We are proud to announce that Sharon Skidmore Stern, Chief Program Officer at FamilyForward, has completed The Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics™ (NMT) Training Certification through the Phase III/Mentor level. The mentor level of certification is the highest level of NMT certification an individual can receive, and Sharon is currently the only individual in Missouri to have received this achievement.

FamilyForward’s overarching philosophy is based in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics. Developed by Dr. Bruce Perry, NMT is a trauma-informed, developmentally sensitive approach to understanding the impact of a child’s history on current functioning. The Mentor level of certification allows Sharon to provide mentor-led training to other professionals in the NMT model. FamilyForward is focused on expanding training opportunities and developing programming that will generate practice-based data to inform the prevention and treatment of developmental trauma.

Logan's Journey to Success

After Logan began acting out at home and school, his foster parents turned to FamilyForward for support. Now, with a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan from clinicians, Logan is beginning to heal and have the future he deserves.

Read more about Logan’s journey here.

Therapeutic Summer Camp Wishlist

It's getting warmer outside, which means FamilyForward's Therapeutic Summer Camp will be here before we know it! Our therapeutic summer camp consists of week-long day camps designed to create a fun and healthy environment for children in the foster care and adoptive community. The camp kicks off in June, and specific supplies are needed to ensure its success. If you would like to support this year's summer camp by purchasing supplies, please visit our Amazon Wishlist here.

Child Abuse Prevention Month

During the month of April, we recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month and the importance of communities working together to help families thrive and prevent child maltreatment. FamilyForward’s prevention and early intervention services, such as Home Visiting Services, promote family resiliency to avoid potential maltreatment. Learn more about Home Visiting Services and other FamilyForward programs here.

Adoptive and Foster Parent Trainings

The schedule for upcoming classes is available. April classes include these and more:

• The Amazing Brain - April 20

• Child Development: Is This Behavior Normal? - March 9

• Self-Compassion Virtual Lunch and Learn - April 28

To register, call 314.968.2350 ext. 7234 or email intake.dept@familyforwardmo.org.

Visit familyforwardmo.org/calendar to view the full training schedule and to sign up for our new LifeLines email newsletter.