No matter what age your kids, Seattle-based PEPS wants to bring parents together to learn and connect with each other around the myriad issues, concerns and joys of parenthood. Launched 42 years ago to provide peer connection and support to parents of newborns, the organization has expanded over time to offer connection and information for parents-to-be, as well as parents of toddlers and teens.
This week the organization announced it will offer several events (some free!) in June to further its mission of connecting parents around issues they hold in common.
PEPS Executive Director Dana Guy said the events are an expansion of the organization’s commitment to supporting parents.
Participants gathering in person at a PEPS-organized picnic for alumni of LGBTQIA+ Affinity PEPS Groups. (Photo credit: Ronnisha Hunter/Rhunter Images)
“We’re working to offer more opportunities for families to build connection outside [our] traditional group format, through events, workplaces, advocacy, and other flexible experiences that meet families where they are.”
She said that connecting with others at a similar stage changes everything for parents.
“When parents connect, loneliness becomes community, stress becomes shared understanding, and overwhelm transforms into collective wisdom,” Guy said. “Since the pandemic, we’ve seen a growing need for spaces that bring parents together with lower time commitments — and we’re responding to that need.”
Parents can expect to hear about other non-support group events in the future along with PEPSs ongoing support groups for parents.
Parents gathering in person for a Baby Peppers PEPS Group meeting.
Here’s the June event line-up:
- Mindful Teens: Reducing Anxiety & Building Confidence in a Digital World: An in-person presentation featuring tips and strategies to help teens establish healthy screen boundaries and foster their emotional resilience. May 28 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Together Center, 16305 NE 87th St in Redmond. Free, RSVP required.
- GATHER At Home. Wondering what the PEPS community is all about and whether it can support you on your parent journey? In this virtual session, meet PEPS Executive Director, Dana Guy and hear about the organization’s vision for the future and how parents can get involved. May 29 from 12 to 1 p.m. Free, RSVP required.
- Working Moms Networking. This in-person gathering will center on connection and candid conversations around the unique challenges of navigating parenting while working outside of the home. June 4 from 5-7 p.m. at Seattle Central Library, 1000 4th Ave, Seattle. Free, RSVP required.
- The Science of Teen Decision-Making: Understanding the Adolescent Brain. During this virtual workshop, parents will build an understanding of the adolescent brain and decision making, and gain practical tools to strengthen connection with teens. June 5 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. $20, RSVP required.
- LGBTQIA+ Summer Picnic: An informal gathering for LGBTQIA+ parents to connect in person, enjoy light refreshments, and build community with fellow PEPS participants. Facilitated by members of the PEPS Queer Caucus with ice-breakers and Q&A. June 14 from 3-5 p.m. at a park in south Seattle (location shared upon registration). Free, RSVP required.
