SD 58 offers support for teens in transition

The transitional years from elementary school to middle school and then to high school can be challenging for both students and their parents. This is why School District 58 is hosting a special presentation for parents and caregivers of youth in grades six through nine called “Teens in Transition.”

On Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. at the Merritt Civic Centre, parents will learn how to promote positive emotional health in their families and find tips and resources to help support their teens.

“New schools, new friends, new teachers all come at a time when students themselves are experiencing great personal growth and change,” said Jane Kempston, vice principal of Student Support Services. “During the presentation, we’ll explore the fact that kids in our valley go to two new schools during their transitional years, and it’s a stressful time no matter where you come from and what your experiences have been.”

With presentations from Kelowna Interior Health and other community wellness experts parents will learn to recognize healthy and unhealthy stress and whether the anxiety is too much for a student to handle on their own. They will also learn about community supports and services, and see demonstrations of online self assessment tools and resources. Following the presentations parents will be able to ask questions and take informational handouts home with them.

Kempston said a recent survey conducted in the school district identified the transitional teen years as a challenging time for some. The evening, she said, is an opportunity to check in with parents and help them to understand that it’s a time of ups and downs and they are not alone.

“This will give parents a change to normalize what can be a really turbulent time,” said Kempston. “It’s going to be very informative, so no pressure, just come and listen.”

Onsite babysitting or transportation to the Civic Centre may be available. Anyone interested in these services can contact Kempston at jkempsto@sd58.bc.ca or call 250-315-1140. Healthy snacks will be provided.