Parenting conference helps bridge gap between school, home for at-risk youth

Conference offers parents strategies for advocating for their children at school, and supporting classroom teaching at home

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Parents who may be struggling to help their children succeed at school have a place to go this weekend to get some support.

It’s called the “It’s Me Parent Empowerment Conference,” and it’s organized by Tikisha Michelle, founder of a company that helps advocate for parents, and teaches parents to advocate for their children at school.

The name of the conference is intriguing in itself!

“It’s ME: My Evolution,” explained Michelle.

“My Evolution through education and empowerment.  So, we want parents to know, because at home, it is ‘them’,” Michelle continued.

The conference is Saturday, January 20 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Hampton Inn Medical Park, 2320 S. 17th St. in Wilmington.

Organizers have some lofty goals, and some motivational leaders attending the event.

“Dr. Ada [Suter] will be there, and she will be sharing how health and nutrition impact learning, how health and nutrition impact medications that children might need, and maybe how your children may not even need them [medications] if they’re helped through health and nutrition,” Michelle said.

The conference also includes the importance of parents collecting and managing their child’s data, and strategies for putting structures and systems in place at home to make sure a parent can be the best advocate for his or her child.

The target audience for the conference is parents of school-age children who might be at risk.

“‘At-risk’ has a large definition, but ultimately, it is for children who might be struggling behaviorally or academically.  Sometimes behaviors impact academics, and sometimes academics impact behaviors,” Michelle added.

“Oftentimes parents are kind of like, ‘Oh my goodness, what do I do, what do I do? I didn’t get sent home with a manual for how to help this child’,” Michelle laughed.

“So that’s why we are here: to help parents.”

At the event, people who have been through the program will return to share their experience with new attendees.

Snacks will be available, and attendees will hear presentations from parenting professionals, then have a chance to work with an advocate.

Childcare will be available for parents who need it, and organizers are willing to work with people who think they can’t afford admission.

Cost for the conference ranges from $40 – $55.  Tickets can be ordered in advance here .

For more information, visit here .

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