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?

With life more unsettled these days than ever before due to Covid-19, it can be a real challenge to stay calm and focused, keep things in perspective, and do what the experts recommend to keep our families -- indeed, ALL of us -- safe. Going forward, resilience will be key, and B-PEN is here to help. We’ll try to keep you connected here and via B-PEN’s list serve and Facebook page with important resources and ideas for maintaining productive, balanced family life as we hunker down during these days of social distancing and isolation. (Hard for adults, but REALLY tough on kids.)
But we've got this!! We're all doing the best we can, and we'll get through it together.
Here are some basics...
And for the most up-to-date info about Covid-19 in our community, go to the Brookline Health Department website - https://www.brooklinema.gov/446/Health-Department

      Mental Health Care during
​        the COVID-19 Pandemic
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 PAGE!!!
           Need a little help?
   Parenting Through the Pandemic 
The current pandemic is an unprecedented challenge, and all of us can use a little reassurance and guidance at times. B-PEN is launching a new digest of helpful articles we’ve discovered via parent bloggers and insightful journalists. Let us know if you run across something that’s been particularly helpful or resonates with you – we’ll keep updating this as we get more information, so check back often. And follow us on Facebook for the latest info as it arrives!  

  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.
 

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.

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