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 total of six (6) PARENT LABS will be offered for the 2025-26 school year (3 in the Fall and 3 in the Spring). Register for all 6 workshops or choose topics that most interest you.

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

• The 2025-26 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 HERE to review topics for th2 2025-26 PARENT LAB series.

Do I need to attend all of the PARENT LAB workshops in the series?

It is recommended that you attend all workshops in the series to get the most benefit, however; you can pick and choose topics that are most important to you and that best fit your schedule. NOTE: The content on a specific topic (ex. “Fostering Autonomy”) will be very similar for each of the levels (elementary, middle/high school). We will tailor the content and examples to the specific development level at each program, however; there will be overlap in the content and attending one program for each topic should provide a sufficient foundation even if you have children of varying ages.

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 complete the registration form HERE to attend a single workshop or to register for the series of PARENT LABS.

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 (supervised activities will not be available at Middle School/High School programs). Pre-registration is required for your child to participate in the supervised activity.