Ruth Forrest - Independent Member for Murchison

The Hon Ruth Forrest MLC has been working with local community groups to organise a seminar for parents in Wynyard on Saturday 8 November from 1pm to 4.30pm, venue to be confirmed. The seminar has been organised in reponse to concerns expressed by parents about how to deal with some of the issues facing children, especially tweens (8 to 12 years old) and teenages today.

"Parents of all generations have faced challenges with raising and connecting with teenages, however, this generation of parents have to deal with very different and unique set of challenges . that have not previosly been faced by other generations as they parent tweens and teenages" Ms Forrest stated.

The seminar will be presented by Steve Biddulph and Maggies Hamilton. Well known author and psychologist Steve Biddulph is best known for his book 'Raising Boys', which has sold in excess of one million copies, and his campaigning for more recongnition of fathers and their role. A psychologist for 30 years, he brings laughter and tears to people in his popular talks.

"In this afternoon talk Steve will focus on practical things we have learned about kepping teenage boys safe, happy and connected so that they navigate the teengae years with out getting endangered by alcohol,cars,violence or unhappy sex" Ms Forrest said.

Maggie Hamilton author and teacher, over two years, interviewed dozens of girls, teachers, school counsellors, psychologists, law enforcement and medical personnel to get sn insider's view on what girls are experiencing right now. The results are contained in Maggie's latest book 'What's Happening to Our Girl's?' and will inform her presentation.

"During the seminar Maggie will detail the lives of teens and preteens, covering issues such as eating disorders, anxiiety and depression, addiction to shopping, cutting, binge-drinking, as well as drug-taking and sex. She will also give an insight into the secret lives of girls - how and why they choose to operate under radar. Maggie will share about ' The Way Ahead ' - constructing a new sense of belonging, vision and purpose of our girls" said Ms Forrest.

"It is vitally important that we as a society acknowledge these challenges and assist parents to engage with and understand the issues and pressures currently facing young people, this seminar will go some way to achieving that" Ms Forrest said.

"The seminar will take a positive look at the way forward for parenting, equipping parents with strategies for coping with and understanding this challenging time and encourage parents to work with their children throught this exciting and challenging time" Ms Forrest stated.

The Seminar will rpovide an opportunity for parents to ask questions of the presenters and to share ideas and discuss issues with other parents. It is hoped that some community service providers will also attend the seminar and be available to talk to parents about services they offer.

Ms Forrest is seeking information and to book a place at the seminar contact the office of Ruth Forrest MLC on 6443 8600.