The parenting journey rises and falls along waves of connection, doubt, fear, joy, mistrust, and imperfection. As a human parent, we are continually given the choice to grow, never reaching a moment of perfection or fulfilling the ideal of the parent archetype. Adolescence is often particularly intense, with our children offering us a mirror to see our shortcomings, and we can lose sight of our strengths and gifts. Exploring this time with others can lessen our sense of isolation, soften our tendency towards self-blame, and inspire us to take steps towards our own growth and healing.

This five week class is for parents of adolescents (approximately 12-16 year olds) centered on trusting your child’s path, identifying your own emotional needs, and building inner and outer resources to sustain and nurture you through this transitional time.

The pandemic has magnified some of the expected challenges of parenting, with many parents spending much more time than usual with their adolescent children. Finding one’s way through life passages in this context can often be even more difficult, and this five week group will offer support, invitations for individual practice, and space to be witnessed in your parenting journey.

Offerings:

• *Five weekly evening Zoom Gatherings
• *Weekly offerings to integrate and support your learning, including recorded visualizations, handouts, and writing prompts
• *One 20 minute individual phone/Zoom call

Schedule: Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 p.m. (EST), October 20, 27, November 10, 17, 24 (no meeting Tuesday November 3),

Cost: Sliding scale $36 to $108 for the series

FAQs

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

trichjoy@gmail.com

What's the refund policy?

Due to limited space and timing, I ask that you make a full commitment before registering. Depending on the circumstances, I will consider a partial refund on a case by case basis minus the Eventbrite fees.

How many people will be in the group?

I will run this series with a minimum of 5 participants and a maximum of 10

Can I sign up for just one of the Zoom gatherings or part of the series?

If you feel called to be part of this series but cannot come to every Zoom gathering, you are fully welcome to register for the series and just come to what you can. In an effort to create a container, there are no single tickets available. If you are interested in one on one mentoring instead, please get in touch.

What if I have never used Zoom?

In my experience, with a little practice, using Zoom is relatively intuitive and user-friendly. You do need to download Zoom onto your phone or computer/tablet: https://zoom.us/. I am also happy to do a 10 minute practice session on Zoom before the series begins, if that would be of support.

What do I need to participate?

An internet connection and a device with the ability to use Zoom (computer, tablet, phone)

Earbuds or headphones for connecting to Zoom as an option to help hold the container if you aren't able to be in a private space during our gatherings.

A journal (or some paper) and a pen - colored pencils or crayons, optional

Identify as a parent or caregiver of an adolescent. All welcome (single, queer, straight, adoptive, stepparents)

No previous experience with mindfulness required or expected.

What if my child is under 12 or over 16? Can i still participate?

Absolutely! If this content sounds relevant or resonates, you are welcome. If you want to talk it through with me, just send me an e-mail, and we will find a time for a telephone chat.

Can couples or friends participate?

Yes. I would ask that you talk it through with each other and make sure you both feel comfortable with the idea and are committed to each participating fully as individuals.