Family Communication - Talk to Your Kids
![Image](/images/local-resources-parenting/talking-teen.jpg)
- Listen to your child when they talk.
- Set time aside some time to chat when your child may have your undivided attention. Turn off the television, turn off your cell phone, turn off the computer.
- Be available for your child and be sure they know you are listening.
- Encourage them to talk while playing a game, eating dinner or riding in the car.
- If your children watch TV, watch with them and discuss what you are watching.
- Ask your children about tobacco and alcohol.
- Share your experiences and create a non-judgmental environment.
- Encourage respect and non-violent behavior at home and at school.
- Discuss how to handle difficult situations at school.
- Offer to help them find solutions when they have problems.
- Tell your child that you will help them whenever they need it.
Local Resources
Ventura County Behavioral Health
Mental health & substance use treatment services
Countywide – All Ages
www.vcbh.org
Call Toll-free • Confidential • 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Crisis and Referral Line
1-866-998-2243 - Early Detection & Intervention for the Prevention of Psychosis
1-866-998-2243
211 Ventura County
Free service connecting people to health and human services in the community
Countywide – All Ages
www.211ventura.org
Call 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898211
Clinicas del Camino Real
Healthcare, including mental health services
Oxnard, Santa Paula, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Ventura – All Ages
www.clinicas.org
(866) 885-7900
Interface
Support and resources, including youth shelter and housing referrals
Countywide – Children & Youth
icfs.org
(805) 485-6114
Kids & Families Together
For children and their families, including kinship and foster caregivers
Countywide – Children & Youth
www.kidsandfamilies.org
(805) 643-1446
Logrando Bienestar
Mental health screenings
Countywide – All Ages
www.vcbh.org
(805) 973-5220
Project Esperanza
Family classes & activities
Santa Paula & Fillmore – Youth
www.guadalupechurchsp.com
(805) 276-7671
United Parents
Local support and referrals for parents
Countywide – Youth
www.unitedparents.org
(805) 384-1555
Ventura County SELPA
Helping your child succeed at school
www.vcselpa.org
(805) 437-1560