Coping With Teens Night in Norwell

L.E. Crowley
Globe Correspondent
Parents struggling with the minds and behaviors of their adolescent children will have some expert advice tonight.

Joani Geltman, an expert in child development and parenting, will host a workshop, “Adolescent Psychology: the Parent Version,” at Norwell Middle School from 7 to 9 p.m.

Parent Donna Cunio, who suggested the presentation, said Geltman will offer parents support and tips on how to deal with the emotional, social and physical changes that go along with adolescence.

"It's not the easiest time for parents or kids," Cunio said.

Through storytelling and humor, Cunio said Geltman has been a popular speaker and a help to many parents.

“She is someone people can identify with,” Cunio said, adding even “seasoned” parents like herself can use all the help they can get when dealing with the teenage mind.

Topics during the workshop include learning how to teen-proof a relationship and effective tools for identifying and dealing with sex, drugs, and alcohol.

Cunio said Geltman will also offer information about the pitfalls of cell phone text-messaging and teen Internet use.

Geltman has given presentations to more than 40 middle schools, high schools and community organizations throughout the state. She is an adjunct professor at Curry College in Milton and Leslie University in Boston.

The presentation is free and open to all.