PAST PARENT EDGE PROGRAMS

 

2023-24

MI Parent Edge partnered with the Parent Venture non-profit organization to provide our parent community with a variety of free webinars. 

 

If you missed the speakers, you can access the entire collection of the Parent Venture webinar recordings (over 300!) in the free Parent Venture library HERE.  

 

 

2022-23

Once again this year, the MI Parent Edge programming will center on topics that are related to the wishes shared by Mercer Island students as part of the "I Wish" Project. 

 

We invite you to learn more about the "I Wish" Project and listen to the student voices. |


Ijeoma Oluo Parent & Community Screening
May 22, 2023, 6:30PM
*Replay of Ijeoma Oluo's Black History Month speech at MIHS * Screening of MIHS BSU documentary "Finding Community" * Panel Discussion facilitated by Kimberly Miyazawa Frank.


Signs of Suicide
Youth Suicide Prevention for Parents
November 17, 2023 - 7PM
April 26, 2023 - 7PM
Presented by the IMS Counseling Team
The “Signs of Suicide” program is utilized at Islander Middle School. IMS students have learned to ACT (Acknowledge, Care, Tell) through this program so they are prepared to get help for themselves or a friend. Learn the ACT message so that you can support your child.


William Stixrud, PhD & Ned Johnson
Authors of The Self-Driven Child and What do you say?
Wed., March 8, 2023, 11:30AM & 7PM
Dr. Stixrud and Mr. Johnson discuss ways of communicating with kids that support the autonomy and self-drive that are so important for healthy development, along with motivation that aligns with their own values. They emphasize strategies for building a strong emotional connection with our kids, communicating healthy (rather than toxic) expectations, helping kids develop lives that feel meaningful to them, and supporting them to find their own reasons to change when they’re struggling.  

> DID YOU MISS THE EVENT? Watch a recording and view resources HERE

 

 

State of the Kids
Access to stream on demanded ended 11/25/22.
This past March, parents, students, educators, health care professionals, community leaders, and concerned citizens across the country came together to take part in State of the Kids, a virtual conversation to address the mental health emergency among our youth. This event was a galvanizing moment for the movement to collectively envision new paths forward for healthy schools, healthy childhood, and a healthy society.


RACE to Be Human
Film Screening & Panel Discussion
October 17, 2022 @ 7:00 PM
RACE to Be Human helps us understand the impact of racism through the stories and expertise of students, scholars, and educators. The film examines micro-aggressions, allyship, the role of social media and more. Learn how conversations can help build empathy at home, work, and school.

> DID YOU MISS THE EVENT? View resources and information HERE!


Race to Nowhere
Film Screening & Panel Discussion
Thursday, September 29, 2022, 7-9PM
RACE TO NOWHERE is a close-up look at the pressures on today's students, offering an intimate view of lives packed with activities, leaving little room for down-time or family time.

> DID YOU MISS THE EVENT? Stream the film and view resources HERE!


I Wish Project
Listen to the voices of our students through the "I Wish" Project.
During the Fall of 2021, Mercer Island elementary, middle and high school students were invited to share thoughts and feelings they wish their parents, teachers, and peers knew.

> Learn More HERE


2021-22

 

"I Wish..." Project

Elementary, middle and high school students were invited to share thoughts and feelings they wish their parents, teachers, and peers/friends knew.  This project provides the opportunity to center our kids’ voices. When students are invited to anonymously express their thoughts and concerns to guided prompts, parents, administrators, teachers, and staff are truly able to hear and act to value their voices.  With open minds and hearts, we can learn and grow as a community to best support our kids going forward.

 

> Click HERE to hear MIHS student voices. 

 

 

Supporting Re-Entry (Elementary)
Monday, September 20, 2021 @ 7PM

Join MIYFS school-based counselors for a discussion about how to support your elementary-aged kids during their re-entry to school.  Presented in partnership with MI Youth and Family Services.

 

> Did you miss the presentation?  Watch a recording and view resources HERE. 

 

 

Supporting Re-Entry (Middle and High School)

Monday, September 27, 2021 @ 7PM

Join MIYFS school-based counselors for a discussion about how to support your middle and high school-aged kids during their re-entry to school.  Presented in partnership with MI Youth and Family Services.

 

> Did you miss the presentation?  Watch a recording and view resources HERE. 

 

Well-Balanced Student (K-12)   

Wednesday, October 6, 2021 @ 7PM

This workshop examines the tension that parents, students, and teachers often experience over issues such as homework, grades, and the culture of competition, and offers tools for creating a healthier school climate.  Presented by ChallengeSuccess.org

 

> Did you miss the presentation?  View resources HERE.   

 

A Healthier Approach to College Admissions 

Tuesday, November 9, 2021 @ 7PM

The college admissions process can be a source of stress and anxiety for students and parents alike. This research-based workshop addresses many of the important questions we hear from families. What do college rankings really measure?  Are students who attend more selective colleges better off later in life?  What is “fit” and why does it matter?   Presented by ChallengeSuccess.org

 

> Did you miss the presentation?  View resources HERE. 

 

 

Forefront:  Youth Suicide Prevention for Parents 

Wednesday, November 17, 2021 @ 7PM

Learn evidence-based prevention strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support. Like first aid and CPR, this valuable knowledge supports healthy families and communities. For parents/adults only.  Presented in partnership with MI Youth and Family Services.

 

> Did you miss the presentation? Watch a recording and view resources HERE. 

 

 

Girls with Bright Futures - Book Discussion

Wednesday, January 26, 2022 @ 6:30PM

Join Parent Edge and our friends at Island Books for a discussion of the book Girls with Bright Futures with authors Tracy Dobmeier and Wendy Katzman.  Read the book and join the discussion about this fictional story of college admissions mania on steroids. The lessons of this very entertaining read parallel real life more than we may all want to admit...this book is definitely not a playbook for "how-to" but a cautionary tale.  Presented in partnership with Island Books.

 

> Did you miss the presentation? Click HERE to view a discussion guide from the authors.

 

 

Signs of Suicide:  Youth Suicide Prevention for Parents 

Tuesday, April 5, 2022 @ 7PM

How would you respond if your child told you their friend might be thinking about suicide? Learn how to help your child save a life.  Learn strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support. For parents/adults only.  Presented in partnership with MI Youth and Family Services and the IMS Counseling Team.

> Did you miss the presentation?  Watch a recording and view resources HERE. 

 

2020-21

DEVORAH HEITNER, PHD
#Pandemic Parenting: How to Help our Kids Thrive in a Digital World

Wednesday, October 14, 2020 • 7:00-8:30 PM • Virtual Presentation

This fall, back-to-school is anything but normal. Distance learning is a huge adjustment for everyone. Devorah Heitner, PhD, an expert on young people’s relationship with digital media and technology, will share practical advice and tips to help your kids succeed in this new digital classroom. She’ll also discuss how parents can make this all a little easier on ourselves, too.

Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise, explains the importance of “mentoring over monitoring” when it comes to kids’ tech use and gives advice on how to encourage a healthy relationship with media and technology – and set kids up for success, not stress, in the digital age.

 

> Did you miss this program?  View resources!

 

ROSETTA LEE

What I Said and What I Meant: Improving Cross Cultural Communication 
October 29, 2020 • 4:30-6:00 PM • Virtual Presentation

Humans communicate on many levels: spoken language, tone, body language, style and personality. The fact that we have complex cultural identities and a host of differing past experiences increases the probability of cross-cultural miscommunications. This workshop presents major cross-cultural communication theories, ways that cultural values, power, privilege and differences affect the way we communicate, tools for questioning assumptions, and ways to improve cross-cultural communications skills. 


> Did you miss the presentation? Watch a recording!

 

ROSETTA LEE

Navigating Microaggressions 
October 29, 2020 • 7:00-8:30 PM • Virtual Presentation

How do you navigate microaggressions – those words and actions that offend or hurt, even though they may be unintended? Learn some of the obstacles of authentic conversations, as well as practical strategies for what to do or say when you are the target of, witness to, and agents of microaggressions.

 

> Did you miss the presentation? Watch a recording!

 

LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL SERIES | A Four-Part Virtual Series

Sponsored by KCLS and Friends of the Mercer Island Library
Parents/adults and high school students welcome

 

Character Counts – College Admissions Beyond Grades and Test Scores
Tuesday, October 6, 2020 • 6:30-7:30pm • Virtual Presentation
Presented by Tom Barry and Veronica Leyva, Collegewise

 

Conducting a College Search in the Time of COVID-19
Tuesday, October 13, 2020 • 6:30-7:30PM • Virtual Presentation
Presented by Claire Nold-Glaser

 

All About Financial Aid for College
Tuesday, October 20, 2020 • 6:30-7:30PM • Virtual Presentation
Presented by David Aramaki, Financial Advisor

 

Navigating American Education with your Child
Tuesday, November 3, 2020 • 7:30-8:30PM • Virtual Presentation
Presented by Kate Wang, VP of International Partnerships at MyCOS.
NOTE: This program is presented in Mandarin with slides in English and Mandarin.

 

PARENT SUPPORT SERIES

Presented by MI Parent Edge & MIYFS

 

Program #1: A Conversation about Our Kids” Mental Health

November 17, 2020 – 7PM

With MIYFS Elementary School Counselors & MI Pediatrics 

Gather mental health tips for your family to help reduce and/or better manage anxiety, stress, and depression.  Ask questions that are on your mind.  Connect with other parents of elementary kids.

 

> Did you miss this program? Watch a recording! 

 

Program #2:  Supporting our Tweens & Teens through the Challenges of Social Isolation
Tuesday, December 8, 2020 – 7PM 

Gather tips to help support your tween/teen during this challenging time and ask questions that are on your mind.

Featured panelists:

Harry Brown – MIYFS Counselor, IMS

Chris Harnish – MIYFS Counselor, MIHS

Julie Wood – Mental Health Therapist

FREE EVENT! For parents of middle school & high school students.

 

> Did you miss this program? Watch a recording! 

 

Program #3:  Nurturing your Young Child’s Development during the Pandemic
Wednesday, December 9, 2020 – 7 PM

Ask questions and gather tips to learn how to best support the development of your young child through remote schooling and isolation from peers, friends and family.

Featured panel:

Dr. Ziv Bell – Clinical Psychologist

Melissa Benaroya – Parent Coach, Author, Speaker

Dr. Liz Evans – MI Pediatrics

FREE EVENT! For parents of preschool-age children – kindergarten/1st grade students.

 

> Did you miss this program? Watch a recording!

 

YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR PARENTS

Presented by MI Parent Edge & the MI Forefront Team
November 19, 2020 • 7PM • Virtual Presentation

Learn evidence-based prevention strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support. Like first aid and CPR, this valuable knowledge supports healthy families and communities. Visit www.intheforefront.org for more information.

 

> Did you miss this program?  Watch a recording of a UW Forefront presentation.

 

CURIOSITY & QUESTIONS:  ENGAGING IN DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS

March 18, 2021 • 7PM • Virtual Presentation

Current issues provide a great opportunity to engage others in rich conversation, share important values, encourage deeper understanding of the news, and disrupt bias and prejudice.

Mercer Island community members are invited to join this workshop to reflect on bias, engagement, and communication. The workshop is facilitated by Anti-Defamation League Education Director, Scotland Nash EdD.  Discussion points include:  What are your spheres of influence?  What are the necessary ground rules for meaningful and respectful dialogue?  Incidents of hate are on the rise, what are strategies to talk about them at the table?  This program is appropriate for community members of all ages. The content is targeted toward adults but is appropriate for middle school and high school students.

 

PARENTING IN PLACE MASTERCLASS SERIES

Are you burned out, concerned about your child’s well-being and wondering how your family will manage during the winter as we near a year into the pandemic? 

 

The Parenting in Place series comes from a group of parenting experts, therapists, authors, educators, and neuroscientists who’ve joined to share their very best strategies and ideas for how you and your family can thrive in the coming months.  FEBRUARY 17 – APRIL 7, 2021; 8-part program (via Zoom); Watch live on Wednesdays 5PM (PT) or view the recording

 

FEB 17: A Conversation on Mindfulness, Mental Health, and Anxiety. Debbie Reber and Donald E. Grant, Jr. will discuss mindfulness strategies for managing parental stress and anxiety — and ways to support children in this unusual time.

FEB 24: A Conversation on Raising Resilient Kids. Madeline Levine and Michele Borba will offer simple ways to teach your kids how to cope today so they can thrive tomorrow.        

MAR 3: A Conversation on Motivation, Stress, and Screens. Janine Halloran and Katherine Reynolds Lewis will share strategies for teaching coping skills, balancing screens with academics, and keeping perspective.

MAR 10: A Conversation on Sex and Gender. Courtney Macavinta and Ignacio Rivera will discuss sex education and puberty, and will offer suggestions for raising and supporting queer kids and allies.

MAR 17: A Conversation on Raising Ethical Children. Catherine Steiner-Adair and Howard Stevenson will offer support for talking to kids about race and equipping them to seek justice, as well as parenting around difference, whether disability, LGBTQ or racial identity.

MAR 24: A Conversation on Teenagers. Christine Carter and Ned Johnson will share best practices for working with teens and fostering healthy motivation, stress tolerance, and joy.

MAR 31: A Conversation on Big Kid Issues. Jessica Lahey and Julie Lythcott-Haims will discuss how to send our children into the world, with all the skills they need to be resilient, motivated and independent, without resorting to the escape of drugs and alcohol.

APR 7: Town Hall. The last week of the series will be a virtual, moderated Town Hall featuring Tina Payne Bryson and other speakers responding to the most pressing concerns and questions from the Parenting in Place community. 

 

This series is available to Mercer Island residents at a discounted rate of $10. A portion of the registration fee for Mercer Island residents is being underwritten by MI Parent Edge & Mercer Island Youth and Family Services.

 

SIGNS OF SUICIDE
Youth Suicide Prevention for Parents

Presented by MI Parent Edge & the Islander Middle School Counseling Team
April 20, 2021 • 7PM • Virtual Presentation

How would you respond if your child told you their friend might be thinking about suicide? Learn how to help your child save a life.  With students both in classrooms and learning virtually, this program is more important than ever. Learn strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support.

The “Signs of Suicide” program is utilized at Islander Middle School. IMS students have learned to ACT (Acknowledge, Care, Tell) through this program so they are prepared to get help for themselves or a friend. Learn the ACT message so that you can support your child.  This valuable knowledge supports healthy families and communities.

 

> Did you miss this program?  Watch a recording!

 

 

 

2019-20

HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

SEPT. 25, 2019 • 6:30-9PM • MIHS PAC

Would you see the signs of youth alcohol or drug use in your home? Come to a Hidden in Plain Sight exhibit and learn what to look for and what to do if you find something. The Hidden in Plain Sight initiative helps parents spot signs of at-risk behaviors using an interactive display of a teenager’s bedroom. This program includes an interactive display, a resource fair and a presentation providing valuable information and resources for parents to help prevent youth substance abuse. For adults and parents of children in middle & high school. Adults ONLY.

 

> Did you miss this program?  View some resources:

 

YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR PARENTS

MI Parent Edge & the MI Forefront Team 

NOV 5, 2019 • 7PM • MIHS Library

 Learn evidence-based prevention strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support. Like first aid and CPR, this valuable knowledge supports healthy families and communities. Visit www.intheforefront.org for more information.

FREE EVENT.  For Adults/Parents ONLY!   

 

LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL SERIES | A Four-Part Series

Sponsored by KCLS and Friends of the Mercer Island Library
Parents/adults and high school students welcome

 

Navigating American Higher Education with Your Children
Saturday, October 5, 2019 • 2:30PM • MI LIBRARY
Presented in Mandarin by Kate Wang, MyCOS

Finding the Right College Fit
Monday, October 7, 2019 • 6:30PM • MI LIBRARY
Presented by Claire Nold-Glaser, College Planning Help

Minimizing Student Loan Debt
Tuesday, November 5, 2019 • 6:30PM • MI LIBRARY
Presented by Tony Leahy, Consumer Education and Training Services (CENTS) 

Finding Your Path After High School
Tuesday, November 12, 2019 • 6:30PM • MI LIBRARY
A panel discussion with adults and students
Presented in partnership with MIHS.

 

RACHEL SIMMONS

Enough As She Is:  How to Help Girls Move Beyond Impossible Standards of Success to Live Happy, Healthy, Fulfilled Lives

Feb. 12, 2020 • 7-9PM • MIHS PAC

Girls have never been more successful, yet they’ve also never struggled more with anxiety, stress and depression. In this talk, Rachel translates the toxic messages about achievement that girls have internalized, and teaches parents the tools to help girls practice self-compassion, redefine success, pursue purpose, and—most importantly—let them know they are enough as they are.  For adults and parents of children of all ages.

 

ROSETTA LEE
Who We Are: Identity, Inclusion, and Allyship

***THIS EVENT WAS CANCELLED DUE TO COVID-19***

 How do we learn about our various group identities? From whom do we learn the meaning of these terms? What messages have we internalized about ourselves and others? Learn how we co-author peers’ identity as well as our own, how the cycle of oppression and cycle of bullying pressure us to reinforce stereotypes, and what we can do as allies to break these cycles and work toward inclusion of all. For adults, parents of children of all ages & for middle and high school students.

 

YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR PARENTS

Parent Edge & the MI Forefront Team

APRIL 2, 2020 • 7PM • IMS Library

***THIS EVENT WAS CANCELLED DUE TO COVID-19***

 Learn evidence-based prevention strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support. Like first aid and CPR, this valuable knowledge supports healthy families and communities. www.intheforefront.org for more information.

 

 

2018-19

 

LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL – A FOUR PART SERIES

In partnership with KCLS and Friends of the MI Library

FREE EVENTS.  For parents of students in grades 9-12. 

 

A High School Parent’s Guide to Student Success in College & Beyond

SEPTEMBER 17, 2018 – 7 PM · Islander Middle School

How to Find the Right Colleges for You

OCTOBER 2, 2018 – 7 PM · MI Library

The Scoop on Financial Aid – Don’t Pay Full Price

OCTOBER 9, 2018 – 7 PM · MI Library

Resilience & Compassion: Building Strength for the Road Ahead

OCTOBER 17, 2018 – 7 PM – Islander Middle School

 

SECRET PROJECT:  DECODING THE MYSTERIES OF THE TEEN DOMAIN

***This event was CANCELLED ***

Many parents consider their teenager’s bedroom to be off limits, but sometimes too much privacy can be harmful. Take this unique and exciting interactive look inside the lives of teenagers and open the door, and your eyes, to everyday items that could signal a young person’s involvement in risky or harmful behaviors. Using a simulated teenager’s bedroom, the interactive exhibit includes hundreds of items that when seen through an educated lens, could be a signal that there’s a problem. Identify possible warning signs, discuss strategies and techniques and receive additional resources.

FREE EVENT.  For Adults/Parents ONLY!   

In partnership with Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, Mercer Island Youth & Family Services and Eating Recovery Center. 

 

MICHELLE BORBA

UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About Me World with Michelle Borba

OCTOBER 23, 2018 – 7 PM – Mercer Island High School 

Teens today are 40 percent less empathetic than they were 30 years ago — impacting children’s academic performance and leading to bullying behaviors. The trend also correlates with more cheating and less resilience as well as hampering our children’s ability to collaborate, innovate, and problem-solve.

Hear from an internationally renowned educator about the forces causing the Empathy Crisis and learn strategies to raise empathetic, courageous, caring children with skills to thrive in a 21st century, digital-driven world.  For parents of children of any age and students in grades 5-12.

 

> Did you miss this program?  View a resource:

 

YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR PARENTS

Parent Edge & the MI Forefront Team

NOVEMBER 14, 2018 – 7 PM – Mercer Island High School

Learn evidence-based prevention strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support. Like first aid and CPR, this valuable knowledge supports healthy families and communities. FREE EVENT.  For Adults/Parents ONLY!   

 

ROSETTA LEE

Parenting with Identity in Mind

JANUARY 23, 2019 – 11:30AM – MI Community & Events Center 

Rosetta Lee, a highly-regarded, local and national expert in diversity, inclusion and equity, will discuss parenting with identity in mind. Learn how to create positive self-identity in our children and teach them to be positive influences on others. How do we learn about our various group identities like female, African American, Buddhist, homosexual, middle class, etc.? From whom do we learn the meaning of these terms? What messages have we internalized about ourselves and others? Learn how we can instill positive self identity in our children and coach them to be positive influences on others’ identities. Together, we can co-create inclusive communities that work toward success for all.

FREE EVENT.  For parents of children of all ages. 

 

> Did you miss this program?  View resources!

 

ROSETTA LEE

Beyond Sticks and Stones:  Helping Youth Navigate Conflict & Bullying 

JANUARY 23, 2019 – 7 PM – MI Community & Events Center 

With the heightened awareness of bullying in today’s world, it’s hard to know how to support our children. National anti-bullying educator Rosetta Lee will present information to help parents and educators understand the difference between natural conflict and bullying, and explore key gender and cultural differences with respect to how children experience and deal with bullying. Receive pragmatic and empowering guidance and tools to effectively prevent and address bullying issues. FREE EVENT.  For parents of children of any age. 

 

> Did you miss this program?  View resources!

 

PARENT ROUNDTABLES:
Navigating Conflict & Embracing Differences

JANUARY 31, 2019 – 7-9PM

Go deeper into the topic of how we instill positive self-identity in our children.

Recently at a MI Parent Edge-sponsored event, educator Rosetta Lee spoke to us about how we can instill positive self-identity in our children and coach them to be positive influences on others’ identities.  In addition, she explored key gender and cultural differences with respect to how children experience and deal with bullying. The follow-up Parent Roundtables provide parents the opportunity to discuss these concepts and skills in relation to your reality and hear the perspectives of other Mercer Island parents. Together, we can co-create inclusive communities that work toward success for all. Join us for this free event! 

 

LIKE (IndieFlix Film): IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON OUR LIVES

APRIL 2, 2019 – 6:30 PM – Mercer Island High School

Are You Using Technology or is Technology Using You?
LIKE is an IndieFlix Original documentary that explores the impact of social media on our lives and the effects of technology on the brain. The goal of the film is to inspire and help equip us to self-regulate. Social media is a tool and social platforms are a place to connect, share, and care… but is that what’s really happening? There will be a resource fair from 6:30-7 with a film screening at 7 followed by a panel discussion.   FREE EVENT. For parents of kids of any age and students in grades 5-12.  

 

YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR PARENTS

Parent Edge & the MI Forefront Team

APRIL 3, 2019 – 7 PM – Islander Middle School 

Learn evidence-based prevention strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support. Like first aid and CPR, this valuable knowledge supports healthy families and communities.

FREE EVENT.  For Adults/Parents ONLY!   

 

 

2017-18 

 

LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL SERIES

In partnership with KCLS and Friends of the MI Library

 

IVORY TOWER (film & panelist session)

6:30 PM, SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 Mercer Island Library, Free Event

View portions of Ivory Tower, a documentary that looks at the cost and value of a college education. After the film, a panel including college counselors, parents, and a student activist will answer questions about choosing a college and financing a college education. For parents with students in grades 9-12. Sponsored by Friends of the MI Library

 

Pros and Cons of Community Colleges: The Last College Bargain 
Dr. Jonathan Brown Oct 17, 7 pm

 

The Scoop on Financial Aid – Don’t Pay Full Price
Peg Keough, Way to the Quad, Oct 24, 7 pm

 

 

JO LANGFORD

Teens, Tweens & Tech Straight Talk with Jo Langford

7 PM, OCTOBER 25, 2017 MIHS PAC

Do you know what your kids are doing on their phone? Join us for a straightforward conversation with Jo Langford, a Masters-level therapist, a sex educator for tweens, teens, and parents, and author of Spare Me ‘The Talk’! (for boys & girls). Jo will address the most popular apps teens are using; The Good, the Bad and the Ugly – The Three Big Bads; Sexting, Cyberbullying and Porn, and what parents can do about them.  Learn how to help your kids make healthy choices with tips and tools on navigating these difficult topics. Don’t miss what is sure to be a lively and enlightening evening! Find more information about Jo Langford at www.beheroes.net  For parents of middle/high school students. No children; parents only! Island Books will have Jo Langford’s books available for purchase at the event.

 

YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR PARENTS

Parent Edge & the MI Forefront Team

7 PM, NOVEMBER 15, 2017 MIHS, Free Event

Learn evidence-based prevention strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support. Like first aid and CPR, this valuable knowledge supports healthy families and communities.

 

JASON FRELOT

Kids & Race: Changing the Narrative 

7 PM, JANUARY 18, 2018, Northwood Elementary School

How can parents and educators empower their children to be successful participants in an increasingly racialized world? Learn from Jasen Frelot how the stories we unintentionally tell our children to have the greatest impact on their racial identity development and steps for empowering families to address racial injustice in a loving, sustainable, humble way. Jasen Frelot is a father, early childhood educator, social justice advocate, and co-founder of Kids and Race Seattle, which has been featured in Parent Map Magazine and on NPR. For parents of preschool through middle school students.

 

ANGST (IndieFlix Film)

6:30 PM, FEBRUARY 6, 2018 MIHS PAC

MI Parent Edge in partnership with friends of Mercer Island Library and Mercer Island Youth and Family Services presents the IndieFlix documentary, Angst: Raising Awareness Around Anxiety. Youth and young adults offer intimate, honest and accessible perspectives on suffering from and managing anxiety. Experts highlight research and offer tools and resources that provide hope. There will be a resource fair from 6:30-7 with a film screening at 7 followed by a panel discussion.

Audience Guidance: Families, educators, students and community members will benefit from this film. Appropriate for age 11 years+. Under age 11 viewer discretion advised.www.angstmovie.com 

 

ANXIETY AND OUR KIDS:  JOIN THE DISCUSSION

6:30 PM, FEBRUARY 13, 2018 Mercer Island Library

Mercer Island Youth and Family Services counselors will facilitate discussions about anxiety that began after the viewing of the film Angst. Find out more about preventing and addressing anxiety with parents and counselors grouped by elementary, middle and high school age levels. Counselors will answer questions, offer resources, and we will discuss ways to address anxiety together as a community. All parents are welcome. No students, please. Presented in partnership with Mercer Island Youth and Family Services, Friends of Mercer Island Library and Mercer Island Parent Edge.

 

JESSICA LAHEY

The Gift of Failure – Giving Kids the Chance to Experience Failure and the Opportunity to Solve Their Own Problems

7 PM, MARCH 20, 2018 MIHS PAC

Research has shown that the key to motivating students to own their education and develop resilience is intrinsic motivation. Jessica Lahey offers practical advice for fostering intrinsic motivation and weaning kids off of extrinsic motivators such as short-term rewards, bribes, honors, coercion, and yes, even grades while giving kids the support and encouragement they need in order to succeed. Jessica is the author of the New York Times Best Seller, The Gift of Failure – How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed. 

 

 

YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR PARENTS

Parent Edge & the MI Forefront Team

7 PM, APRIL 23, 2018 IMS, Free Event

Learn evidence-based prevention strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support. Like first aid and CPR, this valuable knowledge supports healthy families and communities. www.intheforefront.org for more information.

 

2016-17 Events

LAURA KASTNER -7 PM, March 20, 2017

Toxic Stress & the Pressure to Succeed 

Presented by Parent Edge and MI Youth & Family Services

Dr. Kastner will focus on the harmful impact of common stressors in our children’s lives, and how parents feel the pressure of living in a high-performance culture. She will provide ways for parents to make family health a priority.

 

YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR PARENTS

Parent Edge & the MI Forefront Team 

Youth Suicide Prevention for Parents - 7 PM,  March 29, 2017

Learn evidence-based prevention strategies to help youth in crisis stay safe and get support. Like first aid and CPR, this valuable knowledge supports healthy families and communities. FREE. www.intheforefront.org for more information.

 

CAPRICE COLLINS - 6:30-8:30 PM, January 17, 2017

Talking with Our Children about Race

Research shows that children have a complex understanding of differences and stereotypes. Learn from, Dr. Caprice Hollins, how children in K-12 see and understand race. She’ll share strategies for talking with children about race, how to build positive identities and respect for differences, and how to give children a voice in understanding diversity. Have an Islander Middle School Student? This evening event is a great accompaniment to Dr. Hollins’ talk with IMS students on January 18. www.CulturesConnecting.com

 

JOHN O'SULLIVAN - 7 PM, February 27, 2017

Changing the Game: Creating a High-Performing Mindset in Our Kids

Join us for an evening with John O’Sullivan, author of Changing the Game: The Parents Guide to Raising Happy, High-Performing Athletes, and Giving Youth Sports Back to Our Kids. Conventional wisdom holds that youth sports are a positive experience for our children, yet 70% drop out of organized athletics by age 13. Youth sports have become an ultra-competitive, adult-centered enterprise that has taken the ‘play’ out of ‘play ball’ for far too many kids. Learn ways to help athletes perform to their potential, while at the same time giving children ownership of their sports experience. www.changingthegameproject.com

 

2015-2016 

LILIANA LENGUA – April 27, 2016, 9:30 a.m. 
Supporting Elementary-Aged Children Through Change: Promoting Resilient Responses to Life’s Stresses
Liliana Lengua, Ph.D. is a child clinical psychologist and professor of psychology at the University of Washington, and director of the UW Center for Child and Family Well-Being. An internationally renowned expert on how temperament contributes to children’s unique responses to stress.

 

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JULIE LYTHCOTT-HAIMS - October 29, 2015, 7 p.m. 
Throw Out the Checklisted Childhood
Ms. Lythcott-Haims is a writer and parenting expert with years of experience working with students, family, faculty, and university administrators as Dean of Freshmen at Stanford. In her book, How to Raise an Adult How to Raise an Adult: Break Free of the Overparenting Trap and Prepare Your Kid for Success, she exposes the harms of helicopter parenting and sets forth an alternate philosophy for raising preteens and teens to self-sufficient young adulthood. An engaging and inspiring speaker, Ms. Lythcott-Haims is creating a buzz with her insights and engaging presentations!

 

2014-15 

 

KATIE DAVIS - 7PM, Monday, March 30 – MIHS
Opportunities & Challenges of Growing Up in the “App Generation
Co-author of The App Generation: How Today’s Youth Navigate Identity, Intimacy, and Imagination in a Digital World.” The benefits and drawbacks of our “app-dependent and “app-enabled” kids. 

 

THE MASK YOU LIVE IN (film) - 7 PM, Thursday, March 5 – MIHS
Don’t miss your opportunity to see this groundbreaking film that explores masculinity in America.

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CHRIS MCCURRY -  7PM, Wednesday, October 15 – MIHS
Navigating Our Kids’ Anxieties. 
Everyday strategies for neutralizing worries and anxiety: How mindfulness, acceptance, and attention to positive goals can improve the quality of kids’ lives.

 

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LESLIE R.  WALKER

Raising Healthy Teenagers - 7PM, Wednesday, January 7 – MIHS
Communities That Care of Mercer Island Youth Family Services welcomes Leslie R. Walker, MD, Chief of Adolescent Medicine at Seattle Children’s for a discussion on preventing drug and alcohol use in teens.

 

ROSALIND WISEMAN - 7PM, Wednesday, April 22 – Herzl Ner Tamid  
Queen Bees & Masterminds

Parent Edge and Parent Map are excited to welcome, Rosalind Wiseman, an internationally recognized expert on children, teens, parenting, bullying, social justice, and ethical leadership. Wiseman’s New York Times bestselling books, Queen Bees and Wannabes and Masterminds and Wingman are hallmarks of her social justice and bullying prevention messages. Pulling back the curtain on what’s really going on between adolescent boys and girls today, and how social group dynamics influence their interactions, Rosalind offers step-by-step advice on how to teach young people to treat each other with dignity. 

2013-2014 

ANNIE MURPHY PAUL – October 15, 2013 • 7 PM
Brilliant – The New Science of Smart. 

New research on learning that can help us all to expand our intelligence. For parents with kids of all ages.

 

LAURA KASTNER – December 5, 2013 • 7 PM
Wise-Minded Parenting: 7 Essentials for Raising Successful Tweens and Teens. 

Learn to tap your “wise mind” to calmly navigate the stormiest of parenting moments. For parents with kids in grades 6 – 12. 

 

TRUDY LUDWIG – January 21, 2014 • 10 AM 
Turning Away from Perfection & Striving Toward Excellence For parents of elementary children.


TRUDY LUDWIG – January 21, 2014   7 PM

Understanding Our Kids’ Online & Offline Social World: Friendships, Cliques & Power Plays For parents of elementary children.

 

HOWARD BEHAR – February 13, 2014 • 7 PM
Passion and Life Purpose: A conversation with teens and parents with the former Starbucks President. For parents with kids of all ages and teens in grades 8 – 12.

 

DAN KINDLON – March 31, 2014 • 10 AM & 7 PM
Raising Emotionally Literate Boys – 10 AM. For parents with kids of all ages.
Too Much of a Good Thing: Raising Children of Character in an Indulgent Age – 7 PM. For parents with kids of all ages.

 

GIRL RISING (film) – April 17, 2014 • 7 PM
A groundbreaking film tells the extraordinary stories of nine girls from nine countries. Girl Rising showcases the strength of the human spirit and the power of education to change the world. For parents with kids of all ages and for students in grades 8 – 12.