Life has been frightening and unpredictable for the children who arrive at Hephzibah’s Group Home in Oak Park. Many have experienced severe abuse and neglect, multiple placements and hospitalization. When exposed to repeated trauma children don’t develop adequate coping skills and commonly on aggression or avoidance. Traditional parenting techniques can often backfire and create additional struggle.
Thanks to a grant from the Midwest branch of Hedge Funds Care, Hephzibah staff will receive intensive hands-on training in techniques to help meet the needs of young trauma survivors. ARC Training, which covers attachment, self-regulation, and competency, will begin in April.
Caregivers and other staff members will gain additional knowledge and tools to identify and respond to specific behaviors in ways that enable the kids be more successful. The training is part of Hephzibah’s ongoing efforts to support the sometimes stressful work of its staff and help kids develop self-soothing skills and other helpful strategies.
