Announcements
Annual Parent Retreat
Sunday, November 5, 2023
9:00am - 4:00pm
33 Clearpool Road
Carmel, NY 10512
The Annual Green Chimneys Parent Retreat is Back!
Join us and connect with Green Chimneys staff, and other families, to help support the needs of your child.
It isn’t easy raising a child with special needs and you need all the strength and support you can get. That may mean something different for each of you so choose your agenda for the day and connect with families who are going through similar experiences.
Workshops will be informative, interactive sessions to teach skills that will expand your toolbox for managing your child and yourself, strengthen your confidence, and help you relax and practice self-care.
Parent Networking will offer an opportunity to get together with other parents of similar-aged children, share your strengths and struggles, and add to your community network of support.
Green Chimneys Staff & Administrators will participate with you and be available throughout the day for questions and support.
This is an adults-only event open to parents, grandparents and other adult family members.
Up to 4 family members may attend. Please do not bring children.
Event is Sunday, November 5
Please RSVP by Monday, October 30 See registration tab below
| 8:52 (sharp!) | Shuttle pick up at train station |
| 9:00 | Gather at Dining Hall |
| 9:00 – 9:45 | Breakfast & Introduction to the day |
| 10:00 – 11:15 | Workshop Session 1 |
| 11:30 – 12:45 | Workshop Session 2 |
| 1:00 – 2:00 | Lunch |
| 2:00 – 3:15 | Workshop Session 3 |
| 3:15 | Snack Break/Raffle & Closing |
| 3:30 | Shuttle departs for 4:08 train |
| 4:00 | End of event |
Session One: 10:00 – 11:15am
Understanding & Managing School Refusal Behavior for Parents
Presenter: Kristin Licardi LCSW, Chief Clinical Officer
For the majority of youth, school is a safe place where they can learn, engage in activities of interest, socialize with friends, and connect with positive adults other than their parents. While not always their favorite place to spend time, school can be tolerated, or even enjoyed. Some youth would rather do anything other than go to school. Their school refusal behaviors are stressful for parents and cause a wide range of problems for the family. In this workshop, we will explore why our kids may refuse or avoid going to school, and learn some practical strategies to get them back in the classroom.
Preparing for Adulthood
Presenters: Melanie Dennis, Transition and Career Program Supervisor & Sage Baker, Transition Coordinator
This presentation will provide information about community resources that young adults may be able to access upon graduation or discharge from their academic/residential placements. We will explore programs and services and learn the full meanings of acronyms such as ACCES-VR, OPWDD, SPOA, Health Homes, SSI, Medicaid, CFTSS, Job Corps and the CYES program. This is an opportunity for you to learn some of what is accessible in your community and statewide, as well as how to access programs and supports to help you and your child continue their education and/or ensure necessary services.
Soap Making
Lead by Keri Toye & Lori Dommermuth
Enjoy a relaxing session of natural soap making with the Garden Team from the Brewster campus. Choose your base, choose your color, choose your scent, choose your herb, choose your mold and Voila! Your own custom bar of soap!
Session Two: 11:30am – 12:45pm
Home and Community Leisure: Tips, Tricks and More
Presenter: Catherine Troiano, Recreation Program Supervisor
Do you find yourself in need of ideas for things to do at home? Ever wonder if a community activity you planned is right for your child? Join the Recreation Team for this interactive session about activities you can do at home with materials that you likely already own! We will also discuss top things to consider when planning a trip with your child to ensure success.
Graduation Requirements 101
Presenter: Megan Saunders, Certified School Counselor in New York and New Jersey
This presentation will review New York State graduation requirements, including a breakdown of Regents vs. Local diploma, and the classes Green Chimneys offers towards these credits. The discussion will also include the Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) commencement credential option, and how it applies to students who are Alternately Assessed.
Guided Fall Painting
Lead by Alison Uliss, LCAT, ATR- BC
You don’t need to know how to paint to attend this workshop! Participants will be guided every step of the way. All you have to do is bring your sense of adventure and desire for fun and leave with a Fall masterpiece of your own.
Session Three: 2:00 – 3:15pm
Residential Outcomes & Length of Stay
Presenter: Denise Luft, LMHC, Chief Program Officer
For current residential parents or those considering a residential placement. Learn what researchers say about Ideal Lengths of Stay, including ideal timeframes to achieve sustained outcomes for residential students and how parents can support this. We will share Green Chimneys data that supports what researchers have published.
The Stress Model of Crisis & Behavior Support Techniques
Presenters: Betsy Wiener, Unit Supervisor & Chris Sigetti, Job Coach
In this workshop, we will combine concepts embedded in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI). You will learn how to recognize and support your child through the stages of crisis.
Walk in the Wilderness
Lead by Zac Staszak, Director of Recreation
Fall at Clearpool is amazing! Catch the tail end of the fall foliage season in the northeast on this adventure through the forests and trails of Clearpool Campus. You have not truly experienced all Green Chimneys has to offer until you step into its natural surroundings. The hike will have some rocky and uneven terrain so participants should be prepared for a fun but physical challenge. Closed toe shoes required!
Breakfast will be available at 9:00am, during the morning introduction.
Lunch will be served at 1:00pm. Vegetarian option is available.
Please indicate on each attendee’s registration where there is a need.
By Car
Please find directions to our Clearpool Campus at www.greenchimneys.org/directions
By Train
Metro-North Railroad Harlem Line to SOUTHEAST station. Our shuttle bus will pick up travelers and depart station promptly at 8:52am. Return service departs Clearpool at 3:30pm.
Please RSVP via the registration links below. Workshop selections must be indicated for each individual attending so please complete a registration for yourself, and a guest registration for each additional attendee. Registration must be received by Monday, October 30th.
Questions?
Please contact Marina Ineson at 845.279.2995 ext. 118 or [email protected]
