Parents Take a Turn in the Sandbox

Larry Cohen The January Coffee Break event, to be held on Wednesday, Jan. 20, will focus on “Playful Parenting” methods developed by Dr. Larry Cohen, the psychologist who is the author of a book by the same name.

Cohen’s methods are based on the idea that children of all ages have an ongoing need for connectedness, security and attachment, and that playful interaction with parents is an important way to develop such bonds. Through play, parents can help their kids gain greater confidence, express bottled

or difficult feelings, recover from daily emotional upheavals, negotiate agreements, express love and – not least – have fun.

This Coffee Break, which organizers deem especially useful for elementary and middle school parents, will address the followthe ing topics: harnessing the power of play to get kids to cooperate without power struggles; rethinking discipline to emphasize good judgment rather than obedience; teaching kids to play their way through sibling rivalry; breaking through shyness, anger and fear with play; helping boys improve their emotional literacy; and helping girls feel more empowered.

The Coffee Break will be held from 8:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. at the Surf and Sand Hotel. There is a $5 fee for coffee and muffins.