Parents and families can view a video of “Back to School Worries: How to Protect Your Kid’s Mental Health,” a virtual town hall for families that was held on August 13.

Many children are presenting worries and concerns about going back to school this fall. The one and a half hour event explored ways parents can help children process anxiety and calm their fears through sharing tips and tricks on how to navigate tough conversations, find the most trustworthy information to answer children’s questions, and build skills that deepen listening, encourage empathy and help children navigate the new school year.

 Participating in the event were: 

• Dr. Stuart Ablon, Founder and Director of ThinkKids and a Harvard Medical School Associate Professor

• Dr. Stacey Hardy-Chandler, Director of DCHS Center for Children and Families 

• Dr. Lacey Hillard, Assistant Professor of Psychology at Suffolk University

• Dr. Gregory Hutchings, ACPS Superintendent

• Susan Keightley, Program Director for the Child & Family Network Centers

• Mayor Justin Wilson, City of Alexandria

The Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) partnered with Explanation Kids and a team of top psychologists, Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS), and local Alexandria nonprofits for the event.

For the latest information and news about resources for those in need or impacted by COVID-19, follow DCHS on Facebook or Twitter or subscribe to the Spanish Language Text Line by texting ALEXINFOESP to 888777.