Part of the East Greenbush Central School District’s strategic plan for the 2018-2019 school year includes an increased emphasis on the “Whole Child” and Mental Wellness. The district acknowledges that this is a shared responsibility so it is offering three free evening workshops for parents that will allow for collaboration and rich discussions regarding strategies and tips for moderating technology use at home; time spent on cell phones, computers and video games; recognizing anxiety in our children; and teaching how to help children regulate their emotions and stress.

The presenter of the workshops will be Dr. Jennifer Bashant, a social worker and education trainer from Building Better Futures.

Each of the workshops will run one hour (7:00 to 8:00 p.m.) and be hosted in the Columbia High School auditorium. All parents of students in grades K-12 are invited to attend.

“The East Greenbush Central School District recognizes the new challenges that we all face as parents with the increased use of technology, the prevalence of social media and the increased demands on our families,” said Assistant Superintendent James McHugh. “These parent sessions serve as an opportunity to hear and discuss a few of these important issues and exemplify a school and community working together on behalf of our students and children.”

Earlier this fall, Columbia students attended assemblies about mental health literacy and throughout this school year, staff will receive professional development on the topic of student mental health.

Keep the Tech in Check at Home
December 4, 2018
7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Columbia High School Auditorium

One of the biggest challenges of parenting today is trying to figure out how to moderate our kids’ use of technology. It can be a daily struggle over how much time is spent on phones, computers and video games. As parents, we know too much technology is detrimental, but how much is too much? You may be asking yourself, “What are the harmful effects of technology? How do I limit my child’s tech when it is all he or she wants to do?” This workshop will answer all of these questions, and any others that you may have about keeping technology in check at home.

Recognizing and Coping with Anxiety
January 9, 2019
7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Columbia High School Auditorium

One in eight children in America has a diagnosable anxiety disorder, but anxiety can be hard to recognize because it often masquerades as anger or behavioral challenges. This workshop will show you what to look for, and how to recognize different types of anxiety, such as perfectionism, separation anxiety, phobias and generalized anxiety. You will also learn tips and strategies for helping your child cope with and overcome anxiety.

Mindfulness at Home
February 5, 2019
7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Columbia High School Auditorium

Learn how to help your child reduce stress, regulate emotions and improve focus and concentration. You will also learn simple ways to begin a mindfulness practice yourself.