Family Link May 2023

Who: Families of Anne Arundel County

What: Enjoy a free event with fun activities and resources to support Children's Mental Health

When: Saturday, May 6, 2023, 10am-1pm

Where: Pip Moyer Recreation Center at Truxton (273 Hilltop Ln, Annapolis)

Why: Children's Mental Health Matters!

Brought to you by The Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency,

in partnership with Pip Moyer Recreation Center.

Congratulations to the graduates of the 8th International Parent and Community Leadership Academy (IPCLA)! On April 12, the Board of Education recognized the 27 participants for their dedication to AACPS and its students.

Over the course of 6 weeks, participants learned about the AACPS system and programs, engaged in discussion, and spearheaded projects to improve communication with international families and diversify the pool of leaders in schools and the community in order to support the academic achievement of international students.

The Office of School & Family Partnerships will open applications for the next IPCLA in early 2024.

Why is it important to support our children's mental health?

• When children are mentally healthy, they can think clearly, develop socially, and more easily learn new skills and concepts.
  
• Mental health and academic success are closely intertwined.
• Adolescents with depression are more likely to struggle academically.
• Students struggling with learning experience more anxiety than those who do not.

What can you do at home to support your child's mental health?

• Watch for changes in behavior, especially becoming withdrawn from family and friends.
• Talk honestly with your children, without judgment, so they feel safe coming to you with problems.
• Model healthy coping skills; children copy how we act when we have strong emotions.
• Encourage healthy eating and activity. A 15-minute outside walk boosts mental wellbeing.
• Collaborate with your school counselor to support your student.

Mental Health & Parenting Resources

AACPS Counseling Department - Parent Resources

AACPS Family Academy - Videos on Wellbeing & Growth

Anne Arundel County Network of Care - Find agencies and programs near you

The Baker Center Parent Guides - Guides around specific topics

CDC Children's Mental Health - Information and resources

MentalHealth.gov - What to look for, What do Do, and more

Call 988, Text 988, or Chat Online

The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, and prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.

How to Talk About Suicide

The subject of suicide is a frightening one for many parents and children. However, open, age-appropriate conversations about this subject are important. They can clear up confusion, allow for the expression of emotions, and possibly save a life.

How do I get there?

• Log into Brightspace Parent & Guardian
• Click on the waffle at the top right
• Choose Wellbeing & Growth
• Click on Content
• Click on Mental Health

Visit Anne Arundel County Public Library to find events and resources to support your family's Mental Health and Wellness

Here are just a few examples of events in May. You can find more online at AACPL Events.

Yoga, for Ages 12 and up: May 15, 6pm at Mountain Road

Beginner Line Dancing: May 18 at Maryland City & May 11 at Severna Park

Dungeons & Dragons and Mental Health: May 30 at Glen Burnie

Meade High School, May 4, 6pm

Learn how to protect your children from sextortion.

• After the film there will be a brief panel discussion and Q&A.

Brought to you by the Office of Health, Physical Education, and Dance,

with the Homeland Security Signature Program (Meade High).