In the embrace of our mountain community, where each gust of wind carries the promise of adventure and resilience, families gathered once again for free dinner, childcare, and an evening filled with enlightenment and kinship. With Chrissy Quinlan’s (facilitator of Mountain Strong Families) vivacious spirit leading the charge, and TEENS, Inc. orchestrating the event, the latest installment of the Mountain Strong Families parenting series unfolded into a rich tapestry of insights and strategies aimed at nurturing the tender hearts and curious minds of our little humans.

The room buzzed with anticipation as twilight draped its gentle veil over Nederland Elementary School. With a sparkle of mischief in their eyes, Betsy Epp and Quinlan extended a warm welcome, not with the swirling snowflakes, but with the vibrant energy of spring - a reminder that parenthood, much like the changing seasons, is a journey of growth and transformation.

The evening’s agenda unfurled like a roadmap to nurturing parenting, each slide a guiding beacon illuminating the path ahead. From the foundational embrace of safety to the rhythmic dance of rituals and the delicate art of boundary setting, every facet of empowering children was explored with depth and humor.

Empowering Through Safety:

Drawing from Dr. Dan Siegel’s timeless wisdom, the session delved into safety as a cornerstone of childhood development. Quinlan and Epp guided caregivers by creating an emotionally safe environment for children to thrive. Strategies for managing parental anger, fostering emotional expression, and building trust were shared, empowering caregivers to lay a strong foundation for their child’s well-being.

The discussion expanded to encompass the broader concept of safety, extending beyond physical security to emotional and psychological well-being. Caregivers explored the role of attachment in shaping a child’s sense of safety and the importance of responsive caregiving in nurturing secure attachments.

Rituals of Resilience:

Laughter echoed through the Kiva at Nederland Elementary School as caregivers shared stories of cherished family rituals. From bedtime routines that soothe restless souls to Sunday traditions that bond generations, the power of these rituals in fostering resilience and connection was palpable. Caregivers were encouraged to embrace these moments of togetherness, recognizing them as anchors in the (sometimes) stormy seas of parenthood and life.

Building on the foundation of safety, rituals were presented to create predictability and stability in a child’s world. Whether it’s a nightly bedtime story or a weekly family dinner, these rituals give children a sense of security and belonging, helping them navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.

Crafting Compassionate Boundaries:

With empathy as their guide, caregivers embarked on setting compassionate boundaries. The delicate balance of firmness and understanding was explored through role-play and heartfelt dialogues. From reframing negative labels to nurturing cooperation through empathetic limit-setting, caregivers learned to navigate the waters of discipline with grace and wisdom, fostering trust and resilience in their children.

The discussion emphasized the importance of consistency and empathy in setting boundaries, highlighting the role of responsive parenting in promoting emotional regulation and self-control. Caregivers were encouraged to approach discipline as an opportunity for connection and learning rather than punishment or coercion.

As the evening unfolded, intentions were set, and hearts brimmed with gratitude for the shared wisdom. In the gentle flicker of candlelight and the promise of spring’s blossoming, families embraced the journey of nurturing child empowerment through safety and structure.

Honoring TEENS, Inc.:

Amidst the camaraderie and insights, it’s essential to extend heartfelt appreciation to TEENS, Inc. With each session, they weave a tapestry of support and guidance, nurturing the roots of our community with wisdom and compassion. Through their tireless dedication, they empower families to navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood with grace and resilience.

The profound impact of TEENS, Inc. was evident in the transformative experiences shared by caregivers throughout the evening. From newfound insights to practical strategies for fostering connection and resilience, the organization’s commitment to supporting families was palpable, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Join us for the Final Act!

As the curtain draws on this year’s Mountain Strong Families parenting series, caregivers and parents are warmly invited to mark their calendars for May 7. Together, let us explore restoring relationships and mastering the art of problem-solving— a journey destined to enrich our families and empower our children. Visit teensinc.org or email betsy@teensinc.org to register or for more information.

Betsy Epp is the Social Emotional Learning Coordinator at TEENS, Inc.