Virginia Beach City Public Schools’ Parent Connection welcomes the latest in a series of guest columnists offering research and insight on all facets of parenting. This month’s column, “Some Ways to Avoid Stress in the Family,” is available now on the school division Web site, vbschools.com. Guest columnist Molly Brown, parent educator at Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters (CHKD), examines the effects of stress on the family, the physical, emotional, and behavioral toll that it takes on children and adults. She also offers helpful and practical steps that parents can take to reduce stress and create a happier, healthier home.

Brown is a graduate of Virginia Wesleyan College. She teaches a variety of parenting classes in the community and is an instructor for CHKD’s Healthy You weight management program. A former consultant and health counselor for the Virginia Department of Health, Brown is the mother of two boys, ages 6 and 8.

Virginia Beach Schools’ Parent Connection will host an evening workshop with Molly Brown on May 28 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the ODU/NSU Higher Education Center located at 1881 Concert Drive, Virginia Beach. The session, Less Stress (More Fun), will offer parents the opportunity to ask questions about real-world situations and strategies for coping with stress. Seating at the workshop is limited and reservations are required. Parents should contact the school division’s Office of Community Relations at 263.1936 to reserve a seat.

Parent Connection links families to educational materials, workshops, activities, and community resources which support child development and success. A monthly calendar of events and classes is available on the school division Web site. For more information, contact Melissa McQuarrie at 263.1936 or by email at parent.connection@vbschools.com.

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