OECYC Holds Open Houses to Celebrate Children's Mental Health Week

Monday, 4 May 2015 05:40

The Oxford-Elgin Child and Youth Centre is open its doors to encourage people to think about children's mental health this week.

WOODSTOCK / ST THOMAS - To celebrate Children's Mental Health Week Oxford-Elgin Child and Youth Centre is inviting the public to drop by their Woodstock and St. Thomas locations.

May 4th - 8th is designated as Children's Mental Health Week to make sure children are brought into the discussion surrounding mental health. Children are not often thought about when we talk about issues like depression and anxiety, but they can feel these mental afflictions just as keenly as adults do. Executive Director with the Oxford-Elgin Child and Youth Centre, Marc Roberts says there are a few signs to watch out for in your children."With a change in mood or a change in behaviour - you should pay attention to that. And schools very much are involved and they are watching for the same kinds of thing. But the earlier you can come in and talk to one of our therapists, and work with the school community too, the better."

To help raise awareness, the OECYC will be holding two open houses highlighting their facilities and the programs they offer. One program sees the OECYC teaming up with the police department and other community groups to create plans to support children during difficult situations. Another program Roberts would like the public to be more aware of is the Walk In Clinic they offer on Tuesdays. "People and families can come in right off the street, so to speak, and see a councillor right away. So what we've done by that is eliminated the wait list, so when you notice changes or when you're concerned about something don't just keep it to yourself. Come in and see us and speak to our therapists and we'll work with you." These sessions are becoming more and more popular; recently in just one day, approximately 22 families took advantage of the service.

The Woodstock open house will be on Monday, May 3 and includes:

$5 Pulled Pork BBQ by The Family Butcher and McClay's BBQ Catering
Laughter Yoga by Gail
Face Painting and children's activities
Emergency Vehicles on display
Police Constable, Eric Huiven, speaking about cyber-safety
Woodstock Dancers Flash Mob

The St Thomas open house will be on Wednesday May 6 and includes:

BBQ by St. Thomas Kinsmen
DJ - Magic Light & Sounds
Laughter Yoga by Gail
Tru Hot Yoga mini session
Planting activity courtesy of Canadale Nurseries
Live entertainment including, dancing and singing
Face Painting and Children's activities