County to offer Trauma-Informed Parenting workshop beginning Sept. 17; sessions and logistics outlined

Erin Schifrill of Children and Family Services told the committee the Trauma-Informed Parenting (TIP) workshop — a statewide project that began in 2015–2016 — will run beginning Sept. 17 for five weekly sessions. The workshop materials and trainer curriculum originated from state Department of Children and Families funding; the county now primarily covers costs through Promoting Safe and Stable Families funds for materials, childcare and food.

Schifrill outlined workshop content used to help caregivers understand children’s trauma-related behaviors, including tools such as a "feelings thermometer" and square breathing. She said the workshop is offered twice yearly, with abbreviated versions for school staff and law enforcement, and that local trainers Carrie Cottonero and Carly Scheffling lead the sessions. "Thermometer suitcase and the iceberg" were referenced as part of exercises participants found useful.

The county provides childcare and food during sessions; Schifrill said the only negative feedback recently was about snacks. Registration, room reservations and advertising require about two months of staff preparation. The committee received the program overview and asked no formal questions beyond scheduling details; staff said they register participants and will run the series starting Sept. 17.