
DR. PATTI RANAHAN, Concordia University, QUEBEC
RENEE PELLISSIER, Concordia University, QUEBEC
Suicide is a leading cause of death in Canada for adolescents. Consequently, youth workers have a role in suicide
intervention, as they are likely to encounter youth contemplating ending their lives. This presentation reports on
findings from a recent study that explored the ways in which youth workers talked about their practice with suicidal
youth. Discursive research can help us understand the relationship between discourse and action, and how
identities and events are constructed and reproduced through language. Understanding how the complexities within
suicide intervention are discursively constructed and reproduced by youth workers can enhance our capacities to
talk about our profession and share what we do.
Thursday Workshops
Full Day
Lorraine Fox
LF1 TRAUMA INFORMED CARE
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION
People involved in the world of child welfare cannot help but notice the new call to practicing “Trauma Informed
Care”. Such an approach is being written into the language of licensing and certification bodies and is becoming
an expectation of professionals and para-professionals alike. What is Trauma Informed Care? What is expected of
those living or working with traumatized children and teens? During this workshop we will examine in close detail
what makes an experience a “trauma” and how such experiences result in symptomatic behavior that is often
puzzling and challenging. We will also examine how various people in various roles with traumatized have
something unique and special to offer in terms of their healing.
Topics include:
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
OR
9:00 – 12:30 pm
F1 Making Moments Meaningful: Using Daily Life Events to
Achieve Outcomes that Matter
THOM GARFAT, Transformaction International, CANADA
LEON FULCHER, Transformaction International, NEW ZEALAND
Making moments meaningful requires connecting everyday interventions to desired outcomes. In this workshop
Thom & Leon will show the connections possible between working in the moment with daily life events and achieving
outcomes that matter for children, young people and families. This workshop will be of particular interest to
supervisors and managers interested in providing quality care in programs for young people and families.
F2 Effective and Honorable CYC Leadership in Challenging Times
FRANK DELANO, NEW YORK
This highly interactive workshop is geared toward established leaders, as well as emerging and future leaders, who
want to think critically about strategies to address the many challenges ahead in a rapidly changing Child and
Youth Care field. Emphasis will be placed on identifying and examining approaches to leadership that will be
effective and efficient while keeping the core values that provide the foundation for quality Child and Youth Care
work. Topics discussed will include ethics, negotiating organizational politics, leadership qualities, and strategies to
set high standards to build a positive CYC culture.
F3 A Pre and Post Burnout Intervention for Child and Youth Care
Workers.
CHARLENE PICKREM, Mount Saint Vincent University, NOVA
SCOTIA
My presentation defines and examines the history of burnout, stages of its development and the potential impacts
on an individual’s well-being, organizations bottom line, and our clients care. I examine the possible short, medium
and long term benefits of an unified approach to burnout interventions and coping strategies by individuals,
academic Child and Youth Care settings, and organizations. I discuss the individual and organizational, and client
characteristics that may contribute to burnout. The presentation material and findings will be supported by past,
research, my own personal experiences of burnout as well as data collected for my thesis.
OR
9:00 – 10:30 am
E1 Learn, Discover, Play: Experiential games and activities to
navigate change and create community.
STEPHANIE GRIFFIN, Algonquin College, ONTARIO
LUKE SMITH
In this workshop, participants will refresh and add to their tool box of experiential games and activities for bringing
about change in perception and awareness, creating connections, improving communication, and create productive
spaces.
Purposeful play and interactivity are keys to our practice and participants will experience an assortment of activities
and strategies that can be used in various environments with individuals, dyads, in small or large groups.
This workshop will allow participants opportunity for moving from simply believing in what can be done to learning
the strategies and games that you can put into practice.
Be prepared to participate – this is not a sit-down workshop.
E2 Clinical Transphobia and Cissexism: Rectifying Gendered
Practices in Child and Youth Care
TIM MCCONNELL, ONTARIO
Although the visibility of alternatively gendered identifications among children and youth has increased in recent
years, ensuring the accessibility of support services for this demographic remains challenging. Incorporating an
analysis of ‘cissexism’ - a system of belief that denigrates and stigmatizes any non-cisgender form of behaviour or
identity, acknowledged to correlate positively with provider sensitivity to gender concerns - this presentation will
examine the impact of the aforementioned beliefs in practice. Developed by Tim McConnell in response to his own
experiences of service access as a gender-variant youth, this presentation will present concrete strategies
applicable to both individuals and organizations.
E3 Live Free or Die: Youth Services on the Cheap in New
Hampshire
DAVID VILLIOTTI, Nashua Children’s Home, NEW HAMPSHIRE
This workshop will describe funding for services in the State of New Hampshire, differing from most other venues its
statutory restriction on paying for residential care unless court-ordered to do so. Entry to services via both the
child-protective and juvenile justice systems will be reviewed as will the strategies for infusing private dollars in
order to meet the costs of care. The Transitional Living Program of Nashua Children’s Home, which provides
housing and ongoing staff support and guidance to youth that have aged-out of care, almost exclusively with
private dollars, will also be reviewed.
E4 Opening Relationships With Youth Through Mixed Media:
Bridging Worlds Through Writing, Photography and Film.
TREVOR GOODWIN, Moncton Youth Residences Inc., NEW
BRUNSWICK
Showcasing various workshop techniques and ideas for building relationships with youth/clients by utilizing
photography, film, writing, spoken word etc. Participants will be provided both examples and tools for implementing
these techniques in any workplace setting (Schools, Residential Care, Outreach etc).
E5 Why Hire a Certified CYC Worker
KELLY SHAW, CCCYCA, NSCYCWA, Nova Scotia Community
College, NOVA SCOTIA
JEFF REID, NSCYCWA, Nova Scotia Community College, NOVA
SCOTIA
HAWLEY ZYTARUK, NSCYCWA, NOVA SCOTIA
As certification for Child and Youth Care practitioners gains attention more and more questions are evoked.
Employers ask why? Individuals with CYC education who are practicing ask Why? Individuals without CYC
education ask why? Youth, families and alumni of CYC programs ask, Why? In this interactive 60 minute workshop
individuals from the Nova Scotia Child and Youth Care Worker Association will share their journey into certification.
The questions they have asked, and the answers they are forming have been incorporated into an information
brochure, and presentation which may help your association, institution, organization, colleagues, and or client
populations as they encounter certification.
E6 The Akoma Family Centre: Fostering Sibling Relationships and
Connecting Meaning to Change.
ROBYN SMITH, Akoma Family Centre, NOVA SCOTIA
Since it’s inception in February of 2011, the Akoma Family Centre continues to be a site of progressive change in
its delivery of residential services to children, youth and siblings in care. Formerly the Nova Scotia Home for
Colored Children (founded in 1915), the Centre has faced its share of tribulations amidst a history of institutional
marginalization and operational transition though continues to forge beyond entrenched beliefs toward wider
understandings of quality care, carving new pathways along the way. Akoma’s mission to serve ‘sibling groups’ is
an invaluable aspect of our therapeutic programming as well as being unique to other residential facilities in Nova
Scotia. Within the context of sibling care, as well as learning to navigate the tides of change, Akoma’s committed
Child and Youth Care Workers, Social Worker and Residential Administrators carry a wealth of insight and are
eager to share our passion with other caring individuals and professionals across the country!
AND
11:00 – 12:30 am
G1 At risk kids have strengths too!
ASHLEY BLACK, Moncton Youth Residences, NEW BRUNSWICK
During this 90 minute presentation, the participants will be made aware of strength base counselling and how it can
be used with at risk youth in order to assist in their personal growth. Information covered will be: a brief struggles,
being able to rationally detach, and the importance of recognizing growth no matter how small the success. The
participants will leave the presentation with tips, suggested readings, and their own personal answer to the miracle
question. The presenter will have a power point presentation and have a question and answer period at the end.
Participants will also have the chance to present a challenging youth and the group will assist in working out in re-
framing the behaviours into positives.
G2 Developmental Trauma Disorder: Awareness for Prevention
and Intervention
AZRA KARMALI, ONTARIO
GABRIELA BAUMANN, ONTARIO
This is an interactive workshop for child and youth workers with a focus on raising awareness around
Developmental Trauma Disorder and its link to the onset of Borderline Personality Disorder traits in adolescents. As
front line mental health support, child and youth workers are often the first individuals to encounter and witness the
intricate symptomatology of this proposed disorder. This presentation will address symptomatology, etiology and
attachment, assessment, links to individual Borderline Personality Disorder traits, triage options, understanding
medications, and techniques for front line workers as well as parents to be better prepared for earlier identification
and prevention.
G3 Cancelled
Thursday Afternoon
Choose either
Half Day Workshop 1:45 – 5:00 pm
I1 Searching for Truth: The Developmental Audit®
MARK FREADO, Cal Farley, OHIO
The Developmental Audit offers an alternative to traditional deficit-based assessments at critical times in the life of
a young person. The Audit engages young persons in conflict, as well as adults in their ecology, in the process of
strength and needs-based solutions. The Audit is grounded in resilience science, neuroscience, and ecological
research on positive development. The Developmental Audit examines the developmental pathways of young
people at critical points in their lives to design and enhance interventions that may ultimately affect available
services or placement. Exercises will challenge participants to engage in key components of the Developmental
Audit process.
I2 CYC Advocacy Project
AURRORA DEMONTE, Sir Sandford Fleming College,
Peterborough Youth Services, ONTARIO
HEATHER SAGO, Sir Sandford Fleming College, The Murray
McKinnon Foundation, ONTARIO
A taste of what is to come….We will be providing an update on a video advocacy project that was initiated in
Newfoundland at the World Congress in June 2014 and that will continue gathering recordings over the next two
years. The project is three fold, to explore the following on a global scale: to define advocacy, to share stories of
advocacy, and to examine the need for the professionalization of the field. This project will have no ownership but
rather will belong to all and thus this session will be an interactive workshop adding your voice to the mix –
specifically we will be exploring the use of advocacy in everyday moments. The end goal is to have the advocacy
project completed and ready to present at the next World Conference in Vienna, Austria in 2016.
Further details about this project can be viewed at http://www.cycadvocacyproject.com/# and https://www.facebook.
com/groups/CYCadvocacyproject/ while preliminary findings can be found on page 41 @ www.cyc-net.org/cyc-
online/jul2013.pdf
OR
One
1:45-3:15
H1 Purposeful Leadership - Positive Engagement with Hard to
Reach Youth
LISE BROWN, Momenta, MANITOBA
SARA HARRISON, Momenta, MANITOBA
Research shows that the quality of human relationships in children’s programming can be more influential than the
program itself. At this workshop we will present the main aspects of Momenta’s leadership model based on research
in the fields of child and youth development, experiential education, adventure therapy, and social work practice.
Participants will learn proven methods to engage with hard to reach youth to affect change in individuals, programs
and communities including overviews of anticipated outcomes.
H2 What Do We Mean By ‘Treatment’? Re-thinking and
Recognizing the Role of the Child and Youth Worker.
GORD BAIN, New Path Youth and Family Services, ONTARIO
PETER MARSHALL, New Path Youth and Family Services,
ONTARIO
Treatment in children’s mental health often focuses on the more ‘clinical’ forms of intervention, such as medication
and in-office psychotherapy. While these are valuable aspects of treatment, there is a growing body of research
indicating the need to broaden our perspective. Life-style changes, for example, can be as effective as medication
in treating depression and ADHD, and activities that strengthen social skills can be instrumental in overcoming the
impact of trauma. The presentation will highlight the many areas in which the Child and Youth Workers’ skills are
needed to provide optimal treatment for youth and build resilience in our clients.
H3 Changing our Minds: Understanding Developmental
Differences and Supporting Developmental Growth in Child and
Youth Care Practitioners
HEATHER MODLIN, Key Assets, NEWFOUNDLAND AND
LABRADOR
Child and youth care requires more from practitioners than just acquisition of knowledge and skills, or ability to
intervene in prescribed ways. It makes “demands on our mind.” This session will explore the mental demands of
child and youth care practice. Using Robert Kegan’s (1982) constructive-developmental theory and Baxter-Magolda’
s (2009) theory of self-authorship as the theoretical lenses, qualitative differences in practitioners’ meaning-making
will be discussed, along with implications for practice. The role of the holding environment in enhancing or hindering
performance and growth will be highlighted.
H4 Navigating the waves of CYC practices: What's over the
horizon? A facilitated discussion
CATHERINE HEDLIN, Grant MacEwan University, ALBERTA
BEN ANDERSON-NATHE, Portland State University, OREGON
Discussions begun in Newfoundland 2013 and carried through at CYC conferences since then, regarding the
tensions and possibilities of being a CYC practitioner in the context of larger cultural, professional and institutional
forces that affect identity and practice have found no easy answers. What became clear was the ambiguity of CYC
practice could allow for the development of a third space – a place where divergent views are brought together in
new and exciting ways. This interactive discussion will ask participants to begin to visualize possibilities for a third
space which rather than attempting to place tight parameters around CYC practice, instead welcomes difference in
critical and creative ideas, perspectives and practices.
H5 Trauma Informed Care, the Neurosequential Model of
Therapeutics
PATRICK FORAN, Hull Services, ALBERTA
We have all been hearing a lot about trauma informed care but what is it really? This workshop will examine what
makes a program trauma informed. We will illustrate the implementation of NMT at Hull Service’s Preadolescent
Treatment Program (PTP) as an example of how to integrate trauma informed care into your program model. We
will explore the process of how to go from a model to implementation. We will illustrate the importance of a
relationally rich environment, the significance of relational permanence and a milieu that uses somatosensory,
patterned repetitive, and music and movement “dosing” activities to help regulate children. We will also use a case
study of a specific child utilizing an NMT metric and show how this data informs treatment in a developmentally
sensitive manner. We will also demonstrate the regulating power of these types of interventions by involving
participants in some fun, easy to implement activities. This session will include additional readings for delegates to
aid them in the process of implementing a trauma informed lens to their own practice.
AND
One 3:45-4:45
J1 "Breathing in change"---How aromatherapy with essential oils
can be used to increase cognitive function & provide mood
enhancement
CHARLENE SAVOIE, B.A., RTC, owner of Peaceful Families
Consulting, NEW BRUNSWICK
Aromatherapy is the practice of using natural essential oils extracted from flowers, stems, leaves, roots or other
parts of a plant to enhance psychological and physical well-being. This alternative medicine is growing and more
scientific studies have been conducted.
It is widely believed to stimulate brain function, assist pain relief, provide mood enhancement and increase cognitive
function. Essential oils can also be absorbed through the skin, where they travel through the bloodstream and can
promote whole-body
healing. Participants will learn the history and difference in quality of essential oils, how some are unsafe to use with
clients and scientific/personal results.
J2 Caregiving, Guardianship, and Turnover of Living Situation in
the Lives of Street-involved Youth
DOUG MAGNUSON, University of Victoria, BRITISH COLUMBIA
CECILIA BENOIT, University of Victoria, BRITISH COLUMBIA
MIKAEL JANSSON, University of Victoria, BRITISH COLUMBIA
MARY CLARE KENNEDY, University of Victoria, BRITISH
COLUMBIA
This is a report on the first wave of data from the longitudinal study of street-involved youth, “Risky Business.” This
sample is composed of youth who have previous experience, as permanent or temporary wards, in foster care, and
the data includes life history of living situation. We will a) illustrate the instability of living situation and guardians
during their childhood, especially just prior to their street involvement, b) discuss the connections between their
opinions about the care experience and their current sense of hopefulness and happiness, and c) report on their
opinions about the influences of their guardians.
J3 Exposure to Intimate Partner Violence: A Well-Distributed
Social Disaster with Implications for Child and Youth Practice
SIBYLLE ARTZ, PhD, University of Victoria, BRITISH COLUMBIA
Children’s exposure to Intimate Partner Violence can damage neurohormoral regulation, affect memory, trigger fear
responses, impair executive function and the ability to learn, weaken the immune system, raise the risk for smoking,
substance use, and risky sexual behaviours, increase the potential for behavioural, conduct, adjustment and
attention problems, while also contributing to an increased risk of criminality and life-long interpersonal violence
perpetration and victimization. Based on a 2014 in-press review of the most recent research, this workshop
focuses on educating workers about the impacts of Intimate Partner Violence exposure and explores approaches
that help survivors shift towards recovery and resilience.
J4 The Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research
Network: A Unique Provincial Partnership Model
COURTNEY GREEN, Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Research Network, ONTARIO
KATHY UNSWORTH, Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Research Network, ONTARIO
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is the most common type of preventable neurodevelopmental disability in
Canada. However, FASD research remains fragmented in Canada and the reciprocal translation of knowledge
from the research field to policy and program development has been inadequate. To address this issue, the
Canada FASD Research Network (CanFASD) was formed to support leadership in addressing the extraordinary
complexities of FASD. The mission was to produce and maintain national, collaborative research designed for
sharing with all Canadians, leading to prevention strategies and improved support services for people affected by
FASD. Importantly, the Network infrastructure provides a mechanism for leveraging partnerships and resources to
increase capacity and knowledge related to policy-relevant FASD research.
J5 Connecting Beyond Ethics and Evidence: Learning to Look at
the Consequences of our Actions in our Work with Young People
and Families
DR. GRANT CHARLES, University of British Columbia, BRITISH
COLUMBIA
There is a great deal being written these days about ethics and evidence as if they were two separate topics.
However, evidence and ethics has to be considered in context. We often think there is a simple right and a wrong in
our interactions with young people and families. Unfortunately neither ethics nor evidence is as simple as we would
like them to be. This workshop will look at how to read and understand ‘evidence’ and ‘ethics’ within a given context
as well as provide a framework for examining the consequences of our actions with young people and families.
Friday Morning Workshops
Choose either
Half Day Workshops 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
L1 Child and Youth Care Work with Families
DONNA JAMIESON, MacEwan University, ALBERTA
JENNY MCGRATH, MacEwan University, ALBERTA
All Child and Youth Care Workers need to be willing and able to work not only with children and youth, but with their
families and the other important people in their lives. A significant number of CYC professionals have chosen family
work as their career, however, even when your work is not primarily with families, it is critical that you remain “family-
friendly.” Child and Youth Care Workers have an integrated knowledge base and skill set. Our work, which is
adaptable, experiential, relational and life-space-based, allows us to engage with families in unique and innovative
ways. Come to our interactive workshop and explore ways to be strength-based and positive in your involvement
with families no matter what your role.
L2 “The Talk”: Understand Children’s Healthy Sexual
Development in the Early Years (birth to 6)
EMILY MARTINELLO, Sexual Development Consulting, NOVA
SCOTIA
This engaging and informative session will highlight how to support children's sexual development in the early
years, addressing how to respond to kids’ queries and curiosities, such as playing doctor, and “show me yours, I’ll
show you mine”. Participants will learn strategies to support young children learning about bodies, babies,
relationships, and health. Additionally, prevention and risk-reduction of sexual abuse will be discussed, including
building reporting skills, promoting healthy relationships, and the dangers of “stranger danger”. Throughout the
presentation, Teachable Moments and personal/professionals experiences are shared, providing practical
strategies for caring for, and educating, young children.
L3 Creative Novelty-Mindfulness Reflective Drumming Among
Child and Youth Workers
MARY VENTRELLA, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
JULIE JAGLOWITZ, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
ARMIT GURUNG, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
AMANDA BHIKHA, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
KELVIN OMORODION, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
SHERESE REID, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
LAVANN BAALACHANDIRAN, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
This creative experiential workshop will explore Mindfulness Reflective drumming in Child and Youth Care practice.
It provides participants with a transformative experience that helps create mindful and future leaders.
The workshop will use Mindfulness theory as the framework for activities that enhance “in-the-moment”
experiences. We will demonstrate how the use of drumming has invited CYW students to connect with their lived
experience, culture and community. Learn how drumming can ignite passion, unite voices, and create change within
groups, teams and families. Please come prepared to participate in a drum circle!
Or
One of Each
9:00-10:30
K1 The world is wired! Is CYC practice ready?
DR. JENNIFER MARTIN, Ryerson University, ONTARIO
DR. KIM SNOW, Ryerson University, ONTARIO
The Ecological-Cyber Systems model (Martin, 2012) identifies cyberspace as an ecological system of influence and
provides CYCs with a framework to understand cyberspace as an extension of life-space practice (Martin & Stuart,
2011). Peer Centred Practice (Snow & Mann-Feder, 2013) is a theoretically informed approach to supporting
young people. In an increasingly wired world, CYCs are challenged to adapt their practice to both protect and
support children's evolving capacities in the digital age. Participants will be asked to share their practice dilemmas,
ethical concerns and examples of cyber-engagement practices (Snow & Martin, 2014). Emergent practice
challenges and opportunities are explored.
K2 “Out of Focus”
KEITH GELHORN, ADDvocacy ADHD & Life Skills Coaching Ltd.,
NOVA SCOTIA
“Out of Focus” is a 1.5 hour interactive lecture on ADHD & Co-Existing Conditions.
The first half of this workshop will look at the diagnostic process of ADHD & Co-Existing conditions and a discussion
on available treatment options. The second half of the workshop addresses strategies related to a typical day in
the life of a youth who lives with ADHD. I will explore strategies that address: Sleep, alarms, eating healthy,
organization, time management / scheduling, tips on how to stay focused, homework, chunking assignments,
assistive technology, S.M.A.R.T. Goal Setting, relationship building, emotions management, etc.
K3 March Break Mania!
JEFF REID, Nova Scotia Community College, NSCYCWA, NOVA
SCOTIA
KELLY SHAW, Nova Scotia Community College, CCCYCA,
NSCYCWA, NOVA SCOTIA
JACOLYN TRITES, Nova Scotia Community College, NOVA
SCOTIA
CYC ALUMNI (to be confirmed), Nova Scotia Community College,
NOVA SCOTIA
The CYC faculty team at the NSCC is committed to ensuring students have opportunity for authentic assessment
and utilize a number of community projects to support that. This workshop will focus specifically on March Break
Mania – a day camp offered over March Break that is 100% developed, implemented and evaluated by students. In
this workshop CYC Alumni will present the structure of camp and share the value of this practical opportunity –
clearly linking to their learning outcomes. Faculty will support an understanding of the logistics of completing such
a project in a small rural college, as well as the benefits to the CYC program and links to curriculum mapping.
K4 Cultural Perspectives in Child and Youth Care
FERNANDO NUNES PhD, Mount Saint Vincent University, NOVA
SCOTIA
Minority youth from some at-risk populations are often overrepresented in youth care facilities, have high rates of
recidivism and come into care with very different cultural assumptions, practices and world views. Despite this fact,
relatively little research has been done within the study of child and youth care practice to explore the influence of
these differences on the care which youth receive. In fact, some observers have noted how there is a “crisis” within
our sensitivity to, and understanding of, cross-cultural issues in Child and Youth Care (Weaver, 1990). This
presentation will discuss a number of areas of potential conflict and needed improvements in the cross-cultural
understanding between Child and Youth Care professionals and the youth who are under their care.
K5 Cancelled
K6 The Road Back to Community: Reintegration of Young
Persons from Custody
SUSAN REID, PHD, St. Thomas University, NEW BRUNSWICK
s.90 of the Youth Criminal Justice Act clearly outlines the role of a youth worker in facilitating the reintegration of
young persons back into the community from the time they are admitted into custody. The youth worker is
responsible for the “preparation and implementation of a reintegration plan that sets out the most effective
programs for the young person in order to maximize his or her chances for reintegration into the community”.
Under s.97 and s.105, a set of conditions are laid out for the young person to comply with while serving the portion
of their custody sentence on community supervision. In addition to a list of mandatory compliance conditions, there
is a continuing role prescribed for the youth worker to assist the young person in the implementation of the leave
which focuses on maximizing the potential for success of the individual based on his or her risks and needs. This
workshop will focus on the literature related to risk-needs-responsivity and finding effective programs to match the
individual’s strengths, talents and abilities in the community. Workshop participants will be challenged to consider
how their role as a youth worker might be envisioned in connecting with youth while in custody to develop a mutual
plan for their release into the community whilst considering the potential pitfalls for a lack of services and programs.
AND
One 11:00 – 12:00pm
M1 “Live my life, see what it’s like”: Youth tell us what good child
and youth care could be.
DIANE PARRIS, Red River College, MANITOBA
DAWNE MACKAY-CHIDDENTON, Red River College, MANITOBA
Through focus group discussions, we listened to youth’s experiences of living in care. We will present their
suggestions about CYCP competencies, best practice and culturally competent care. Youth speak honestly about
what works and what gets in the way. CYC practitioners will be challenged to take active roles in promoting youth
voice in their work, as well as in quality assurance and program evaluation for agencies.
We conclude the workshop launching a youth voice video – made by youth, expressing their voice.
M2 Cancelled
M3 Working with Young Carers
DR. GRANT CHARLES, University of British Columbia, BRITISH
COLUMBIA
There is a near invisible population of children and adolescents in Canada who have responsibilities beyond their
years. These young people are forced by circumstances to fulfill a care giving role in their families far greater than
what would be expected of a person their age. They frequently go unnoticed because they often appear mature for
their age and are highly responsible. However, the demands placed upon these young people can positively and/or
negatively influence their growth and development in a number of ways. This workshop will discuss the practice
implications of working with this population.
11:00 am – 12:30 pm Choose One
A1 WHY CYC?!?...Remember, Reconnect & Renew your passion.
MELISSA HARE, ONTARIO
Participants will network and reconnect with the reasons and motivations that led them to become a CYC.
Participants will share and discuss why we have decided to join this challenging, yet rewarding field. As we discuss
our careers, we will examine the most challenging and rewarding experiences and share lessons learned. We will
look at how to pay attention to the 'small moments' in the difficult times, as well, as how to let go of our personal
goals and views focusing solely on the child. The goal is for you to leave, remembering why you are a CYC, re-
loving this field, motivated to achieve excellence, and reconnected to your passion for the work!
A2 So, You Want to Market Your Resources!
DEB COCKERTON, ONTARIO
Our ingenuity, imagination and learned skills can be our best resources. Do you have an idea for a program
resource, workshop or webinar to market to other CYC’s? This workshop will give you an action plan template for
development and market readiness. We will review best practice guidelines and give you an avenue of distribution
that is targeted directly to other Child and Youth Care professionals worldwide.
Learn how your programs and facilitation skills can produce income, as well as help other CYC’s who need field
tested programs and information for their resource toolkit and professional development.
A3 The Art of Kid Whispering: Discovering the Inside Kid
MARK FREADO, Cal Farley, OHIO
Participants will examine the impact of trauma and patterns of self-defeating behaviors in young people. The ability
of professional and para-professional staff to connect with troubled and troubling youth in the most meaningful and
therapeutic manner depends primarily on the effectiveness of their listening skills. Words matter and yet it is well
known that the meaning of communication, particularly in times of stress, is expressed non-verbally or through meta-
communication. This workshop will provide opportunities for learning through presentation, discussion, and
practical application.
A4 Our Tsunami: How We Make It Work with CYC’s.
GILLES CHARRON (CYC Certified), Children’s Hospital of Eastern
Ontario, ONTARIO
With the added pressures that have engulfed our Mental Health system due to the high volume of referrals, as well
as the increasing acuity and complexity of presenting problems, the surge in demand for services has impacted
and added stressors to our already limited resources. To address this issue, the Children’s Hospital of Eastern
Ontario had to become innovative in its response to the needs of children and youth and their families: one
measure taken was to call upon the CYC’s of the hospital to deal with these increasingly challenging circumstances.
In this presentation, I will talk about the implementation of new services established and staffed by CYC’s and why
our discipline was chosen to respond to the increased needs for services. Examples of these newly implemented
services include: Centralized Intake; Transitional Mental Health Services for Youth: Professional Practice Leader;
Case Coordinators for Day Treatment and Inpatient Units; CYCs in the Emergency Dept and Manager for the
inpatient unit.
I would like to share the unique skills that CYCs bring to the table that CHEO has recognized as being invaluable in
handling many of these overwhelming circumstances in our Mental Health system, raising the profile and
responsibilities of our already well-established and recognized discipline.
A5 Expanding Child and Youth Care Practise; Working with
People of all Ages
CHERYL SKIRVING-MILLS, Bartimaeus Inc., ONTARIO
ANNA D’AGOSTINO, Bartimaeus Inc., ONTARIO
Throughout this presentation we will discuss what the core skills are of Child and Youth Care and the transferability
of these core skills to other fields of practice. This workshop will discuss case studies of traditional and non
traditional service delivery of child and youth care to assist in illuminating the evolution of our practice. Throughout
our presentation we will provide a component of interaction/discussion to ensure participants are connecting to the
material being presented.
A6 Child Sexual Abuse Images Online: Confronting the Problem
– Research, Policy, Practice
DR. JENNIFER MARTIN, Ryerson University, ONTARIO
The phenomenon of child sexual abuse images online is a critical social problem with serious implications. In June
2014, I organized a symposium titled “Child Sexual Abuse Images Online: Confronting the Problem – Research,
Policy, Practice that was funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the
School of Child and Youth Care at Ryerson University. The symposium brought together academics, policy makers,
child advocates, practitioners, and other key stake holders who respond to child sexual abuse to examine and share
current knowledge about child sexual abuse images online, identify key priorities, and determine critical strategies
and vital next steps. This presentation will report on the outcomes of that symposium.
1:45 – 5:00 PM Choose One
D1 Trauma-Informed Care in Youth Care Practice
ANGELA COMISH, Chisolm Services For Children, NOVA SCOTIA
HEIDI HOLLOWAY, Chisolm Services For Children, NOVA SCOTIA
TRAVIS SAMPSON, Chisolm Services For Children, NOVA SCOTIA
MIKE SHEA, Chisolm Services For Children, NOVA SCOTIA
This panel of presenter’s objective is to facilitate a learning experience with a focus on practical interventions using
a therapeutic trauma informed care approach with children who have experienced complex trauma.
The workshop will provide participants with an overview of the neurobiological principles that are the foundation for
trauma-informed care as well as group activities and discussions.
Discussions:
1. Challenges that individuals who have experienced complex trauma have with feelings identification, internal
emotional regulation and emotional responses when they are experiencing emotional, environmental, internal or
sensory triggers.
2. Case example discussions will be used as a tool to compare traditional residential care approaches in contrast to
Trauma informed care practices.
3. Our learning experience as Youth Care Worker going through the transition of a new program and approach and
all it encompasses.
D2 Out of Focus! – Connecting Youths with Their Inner Stories
LEON FULCHER, Transformaction International, NEW ZEALAND
THOM GARFAT, Transformaction International, CANADA
Long-standing traditions of story-telling about child and youth care are maintained in every culture. Traditional and
contemporary family stories and interpersonal accounts are all important with young people learning to know and
feel belonging, develop mastery and prepare for independence as young adults. Digital video provides a medium
through which youth workers may keep pace with contemporary youths offering opportunities to communicate in
ways that help young people re-adjust OUR prejudgments and interpretations to connect on more meaningful
levels. In small groups, participants will first create a story line, then plan their shoot before using a smart phone to
produce a short film (maximum 3 minutes) and sharing it with colleagues.
D3 Introduction to Emotional Fitness® - Finding Balance as Child
and Youth Care Workers
CHLOE MUNGALL, Emotional Fitness Centre Inc., NEW
BRUNSWICK
VALERIE DAIGLE, Emotional Fitness Centre Inc., NEW
BRUNSWICK
DARREN DUGUAY, Emotional Fitness Centre Inc., NEW
BRUNSWICK
One of the biggest problems faced by Child and Youth Care Workers is stress related illnesses/ compassion fatigue.
The tools of Emotional Fitness® will assist CYCW's in recognizing the emotional and mental strain they may
unintentionally place on themselves. Through “Listening Power”, CYCW's can develop a deeper self-awareness.
“Inner Balancing” teaches the tools through experiential learning on how to process and work through stressors.
The tools of Emotional Fitness® are of great benefit to workers and clients alike. Through learning to better listen
to ourselves and others we can avoid misunderstandings and false perceptions of ourselves and others.
Emotional Fitness® tools develop healthier relationships with self and others.
D4 Restorative and Peacemaking Practices Across the
Child/Youth Life Span: This IS Beyond Believing!
RICK KELLY, George Brown College, ONTARIO
MANDY MAYHEW, CYW grad; George Brown College
KASSIE WISKE, CYW grad; George Brown College
JOE BLAKE, CYW grad; George Brown College
SARA GOETZ, CYW grad; George Brown College
TANITIA MUNRO, CYW grad; George Brown College
In an interactive and engaging fashion this workshop will profile how students, grads and the “old guy” from the
CYW program have applied the Restorative model for a variety of child/ youth settings and situations over the past
10 years. This work demonstrates how using this approach can span the continuum from prevention to treatment
to trauma. Profiling work from as young as Grade 3’s, to clinical settings to youth justice to gang involved youth, the
developmental reach of this model is revealed.
The workshop demonstrates the use of art, drama, role-play, skill teaching and youth voice to achieve a restorative
consciousness. This session not only highlights ways of working with children and youth, but principles that apply to
ourselves, as teams and in the workplace.
OR
1:45 – 3:15 PM Choose One
B1 Portage Atlantic “Only you can do it, but you can’t do it alone”
PORTAGE ATLANTIC STAFF, Portage Atlantic, NEW BRUNSWICK
Portage Atlantic, a substance abuse rehabilitation program for youth, will present an outline of its organization and
programming. The bilingual residential program helps youth identify the cause of their problems, focus on the
coping mechanisms that will help them face these issues and carry out the necessary strategies to overcome them;
but this cannot be achieved alone. The mantra at Portage is “Only you can do it, but you can’t do it alone” hence
the premise of our presentation. With such careful investment in the residential treatment of youth at risk,
networking with other organizations is a critical feature in mental health and addictions rehabilitation
programming. Bridging these connections leverage and support important feats made through treatment.
B2 Don’t Make Me Go In There!
JESSICA HADLEY, Project Neecheewam, MANITOBA
We work in a demanding and challenging field that often exposes it’s workers to high stress and traumatic
situations. This workshop looks at how Staff, Supervisors, and Human Resources can support each other through
crisis moments that impact, not only our ability to do the work, but our decision to stay in the field. Together we will
look at the pressures that we put on ourselves to be the "perfect" Child and Youth Care Practitioner, how we can
develop supportive work environments, and how Human Resources can be used as a support before a professional
crisis takes a personal toll.
B3 Acquired Brain Injury: How Child and Youth Counselors are
Reshaping Rehabilitation.
JOSH FURLONGER, Bartimaeus, ONTARIO
Rehabilitation Support Workers (RSW) play a vital role in the care and recovery of individuals following the
devastating effects of a motor vehicle accident, specifically, when a Traumatic Brain Injury is sustained. As
extensions of the health care professionals in Ontario, Child and Youth Counselors are being called upon to fill the
role of an RSW.
The ideal RSW will understand behavior; it's causality in addition to effective and efficient management strategies,
they will show compassion and empathy, they will be professional and educated, and they will be adaptable; the
ideal RSW is a Child and Youth Counselor. This movement transcends the typical role of the CYC, it is providing a
new and exciting opportunity for CYC’s looking to expand their horizons and utilize their skills and experiences in a
new and remarkable field. CYC’s are reshaping rehabilitation.
B4 If Id’a thrown that chair at you, it would'a hit you: Seeing
difficult behaviors through the lens of meaning and resilience.
STEPHANIE BROCKETT, University of Victoria, BRITISH
COLUMBIA
Ben Anderson-Nathe, Portland State University, OREGON
This interactive workshop expands on the article in Relational Child and Youth Care Practice. Resilience and
behavioral interventions are not limited to residential settings. Many of the youth we work with across contexts
engage in behaviors that can be difficult to manage. Behaviors typically framed as problematic or negative are
often strategic survival skills. This workshop will explore vignettes and examples from the experience of the
presenters as well as workshop participants, focusing on ways of reframing behaviors within the context and history
of the youth.
B5 Social capital supports a healthy transition from care.
DR. KIM SNOW, Ryerson University, ONTARIO
Social capital consists of functional, informational and expressive supports that are present at the societal or group
level as well as at the relational level. The Voyager Project, is a peer centred program that supports young people
leaving care to pursue their educational aspirations (Snow, 2013). Fostering a sense of belonging and
interconnectedness, providing opportunities for social and vocational skill development and by facilitating 'weak
ties' and network bridges the program serves as a support network for care leavers (Snow et. al 2013). Lessons
learned about peers as social capital and the power of network development will be discussed.
AND
3:30 – 5:00 PM Choose One
C1 Four Steps to the Next Stage
KIARAS GHARABAGHI, Ryerson University, ONTARIO
In this workshop (conversation), Kiaras will propose four key steps that the field of Child and Youth Care must take
in order to move beyond its current limits. The steps relate to four broad dimensions of our practice: from local to
global, from verbal to written, from isolation to high visibility, and from complacent to disruptive. The fundamental
purpose of this workshop is to engage participants in the development of meaningful plans to evolve the profession
that nevertheless may garner the excitement and participation of a wide spectrum of CYCs.
C2 Denied and Dismissed: Supporting Youth in Accessing the
Justice System
WOLFGANG VACHON, Humber College, ONTARIO
Racialized, street involved and otherwise marginalized youth often have negative experiences with the justice
system; the impact frequently causes them to see laws as exclusionary and oppressive. CYC practitioners
frequently do not have sufficient knowledge of legal recourses to effectively ally with youth in accessing justice. This
session will introduce a training program developed with lawyers, CYCs and marginalized young people to train
practitioners in legal rights and relational practices to support youth access to justice. After an initial discussion of
the program, processes will be explored to build the participants’ own capacity to support young people in obtaining
justice.
C3 Fund Raising Success: It’s in the Programs!
MARTY FREADO, Marty Freado Associates LLC, OHIO
Program staff are key to your fund raising success as they are the closest to the heart of your mission. Donors
want to hear from the experts about the people who are helped with their financial support. The experts are those
who work directly in the programs. Too often, the fund raising staff and the program staff operate in separate
camps. This session will provide tips for creating the partnership of fund raising and program for the essential
“culture of fund raising” to support the program needs for your organization.
C4 Addressing FASD in NB: A collaborative based approach to
building capacity
DR. NICOLE LEBLANC, George Dumont Hospital, NEW
BRUNSWICK
In an era of limited health care resources, the need to work collaboratively is essential to improving the care that we
offer to children and their families. The challenges become even more apparent when we are working with children
who have complex needs and their families. In this presentation, we will discuss our NB model for addressing the
needs of individuals affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder through prevention, diagnosis, intervention and
support services. We will also discuss the process of developing the NB Centre of Excellence for FASD and how
our model aims to improve the quality of care for these individuals by leveraging partnerships and building capacity
in our communities.
C5 Youth workers’ discursive constructions of practice with
suicidal youth
DR. PATTI RANAHAN, Concordia University, QUEBEC
RENEE PELLISSIER, Concordia University, QUEBEC
Suicide is a leading cause of death in Canada for adolescents. Consequently, youth workers have a role in suicide
intervention, as they are likely to encounter youth contemplating ending their lives. This presentation reports on
findings from a recent study that explored the ways in which youth workers talked about their practice with suicidal
youth. Discursive research can help us understand the relationship between discourse and action, and how
identities and events are constructed and reproduced through language. Understanding how the complexities within
suicide intervention are discursively constructed and reproduced by youth workers can enhance our capacities to
talk about our profession and share what we do.
Thursday Workshops
Full Day
Lorraine Fox
LF1 TRAUMA INFORMED CARE
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION
People involved in the world of child welfare cannot help but notice the new call to practicing “Trauma Informed
Care”. Such an approach is being written into the language of licensing and certification bodies and is becoming
an expectation of professionals and para-professionals alike. What is Trauma Informed Care? What is expected of
those living or working with traumatized children and teens? During this workshop we will examine in close detail
what makes an experience a “trauma” and how such experiences result in symptomatic behavior that is often
puzzling and challenging. We will also examine how various people in various roles with traumatized have
something unique and special to offer in terms of their healing.
Topics include:
- Symptoms of PTSD, including fear, anxiety, sexualized behavior, aggressive acting out, processing errors,
behavioral problems and learned helplessness - Differences between crises and trauma
- Primary trauma from abuse and neglect
- Secondary trauma from exposure to domestic violence
- PTSD and memory problems and how these cause children additional trauma
- Interventions for treating PTSD and its various manifestations, including therapy and therapeutic parenting
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- As a result of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Define and explain the essential features of post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Examine both primary and secondary trauma
- Describe various “types” of trauma, and how they differ from each other.
- Outline the general categories of symptoms of PTSD, as well as describe specific symptoms under each
category and how these symptoms can be recognized in behavior. - Identify specific changes in the developing brain caused by exposure to primary and secondary trauma
- Understand the relationship between trauma and memory, and some of the problems these issues cause for
both clients and workers. - Explain some of the features of individual “resiliency”, and how these affect the outcomes from a traumatic
experience. - Outline effective therapeutic interventions that can be done in a family home, group home, or foster care
- Describe a variety of short and long term treatment interventions for PTSD in a variety of settings.
OR
9:00 – 12:30 pm
F1 Making Moments Meaningful: Using Daily Life Events to
Achieve Outcomes that Matter
THOM GARFAT, Transformaction International, CANADA
LEON FULCHER, Transformaction International, NEW ZEALAND
Making moments meaningful requires connecting everyday interventions to desired outcomes. In this workshop
Thom & Leon will show the connections possible between working in the moment with daily life events and achieving
outcomes that matter for children, young people and families. This workshop will be of particular interest to
supervisors and managers interested in providing quality care in programs for young people and families.
F2 Effective and Honorable CYC Leadership in Challenging Times
FRANK DELANO, NEW YORK
This highly interactive workshop is geared toward established leaders, as well as emerging and future leaders, who
want to think critically about strategies to address the many challenges ahead in a rapidly changing Child and
Youth Care field. Emphasis will be placed on identifying and examining approaches to leadership that will be
effective and efficient while keeping the core values that provide the foundation for quality Child and Youth Care
work. Topics discussed will include ethics, negotiating organizational politics, leadership qualities, and strategies to
set high standards to build a positive CYC culture.
F3 A Pre and Post Burnout Intervention for Child and Youth Care
Workers.
CHARLENE PICKREM, Mount Saint Vincent University, NOVA
SCOTIA
My presentation defines and examines the history of burnout, stages of its development and the potential impacts
on an individual’s well-being, organizations bottom line, and our clients care. I examine the possible short, medium
and long term benefits of an unified approach to burnout interventions and coping strategies by individuals,
academic Child and Youth Care settings, and organizations. I discuss the individual and organizational, and client
characteristics that may contribute to burnout. The presentation material and findings will be supported by past,
research, my own personal experiences of burnout as well as data collected for my thesis.
OR
9:00 – 10:30 am
E1 Learn, Discover, Play: Experiential games and activities to
navigate change and create community.
STEPHANIE GRIFFIN, Algonquin College, ONTARIO
LUKE SMITH
In this workshop, participants will refresh and add to their tool box of experiential games and activities for bringing
about change in perception and awareness, creating connections, improving communication, and create productive
spaces.
Purposeful play and interactivity are keys to our practice and participants will experience an assortment of activities
and strategies that can be used in various environments with individuals, dyads, in small or large groups.
This workshop will allow participants opportunity for moving from simply believing in what can be done to learning
the strategies and games that you can put into practice.
Be prepared to participate – this is not a sit-down workshop.
E2 Clinical Transphobia and Cissexism: Rectifying Gendered
Practices in Child and Youth Care
TIM MCCONNELL, ONTARIO
Although the visibility of alternatively gendered identifications among children and youth has increased in recent
years, ensuring the accessibility of support services for this demographic remains challenging. Incorporating an
analysis of ‘cissexism’ - a system of belief that denigrates and stigmatizes any non-cisgender form of behaviour or
identity, acknowledged to correlate positively with provider sensitivity to gender concerns - this presentation will
examine the impact of the aforementioned beliefs in practice. Developed by Tim McConnell in response to his own
experiences of service access as a gender-variant youth, this presentation will present concrete strategies
applicable to both individuals and organizations.
E3 Live Free or Die: Youth Services on the Cheap in New
Hampshire
DAVID VILLIOTTI, Nashua Children’s Home, NEW HAMPSHIRE
This workshop will describe funding for services in the State of New Hampshire, differing from most other venues its
statutory restriction on paying for residential care unless court-ordered to do so. Entry to services via both the
child-protective and juvenile justice systems will be reviewed as will the strategies for infusing private dollars in
order to meet the costs of care. The Transitional Living Program of Nashua Children’s Home, which provides
housing and ongoing staff support and guidance to youth that have aged-out of care, almost exclusively with
private dollars, will also be reviewed.
E4 Opening Relationships With Youth Through Mixed Media:
Bridging Worlds Through Writing, Photography and Film.
TREVOR GOODWIN, Moncton Youth Residences Inc., NEW
BRUNSWICK
Showcasing various workshop techniques and ideas for building relationships with youth/clients by utilizing
photography, film, writing, spoken word etc. Participants will be provided both examples and tools for implementing
these techniques in any workplace setting (Schools, Residential Care, Outreach etc).
E5 Why Hire a Certified CYC Worker
KELLY SHAW, CCCYCA, NSCYCWA, Nova Scotia Community
College, NOVA SCOTIA
JEFF REID, NSCYCWA, Nova Scotia Community College, NOVA
SCOTIA
HAWLEY ZYTARUK, NSCYCWA, NOVA SCOTIA
As certification for Child and Youth Care practitioners gains attention more and more questions are evoked.
Employers ask why? Individuals with CYC education who are practicing ask Why? Individuals without CYC
education ask why? Youth, families and alumni of CYC programs ask, Why? In this interactive 60 minute workshop
individuals from the Nova Scotia Child and Youth Care Worker Association will share their journey into certification.
The questions they have asked, and the answers they are forming have been incorporated into an information
brochure, and presentation which may help your association, institution, organization, colleagues, and or client
populations as they encounter certification.
E6 The Akoma Family Centre: Fostering Sibling Relationships and
Connecting Meaning to Change.
ROBYN SMITH, Akoma Family Centre, NOVA SCOTIA
Since it’s inception in February of 2011, the Akoma Family Centre continues to be a site of progressive change in
its delivery of residential services to children, youth and siblings in care. Formerly the Nova Scotia Home for
Colored Children (founded in 1915), the Centre has faced its share of tribulations amidst a history of institutional
marginalization and operational transition though continues to forge beyond entrenched beliefs toward wider
understandings of quality care, carving new pathways along the way. Akoma’s mission to serve ‘sibling groups’ is
an invaluable aspect of our therapeutic programming as well as being unique to other residential facilities in Nova
Scotia. Within the context of sibling care, as well as learning to navigate the tides of change, Akoma’s committed
Child and Youth Care Workers, Social Worker and Residential Administrators carry a wealth of insight and are
eager to share our passion with other caring individuals and professionals across the country!
AND
11:00 – 12:30 am
G1 At risk kids have strengths too!
ASHLEY BLACK, Moncton Youth Residences, NEW BRUNSWICK
During this 90 minute presentation, the participants will be made aware of strength base counselling and how it can
be used with at risk youth in order to assist in their personal growth. Information covered will be: a brief struggles,
being able to rationally detach, and the importance of recognizing growth no matter how small the success. The
participants will leave the presentation with tips, suggested readings, and their own personal answer to the miracle
question. The presenter will have a power point presentation and have a question and answer period at the end.
Participants will also have the chance to present a challenging youth and the group will assist in working out in re-
framing the behaviours into positives.
G2 Developmental Trauma Disorder: Awareness for Prevention
and Intervention
AZRA KARMALI, ONTARIO
GABRIELA BAUMANN, ONTARIO
This is an interactive workshop for child and youth workers with a focus on raising awareness around
Developmental Trauma Disorder and its link to the onset of Borderline Personality Disorder traits in adolescents. As
front line mental health support, child and youth workers are often the first individuals to encounter and witness the
intricate symptomatology of this proposed disorder. This presentation will address symptomatology, etiology and
attachment, assessment, links to individual Borderline Personality Disorder traits, triage options, understanding
medications, and techniques for front line workers as well as parents to be better prepared for earlier identification
and prevention.
G3 Cancelled
Thursday Afternoon
Choose either
Half Day Workshop 1:45 – 5:00 pm
I1 Searching for Truth: The Developmental Audit®
MARK FREADO, Cal Farley, OHIO
The Developmental Audit offers an alternative to traditional deficit-based assessments at critical times in the life of
a young person. The Audit engages young persons in conflict, as well as adults in their ecology, in the process of
strength and needs-based solutions. The Audit is grounded in resilience science, neuroscience, and ecological
research on positive development. The Developmental Audit examines the developmental pathways of young
people at critical points in their lives to design and enhance interventions that may ultimately affect available
services or placement. Exercises will challenge participants to engage in key components of the Developmental
Audit process.
I2 CYC Advocacy Project
AURRORA DEMONTE, Sir Sandford Fleming College,
Peterborough Youth Services, ONTARIO
HEATHER SAGO, Sir Sandford Fleming College, The Murray
McKinnon Foundation, ONTARIO
A taste of what is to come….We will be providing an update on a video advocacy project that was initiated in
Newfoundland at the World Congress in June 2014 and that will continue gathering recordings over the next two
years. The project is three fold, to explore the following on a global scale: to define advocacy, to share stories of
advocacy, and to examine the need for the professionalization of the field. This project will have no ownership but
rather will belong to all and thus this session will be an interactive workshop adding your voice to the mix –
specifically we will be exploring the use of advocacy in everyday moments. The end goal is to have the advocacy
project completed and ready to present at the next World Conference in Vienna, Austria in 2016.
Further details about this project can be viewed at http://www.cycadvocacyproject.com/# and https://www.facebook.
com/groups/CYCadvocacyproject/ while preliminary findings can be found on page 41 @ www.cyc-net.org/cyc-
online/jul2013.pdf
OR
One
1:45-3:15
H1 Purposeful Leadership - Positive Engagement with Hard to
Reach Youth
LISE BROWN, Momenta, MANITOBA
SARA HARRISON, Momenta, MANITOBA
Research shows that the quality of human relationships in children’s programming can be more influential than the
program itself. At this workshop we will present the main aspects of Momenta’s leadership model based on research
in the fields of child and youth development, experiential education, adventure therapy, and social work practice.
Participants will learn proven methods to engage with hard to reach youth to affect change in individuals, programs
and communities including overviews of anticipated outcomes.
H2 What Do We Mean By ‘Treatment’? Re-thinking and
Recognizing the Role of the Child and Youth Worker.
GORD BAIN, New Path Youth and Family Services, ONTARIO
PETER MARSHALL, New Path Youth and Family Services,
ONTARIO
Treatment in children’s mental health often focuses on the more ‘clinical’ forms of intervention, such as medication
and in-office psychotherapy. While these are valuable aspects of treatment, there is a growing body of research
indicating the need to broaden our perspective. Life-style changes, for example, can be as effective as medication
in treating depression and ADHD, and activities that strengthen social skills can be instrumental in overcoming the
impact of trauma. The presentation will highlight the many areas in which the Child and Youth Workers’ skills are
needed to provide optimal treatment for youth and build resilience in our clients.
H3 Changing our Minds: Understanding Developmental
Differences and Supporting Developmental Growth in Child and
Youth Care Practitioners
HEATHER MODLIN, Key Assets, NEWFOUNDLAND AND
LABRADOR
Child and youth care requires more from practitioners than just acquisition of knowledge and skills, or ability to
intervene in prescribed ways. It makes “demands on our mind.” This session will explore the mental demands of
child and youth care practice. Using Robert Kegan’s (1982) constructive-developmental theory and Baxter-Magolda’
s (2009) theory of self-authorship as the theoretical lenses, qualitative differences in practitioners’ meaning-making
will be discussed, along with implications for practice. The role of the holding environment in enhancing or hindering
performance and growth will be highlighted.
H4 Navigating the waves of CYC practices: What's over the
horizon? A facilitated discussion
CATHERINE HEDLIN, Grant MacEwan University, ALBERTA
BEN ANDERSON-NATHE, Portland State University, OREGON
Discussions begun in Newfoundland 2013 and carried through at CYC conferences since then, regarding the
tensions and possibilities of being a CYC practitioner in the context of larger cultural, professional and institutional
forces that affect identity and practice have found no easy answers. What became clear was the ambiguity of CYC
practice could allow for the development of a third space – a place where divergent views are brought together in
new and exciting ways. This interactive discussion will ask participants to begin to visualize possibilities for a third
space which rather than attempting to place tight parameters around CYC practice, instead welcomes difference in
critical and creative ideas, perspectives and practices.
H5 Trauma Informed Care, the Neurosequential Model of
Therapeutics
PATRICK FORAN, Hull Services, ALBERTA
We have all been hearing a lot about trauma informed care but what is it really? This workshop will examine what
makes a program trauma informed. We will illustrate the implementation of NMT at Hull Service’s Preadolescent
Treatment Program (PTP) as an example of how to integrate trauma informed care into your program model. We
will explore the process of how to go from a model to implementation. We will illustrate the importance of a
relationally rich environment, the significance of relational permanence and a milieu that uses somatosensory,
patterned repetitive, and music and movement “dosing” activities to help regulate children. We will also use a case
study of a specific child utilizing an NMT metric and show how this data informs treatment in a developmentally
sensitive manner. We will also demonstrate the regulating power of these types of interventions by involving
participants in some fun, easy to implement activities. This session will include additional readings for delegates to
aid them in the process of implementing a trauma informed lens to their own practice.
AND
One 3:45-4:45
J1 "Breathing in change"---How aromatherapy with essential oils
can be used to increase cognitive function & provide mood
enhancement
CHARLENE SAVOIE, B.A., RTC, owner of Peaceful Families
Consulting, NEW BRUNSWICK
Aromatherapy is the practice of using natural essential oils extracted from flowers, stems, leaves, roots or other
parts of a plant to enhance psychological and physical well-being. This alternative medicine is growing and more
scientific studies have been conducted.
It is widely believed to stimulate brain function, assist pain relief, provide mood enhancement and increase cognitive
function. Essential oils can also be absorbed through the skin, where they travel through the bloodstream and can
promote whole-body
healing. Participants will learn the history and difference in quality of essential oils, how some are unsafe to use with
clients and scientific/personal results.
J2 Caregiving, Guardianship, and Turnover of Living Situation in
the Lives of Street-involved Youth
DOUG MAGNUSON, University of Victoria, BRITISH COLUMBIA
CECILIA BENOIT, University of Victoria, BRITISH COLUMBIA
MIKAEL JANSSON, University of Victoria, BRITISH COLUMBIA
MARY CLARE KENNEDY, University of Victoria, BRITISH
COLUMBIA
This is a report on the first wave of data from the longitudinal study of street-involved youth, “Risky Business.” This
sample is composed of youth who have previous experience, as permanent or temporary wards, in foster care, and
the data includes life history of living situation. We will a) illustrate the instability of living situation and guardians
during their childhood, especially just prior to their street involvement, b) discuss the connections between their
opinions about the care experience and their current sense of hopefulness and happiness, and c) report on their
opinions about the influences of their guardians.
J3 Exposure to Intimate Partner Violence: A Well-Distributed
Social Disaster with Implications for Child and Youth Practice
SIBYLLE ARTZ, PhD, University of Victoria, BRITISH COLUMBIA
Children’s exposure to Intimate Partner Violence can damage neurohormoral regulation, affect memory, trigger fear
responses, impair executive function and the ability to learn, weaken the immune system, raise the risk for smoking,
substance use, and risky sexual behaviours, increase the potential for behavioural, conduct, adjustment and
attention problems, while also contributing to an increased risk of criminality and life-long interpersonal violence
perpetration and victimization. Based on a 2014 in-press review of the most recent research, this workshop
focuses on educating workers about the impacts of Intimate Partner Violence exposure and explores approaches
that help survivors shift towards recovery and resilience.
J4 The Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research
Network: A Unique Provincial Partnership Model
COURTNEY GREEN, Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Research Network, ONTARIO
KATHY UNSWORTH, Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Research Network, ONTARIO
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is the most common type of preventable neurodevelopmental disability in
Canada. However, FASD research remains fragmented in Canada and the reciprocal translation of knowledge
from the research field to policy and program development has been inadequate. To address this issue, the
Canada FASD Research Network (CanFASD) was formed to support leadership in addressing the extraordinary
complexities of FASD. The mission was to produce and maintain national, collaborative research designed for
sharing with all Canadians, leading to prevention strategies and improved support services for people affected by
FASD. Importantly, the Network infrastructure provides a mechanism for leveraging partnerships and resources to
increase capacity and knowledge related to policy-relevant FASD research.
J5 Connecting Beyond Ethics and Evidence: Learning to Look at
the Consequences of our Actions in our Work with Young People
and Families
DR. GRANT CHARLES, University of British Columbia, BRITISH
COLUMBIA
There is a great deal being written these days about ethics and evidence as if they were two separate topics.
However, evidence and ethics has to be considered in context. We often think there is a simple right and a wrong in
our interactions with young people and families. Unfortunately neither ethics nor evidence is as simple as we would
like them to be. This workshop will look at how to read and understand ‘evidence’ and ‘ethics’ within a given context
as well as provide a framework for examining the consequences of our actions with young people and families.
Friday Morning Workshops
Choose either
Half Day Workshops 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
L1 Child and Youth Care Work with Families
DONNA JAMIESON, MacEwan University, ALBERTA
JENNY MCGRATH, MacEwan University, ALBERTA
All Child and Youth Care Workers need to be willing and able to work not only with children and youth, but with their
families and the other important people in their lives. A significant number of CYC professionals have chosen family
work as their career, however, even when your work is not primarily with families, it is critical that you remain “family-
friendly.” Child and Youth Care Workers have an integrated knowledge base and skill set. Our work, which is
adaptable, experiential, relational and life-space-based, allows us to engage with families in unique and innovative
ways. Come to our interactive workshop and explore ways to be strength-based and positive in your involvement
with families no matter what your role.
L2 “The Talk”: Understand Children’s Healthy Sexual
Development in the Early Years (birth to 6)
EMILY MARTINELLO, Sexual Development Consulting, NOVA
SCOTIA
This engaging and informative session will highlight how to support children's sexual development in the early
years, addressing how to respond to kids’ queries and curiosities, such as playing doctor, and “show me yours, I’ll
show you mine”. Participants will learn strategies to support young children learning about bodies, babies,
relationships, and health. Additionally, prevention and risk-reduction of sexual abuse will be discussed, including
building reporting skills, promoting healthy relationships, and the dangers of “stranger danger”. Throughout the
presentation, Teachable Moments and personal/professionals experiences are shared, providing practical
strategies for caring for, and educating, young children.
L3 Creative Novelty-Mindfulness Reflective Drumming Among
Child and Youth Workers
MARY VENTRELLA, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
JULIE JAGLOWITZ, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
ARMIT GURUNG, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
AMANDA BHIKHA, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
KELVIN OMORODION, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
SHERESE REID, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
LAVANN BAALACHANDIRAN, Sheridan College, ONTARIO
This creative experiential workshop will explore Mindfulness Reflective drumming in Child and Youth Care practice.
It provides participants with a transformative experience that helps create mindful and future leaders.
The workshop will use Mindfulness theory as the framework for activities that enhance “in-the-moment”
experiences. We will demonstrate how the use of drumming has invited CYW students to connect with their lived
experience, culture and community. Learn how drumming can ignite passion, unite voices, and create change within
groups, teams and families. Please come prepared to participate in a drum circle!
Or
One of Each
9:00-10:30
K1 The world is wired! Is CYC practice ready?
DR. JENNIFER MARTIN, Ryerson University, ONTARIO
DR. KIM SNOW, Ryerson University, ONTARIO
The Ecological-Cyber Systems model (Martin, 2012) identifies cyberspace as an ecological system of influence and
provides CYCs with a framework to understand cyberspace as an extension of life-space practice (Martin & Stuart,
2011). Peer Centred Practice (Snow & Mann-Feder, 2013) is a theoretically informed approach to supporting
young people. In an increasingly wired world, CYCs are challenged to adapt their practice to both protect and
support children's evolving capacities in the digital age. Participants will be asked to share their practice dilemmas,
ethical concerns and examples of cyber-engagement practices (Snow & Martin, 2014). Emergent practice
challenges and opportunities are explored.
K2 “Out of Focus”
KEITH GELHORN, ADDvocacy ADHD & Life Skills Coaching Ltd.,
NOVA SCOTIA
“Out of Focus” is a 1.5 hour interactive lecture on ADHD & Co-Existing Conditions.
The first half of this workshop will look at the diagnostic process of ADHD & Co-Existing conditions and a discussion
on available treatment options. The second half of the workshop addresses strategies related to a typical day in
the life of a youth who lives with ADHD. I will explore strategies that address: Sleep, alarms, eating healthy,
organization, time management / scheduling, tips on how to stay focused, homework, chunking assignments,
assistive technology, S.M.A.R.T. Goal Setting, relationship building, emotions management, etc.
K3 March Break Mania!
JEFF REID, Nova Scotia Community College, NSCYCWA, NOVA
SCOTIA
KELLY SHAW, Nova Scotia Community College, CCCYCA,
NSCYCWA, NOVA SCOTIA
JACOLYN TRITES, Nova Scotia Community College, NOVA
SCOTIA
CYC ALUMNI (to be confirmed), Nova Scotia Community College,
NOVA SCOTIA
The CYC faculty team at the NSCC is committed to ensuring students have opportunity for authentic assessment
and utilize a number of community projects to support that. This workshop will focus specifically on March Break
Mania – a day camp offered over March Break that is 100% developed, implemented and evaluated by students. In
this workshop CYC Alumni will present the structure of camp and share the value of this practical opportunity –
clearly linking to their learning outcomes. Faculty will support an understanding of the logistics of completing such
a project in a small rural college, as well as the benefits to the CYC program and links to curriculum mapping.
K4 Cultural Perspectives in Child and Youth Care
FERNANDO NUNES PhD, Mount Saint Vincent University, NOVA
SCOTIA
Minority youth from some at-risk populations are often overrepresented in youth care facilities, have high rates of
recidivism and come into care with very different cultural assumptions, practices and world views. Despite this fact,
relatively little research has been done within the study of child and youth care practice to explore the influence of
these differences on the care which youth receive. In fact, some observers have noted how there is a “crisis” within
our sensitivity to, and understanding of, cross-cultural issues in Child and Youth Care (Weaver, 1990). This
presentation will discuss a number of areas of potential conflict and needed improvements in the cross-cultural
understanding between Child and Youth Care professionals and the youth who are under their care.
K5 Cancelled
K6 The Road Back to Community: Reintegration of Young
Persons from Custody
SUSAN REID, PHD, St. Thomas University, NEW BRUNSWICK
s.90 of the Youth Criminal Justice Act clearly outlines the role of a youth worker in facilitating the reintegration of
young persons back into the community from the time they are admitted into custody. The youth worker is
responsible for the “preparation and implementation of a reintegration plan that sets out the most effective
programs for the young person in order to maximize his or her chances for reintegration into the community”.
Under s.97 and s.105, a set of conditions are laid out for the young person to comply with while serving the portion
of their custody sentence on community supervision. In addition to a list of mandatory compliance conditions, there
is a continuing role prescribed for the youth worker to assist the young person in the implementation of the leave
which focuses on maximizing the potential for success of the individual based on his or her risks and needs. This
workshop will focus on the literature related to risk-needs-responsivity and finding effective programs to match the
individual’s strengths, talents and abilities in the community. Workshop participants will be challenged to consider
how their role as a youth worker might be envisioned in connecting with youth while in custody to develop a mutual
plan for their release into the community whilst considering the potential pitfalls for a lack of services and programs.
AND
One 11:00 – 12:00pm
M1 “Live my life, see what it’s like”: Youth tell us what good child
and youth care could be.
DIANE PARRIS, Red River College, MANITOBA
DAWNE MACKAY-CHIDDENTON, Red River College, MANITOBA
Through focus group discussions, we listened to youth’s experiences of living in care. We will present their
suggestions about CYCP competencies, best practice and culturally competent care. Youth speak honestly about
what works and what gets in the way. CYC practitioners will be challenged to take active roles in promoting youth
voice in their work, as well as in quality assurance and program evaluation for agencies.
We conclude the workshop launching a youth voice video – made by youth, expressing their voice.
M2 Cancelled
M3 Working with Young Carers
DR. GRANT CHARLES, University of British Columbia, BRITISH
COLUMBIA
There is a near invisible population of children and adolescents in Canada who have responsibilities beyond their
years. These young people are forced by circumstances to fulfill a care giving role in their families far greater than
what would be expected of a person their age. They frequently go unnoticed because they often appear mature for
their age and are highly responsible. However, the demands placed upon these young people can positively and/or
negatively influence their growth and development in a number of ways. This workshop will discuss the practice
implications of working with this population.
Note: Trauma Informed Care is
a full day workshop and if it is
your choice, move along to
Friday to complete your
workshop selection.
a full day workshop and if it is
your choice, move along to
Friday to complete your
workshop selection.
The workshop program is long
and complex. It would be best to
have a printed copy of the
Workshop Selection Form ready
to both record and track your
choices.
There are instructions regarding
options throughout as workshops
can run from full day, to half day
to 1.5 hours. As such, your choice
can fill your day or half day.
The three conference days have
different colours for each,
hopefully to assist you along the
way.
Once complete, you can return to
the fillable form and record your
choices in the spaces provided for
each with the workshop number.
Save to your documents file and
print if mailing it in or attach if
e-mailing.
and complex. It would be best to
have a printed copy of the
Workshop Selection Form ready
to both record and track your
choices.
There are instructions regarding
options throughout as workshops
can run from full day, to half day
to 1.5 hours. As such, your choice
can fill your day or half day.
The three conference days have
different colours for each,
hopefully to assist you along the
way.
Once complete, you can return to
the fillable form and record your
choices in the spaces provided for
each with the workshop number.
Save to your documents file and
print if mailing it in or attach if
e-mailing.
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