Press Releases

United Way and Partners Join
Together to Help Children with
Severe Behavioral Problems
United Way and partners join together to understand issues and services available

February 6, 2006 – Madison, NJ – Kicking.  Throwing chairs.  Biting.  Severe temper tantrums.  These are the kinds of disturbing behaviors that a growing number of very young children (under the age of five) are exhibiting, according to several of United Way of Morris County's partner child care centers.  Local child care centers have requested additional help from trained professionals to deal with the inappropriate and oftentimes unmanageable behavior exhibited by an increasing number of children.

In response, United Way of Morris County brought together more than 50 local child care center directors and early childhood educators on February 3, 2006 for a special luncheon, "Challenging Children: Tapping Mental Health Resources to Help Children with Severe Behavioral Problems."  The luncheon convened a panel of experts in child behavioral health from organizations, including:  Lew Dlugasch, Morristown Memorial Hospital; Nancy Helterman, Morris School District; Joyce Kwasney, PG Chambers School; Tammy Rosenthal, Family Service of Morris County; and Lorri Sullivan, Youth Consultation Service.  The discussion was moderated by Barbara Ward, Court Appointed Special Advocate Program of Morris/Sussex County and United Way volunteer.

Panelists shared that many of the adverse behaviors expressed by very young children could be happening because of a disability or developmental problem.  But, a number of resources are available locally and statewide for children, their parents, and child care centers.  For example, parents that are concerned that their child is developing differently from other children can contact New Jersey's Early Intervention System at 973.971.4155.  The Early Intervention System offers referral services for infants and toddlers who have developmental delays or disabilities, as well as support for their families.  P.G. Chambers School in Cedar Knolls is one of the many options that parents have to choose from in Morris County.  Nancy Helterman, Morris School District, added that parents with children over the age of three can contact their local school district if they are having concerns about their child's development.

Lewis Dlugasch, Morristown Memorial Hospital, shared that the Child Development Center at the hospital is available to help parents that are concerned about their child's communication skills and classroom behavior.  The Center can be reached at 973.971.5227, and provides evaluations, recommendations, and referral services for children with developmental, learning, and or/behavioral issues. 

Panel members also shared that mental health problems among mothers, such as depression, can have severe negative effects on the development of the child.  So, approaches that look at more than just the child are important.  For example, YCS Institute offers interventions that involve both the mother and child.  The Institute provides clinical services for infants, toddlers, and their families, and can be reached at 973.395.5500.  Family Service of Morris County also offers mental health services for all members of the family, and can be contacted at 1.800.984.1414.

The "Challenging Children" luncheon was hosted by Wyeth in Madison, N.J. on Friday, February 3, 2006.  For more information about United Way's focus on early childhood education, or for details about the luncheon, email Kathy Kwasnik of United Way or phone 973.993.1160, x130.

About United Way of Morris County
United Way of Morris County is dedicated to helping people and improving the quality of life for all residents. We address issues most critical to the future of Morris County by bringing attention, expertise, and resources to them. For more information, visit us on the web at www.uwmorris.org, or call 973.993.1160.

Contact 
Jean Funk
Marketing Communications
United Way of Morris County
973.993.1160, x114
Email