Week of the Young Child Planning Meeting
Please join us on November 22 virtually to discuss Week of the Young Child 2025 and what that will look like in our community.
There are so many ways to be involved to fit your capacity. We would love to have you!
Reach out to Maureen for the link to the meeting: mbjerke@sphealth.org
Winter Child Loss Event
Join us as we come together to create a special ornament in honor of our little ones. We'll be using clear plastic ornaments that open, allowing you to place small items inside that hold special meaning. If you don't have anything specific to bring, don't worry—we’ll have plenty of materials and mementos for you to choose from.
This gathering is open to everyone: parents, support people, grandparents, siblings, cousins, friends, and children are all welcome. Whether you are the parent or a loved one, you are warmly invited to participate in memorializing your little one(s).
No need to register—just drop in anytime between 5:30 and 7:30 pm to create your ornament.
Click here to see the flyer. Feel free to share!
Reach out with any questions: Maureen Bjerke at mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449
Advocacy 101 Training
Presented by Zero to Five Montana, this training is tailored to equip families, early childhood providers, and community members with the knowledge and tools needed for effective advocacy. Gain a basic understanding of policy, the Montana Legislature, and the legislative process. Explore various advocacy strategies and learn how to engage in the process.
Click here for more information and to register.
Empowered Parents Network #1
Rocky Head Start and the Early Childhood Collaborative are implementing an “Empowered Parents Network”. Using the book Parent Nation and their framework of Parent Villages, this group will be a group for parents, by parents. There are four 90 minute sessions and the sessions will be a mix of virtual and in-person on Friday afternoons at 2-3:30 pm. The dates are:
December 13th virtual only
January 10th in-person at the Library
January 31st virtual only
February 14th in-person at the Library
More details and information to come but let us know if you’re interested!
Maureen at mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449
Empowered Parents Network #2
Rocky Head Start and the Early Childhood Collaborative are implementing an “Empowered Parents Network”. Using the book Parent Nation and their framework of Parent Villages, this group will be a group for parents, by parents. There are four 90 minute sessions and the sessions will be a mix of virtual and in-person on Friday afternoons at 2-3:30 pm. The dates are:
December 13th virtual only
January 10th in-person at the Library
January 31st virtual only
February 14th in-person at the Library
More details and information to come but let us know if you’re interested!
Maureen at mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449
Empowered Parents Network #3
Rocky Head Start and the Early Childhood Collaborative are implementing an “Empowered Parents Network”. Using the book Parent Nation and their framework of Parent Villages, this group will be a group for parents, by parents. There are four 90 minute sessions and the sessions will be a mix of virtual and in-person on Friday afternoons at 2-3:30 pm. The dates are:
December 13th virtual only
January 10th in-person at the Library
January 31st virtual only
February 14th in-person at the Library
More details and information to come but let us know if you’re interested!
Maureen at mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449
Early Childhood Summit
Location: Double Tree by Hilton, 22 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT 59601
Purpose: Bring together anyone interested in early childhood policy issues and solutions, hear about current legislative updates, build connections, and explore advocacy opportunities.
Click here for more information.
"Have a Heart for Kids" Advocacy Day
Location: Montana State Capitol Building (Rotunda)
Purpose: Raise awareness of the importance of early childhood, encourage policymakers to prioritize young children, families, and early childhood professionals, and connect parent participants to share their stories and perspectives with their elected officials.
Click here for more information.
Self-Love for Loss Parents
Take time for yourself during our Self-Love for Loss Parents. This time offers space for people who have experienced loss on their parenting journey to focus on themselves and participate in a little self-care. We will create jars full of affirmations for you to take home so you can read those uplifting gentle reminders whenever you need a boost.
Join us and take home a jar filled with love and encouragement for your future self whenever you need a reminder of your strength and resilience.
What does “people who have experienced loss on their parenting journey” mean? Well, it is our way of trying to be inclusive. You are welcome if you are carrying grief around being a parent. If you are unsure if you “fit”, please feel free to reach out for some reassurance.
This loss event will be for adults only.
Location will be announced soon.
Reach out with questions: Maureen at mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449 (call or text)
Empowered Parents Network #4
Rocky Head Start and the Early Childhood Collaborative are implementing an “Empowered Parents Network”. Using the book Parent Nation and their framework of Parent Villages, this group will be a group for parents, by parents. There are four 90 minute sessions and the sessions will be a mix of virtual and in-person on Friday afternoons at 2-3:30 pm. The dates are:
December 13th virtual only
January 10th in-person at the Library
January 31st virtual only
February 14th in-person at the Library
More details and information to come but let us know if you’re interested!
Maureen at mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449
Strengthening Support Services Summit
Join us for the Strengthening Support Services Summit, a dynamic event dedicated to breaking down barriers and fostering stronger collaboration among service providers, companies, and organizations in our community. This summit aims to improve how we work together to better serve those in need.
Attendees will participate in one of four breakout sessions focused on key areas of support: Early Childhood, Housing, Mental Health, and Substance Misuse. The event will also feature expert speakers discussing vital topics such as building comprehensive resource directories and finding ways to collaborate on funding rather than competing for resources.
Whether you're a service provider, a business leader, or a community advocate, this summit offers valuable insights and networking opportunities to drive real change in how we support our community together. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the solution!
Please help us narrow down what topics are covered in the breakout sessions. Click here to fill out a short form. This is not a registration form, just an interest form.
Week of the Young Child
Join us for the Week of the Young Child 2025!
Details are still to come…
Reach out if you have questions or want to be involved in any way. Maureen at mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449
Self-Care Sunday for Loss Parents
You are still a parent even if you can’t hold your little one. There are many people who have experienced loss on their parenting journey and we want to include all parents/caregivers in our Week of the Young Child.
While the title says “loss parents” this event is open to families and any loved ones who want to participate.
We will paint rocks in honor of our little ones and then you can take them home to have a sweet reminder of your little one(s).
More details to come as it gets closer.
Reach out to Maureen with questions: mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449
Family Friendly Policies: Enhance Workforce Stability
Join us for an engaging discussion on how organizations can better support families and explore the many benefits of adopting family-friendly practices. This event will provide insights and practical strategies for businesses to attract and retain employees by creating a more supportive environment for working families. Lunch will be provided.
Who Should Attend:
Anyone with a vested interest in the Helena-area workforce, business leaders, human resource professionals, economic developers, community leaders, and legislators.
Objective:
Learn how implementing family-friendly policies can help your business thrive by enhancing employee satisfaction and retention. We’ll also provide examples of simple, cost-effective changes businesses can make to support their employees and their families.
Thanks to the Helena Area Chamber of Commerce, Child Care Connections, the Early Childhood Collaborative, and Zero to Five Montana for hosting.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Advocacy 101 Training
Presented by Zero to Five Montana, this training is tailored to equip families, early childhood providers, and community members with the knowledge and tools needed for effective advocacy. Gain a basic understanding of policy, the Montana Legislature, and the legislative process. Explore various advocacy strategies and learn how to engage in the process.
Click here for more information and to register.
Embodied Birth: From Coping to Thriving Before, During and After Birth
Join us for this 6-week group meeting in the Helena area, if you want to dive deeper into birth and postpartum preparation and walk into the birth of your baby feeling empowered and confident.
Dates: 6 Week Session, Every Wednesday Evening Starting October 23, 2024 at 6:30-8:30
Location: 15 W. Placer Ave., Helena, MT
Pre-Registration Required.
𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗯𝗶𝗿𝘁𝗵: Trust your body and optimize your natural hormonal matrix for a smoother, empowered birth
𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽 𝗰𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗯𝗶𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱: Use meditation, breath-work, and visualization for grounded birth preparation
𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘅𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: practical techniques for comfort including gentle touch, massage, and positioning, for partner support through labor
𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: Increase comfort and ease in pregnancy and birth
𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗮 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆: Connect with other parents on similar journeys and create a support network that extends beyond birth
In our society, we are surrounded by information, but preparing for birth requires more than just facts. Embodied Birth addresses the deeper need to connect knowledge with your inner wisdom, empowering you to discover your own strength in birth and develop tools for coping as you navigate labor and the journey into motherhood.
For more info or to reserve your spot: https://www.shadowlightphoto.com/embodiedbirth/
Wave of Light
Join the Early Childhood Collaborative in lighting a candle at 7 pm to recognize and remember all the babies who died too soon.
Our version of the Wave of Light is all inclusive. You are welcome to come light a candle whether it was you who lost a baby or someone you know. Maybe you never got the chance to have a baby, you are welcome. Maybe you lost your “baby” when they were 18 years old - you are welcome, too. Maybe you just want to come and show your support and that is welcome, too.
We will have battery operated candles to place in a heart shape with live music by local musician Joslyn Dollar and hot cocoa to sip on while we come together in community to honor the babies we hold in our hearts and the loved ones who miss them.
If you have questions, reach out: Maureen Bjerke at mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449 (call or text)
This event will kick off a series of community events for those who have experienced loss on their parenting journey. Keep an eye out for more events to come. We want you to remember you are not alone.
Perinatal Mental Health Conference
Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies is hosting an in-person conference in Helena for all professionals who work with new and expectant parents.
They have added virtual elements including a Bonus PMH 101 Training and an Advanced Level Virtual Training following the In-Person Conference. So, whether you're brand new to this field or have attended in the past, there is something for you! Let's come together to learn, grow, and strengthen our incredible community.
To register: Perinatal Mental Health Conference Registration (whova.com)
Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition
Come join us for a special screening of Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition documentary on October 10th at Intermountain’s Community Services Center at 3240 Dredge Drive.
This new version of the original Screenagers movie addresses issues that elementary school-aged kids, parents, and educators are facing; e.g., smartwatches in class, unhooking from and monitoring video gaming, and social media pressures and stressors for youngsters. Hear about the latest research on these topics, the effects of too much screen time, and solutions to these challenges.
We will have a free light meal and refreshments starting at 5:30. The movie will start at 6 pm.
Immediately after the movie we will hear from a panel of community professionals with solutions and ideas to continue the conversation at home.
Childcare is available for toddlers graciously provided by St. Peter's Health. Be sure to register your child's name and age so we can plan a great night for your whole family.
Thank you to Intermountain for hosting this opportunity.
Click here for more information on the film and to watch the trailer.
Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition
Come join us for a special screening of Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition documentary on October 9th at Prickly Pear Elementary gym and Cafeteria, 325 Academic St., East Helena, MT 59625.
This new version of the original Screenagers movie addresses issues that elementary school-aged kids, parents, and educators are facing; e.g., smartwatches in class, unhooking from and monitoring video gaming, and social media pressures and stressors for youngsters. Hear about the latest research on these topics, the effects of too much screen time, and solutions to these challenges.
We will have a free light meal and refreshments starting at 5:30. Movie will start at 6 pm.
Immediately after the movie we will hear from a panel of community professionals with solutions and ideas to continue the conversation at home.
Childcare is available for toddlers graciously provided by St. Peter's Health. Be sure to register your child's name and age so we can plan a great night for your whole family.
Thank you to Intermountain for hosting this opportunity.
Click here for more information on the film and to watch the trailer.
Perinatal Mental Health Walk
Join the Helena Team here.
For more information click here.
Infant CPR and Choking Relief
Learn essential life-saving techniques in our hands-on Infant CPR and Choking Relief Class. This session covers how to perform CPR and choking relief on infants. Ideal for parents, caregivers, and anyone working with infants, you'll leave equipped to respond confidently in an emergency. Join us to gain invaluable skills that could save a child's life.
**This course does NOT result in a certificate.
Click here for more information.
Community Conversation + Advocacy 101
There will be free food and free child care.
Join us for a Community Conversation around early childhood!
Share your expertise and insights on early childhood in our community. Discuss what is working well for families and early childhood providers, identify challenges, and explore opportunities for improvement. Let's collectively work towards making Montana the best place to raise a family.
Hosted in partnership with Zero to Five Montana, this event aims to gather community input to shape the advocacy priorities for the 2025 Montana Legislative Session. Your voice matters – join us to learn how you can contribute and be a changemaker!
Empower yourself with Advocacy 101 Training!
Presented by Zero to Five Montana, this training is tailored to equip families, providers, and community members with the knowledge and tools needed for effective advocacy. Gain a basic understanding of policy, the Montana Legislature, and the legislative process. Explore various advocacy strategies and learn how to engage in the process.
Join us to enhance your advocacy skills and make a tangible impact on the lives of young children and families in Montana. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of positive change!
This is open to everyone who interacts with young children - whether you are working with them or raising them - we want to hear from you!
You can get ECP credits for this, too! Details here.
Questions? Reach out to Maureen Bjerke at mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449
If you have any specific questions for Zero to Five Montana, contact info@zerotofive.org
Council of Dads
A group for fathers, by fathers.
Are you a father who wants to connect with other dads in the community? Join us for our upcoming Community Fathers’ Group, where you can:
Share experiences and insights on fatherhood
Learn practical parenting tips and strategies
Gain support and encouragement from fellow dads
Build lasting friendships and connections
For more information or questions, contact David at davidp@florencecrittenton.org or Eric at eric.p@thefriendshipcenter.org
Council of Dads
A group for fathers, by fathers.
Are you a father who wants to connect with other dads in the community? Join us for our upcoming Community Fathers’ Group, where you can:
Share experiences and insights on fatherhood
Learn practical parenting tips and strategies
Gain support and encouragement from fellow dads
Build lasting friendships and connections
For more information or questions, contact David at davidp@florencecrittenton.org or Eric at eric.p@thefriendshipcenter.org
Great Beginnings, Great Families Conference
Join maternal, child, and adolescent professionals, advocates, support staff, and providers for a chance to improve the health and well-being of Montanans. Connect with programs to increase the efficacy of maternal, early childhood, and youth programs throughout our state.
For more information and to register: Great Beginnings, Great Families Conference (umt.edu)
Family Fun Fest
The Family Fun Fest is back!
Registration is encouraged but not required. The first 500 to register receive a free Family Fun Fest t-shirt!
Family Fun Fest is free and open to all area children and their families.
Activities include:
One-mile fun run: Warm ups start at 8:30 am and the race starts at 9 am in Centennial Park
Health and wellness fair: Games, prizes and activities until noon for kids of all ages at the Great Northern Town Center
More information: Family Fun Fest | St. Peter's Health (sphealth.org)
Back to School Bash
The second-annual Back to School Bash will be on Friday, August 9th at JFK Park in East Helena from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The goal of the Back to School Bash is to ease the financial burden of the upcoming school year on parents and to get kids excited about their education through a fun, community-focused event.
There will be free backpacks and school supplies. There will be carnival games, free popcorn, and fire trucks for the kids to see. Food trucks will be there, so everyone can purchase a delicious meal to enjoy.
Thank you to PureView and Helena Indian Alliance for putting on this wonderful event.
More information:
Infant CPR and Choking Relief
Learn essential life-saving techniques in our hands-on Infant CPR and Choking Relief Class. This session covers how to perform CPR and choking relief on infants. Ideal for parents, caregivers, and anyone working with infants, you'll leave equipped to respond confidently in an emergency. Join us to gain invaluable skills that could save a child's life.
**This course does NOT result in a certificate.
Click here for more information.
Council of Dads
A group for fathers, by fathers.
Are you a father who wants to connect with other dads in the community? Join us for our upcoming Community Fathers’ Group, where you can:
Share experiences and insights on fatherhood
Learn practical parenting tips and strategies
Gain support and encouragement from fellow dads
Build lasting friendships and connections
For more information or questions, contact David at davidp@florencecrittenton.org or Eric at eric.p@thefriendshipcenter.org
Resilience Rising: Positive Childhood Experiences Summit
Resilience Rising: Navigating Through Adversity and Cultivating Positive Experiences
Come spend the day learning about the importance of Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) and their role in creating resilience in children.
Date: Tuesday July 30
Time: 9:30am - 3:30pm
Location: The Doubletree Hotel, Downtown Helena
Join us for a day of insightful discussions, expert speakers, and interactive workshops focused on fostering resilience in children through PCEs.
Ripple Outdoors Hike
Join Jenny from Ripple Postpartum Care for a family (and body!) friendly hiking club. Wednesday mornings at 9 am all summer long!
The location changes, so keep an eye on ripple.outdoors Instagram page for more information or reach out to jenny@ripplemt.com
Ripple Outdoors Hike
Join Jenny from Ripple Postpartum Care for a family (and body!) friendly hiking club. Wednesday mornings at 9 am all summer long!
The location changes, so keep an eye on ripple.outdoors Instagram page for more information or reach out to jenny@ripplemt.com
Council of Dads
A group for fathers, by fathers.
Are you a father who wants to connect with other dads in the community? Join us for our upcoming Community Fathers’ Group, where you can:
Share experiences and insights on fatherhood
Learn practical parenting tips and strategies
Gain support and encouragement from fellow dads
Build lasting friendships and connections
For more information or questions, contact David at davidp@florencecrittenton.org or Eric at eric.p@thefriendshipcenter.org
Council of Dads
A group for fathers, by fathers.
Are you a father who wants to connect with other dads in the community? Join us for our upcoming Community Fathers’ Group, where you can:
Share experiences and insights on fatherhood
Learn practical parenting tips and strategies
Gain support and encouragement from fellow dads
Build lasting friendships and connections
For more information or questions, contact David at davidp@florencecrittenton.org or Eric at eric.p@thefriendshipcenter.org
Infant CPR and Choking Relief
Learn essential life-saving techniques in our hands-on Infant CPR and Choking Relief Class. This session covers how to perform CPR and choking relief on infants. Ideal for parents, caregivers, and anyone working with infants, you'll leave equipped to respond confidently in an emergency. Join us to gain invaluable skills that could save a child's life.
**This course does NOT result in a certificate.
Click here for more information.
Teddy Bear Picnic
Join Florence Crittenton for a teddy bear picnic! Bring your bears and your babies out for a fun pizza dinner, some imaginative play, and an informative discussion about choosing nutritional meals for your kids as well as learning about the power of snuggling!
RSVP to Jen at 406-413-7043 or jenb@florencecrittenton.org to find out more and reserve your spot.
Council of Dads
A group for fathers, by fathers.
Are you a father who wants to connect with other dads in the community? Join us for our upcoming Community Fathers’ Group, where you can:
Share experiences and insights on fatherhood
Learn practical parenting tips and strategies
Gain support and encouragement from fellow dads
Build lasting friendships and connections
For more information or questions, contact David at davidp@florencecrittenton.org or Eric at eric.p@thefriendshipcenter.org
Gear Up and Ride
Get your bikes ready! ExplorationWorks is hosting a Community Bike Ride on Saturday, June 15th.
The ride will feature various routes through Centennial Park, tailored to different age groups. Each participant will receive a race medal, as well as free admission to ExWorks and a free ride at the Great Northern Carousel!
In addition, there will be fun activities in the Great Northern Town Center all morning, including the 406 Southpaw Street Tacos food truck & live music by John “Bo” Pirre.
$5 cost to register per person.
Love and Logic
Class runs June 13 - July 18, 2024
The Love and Logic approach to parenting is built around the science of caring and respectful relationships. An authentic, loving connection between parents and their children forms the foundation of good behavior and healthy decision-making.
Sounds easy enough but never before in history have parents been faced with so many challenges! The Love & Logic approach provides a variety of simple and effective strategies for parenting children from birth to adulthood. Whether you’re embarking for the first time with your new baby or navigating the turbulent teens with your child, our strategies and techniques will help you create calm and loving solutions.
Click here for more information and to register.
Free Rides at the Carousel
Launch into summer break with FREE RIDES at Great Northern Carousel
FREE RIDES from 1-3 pm and 6-8 pm
$1 POPCORN and $2 NACHOS
OPEN LATE until 8 pm to let the fun last!
Infertility, Pregnancy and Child Loss Support Group
This support group is for women and their partners who are currently experiencing or have experienced infertility or who have lost a child before, during, or after birth.
If you join, know that there is no pressure to do anything but be there. You don't have to share if you don't want to.