In the heart of our mountain community, where serene landscapes constantly remind us of nature’s nurturing power, another kind of nurturing takes place—nurturing the heart, mind, and family bonds. This year, as the leaves begin to change and students rush to the bus stop, TEENS, Inc. invites parents to embark on a journey that promises to strengthen family ties, empower children, and foster emotional resilience.

TEENS, Inc., a nonprofit based in Nederland, Colorado, has a long history of supporting youth development. The Mountain Strong Families series, a part of TEENS, Inc. programming, returns this fall to offer parents practical strategies for nurturing their children. The curriculum emphasizes empathy, open communication, and positive discipline, helping parents navigate the challenges of raising children.

What sets the Nurturing Parenting curriculum apart is its unique adaptability. Recognizing that every family is unique, it provides tailored strategies to meet specific needs. This understanding and customization make parents feel seen and heard. They learn to set boundaries with love, manage stress, and foster emotional intelligence, equipping them with tools to guide their families through life’s ups and downs.

Emotional intelligence is a cornerstone of the series. In a society that prioritizes academic achievement, emotional intelligence is sometimes overlooked. Yet research shows it is a critical predictor of personal and professional success. By helping parents nurture this skill in their children, the Mountain Strong Families series aims to create a future where young people are compassionate, resilient, and emotionally aware. Mountain Strong Families doesn’t just support individual families - it’s strengthening the entire community. The knowledge and skills parents gain in this series will positively influence their families and the broader community.

Mountain Strong Families also strives to foster a sense of community within our parent community. Parents will find a supportive environment where they can connect, share experiences, and support one another. This communal aspect is invaluable, reminding parents that they are not alone in their journey and fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

If you’re a parent in our community, we hope you join the Mountain Strong Families series, held on the first Tuesday of each month from September to April, at Nederland Elementary School. To ensure accessibility, TEENS, Inc. offers this series free of charge, with dinner and childcare provided. Whether you face specific parenting challenges or want to deepen your family connections, this series offers something. The nurturing parenting approach is practical, compassionate, and adaptable to your family’s unique dynamics.

By participating, you’ll take an important step toward creating a positive and supportive environment for your family. You’ll also have a community of like-minded parents dedicated to raising the next generation of emotionally intelligent, resilient, and compassionate human beings. This goal of creating a positive future for our children should fill you with hope and optimism.

For more information or to register for this year’s Mountain Strong Families series, please contact Betsy Epp, the Social-Emotional Learning Coordinator at TEENS, Inc., at betsy@teensinc.org.