What about my other kids? Navigating the dynamics of sibling relationships in families of children with pediatric epilepsy
When you have a child that requires constant supervision and care, how, as a parent, do you balance this with the needs of your other children? How do you support your “neurotypical” children when they have experienced the trauma of meltdowns, rage episodes, and frequent hospitalizations of their brother or sister? How do you help them understand their sibling’s illness without feeling as though you are creating a double standard or excuses for unacceptable behavior? And how do you balance all your children’s needs when one of them requires everything you have to give? Join us for a deep dive into this complex issue of sibling relationships in families of children who have pediatric epilepsy surgery.
About our speaker:
Eileen Devine, LCSW
Eileen has over a dozen years of clinical experience and is the adoptive mother of a child with fetal alcohol syndrome. She believes that kids do well if they can and that when we understand how a child’s brain works, we understand the meaning behind challenging behaviors. Eileen’s goal is to not only support parents in feeling more competent and confident in connecting with their child by parenting from a brain-based perspective but also to recognize their experience as the parent of a child with challenging behavioral symptoms and their impact on their sense of self and well-being. When these two sides of the neurobehavioral coin can be equally addressed, there is less frustration and increased hope in this unique parenting journey.
Eileen has her License in Clinical Social Work and is a certified facilitator in the teaching and application of the neurobehavioral model, as developed by FASCETS founder Diane Malbin. She has also completed Tier 1 training in Think:Kids Collaborative Problem Solving. Eileen is an instructor for the Post-Master’s Certificate in Adoption and Foster Therapy through Portland State University’s Child Welfare Partnership, training other therapists on the neurobehavioral model.
Founder of the Brain First Parenting Program and The Resilience Room
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About Power Hour
We understand that being a parent of a child who is anywhere on the epilepsy surgery journey can be challenging and overwhelming at times. That’s why we’ve created our Power Hour workshops – to provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to empower yourself and your child.
These workshops are designed to be non-intimidating and easy to understand. We use real-life examples to make sure you can easily follow along and apply what you learn.
During the workshops, we’ll cover a variety of topics, including:
- Understanding your child’s needs and the impact it may have on their development;
- Navigating the educational system and finding the right resources for your child;
- Building a support system for yourself and your family;
- Self-care and stress management for parents of children with disabilities
…. and more!
By empowering yourself and your child, you can better advocate for their needs and create a more positive and fulfilling life for both of you.
Power Hour workshops are held online and can be attended from the comfort of your own home. They are open to all parents and primary caregivers of children anywhere on the epilepsy surgery journey. We hope you’ll join us for these valuable and informative workshops. Sign up today and take the first step toward empowerment!