Guiding Good Choices to provide summer sessions

This summer, Wahkiakum Community Network and Wahkiakum County Health & Human Services are partnering to provide a series of interactive skill-building and support sessions for families in Wahkiakum County with youth ages 9 to 14. Facilitators Minette Smith and Suzanne Mackey will use a curriculum called Guiding Good Choices, which teaches parents how to strengthen relationships with their teens.

Guiding Good Choices has been proven to reduce anxiety, depression and early substance use in youth. Topics include promoting health and well-being during the teen years, developing clear standards, expressing anger in a healthy way, and strengthening family bonds. The fourth session, “How to say no and still keep your friends,” is fun for the whole family!

This curriculum can be helpful for all ages, including grandparents and other extended family who care for youth. Facilitators work hard to ensure the learning environment is confidential and non-judgmental and will never force their values on your family. The curriculum is designed to build on your family’s strengths and values, whatever they may be.

Sessions will be held at the Hope Center in Cathlamet (320 S. Third St.) from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays starting July 8. Everything is free, including meals and childcare at each session. A benefit of Guiding Good Choices is group bonding and support for each other, so families are highly encouraged to attend all five sessions.

If you have questions or want to sign up, contact Minette by June 30 at smithm@co.wahkiakum.wa.us or 360-795-8630 ext. 224. Guiding Good Choices is partially funded by Washington Health Care Authority’s Community Prevention and Wellness Initiative grant.