Glenbard offers Parent University presentations

For parents looking to motivate their teens or navigate adolescent moods, the Glenbard Parent Series offers two presentations in its Columbus Day Parent University event.

Both presentations begin at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 10, at Glenbard South High School, 23W200 Butterfield Road, Glen Ellyn. A free pre-event dinner begins at 6:30 p.m.

Has your student ever asked "Why do I need to learn this?" In "Motivating Teens," experimental developmental psychologist David Yaeger will focus on students' beliefs about their academic abilities and learning potential in the Glenbard South auditorium.

How do teens' beliefs affect their learning, and what are the key strategies to help them persevere in the face of challenges? When students learn that their academic ability is not a fixed trait, but instead is like a muscle that can grow, they do better in school.

Yaeger's research tests the effects of psychological interventions on teens' developmental outcomes, such as academic achievement, grit, self-control and bullying. Yaeger is a professor in the department of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin.

At the same time, Steven Feifer, a consultant in the field of learning disabilities, will present the "Adolescent Brain: Practical Strategies for Navigating the Anxieties, Moods, and Emotions of Young People."

His program will be in Glenbard South's Little Theater. Feifer will discuss strategies to help students who struggle with mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, anxiety and depression. Parenting strategies and numerous treatment options will be explored.

CPDUs are available.

All attendees are invited to a free dinner beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Glenbard South's auditorium foyer.

For information, visit glenbardgps.org or contact Gilda Ross, Glenbard District 87 student and community projects coordinator, at (630) 942-7668 or gilda_ross@glenbard.org.