GAINESVILLE - A series of eight monthly forums - each targeting a specific topic of interest for parents of teens and young adults - will begin next month under the auspices of the Hall County School System.
Called "First Thursdays," the sessions will cover such things as life after high school and how to build healthy relationships between teens and their parents, according to School Social Worker Susan Johnson.
"We are doing (them) regularly on the first Thursday to make a pattern," Johnson said. "Hopefully that will increase attendance."
The first, to be held October 6, will deal with substance abuse. The one-hour sessions - to be held at the Lanier Career Center - will each begin at 7 p.m.
DATES-TOPICS-FACILITATOR
October 6 - "My child would never. . ." Substance Abuse: Signs, Symptoms, and Positive Parenting. Greg Smith, Counselor, Still Waters Center
November 3 - "The birds and bees what???" Talking with Your Teen about Sexual Responsibility Anderson Flen, Health Educator, District 2 Public Health
December 1 - "School Ain't What It Used to Be" Academic Expectations and State Requirements Dr. Mark Coleman, Principal, Flowery Branch High School
January 5 - "Life After High School" Preparing Your Teen for a Smooth Transition Stacy Benton, Student Services Coordinator, Hall County Schools
February 2 - "We once were so close!" How to Build a Healthy Relationship with your Teen Susan Johnson, School Social Worker, Lanier Career Academy
March 2 - "What color are you?" Finding Out Your Communication Style Judy Brownell, CenterPoint
April 13 -"Dad, I need to borrow. . . " Money Management Basics for Your Teen Mickey Hyder, Chase Mortgage Company and Member of LCA School Council
May 4 - "Okay, I did everything right but the worst still happened!" Finding Community Resources David Smith, Executive Director, CenterPoint