June 15 - 18, 2009

 

Chipman United Church hosted a UNBITI (Union of New Brunswick Indians Training Institute) course. The course, a credit toward the Early Childhood Education Certificate, focused on caring for children as they deal with crisis in their lives. Illness or death of a family member, seperation and divorce, natural disasters, child abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse, community violence, racism, prejucie and sexism are all situations that can be a crisis for a child living in such circumstances.

 

The 4 day program provided the participants with good problem solving techniques, insights from child development knowledge, and learning around dealing with the rest of the family.

 

Each year, the course is offered at an undisclosed site. The participants had no idea where they are going until they arrive. In addition to the lessons and discussions there is a practical portion of the course where students respond to a simulated crisis.

 

Administrative Assistance Raeann Chase took part of the program. This learning experience will be valuable in her duties within the church as well as in our association with Camp Wegesegum. 

 

A copy of the "The Crisis Manual"  has been donated to the Church library, Camp Wegesegum, and our Presbytery Camp - Camp Woolastook.