Town of Dartmouth launches Parent Cafe program for parents, caregivers

The Town of Dartmouth is launching the Dartmouth Parent Cafe, an eight session program designed to give parents and caregivers a space to connect, share experiences and learn practical strategies for supporting children and teens.

Parent cafes are small, conservation-based gatherings where parents and caregivers can talk about the successes and challenges of raising children, build supportive connections with others, exchange ideas and learn tools they can use at home. The program is designed to be relaxed, supportive and welcoming.

"Parenting can sometimes feel isolating, and having a supportive community can make a meaningful difference," said Deloris Joseph, Dartmouth's youth advocate and parent cafe facilitator.

Sessions will run from Sept. 17 through Nov. 12 on Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the North Branch Library, located at 211 Cross Road.

Sessions are as follows:

Sept. 17: Welcome, Connection and Building Your Village

Building support, reducing isolation and identifying your family's support network

Sept. 24: The Nuturing Parent

Parenting strengths, family values, praise, encouragement and building self-worth

Oct. 1: Ages, Stage, Brain Power and Growth Mindset

Understanding child and teen development, behavior, learning and resilience

Oct. 15: Communication, Feelings and Self-Regulation

Respectful communication, helping children name feelings and calming strategies

Oct. 22: Positive Discipline, Boundaires and Consequences

Setting expectations, using discipline as teaching and repairing after conflict

Oct. 29: Caregiver Stress, Anger and Coping Skills

Managing stress, recognizing anger warning signs and creating a caregiver stress plan

Nov. 5: School Partnership, Co-Parenting and Specialized Supports

Communicating with schools, preparing for meetings, co-parenting and accessing support

Nov. 12: Taming the Tech Monster, Bullying, Hidden in Plain Sight and Community Resources

Technology safety, bullying and cyberbullying, teen stress, substance use awareness and local resources

Those interested in attending should pre-register online, with space limited to 15 participants. A waitlist will be created when the program reaches capacity.

For more information, visit dartmouthma.gov. Any questions can be directed to Deloris Joseph at 508-910-1851 or djoseph@dartmouthma.gov.