Why Do They Act That Way? A Survival Guide to the Adolescent Brain.
Adolescence has been described as a "normally abnormal stage of life." This workshop, based on Dr. David Walsh's best selling book, Why Do They Act That Way? A Survival Guide to the Adolescent Brain for You and Your Teen, explains exactly what happens to the adolescent brain on the path from childhood into adulthood. Our speakers show why moodiness, quickness to anger, willingness to take risks, miscommunication and other familiar teenage behavior are so common - all are linked to physical changes and growth in the adolescent brain. This workshop goes beyond the well-known issues of hormones and peer pressure. We will touch on the powerful role of media in teenagers' lives and show concerned adults how to use this information to understand, communicate with, and stay connected to youth.

Say Yes To No
There is an epidemic of Discipline Deficit Disorder sweeping the country. The symptoms include disrespect, impatience, a need for instant gratification, a sense of entitlement, self centeredness, and out of control consumerism. This workshop, based on Dr. David Walsh's new book, NO: Why Kids-of All Ages-Need to Hear It and Ways Parents Can Say It, explains how the "Yes culture" undermines our children's self discipline, a trait that is the key ingredient for children's success and happiness. Our speakers offer down-to-earth advice that can be put into practice immediately and humorous anecdotes to illustrate central points, and give parents real, effective strategies for helping their children grow up happy and healthy. Audiences leave with the reminder that "No" is not the destination, it is the road to "Yes."

Screen Violence and Real World Vioence: What's the Connection?

Whoever tells the stories defines the culture. That's not new; it's been true for thousands of years. What is new is that the traditional storytellers have been pushed aside and replaced by virtual story tellers on the myriad of screens that dominate kids' lives today. While some screen stories inform, educate and even inspire our youth, too many don't. Too many movies, video games, TV programs, music videos, and You Tube hits dish out heaping servings of violence, disrespect and degradation. Dr. David Walsh, founder of the National Institute on Media and the Family will explain the effects of screen violence and what we can do about it.