About Us

We are a group of parents and caregivers who are raising children with challenging behaviors. Our kids may have many different needs and/or diagnoses, but they can be oppositional, defiant and resistant to parenting....and we love them tremendously!

We use many different methods and treatment plans with a variety of results. We have found that there isn't a "magic wand," but we are always looking and supporting each other along this journey. We are parents and caregivers who are committed to helping our children grow and flourish.
No one knows your child better than you!

OUR LITTLE HANDFUL.....OF JOY!

Our story....

The facilitators of this group share an ongoing story of a wonderful, smart, creative, loving child. His name is Malik. Jami is fortunate to be his mom and Connie is his lucky grandmother.

As Malik grew, his behaviors began to get difficult. Regular parenting skills did not seem to be working. He did not develop the necessary social skills to interact well with other children. At various times he was suspended from pre-school, the bus, and kindergarden. It became too much of a "chore" to take him to stores or restaurants because his behaviors would have us leaving quickly. Finding childcare was almost impossible, we pleaded with providers to take him, then they would beg us not to bring him back. After months of looking we found a wonderful daycare provider who understood his needs and was willing to take on the challenge (Thanks Dawn!) We felt no one else could be having this difficult of time with a child's behavior.

We went to many different doctors, hospitals and clinics throughout Ohio. We looked into his nutrition and surroundings. Jami took every psychology class in college she could find to gain more knowledge and information to help him. Some days were good and others days were exhausting for everyone, including Malik.

Malik was eventually diagnosed with OCD, ODD, ADHD and Aspberger's Syndrome. With Jami's determination along with family and community support, Malik's behaviors have improved. It was much learning with trial and error, but today family life is calmer, stronger and healthier!

Jami finally found a physician who communicates well with her. Although medication is not for every child, it proved to be helpful for Malik. It took a while, but he is on the "correct" medications for now. He is able to concentrate and learn. He has even made all A's and B's on his mid-term report card and has formed friendships! Tiffin City Schools are doing a fantastic job with his education.

We still have some difficult days and as Malik grows older, our family will face more challenges. We are committed and determined to continue to learn as much as possible to give him every opportunity to grow into a responsible, caring, loving adult.

Parenting is the most wonderful and toughest job in the world!

Caregivers Connect in Seneca County

A support group for everyone who cares for children with challenging behaviors.