Family Employee Resource Group
An Employee Resource Group is a free employee-led group (open to all MSU employee types including faculty, academic, and support staff) that fosters inclusivity and builds community for those with common lived experiences by providing group discussion and learning opportunities, programming, and platforms for sharing resources. The Family Employee Resource Group (Family ERG) is a place for Spartans to connect on family related topics with the goal of connecting, building community and sharing best practices regarding raising or caregiving for children and issues that kids/teens are navigating.
The Family ERG meets on the second Tuesday each month during the academic year in the form of educational Zoom webinars, interactive “Ask the Expert” format meetings, as well as in person family friendly programs and events (which are held on Saturdays).
Family ERG calendar of events for the 2022-2023 school year:
September Session- Tuesday, September 13, 2022
Parents of Children with Special Needs (Presentation & Ask the Expert)
The WorkLife Office is proud to present an Ask the Expert session regarding Children with Special Needs. We are pleased to announce that we will be joined by multiple experts in the area including:
- Amy Lowrie, Related Services Director & Early On Director, Eaton Regional Education Services Agency
- Diondra Straiton, President, Mid-Michigan Autism Association
- Catherine Blatnik, Treasurer, Mid-Michigan Autism Association
- Jaimie Hutchison, LPC, SCL, Director Work Life Office
This will be an excellent opportunity for you to gain information about these organizations and what services they can provide as well as an opportunity for you to ask questions to the panelists regarding children with special needs. Our panelists are prepared to help answer the pressing questions that you have in mind for a child in your life in the areas of neurodivergence, autism spectrum disorder and other sensory sensitivities, early childhood screenings, educational advocacy, special education services, and physical, mental, social, or emotional developmental needs.
October Session – Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Together We Can: Co-Parenting (Zoom Webinar)
Parenting is a team effort. The adults in a child’s life need to consider their children’s needs as they parent together. Build upon your knowledge and skills to promote healthy family and parenting relationships. This workshop is for all parents (married, divorced, single, step, etc.)
November Session – Saturday, November 5, 2022, 3:30-5:00pm at East Lansing Public Library
Parent/Caregiver and Tot Music and Movement Class (under 18 months, siblings welcome) (In Person Session)
A music and movement class in an interactive, play-based, and supportive environment. Attendees will be exploring, dancing, and playing as we partner to create connections, give freedom to explore and interact, and celebrate each child for their unique, competent, and capable selves. Be prepared for a fun-filled experience as we explore the transformative nature of music and movement together! NOTE: This class is intended for infants under 18 months.
December Session – Tuesday, December 13, 2022
Safe Infant Sleep (Zoom Webinar)
In this presentation, participants will learn what an unsafe sleep environment is and how to create a safe sleep environment in their homes. Infant behavior and development in areas such as feeding, sleeping, and crying will be discussed and participants will learn various infant soothing techniques. Participants will learn how to set the stage for nighttime care and develop a bedtime routine. Typical questions/concerns that parents have related to infant safe sleep will be discussed and explored.
January Session – Tuesday, January 10, 2023
How to Talk to your Kids About Race (Zoom Webinar)
Talking about race and racism can be intimidating and uncomfortable but talking openly about racism, bias, and differences is critical to raising anti-racist children and transforming systems of oppression. This session for parents and caregivers will address the following topics and allow time for discussion and Q&A.
February Session – Tuesday, February 14, 2023
Adoption Through Foster Care (Presentation & Ask the Expert)
This presentation will discuss the process of adopting through foster care and will allow time to ask our expert, Courtney Ross, from Child and Family Services your pressing questions about adoption and/or foster care.
March Session – Tuesday, March 14, 2023
Adult and Child CPR and Choking Information Session (Presentation & Ask the Expert- Not a CPR Certification Course)
The Family Employee Resource Group (ERG) is a place for Spartans to connect on family-related topics with the goal of connecting, building community, and sharing best practices regarding raising or caregiving for children and caregivers
April Session – Tuesday, April 11, 2023
Exploring Parenting Styles (Zoom Webinar)
Have you ever noticed yourself saying something to your children that your parent said to you? Or have you ever wondered how to guide your children, most effectively, while still preparing them for independence? In this workshop we will explore and reflect on our parenting styles, how they have developed, the benefits and drawbacks of each kind of parenting style, and how to find a balance that best supports a strong family for you.
May Session – Saturday, May 6, 2023 from 3:30-5:00pm at the East Lansing Public Library
Parent/Caregiver and Tot Music and Movement Class (18-36 months, siblings welcome) (In Person Session)
Join us IN PERSON for a music and movement class in an interactive, play-based, and supportive environment. Attendees will be exploring, dancing, and playing as we partner to create connections, give freedom to explore and interact, and celebrate each child for their unique, competent, and capable selves. Be prepared for a fun-filled experience as we explore the transformative nature of music and movement together! NOTE: This class is for toddlers ages 18-36 months.
View the WorkLife Events Page for full details.
Questions can be sent to:
Rachel Perez, CHRS
