WELCOME TO B-PEN!

​​Brookline Parent Education Network helps parents navigate the social, emotional and developmental challenges affecting Brookline's teens and pre-teens. B-PEN collaborates with the Public Schools of Brookline and PTO's to facilitate parent connections with:

• other parents
• school and town resources
• helpful information via written/electronic materials on a wide variety of teen concerns​

WHAT'S NEW?

Back to School 2021!!
The beginning of the school year can be challenging in the best of circumstances, as families settle into the new routines of the academic year. But with the pandemic still a major concern, kids and their families are facing additional issues besides new classes, unfamiliar teachers, and maybe a new school/building. And while this developmental milestone can mark a fresh beginning for reinvention, it can be tricky for parents to navigate as they balance expectations and setting limits on scheduling, bedtime, homework management, etc., all while keeping safety in mind.
Check out the TRANSITIONS page for a variety of tip sheets and resources to help families get off to a good start.
​* * *
​AND
​​B-PEN’s Facebook page offers important resources and ideas for maintaining productive, balanced family life as we continue to adjust to ever-shifting norms. Let us know your concerns -- how can we help?

HEAD'S UP ON MORE MARIJUANA DISPENSARIES
On Thursday Sept. 30 at 9:30 a.m., Brookline’s Town Meeting is holding a public hearing via zoom that will address Warrant Article 7 allowing two more retail marijuana stores in Brookline – in addition to the four currently in business. Expanding retail will undoubtedly create greater youth access to marijuana (which adversely effects the developing teen brain) and B-PEN urges parents to attend the meeting and/or reach out to your Town Meeting representatives to voice your concerns. 
Register here - https://brooklinema.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJIsc-mtrzgjGdS-goHPC3ZwAHiWn8En3EU

NEW!  - TALKING TO ADOLESCENTS ABOUT TROUBLING TIMES
Between pandemic-driven economic hardship and deaths, the intensification of racial reckoning, major environmental disasters, and violent political chaos, families are faced every day with a lot of bad news. Here are some tips for talking to our adolescents in ways that acknowledge the anxiety while offering perspective, guidance, and reassurance.
 
      Mental Health Care and Social                  Services During COVID-19
The stress of social distancing and the lack of regular routine and structure can make it challenging for all of us to maintain healthy habits and keep up our spirits these days. But for those predisposed to depression and anxiety, or who struggle with substance use, it can be exponentially difficult, making it vital to connect with appropriate support and guidance. Remind friends and family (especially adolescents) that it’s not just OK, but important to ask for help. Here is a list of resources available to assist families in accessing help with mental health and substance abuse concerns.
​
​

       NEW - CHECK THIS OUT!!

* "Parent Update - "When the S*** Hits the Fan: Parenting during the Pandemic"
* Parent Update - The Unique Challenges of Freshman Year
* Parent Update - Inside Scoop on the Junior Experience
* Parent Update: Strategies for Dealing with Stress, Screen Time, and Social Isolation 
 * BHS Peer Leaders talk about "Our New Online World"
​*Resources for Talking About Race

*Expert's Tips for Safe Teen Behavior
Kids are desperate to resume  social life. So how can we set reasonable limits? 

*The "4 M's" of Family Mental Health during Covid-19, from Dr. Sue Varma
​
*STUDENT TO STUDENT TIP SHEET
Surviving and Thriving COVID-19    
BHS Peer Leaders have put together a fabulous list of ideas for their peers.

​*Parenting Through the Pandemic 
a digest of helpful articles and webinars.   

  Help with Alcohol and Substance                      Use Issues during
            the COVID-19 Pandemic
For those struggling with alcohol, marijuana and other drug use, self-medicating with substances can be a common a way to deal with the depression and anxiety. With the added isolation and chaos of the current pandemic, it can be especially difficult to ask for help and to connect with appropriate support and guidance. Here is a list of resources available to assist families in accessing help with substance abuse concerns.

                   Need Advice?
​The Prevention/ Intervention Team is here to help. Call 617-713-5155 or email Mary_Minott@psbma.org

Student & Family Resources
Other informative resource lists to help students and families through the difficulties of the COVID-19 crisis.

Know anyone needing assistance with food insecurity? Click here... ​

STUDENT HEALTH SURVEY NOW AVAILABLE
The latest Brookline High School Health Survey XVIII sheds light on 7-12th grade student substance use, sexual practices, mental health concerns, dietary and exercise habits, and more. The report's Executive Summary outlines some of the key details, and data charts illuminate specifics of High School and Middle School. To access the full report, click here.