Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

What is a PARENT LAB?

The PARENT LAB workshops are 90-minute interactive programs that will engage parents in discussion to explore and challenge parenting concepts while providing connection and support from each other, YFS staff and YFS school-based counselors. The labs are supported by the 5-step parenting process that is the foundation of the Parenting Mercer Island. online tool.

• A series of PARENT LABS will be offered for the 2026-27 school year. Programs will indicate what level the topic is intended for (Elementary, Middle School, High School or ALL). You can pick and choose topics that are most important to you and that best fit your schedule.

• Each PARENT LAB is a 90-minute interactive workshop for parents and those in a caregiving role.

• The PARENT LABS are not lectures, but are instead discussions that encourage active participation and listening. 

• Labs are designed to provide participants the opportunity to discuss parenting successes and challenges with other Island parents and to learn from each other and YFS staff.

What topics will be discussed in the PARENT LABS?

Visit the PARENT LAB schedule (coming soon!) to review topics for th2 2026-27 PARENT LAB series. We also encourage you to watch a short video that provides the foundation for the PARENT LABS and you can view materials from past PARENT LAB workshops.

Is registration required for the PARENT LAB?

Knowing how many people plan to attend each session helps us prepare the materials and ensure we have a big enough space for all who want to participate, however, registration is not required. Please click on the “REGISTER” button below to attend a single workshop or to register for the series of PARENT LABS.

When and where are the programs held?

The PARENT LABS will all meet from 6:00-7:30PM and the workshops will be held at various MISD schools. See the Schedule (coming soon!) for specific locations. All MI parents are welcome to attend, regardless of the meeting location.

Will the programs be recorded or be offered to virtual attendees?

The unique, interactive format of these programs means they will only be offered in-person and we will not be recording the sessions. We want participants to feel comfortable sharing with others and therefore we will not be recording the sessions. If you are unable to attend the sessions, visit Parenting Mercer Island and explore a variety of topics to support your parenting journey. Resources will also be posted following each workshop. If you are in need of additional support for you or your child/teen, contact the YFS School-Based Mental Health Counselor at your child’s school or call the MIYFS Confidential Voicemail at 206.275.7657 for support.

Can I bring my child to the PARENT LAB workshop or is this just for adults?

The workshops are for adults only, but to make it easier for parents of young children to participate we will be offering a supervised activity for children (grades K-5) at the Elementary level PARENT LABS only. Pre-registration is required for your child to participate in the supervised activity.