New Canaan Cares Hosts Former Elementary Principals

New Canaan Cares will host back-to-back parenting talks on Wednesday, November 5 and Thursday, November 6 with former East School Principal Bunny Potts and former West School Principal Joanne LaVista. CARES programs are free-of-charge and open to the public.

On Wednesday, November 5 at 9:30 am, Bunny Potts will speak in the Lamb Room at the New Canaan Library in a talk entitled “How to Help Your Child in School Without Doing the Homework”, to help parents develop behaviors in their children that strengthen academic confidence and competence. According to Bunny Potts, “the purpose of this workshop is to help parents foster positive school attitudes and behaviors that encourage their children to take ownership of their own learning. Homework is the most immediate link between home and school, which can create stress and conflict. I hope that an “insider’s view” of what works in the long term will provide parents with effective tools.”

On Thursday, November 6 at 7:00 pm, Joanne LaVista will speak at Waveny House in a pre-school event entitled “Parenting Takes a Village” which will give parents a guide to building a parenting network they can trust. Joanne LaVista explains, “We will discuss and reflect on the importance of developing family goals and understanding your style as you grow as a parent. Once anchored in your own beliefs, you will be able to confidently network with others who share your vision of a “North Star” for your family. Consciously creating a balanced road map that meets your family goals can lead to stability, structure and predictability within your family and friendships. This will help to develop a positive sense of self and reduce anxiety in your children. I look forward to meeting with the preschool parents and navigating through this challenging, yet exciting world of parenting together.”

These two talks are a continuation of the commitment of New Canaan CARES to advance the health and well-being of youth and families by providing responsive educational programs and professional development that support and strengthen parenting skills, positive youth development and healthy lifestyles. For more information on upcoming programs and resources, please visit www.newcanaancares.org