Let’s Get Better Connected!
Are you new to computers or mobile devices, or just need more information about how to use them? Who doesn’t? Technology is constantly changing.
The good news is that resources are available in our local communities and online.
One great online site comes from AARP:
AT&T Connected Learning® Resources – Senior Planet from AARP
This site has free classes you can take from your computer or phone. The classes range from Getting Started with a Computer, Using a Mobile Device, Email basics, Basics of Video Conferencing and many more.
Besides the AARP online site, we have local resources as well. Senior Services of South Sound offers one-to-one assistance pairing young adults and seniors for the purpose of furthering computer literacy. This program offers an opportunity to have your specific questions answered by people in the know.
To find out current times for this service and other opportunities call the Olympia Senior Center (360) 586-6181, the Lacey Senior Center (360) 407-3967, Twin Cities Senior Center in Chehalis (360) 748-0061, and Mason County Senior Activities Association in Shelton (360) 426-7374.
Local libraries will also offer tech support and assistance. The Olympia TRL has teen tech tutors on the 1st and 3rd Fridays of each month. The Mason County Library has events that promote tech literacy at the HUB in Belfair and in Lewis County the Mountain View Library in Randle has a Drop-In tech program on April 15th. Additionally, many librarians will offer one-on-one help with tech issues or questions.
Check out all opportunities here:
Events | Timberland Regional Library | BiblioCommons
As always, if you have questions, contact
Anatha Atthar, Kinship Navigator: anatha@familyess.org
Responding to Children’s Hard Questions About Loss
A Trauma-Informed Guide for Caregivers
Children and teens who have experienced loss often ask difficult questions. These questions are usually not just about facts — they are about safety, belonging, and worth.
Your goal is not to have perfect answers. Your goal is to help the child feel safe asking the question.
What children may really be asking:
When a child asks… They may really mean…
“Why didn’t my parent keep me?” Was I worth keeping?
“Why doesn’t my parent call?” Am I important?
“Did they love me?” Am I lovable?
“Am I going to be like them?” Am I going to be okay?
“Why do people always leave?” Can I trust anyone?
A Simple Way to Respond (The CARE Approach)
When you don’t know what to say, remember CARE:
C – Connect
“I’m really glad you told me.”
A – Acknowledge
“That makes sense you would wonder that.”
R – Reassure worth
“Nothing about you caused this.”
E – Encourage openness
“You can always ask me hard questions.”
You do not need a perfect explanation.
Connection is more important than answers
