Nga mihi nui kia koutou/Greetings to you all 

Here we are in March already, how fast is this year going?! I am hoping that the transition back to School and routines for all of us and our children went as smoothly as could be under the current circumstances. As we sit in these uncertain times and for some of us who have become very anxious about what is coming next, try and take a step back and slow down. I heard a saying last week that went “This too, shall pass” which resonated with me as I was dealing with an unhappy 11-year-old who is struggling with wearing a mask in class.  

Please do not hesitate to contact me if there is anything that you require support with, or even just a listening ear. My days of work are Tuesday to Friday, 8.45 to 3.30pm. I know we often think we need to deal with the situation at hand or “no I will not bother her”, but I enjoy talking to you all and am honoured to be here to listen to the stories you share and the amazing mahi you do with your children. 

Unfortunately, due to the increase in positive Covid-19 cases, we have needed to postpone our in-person events for Foster Care Awareness Week (7-13 March). However, Caring Families Aotearoa are excited to offer two virtual events on Wednesday the 9th of March. Come and join in from the comfort of your home (11am or 8pm). We have an international speaker, Sarah Naish (UK), providing a bespoke presentation for our Caregivers in Aotearoa! Some of you may recognise Sarah from videos we have used in previous trainings, (have a google of her YouTube recordings). I know that you will be in for an entertaining hour. Sarah has lived experience as a foster & adoptive mum and has a unique and entertaining way of sharing her journey. She has a wealth of knowledge about trauma and therapeutic parenting. I hope you can join us for either of the times available.  Click here to register to attend.

This term’s training “Making Changes-Stability in Hard Times” is a good opportunity to reflect on self-care and the importance of this as a caregiver. We often forget about ourselves when we are caring for others. This module contains valuable information that can be challenging if you are used to doing everything for others and not for yourself. It may help you to understand yourself better and help you to reflect on you and your children more. So, if you have not already registered click here to register for the next one.  

Support/Coffee groups are starting back up in some areas of our region where they can operate within the Covid-19 Protection Framework.  If you are interested in attending a group in your area, please contact me and I will point you to your nearest group.  Online support groups are also an option that are gaining momentum. If you feel more comfortable with online, please click here to register. Also, if you want to start up a group, please contact me to see how I can help support you with that.  

Take care out there, be kind to yourself and others! 

Feel free to contact me if you would like to chat or need support! 

Nga mihi nui 

Christine