PARENT SUPPORT

We know it's tough to be a parent; especially if you have teenagers. That's why we have a support initiative gathering parents to share with each other the challenges they are facing. There is a new parent group forming in the Jenison/Hudsonville area specifically for parents of teens and tweens. Come meet with other parents and know that you are not alone.

Group meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month
Time: 6:45pm to 8pm (light dinner provided)
Location: Fairway Church, 1165 44th St., Jenison, 49428

For more information contact: Jodi Glass or go to www.pathwaysmi.org and check out the event calendar.

Puberty, Setting the Table for Healthy Transitions: Puberty, Pimples, Periods...Oh My!!
Join us for a topic that will usually generate a lot of giggles....Puberty. This workshop is for parents and caretakers alike who are looking to add to their parenting tool box. Learn the developmental stages of puberty along with helpful hints on how to engage in a life long conversation about puberty and healthy sexuality as well as tips on how to answer those tough questions that sometimes makes us squirm!! This presentation will include a take home parent pack with the information presented that evening.

Date: January 26, 2012
Time: 6:30pm-8:00pm
Location: Ottawa County Health Department, 12251 James Street, Holland, MI 49424

For more information contact Jodi Glass at 616-396.2301 x132 or jglass@pathwaysmi.org.

Anxiety & Depression in Children
Children can sometimes struggle with feelings of depression and anxiety.  As parents, it is important to recognize what these feelings might look like, as children often express their feelings differently than adults do.  Learning to understand these feelings better allows us the opportunity to help our children address and deal with them more self-confidently.

Free, but pre-registration is required.

Date: February 9, 2012
Time: 6:30pm-8:00pm
Location: Pathways, MI, 412 Century Lanes, Holland, MI 49423

For more information contact Jodi Glass at 616-396.2301 x132 or jglass@pathwaysmi.org.


Becoming a Love & Logic Parent: A parenting class for parents of teens
Learn simple, practical techniques that can help eliminate stress and arguments often associated with child discipline.  Learn how to provide choices that empower children to be responsible and make better choices.

Space is limited, call today! Pre-registration is required.

Date: February 21 - March 27, 2012
Time: 6:00pm-7:30pm
Location:  Allendale High School Rm. 101 , 10760 68th Ave. Allendale, MI 49401

For more information contact Jodi Glass at 616-396.2301 x132 or jglass@pathwaysmi.org.


Parents Chat
The teen years are challenging and rewarding at the same time. It takes parents working together to change the image of teens throwing wild parties and battling parents. Come chat with fellow parents about current issues among teens and how to solve these challenges.

Date: February 23, 2012
Time: 6:30pm-7:30pm
Location: Loutit Library, 407 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417

For more information contact Jodi Glass at 616-396.2301 x132 or jglass@pathwaysmi.org.


Teen Trends
Do you find it hard to relate to teens?  Have no clue what they are interested in?  At this session you will develop a better understanding on this upcoming generation, learn about teen culture and receive helpful tips to stay in the know with teen trends and culture.

Date: March 1, 2011
Time: 6:30pm-8:00pm
Location:  Allendale Library, 6175 Library Lane, Allendale, MI 49401

For more information contact Jodi Glass at 616-396-2301 x132 or jglass@pathwaysmi.org.


Strengthening Families Program: Calling all families with pre-teens (10-14 yrs)

Are you struggling with communication? Want to improve respect in your home?  Learn and practice being a strong family unit.  Sessions for teens and parents, as well as family sessions! This 7 week Program includes FREE DINNER and activities for children ages 3-9. Pre-registration required.

Date: March 8, 15, 22, 29
          April 12, 19 & 26
Time: 5:30pm-8:00pm
Location: Community Reformed Church, 10376 Felch St., Zeeland, MI  49464

For more information contact Julie Leeson at 616-396-2301 x 145 or jleeson@pathwaysmi.org.



YOUTH LEADERSHIP

Are you a teen looking for an opportunity to get involved and develop leadership skills? Do you have a teen who would like to develop leadership skills? Student Leaders Initiating Change (SLIC) is a youth coalition developing leadership skills to encourage our peers to make decisions that have a positive impact on themselves and their community. SLIC students meet once to twice a month and host a number of community events for youth in Ottawa County. Here are just a few events/activities they have planned.

SLIC Meetings return this fall!!
The first SLIC Youth Leadership meeting will be on September 15, 2011
Time: 7pm to 8:30pm
Location: Pathways, MI  412 Century Lane Holland, MI

Leadership Opportunities Orientation Night
Come learn what leadership opportunities are available for youth in the Holland, West Ottawa, West Olive and Zeeland areas. All students from every high school in these areas are welcome.
Time: 6:45pm
Location: Holland City Hall 270 S River Holland, MI

For more information on youth leadership opportunities contact Suzette Staal or go to www.ottawaslic.org