“Strengthening Island Families” Workshop Series Begins

Saturday, November 1, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., Orcas Senior Center

Ray Soriano to kick off parenting series in two-part presentation

— from Susan Anderson,  Executive Director, Orcas Island Children’s House —

Evidence shows that children who experience sensitive care-giving in the first five years have better social-emotional, language and learning outcomes, which later translate into positive behavior and academic success in school. Armed with this knowledge and funding support from an OICF grant with matching ECEAP funds, the four local preschools are working together to ensure families on Orcas have adequate, affordable and consistent access to quality programs that support these critical years of young parenting.

Bellingham-based Early Childhood trainer Ray Soriano will kick off the “Strengthening Island Families” workshop series with two sessions to help parents reach their children more effectively and identify and employ the strengths of their individual parenting styles. Ray is known for his fun, engaging and motivational style of presenting. The two sessions can be attended separately or in conjunction with each other.

Both sessions will be held Sat., Nov 1 in the Lundeen Room at the Orcas Senior Center.

• 9:30- noon: “The Power of Relationships” Five ways to connect more deeply with children, including discussions of teaching and guiding boys.
• 12:30- 3 PM: “Parenting Styles and Activities to do with Your Children” (recognizing different styles but focusing on strengths of each), incorporating activities and music into parenting.

Children’s House, Kaleidoscope, Montessori and Salmonberry have agreed to provide care free of charge for students whose parents will be attending the workshops. Lunch will be served to students at the centers and parents or guardians attending the programs will be treated to lunch and refreshments, as well.

The programs, care and lunch are free, but reservations before Oct. 29th are required to ensure adequate food and caregivers are available. Reservations can be made to any of the Preschools.