Since it's founding in 1997, the CYC-Net discussion group has been asked thousands of questions. These questions often generate many replies from people in all spheres of the Child and Youth Care profession and contain personal experiences, viewpoints, as well as recommended resources.
Below are some of the threads of discussions on varying Child and Youth Care related topics.
Questions and Responses have been reproduced verbatim.
Listen to thisGood evening all,
Just a brief introduction… I’m a second year CYCC student and this year I’m working through practicum on a community, family, and individual level. The youth in particular are extremely high risk and their activities often put their families (parents, siblings, etc.) or caregivers at a level of danger. Often these youth end up in confinement or some other sort of care and at this point many of the caregivers/parents have reached their limit; their family is falling apart around them and they have been functioning at such a high level of stress that they no longer know up from down. At this point they often take a step back from the youth and let them know that they need some space/a break and there may not be a time frame to this “break”.
My questions are around support and education. How can we support the youth in understanding the gravity of their circumstances (many of which are a consequence of poor decisions) and also support/educate the youth and parents/caregivers so as to re-build some trust and boundaries in the relationship? Also, do you think it’s important to support the youth in understanding the needs of the family as a whole?
I know that rarely is there one simple solution but some input would be great!
Thanks,
Jess
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Hello Jessica,
Restorative Justice.
Here’s a few links.....
All the best!
Ally
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Hi Jessica,
It is important to support the youth in understanding the needs of the family as a whole. Ask them questions. Give them time to consider and digest their response. Mention that their behavior has an effect on others. These are critical lessons for them to learn. It may take time and you are right – there is likely no easy answer or solution.
Keep with them and offering your support!
James Freeman
