Note From the Coach
The Measure of Success
The past month I have had writer's block (likely
due to the hectic pace of college teaching, a busy
office and being a mom!). But last night while
folding laundry at the end of a discouraging
day I reflected on all of the parents of challenging
kids that I know and why they (and I) keep at it. I
decided that the main reason is hope.
Hope that things will get better, hope that the right
help will be found, hope that one day our child
will experience success.
I often remind parents to 1) set measures of success
at a realistic level and 2) to have success measured
according to the skills provided, not necessarily
the responses you get. It may be years
before guidance sinks in (and often only
after experiencing life the hard way). Continuing
to give guidance and set healthy limits are what you
need to do*. The rest is up to the child.
And so, the measure of success is not the outcome
but the effort we put in. "Success", as Ralph
Waldo Emerson put it, "is... to have made a difference
in the life of a child." Not perfection.
Not the dream. A difference.
Today no matter what decisions, challenges, or ongoing
struggles you face, be encouraged to know that you
are making a difference.
Until next month...
-Tanya Helton, M.Sc., Life Coach
*For those of you who like to read the fine print,
yes, this is a little simplistic. I include
within this category working with professionals, medications, etc.
The point is all we can do is all we can do.
Upcoming TeleClasses
TeleClasses are free classes provided by telephone.
Note: Long-distance fees to the U.S. conference-call
number are your responsibility. To register
e-mail: Tanya@ForestCottageCentre.com.
Class instructions will be provided at time of registration.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26:8-9pm Mountain Time/7-8pm
Pacific.
Attachment Disorder: What do you want to
know?
This introductory class will outline some basic information
about the disorder and discuss resources to access;
handouts provided. (Note: only those who
participate in the call will receive the handouts).
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 28: 8-9pm Mountain Time/7-8pm Pacific
Adopting Sibling Groups: What parents need
to consider.
This 1 hr call will include a variety of topics
and discussion time for parents about the special
issues surrounding sibling groups. Facilitated
by Tanya, you will have opportunity to ask questions
and receive printed handouts from the call.
(Note: only those who participate in the call
will receive the handouts).
Employment Opportunities
PARENT COACHES AND FAMILY COUNSELLORS:
Forest Cottage is interested in discussing partnerships
by extension to professionals able to provide
telephone-based support services to parents of challenging
children. Please contact Tanya at 1-877-261-6361
(toll-free) for more information.
HOME SUPPORT WORKERS:
In early 2004 Forest Cottage Centre will begin providing
home support services to those in the Fort St. John
area. We are looking for caring and friendly
individuals to provide visitation and support services,
which may include the elderly, the disabled, and
respite for special needs children. (Workload will
vary according to experience and interest).
Flexible work hours. Starting wage $10-15/hr, based
on credentials. Specialized training provided.
Requirements: Grade 12 and college diploma
or certificate (such as Human Services, Social Services
Worker, Home Support Care Attendant, Early Childhood
Education), or equivalent experience. First Aid certification
required prior to employment.
