AN UPDATE FROM OUR DIRECTOR:
School's out, but parental burnout isn't going away. The New York Times recently published
this article
where they say more than 60% of parents are experiencing higher than normal stress levels, largely due to "having no idea what to do with their children this summer."
While we are facing this season with the same uncertainty as all of you, we have formed a
series of parenting cafes
to help parents re-establish their support network over the summer. Here's some FAQs from our sessions so far-
1) What kinds of topics do you cover?
-We currently offer three different groups: one focused on behavior management and discipline strategies, one geared primarily toward single parents and another designed to help parents dealing with summer burnout. No topic is off the table, as our moderators allow parents to truly be engaged in conversation and let advice flow, parent-to-parent.
2) I've never participated in any EPIC programming, or any parent cafes at all. I don't know what to expect or if I want to participate.
-There is no pressure to join any of the cafe sessions. This is a service EPIC is extending to the entire community, regardless of past involvement or use of our services. Each cafe is one hour long, but parents often drop in and out at times that are convenient for them.
3) How do I try it out? Can I bring a friend?
-Absolutely; the more the merrier! All cafes are currently being held virtually, via Zoom teleconferencing. If you are curious to learn more, you can
call our support line
to get connected to the right group, or email
hero@epicforchildren.org
for login information for your requested session.
Stay safe, stay well, and as always, know we are here for you.
Tara
Tara N. Burgess, Executive Director
and the entire EPIC team
