NANA SAYS SOCIAL WORKERS CAN HELP CHILDREN

As a tribute to National Social Work Week 2013 in Canada, it made me pause and reflect about the role when it comes to children. By helping children to navigate childhood, there is a possibility to grow into fine adults. Where would you find children and social workers? Child Welfare agencies with a mandate to protect child from physical, sexual and emotional abuse as well as neglect are some. Family therapy clinics, youth and child clinics, special needs services, school crisis teams, bereavement services, hospital- pediatric, postpartum and NICU-Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to name the major places that come to mind. If mothers and fathers are assisted in their parenting, then children have a better chance. If children that need services are allowed to process their feelings through counselling, play therapy, music therapy, art therapy or other activities that build self-esteem and validate the person, it helps everyone long term. Of course not every child needs a social worker! But we are there if we are needed!

NANA SAYS SHE DID SOMETHING SHE THOUGHT SHE WOULD NEVER DO

While babysitting my grandchildren last night, their behaviour and defiance was becoming a little unruly after several hours. As we all know threatening with "I'll tell your mother", yelling, and no I did not spank the children -as I really do not believe hitting teaches anything- do not work. I was really not enjoying myself. After bath time, again they were becoming just too excited and did not want a story but wanted to pile all the books to the ceiling. Well you get the picture! I saw my opportunity with a Sesame Street Game- Felt board with little characters and objects. I resorted to therapist mode and used a Play Therapy technique. I needed to gain some control of the situation and enjoy them. "Hey kids, I have an idea. " We took turns at telling a story together on the felt board with all the characters. For the second and third story the grandkiddies taking turns wanted to tell the story themselves. Calming, creative and engaging! I was able to sit back, engaged with them but able to enjoy their process. They liked it. Hugs and kisses and one child put to bed while the older one stayed up with Nana a little longer. Children can be relentless in pushing our buttons- especially if we are tired to start. As grandparents, we want to be supportive of the parents who need a break to go out as a couple. We know it is good for their marriage. The little ones are with a trusted person who loves them. Do you have moments with your children or grandchildren where the behaviour is pushing you over the top? Do you just want to enjoy them but find it is difficult? What have you tried to capture the moment lovingly and creatively? Do you have any difficult situations you want to discuss? Perhaps we can review and find some creative solutions together!