United Services for Children is proud to continue its Caretaker Education Series, a space for caregivers of children with special needs to gain knowledge, connect with others, and build confidence in their advocacy journey. These free sessions provide practical strategies, expert insights, and real-world experiences to help families navigate the complexities of raising and supporting children with developmental needs. Whether you’re seeking guidance on advocacy, understanding diagnoses, or accessing resources, this series is designed to equip you with the tools to make a lasting impact.
Upcoming sessions:
Let’s Play!
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Presenter: Karen Thomson, MA, LPC, RPT
This interactive workshop explores how Play Therapy supports children of all abilities and their families. Beginning with non-directive approaches and moving to more directive modalities, Karen will demonstrate practical techniques you can use at home. This is a hands-on, engaging session where caregivers learn through play—just like their children do. Limited to 40 participants.
About Karen: Karen is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist with over 30 years of experience. She uses child-centered therapy approaches including EMDR, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, sand tray, and mindfulness techniques. Karen teaches at local universities and specializes in working with children navigating grief, anxiety, family dynamics, and neurodivergency.
Sensory Regulation Made Simple: Practical Tips for Parents of Young Children
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Presenter: Alana Kunkel
Join us for real talk and practical advice on sensory regulation for little ones, especially those with communication challenges. We’ll break down what sensory regulation means from a parent’s perspective, why it matters, and how it shows up in everyday life. Learn to recognize the not-so-obvious clues about what might be going on in your child’s mind, pick up strategies for deescalation, and build your own awareness to support both you and your child.
About Alana: Alana is a working mom, wife, and technology professional who’s been on a three-year journey of redefining her parenting expectations while advocating for her daughter, Mila. Her thriving 6-year-old is autistic and uses AAC to communicate, teaching Alana that connection goes far beyond words. She’s excited to share what she’s learned with other caregivers navigating similar paths.
Protecting Children from Experiencing Abuse
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Presenters: Child Advocacy Center of Northeast Missouri – Sheena Persons, Porscha Thorpe, and Teresa Briegel
This research-based program educates parents and caregivers through a five-step process to reduce the likelihood a child will experience abuse. Learn to recognize signs and potential indicators of abuse, understand how predators operate, and discover how to appropriately respond to a child’s disclosure. This session provides practical, evidence-based strategies for creating safer environments for children.
About the presenters: Sheena Persons is a Special Education Prevention Education Specialist who joined the CAC Prevention Team in 2025. Porscha Thorpe, Director of Prevention Education, has been with the CAC since 2013 and holds degrees in Psychology and Professional Counseling with 20 years of experience supporting kids and families. Teresa Briegel, Lead Prevention Education Specialist, has been with the CAC for five years with eight years in the prevention field. The CAC is accredited by the National Children’s Alliance.
Balancing the Load: Managing the Emotional, Physical, and Mental Demands of Parenting a Child with Extra Needs
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Presenter: Alana Kunkel
Let’s be honest – caring for a child with extra needs can feel overwhelming. Between appointments, therapies, and the day-to-day hustle, it’s easy to put yourself last. In this session, we’ll talk openly about the emotional, physical, and mental weight we carry as caregivers and share practical ways to lighten the load. You’ll pick up simple strategies for reducing stress, setting boundaries, and finding small moments of rest without guilt. This is a safe space for real conversation, encouragement, and connection, because you don’t have to do this alone.
All sessions run 6:30-8 p.m. and take place at United Services for Children, located at 3420 Harry S. Truman Blvd. in St. Charles.
Registration is required. Please follow the link below.
REGISTER NOW