Parent to Parent

Parents, do you sometimes feel overwhelmed or confused when thinking about the best way to help your children navigate through teenage years? Join the club! Today's world is much more complex and challenging than the world most parents grew up in. Now there's somewhere to turn for support, encouragement and solid, proven strategies.

Beginning Tuesday, February 25, a new series of the "Parent to Parent" workshops will be held at Barry Elementary School for parents in the Cortland area. The workshops are especially suited to parents of 6th-8th graders, but all parents are welcome to attend. This renowned, highly successful program has been held several times in the Cortland and Homer areas and has received rave reviews from attendees. Here are some sample comments: "One of the most important things I learned was that I am a good parent, but I need tools to handle difficult situations." And, "This class reinforced my belief that family is the most important teacher.

Topics that will be covered during the 4 weeks are:

• Today's Toxic Culture
• Put Yourself in the Way
• Awareness is You Best Friend
• Remember the Difference
• Expect and Inspect
• Never Cry Alone
• Traps to Avoid
• Building a Family Vision

Sessions are on Tuesdays from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. beginning February 25th and concluding March 18. Parents who attend will find that time they invest in this free program will be priceless!

How to register: If your child (K-8) attends a school in the Cortland District, your child will be bringing the flyer home in the next few weeks. There are also flyers available at the Cortland Youth Bureau, City Hall and at the Cortland School District's website, www.cortlandschools.org. You can register online or return the completed form to your child's school or mail it to Jeanette Dippo, Cortland Jr. Sr. High School, 8 Valley View Drive, Cortland, NY 13045. For more information about this program call (607) 758-4100, ext. 1387.

Refreshments and childcare are provided. Why not register today! Co-sponsors for "Parent to Parent" include: the Cortland City Schools Parent-Teacher Awareness Group, City of Cortland Mayor's Office and City Youth Bureau, Cortland County Health Department and County Youth Bureau, Family Counseling Services, Seven Valleys CASA.