Learn how you can help children in Lincoln County become more resilient by attending a free community film viewing of “Resilience: The Biology of Stress & The Science of Hope.” The film will be shown on Monday, Feb. 5 at 5:30 p.m. at the Boothbay Region YMCA and on Tuesday, Feb. 27 at 5:30 p.m. at Wavus Camps in Jefferson.

Families are welcome, but the film is recommended for adult viewing only. Free on-site childcare will be available courtesy of the YMCA Teen Leaders Club.

“We are hoping to start a community conversation about how we can work together to build the resiliency of youth in our area; beyond just any particular teacher, child or family,” stated Anni Pat McKenney, The Coulombe Center for Health Improvement Program Manager. “We want to make more people aware that Adverse Childhood Experiences do exist and that they can impact people’s health throughout their lives.”

According to the film, resilience is the ability to thrive, adapt and cope despite tough and stressful times. Resilience is a natural counter-weight to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) or childhood trauma. The more resilient a child is, the more likely they are to deal with negative situations in a healthy way that won't have prolonged and unfavorable outcomes.

Participants will learn about child development, how developing brains respond to stress and steps everyone can take to promote resilience in children. A group discussion will follow the film viewing and light refreshments will be served.

The film showings are being sponsored by Healthy Lincoln County and The Coulombe Center for Health Improvement, along with local partners including Healthy Kids, Hearty Roots, area schools, and YMCAs. The first film showing was on Jan. 18 at the Skidompha library and was enjoyed by more than 40 community members.

Registration is optional but encouraged: register online by visiting www.cchi.coursestorm.com, call Healthy Lincoln County at 563-1330, or email annipat.mckenney@lchcare.org.