SMPG
SENG MODEL PARENT GROUPS
SENG MODEL PARENT GROUPS
WHAT IS A SENG MODEL PARENT GROUP (SMPG)?
SMPG (SENG Model Parent Groups) are support groups for parents and caregivers of gifted and twice-exceptional children. Groups are designed specifically to address some of the unique issues, needs, and challenges faced by diverse gifted communities across the globe. Meetings are run by at least two trained SMPG facilitators who will guide you in safe and confidential conversations.
TIMELINE
Typically 6-10 weeks (meeting once a week for 1.5 hours)
FEES
Fees vary based on the region, length, and format of the group.
FEEDBACK
At the last session, you will be asked to complete a feedback form on your experience in the group. This information will be shared with SENG in order to improve our offerings and make any needed updates to our formatting.
FORMAT
In-person or online. See the groups listed below to find a time and place that works for your needs.
RESOURCES
Group facilitators choose from a variety of SENG-approved, curated resources (books, articles, podcasts, and videos) to best meet the needs of local communities serving gifted and 2e children. You will be asked to check these out in advance of each weekly meeting. Many resources are available at no cost, but some groups may require the purchase of a SENG-approved book.
REGISTRATION
All SMPG-verified support groups are listed on the SENG website. Any groups not listed on our site have not been approved by SENG.
CERTIFIED FACILITATORS
Our facilitators are trained to facilitate using our specific group format, and they are required to participate in a continued recertification process. Please note that SMPG facilitators are not mental-health practitioners. Rather, they offer facilitation of peer-support groups among parents and caregivers.
SMPG FACILITATOR LISTING
SENG Model Parent Groups (SMPGs) are an opportunity for parents to connect to talk about the joys and challenges of raising gifted children. Participants engage in facilitated discussions guided by trained SENG facilitators. SMPG groups meet weekly for between six to ten weeks
SMPG-verified support groups are listed below. Any groups not listed on our site are NOT SENG approved.
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SMPG facilitators are not necessarily therapeutic clinicians. If you are seeking out counseling for yourself as a caregiver or for your children, please refer to the SENG Brochure, Selecting a Mental Health Professional for your Gifted Child (Spanish version). You may also find referral information from your local or state gifted organizations.
Interested in becoming an SMPG facilitator? Please click here to read more.
SENG FACILITATOR TRAINING
​How to become a SENG certified SMPG Facilitator
Requirements to train to become an SMPG Facilitator are as follows:
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Maintain an active SENG membership
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Previous participation in at least one SMPG group
(see our online offerings above if you are looking for a group to join) -
Participate in 2-year recertification training, either in-person or online
SMPG FACILITATOR TRAINING FAQS
How long will my facilitator training last? Your status as a facilitator will last for two years starting from the year you were originally certified. At that time, you will be asked to participate in a recertification process. Anyone trained prior to 2021 is now due for recertification. (Please see training dates below.) We look forward to reconnecting!
Can I recertify before my two years are done? Yes! You can recertify at any time. Your two years will start from the new date of certification.
When will recertification be offered? We will always offer recertification for free for individuals attending in-person at our annual conference (50% off for virtual conference attendees). In addition, we will have online recertification opportunities throughout the year.
What if my membership has lapsed? Please renew your membership here.
What if I want to run a group but have not participated in a group yet? You can check for a local group to join, or join one of the online groups listed on our site.
What is the cost of training? Please see the specifics listed under the training opportunity you wish to join.
What is Master Facilitator status? This status is offered to a facilitator who has run at least ten SMPG groups. Please let us know if you qualify for this status, which you can feel free to list on your advertising. We will ask you to provide us with a list of the groups you’ve run, and we also request that you be an active SENG member.
What is a Master Facilitator Trainer?
Master Facilitators who want to become a trainer of facilitators can attend a Master Facilitator Trainer Training. Once complete, Master Facilitator Trainers will work with an SMPG Board Member (or designee) to train future SMPG facilitators.
Who should I contact with questions about SMPG facilitator status? Write to office@sengifted.org
UPCOMING SMPG GROUPS AND TRAININGS
- Thu, Jul 20WayneFree for in-person conference attendees. Add on to your in-person registration.