Mountain State Parent- Child Adolescent Network

12/24/2025

Mountain State Parents CAN will be closed for the holiday season as we pause to rest, reset, and take in the moments that matter most.

If this season feels heavy, please remember you are not alone. Support is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988.

You’re welcome to leave us a message while we’re away — we’ll return calls and messages when we reopen.

Wishing your family peace, rest, and gentle days ahead 🤍

12/21/2025

Making it through this time is never easy but there are things we can do to make it bearable or hopefully enjoyable; have a routine, give as much warning as possible when there is change, be really prepared with calming activities, allow for even more wind down time and have a plan. Then when the meltdown does happen (and it probably will), try to stay calm yourself so that you can help your child regulate and work through the emotions.

More information on my blog

https://www.thetherapistparent.com/post/managing-christmas-meltdowns

gentleparenting consciousparenting respectfulparenting resilience children family teachers

12/10/2025

Virtual Speaker Series:
Understanding Sensory

Register now:
https://wvumdtv.zoom.us/meeting/register/ZujVYKMMQdKMuNHN26owXg

Join us for a laid-back, virtual speaker series designed specifically for families and caregivers of children with special healthcare needs. We know that life is busy, so we’ve made this series perfect for your lunch break—short, practical, and packed with info you can actually use. Every session will cover a topic that’s top-of-mind for families, featuring expert speakers and real-life tips from other caregivers. Whether you need advice, resources, or just a little support, these sessions are here to help make your life a little easier.

December 16, 2025 Speaker Series Info:
Date: December 16, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Presenter: Dr. Amy Burt, Occupational Therapist/WVU CED/WV LEND

Topic: Understanding Sensory
Do you have a sensory-seeking child or know someone with sensory processing disorder? We will be learning all about sensory during this session!
What you’ll learn:
• Understand why certain sensory experiences are beneficial for some people and why behaviors change with some sensory stimulation.
• Learn more about sensory processing disorder and other sensory-related conditions.

At the end of the discussion, we’ll have an open Q&A session where you can ask follow-up questions or just chat with the experts. You’ll leave feeling more connected, empowered, and ready to take on whatever comes your way.

These sessions are designed to fit into your lunch break, so grab a bite, tune in, and join a community of families who understand what you’re going through. Let’s take care of ourselves and each other, one lunch break at a time!

12/08/2025

Holidays are magical, but they can also be overwhelming
especially for our neurodivergent kids. 💛

This graphic is such a good reminder that it’s okay to make Christmas work for your child, not the other way around.
Comfort over tradition. Breaks over burnout. Safe foods, quiet corners, and gentle expectations are all valid.

You know your child best.
And you’re doing an amazing job.

12/07/2025

See you tomorrow!

12/04/2025

How about some FREE fun!

12/01/2025

**‼️Thise event has been cancelled do to weather. ‼️

L Come see us tomorrow!

I heard that Santa will be there!n

12/01/2025

11/22/2025

Great resource!

The Parent Advocacy Guide is a helpful tool for WV families of children with IEPs. There are sample letters, clarifying lanuage, and timelines to help you advocate for the services and supports your child may need. Published in partnership with DisabilityRights of WV, the PAG is available both online or a hard copy. To request a hard copy, visit this link: https://forms.gle/eSSeKrg8wjbKHZGN8