Lifelong Learning Panel - May 2025
Summary
Permanency journeys are not linear, and they come with unique challenges and joys. Learning happens at different times and in different ways. Messages we’ve heard many times before may take on new meanings as life changes around us. Join this panel of Humans and Human-to-be as they share about the importance of continually engaging with education opportunities that offer insight into trauma, permanency relationships, mental health and other topics that support Humans in showing up in their connections to Lived Experts.
Soundbites & Takeaways We Loved!
“Every day that you’re alive, you learn something new.” – Panelist
Engaging with Never Too Late (NTL) educational offerings helped one participant learn more about their family and improve existing familiar relationships
“I try to go to them all. You never know what you’re going to learn from who.” - Panelist on attending educational offerings at Never Too Late (NTL)
Books are a great resource for learning in addition to educational offerings from a variety of organizations and resources
Education sessions are a great way to…
prepare yourself for connection and build a toolbox of resources that will assist in difficult times
develop a deep understanding of the commitment that is being made to a Lived Expert when becoming their human before making it
reduce potential harm that may be caused by a lack of understanding on a topic
What is learned in education sessions helps Humans to improve interactions with and to create a good, lasting relationship with Lived Experts
When we know better, we can do better
It’s always important to keep learning, and to get reminders of what you’ve already learned before
Being committed to lifelong learning is very humbling
What we know about mental health, permanency, identity and trauma changes over time, so it’s important to keep learning
Even when it’s a topic that does not feel as relevant to personal challenges and needs, there are still helpful things to learn
Listen deeply, listen carefully, listen thoughtfully
The 7 Core Issues, which is utilized in our Readiness work with potential Humans, has been very important learning for Humans
QTIP (Quit Taking it Personally) has been a helpful acronym to keep in mind from Training for Humans to stay grounded in challenging interactions
Actionable Ideas & Activities
Buddy read a book that covers a topic of interest with someone so you can discuss your learnings with each other as you go
Work through the 7 Core Issues Workbook by Sharon Roszia & Allison Davis Maxon