Families facing difficult times have a place to turn for help. Kimball Public School’s Family Advocate, Sara Watts, has many resources for different situations. Her office at Kimball Elementary School is equipped with books, movies, applications and pamphlets. Resources are available to families within the Kimball school district and to students who open-enroll. Most of the services are provided through Reach Up, Stearns County Collaborative and Tri-CAP (County Action Program), a federal program that provides services to families in Stearns, Benton and Sherbune counties. Caring parents Some of the resources provided by Watts are guides that teach parents child-focused activities. The brochures can be used by couples, single parents or divorced families. Other resources deal with personal issues. She also reminds parents to focus on themselves. “In order to be good parents, you’ve got to take care of yourself,” Watts said. If families are facing financial problems, ordealing with mental illness or personal anxiety, these situations also need to be addressed. Watts said at times families may feel that they are alone or isolated with a problem they are facing. “There are many support groups in our area. Support groups are a way to share how you are doing, and network. Sometimes you can find other resources from people who have the same problem you do,” Watts said. One example she gave was looking for help with a specific problem. Sometimes, other people can provide input like, “this is a good clinic to go to, and stay away from this place.” Recognizing behaviors In addition to having parents take care of themselves, they also need to be aware of what is happening in their children’s lives. “Kids don’t misbehave for no reason. It is always something,” Watts said. Small and large factors can affect a child’s routine. Something as simple as a family moving to a new community can offset a child, or something major like a loved one’s terminal illness. When attending school, children may bring their worries with them. They may have trouble concentrating or focusing in the classroom. “Children have an added stress of trying to focus on something. Stress plays a big role for kids and their behavior,” Watts said. Holiday help Watts has budget worksheets available to help families plan and initiate a holiday budget. The information provides advice for families like writing down gift ideas and costs for each person. This list should be brought along when shopping, and impulse purchases should be avoided. During holidays, families should also include itemized expenditures – gas, lodging, trimmings and decorations, food for house guests, seasonal giving and babysitter fees-into their budgets. The information cautions credit card charges and encourages setting a maximum charge amount. Watts reminded families that she has cards for a free financial counseling session. Workshops provide help Different programs are provided throughout the year to address topics of need. This fall, she hosted a “Raising Resilient Children” event. There will be more workshops given, topics discussed will depend on the needs of the community. For information on resources and programming, contact Sara Watts at the Kimball Elementary School at (320) 398-5425.
