Fall 2026 PARENT LAB Series
PARENT LABS are in-person interactive workshops for Mercer Island parents/caregivers of Preschool - Grade 12 students.
Using Play and Art to Strengthen the Parent/Child Connection (Preschool and Elementary)
Connection is the key to a strong parent/child relationship and play and art are a perfect way to build this connection! This PARENT LAB will be facilitated by YFS School-Based Counselors, Anna Frohardt (Northwood) and Joy Cain (Island Park) who both hold degrees in Art Therapy. Join us to learn about the concept of “Love Languages” to help you better understand your child; learn about the importance of play; and engage in a guided art activity (no experience or artistic talent required!).
Monday, September 28, 2026
6:00-7:30PM
Island Park Elementary Library
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Helping your Child Manage Big Feelings
(Preschool, Elementary, and Middle School)
Emotion regulation in children is the gradual ability to understand, manage, and respond to intense feelings. This PARENT LAB will provide parents with information and strategies to help support a child when they are emotionally dysregulated. YFS School-based Counselors, Julie Mattson (Lakeridge) and YFS Clinical Supervisor, Laura Falsgraf will also discuss when you should seek outside support for you and/or your child. YFS is here to help!
Thursday, October 1, 2026
6:00-7:30PM
Lakeridge Elementary Library
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Promoting Healthy Body Image in Adolescents/ Teens
(Middle and High School)
Children and teens often face significant pressure to meet strict, unrealistic and harmful societal ideals around beauty, body build, weight and shape. During adolescence, it can be difficult to maintain a healthy body image because of major physical and emotional changes, and social pressures that occur during this phase of life. Join YFS School-based Counselors, Katie Spencer (IMS) and Caleb Visser (MIHS), to discuss how to help your child build a positive relationship with their body.
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
6:00-7:30PM
Islander Middle School Library
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Screen Time – Finding a Healthy Balance
(Elementary and Middle School)
The ongoing challenge for parents these days is finding a healthy balance for our children’s screen time. Technology is here to stay, so how do we, as parents set limits and help our kids learn the skills to utilize technology while maintaining our well-being? YFS School-based Counselors, Alina Samko (West Mercer) and Kayla Bocek (IMS), will lead a discussion on how to talk to our kids and build skills to find a healthy balance with technology.
Monday, October 26, 2026
6:00-7:30PM
West Mercer Elementary Library
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Supporting your Child/Teen through Separation or Divorce
(All Levels)
When parents separate or divorce, it can be an unsettling experience for all involved. The changes might include separating households, navigating co-parenting, and more. During this time, parents are managing their own big emotions while also trying to provide support for children who are impacted. Join us to discuss how to best support children/teens during this time of change.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026
6:00-7:30PM
Lakeridge Elementary Library
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Building Healthy Sibling Relationships
(All levels)
Sibling squabbles can create stress in the family dynamics and yet, sibling relationships also provide children the opportunity to learn critical interpersonal relationship skills and develop their thinking abilities. Join YFS counselor, Corinne Alef (Luther Burbank Office) and Alina Samko (West Mercer) to learn strategies to manage sibling conflicts, recognize when the fighting has gone too far, and discuss ways to turn sibling interactions into an opportunity for growth.
Tuesday, November 17, 2026
6:00-7:30PM
West Mercer Elementary Library
LEARN MORE
Parenting is important. Figuring it out, isn’t always easy.
If you or your child would like support, contact your YFS School-Based Mental Health Counselor or call the YFS Confidential Voicemail at 206.275.7657 for assistance.
The Parenting Mercer Island Learning Labs are brought to you by Mercer Island Youth and Family Services and made possible with grant funding by Best Starts for Kids.
