During this parenting workshop, we will provide childcare in the Youth Room (the program will be held across the hall in the Periodicals Room). If you plan to bring your kids, please let us know more in the Google form at the bottom of the page. Refreshments will be served.
Parenting in today’s world can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to helping children navigate the complexities of friendships and social pressures. This interactive workshop is designed to equip parents and caregivers with practical tools and insights to better understand their children’s peer relationships, identify signs of healthy and unhealthy dynamics, and effectively address bullying situations.
Throughout the session, participants will learn about the stages of childhood friendship development, how to foster empathy and resilience, and what constitutes bullying versus normal conflict. With guidance from experienced educators and counselors, parents will explore proactive strategies for open communication, building emotional intelligence, and setting clear boundaries. They’ll also discover how to collaborate with teachers, school administrators, and other professionals to ensure their child’s physical and emotional well-being.
By the end of the workshop, parents will feel more confident in supporting their children as they form meaningful friendships, cope with social challenges, and grow into compassionate, self-assured individuals.
Andrea Howell, M.Ed., is an experienced educator who has specialized in working with children and families for over 30 years. She brings together her knowledge and expertise in the areas of child development, positive parenting and social-emotional development to support parents in creating a sense of calm, confidence and connection within themselves and their families. A resident of Mount Desert Island, Maine for the last 21 years, Andrea specializes in positive behavior supports, conflict resolution, and encouraging developmentally appropriate independence. Her business website can be found at www.andreawilsonhowell.com.
Tara McKernan, M.Ed, LCPC is a local therapist who runs a private practice at The Counseling Collaborative. Prior to her work as a counselor, Tara worked for 24 years as a school counselor and special education teacher. Currently, she is also teaching a class on child development at The College of the Atlantic. Her clinical work has a strong focus on anxiety, ADHD, depression and trauma. With a deep background in social-emotional learning, Tara also works closely with children and families to help strengthen those skills. Tara and her family live and work on MDI and have loved calling it home for the past 25 years. Additional information on Tara can be found at: www.taramckernancounseling.com