New Circle Mentors began the month of June by gathering for a special training event. This in-person meeting was inspiring following a full year of masks and virtual connections.
During the training, mentors received a refresher course in basic first aid and child wellbeing. This included a complete overview of the how we can recognize signs of physical and sexual abuse in children. According to the Mayo Center for Safe and Healthy Children and Adolescents, there are multiple red flags to watch for, which include:
- Withdrawal from usual activities
- Depression and/or anxiety
- Decline in school performance
- Rebellious behavior
- Unexplained injuries
- and more
New Circle’s Clinical Director, Dottie Neuberger, led the training and shared some of her professional experiences throughout her career as a school-based clinician. Neuberger then went on to discuss what mentors should do as a response to possible concerns of abuse.
Another topic discussed during this training event was basic first aid skills. New Circle Mentoring Program Director Erika Linksey stated, “We all learned that basic first aid preparedness goes a long way!” Mentors were provided with a complete first aid kit to keep in their vehicles. These kits will make mentors feel more prepared to treat any minor injuries that may occur during their summer adventures with mentees.
Mentors also used this time to reconnect with one another and share ideas for summer. One such idea was creating more program opportunities for teenage mentees. Now that the mentoring program is in its fourth year, many mentees have reached adolescent years. Time flies!
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/child-abuse/symptoms-causes/syc-20370864