Parenting Classes

At SMHF, we offer free bilingual (Spanish and English) parenting classes designed to support and empower parents in our community. Our classes provide practical tools and strategies to help parents raise their children in a positive and nurturing environment.

Our Parenting Classes Cover:

  • Effective communication techniques

  • Positive discipline methods

  • Building strong parent-child relationships

  • Managing stress and promoting self-care for parents

  • Understanding child development stages and needs

  • Strategies for creating a safe and supportive home environment

 Helpful Information

Teen Safety
Self-Esteem

  • - Experiencing feelings of entrapment and despair without any options

    - Facing difficulties and conflicts at home

    - Thinking about running away

    - On the verge of being expelled from the house

    - Currently homeless

    - Experiencing bullying at school

    - Suffering from anxiety

    - Feeling depressed or having suicidal thoughts

    - Facing pressure from gang members

    - Struggling with issues related to sexual identity

    - In a relationship where physical abuse occurs (punching, hitting, kicking, slapping)

    - In a relationship with someone who is emotionally abusive and controlling

    - Showing sudden changes in eating, bathing, sleeping, and study habits

  • Self-injury is a complex and often misunderstood behavior where individuals intentionally harm themselves as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions, stress, or trauma. This can take many forms, such as cutting, burning, scratching, or other methods of self-harm. While it may seem like an attempt at suicide, self-injury is typically a way to express and manage intense feelings that are difficult to put into words.

    For teens, this behavior can be a response to various challenges, including school stress, peer pressure, family conflicts, or personal experiences of abuse. It can also be linked to mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or personality disorders. Understanding self-injury is the first step towards finding healthier ways to cope and seek support. If you or someone you know is struggling with self-injury, remember that help is available, and there are compassionate professionals ready to provide the support you need.

  • Burning: Using heat sources like matches, lighters, or cigarettes to burn the skin.

    Scratching or Pinching: Intentionally scratching or pinching oneself to cause skin damage.

    Banging or Hitting: Hitting oneself or banging body parts against hard surfaces.

    Hair Pulling (Trichotillomania): Repeatedly pulling out one's own hair.

    Interfering with Wound Healing: Deliberately preventing wounds from healing, such as picking at scabs.

    Carving: Making deep cuts or carvings into the skin.

    Self-Poisoning: Ingesting harmful substances or overdosing on medication.

    Inserting Objects into the Skin: Pushing sharp objects into the skin.

    Bone Breaking: Intentionally breaking one's own bones.

    Excessive Nail Biting: Biting nails to the point of causing significant damage.

Self-Esteem

What is Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem refers to how much a person values themselves and feels confident in their abilities. For teenagers, self-esteem is crucial as it influences their mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.

Signs of Healthy Self-Esteem:

  • Confidence in one's abilities and judgments

  • Positive outlook on life

  • Willingness to try new things

  • Ability to handle criticism constructively

  • Healthy relationships with peers

Why is Self-Esteem Important for Teens?

During adolescence, teens go through many changes and face numerous challenges. High self-esteem can help them navigate these changes with confidence and resilience. It is associated with:

  • Better mental health

  • Improved academic performance

  • Healthier relationships

  • Greater resilience to stress and setbacks

Signs of Low Self-Esteem:

  • Negative self-talk and critical inner dialogue

  • Fear of failure and avoidance of challenges

  • Sensitivity to criticism and rejection

  • Withdrawal from social activities

  • Feelings of inadequacy or worthlessness

How Parents Can Help Build Self-Esteem:

  • Create a safe and supportive environment where your teen feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Listen actively and validate their experiences.

  • Praise your teen's efforts and achievements, no matter how small. Focus on their strengths and encourage them to pursue their interests and passions.

  • Demonstrate positive self-esteem through your own actions and words. Show self-compassion and avoid negative self-talk.

  • Allow your teen to make decisions and take on responsibilities. Support them in learning from their experiences and developing problem-solving skills.

  • Teach your teen about the importance of healthy, supportive relationships. Encourage them to surround themselves with positive influences and to seek help if they encounter bullying or toxic friendships.

  • Involve your teen in activities that they enjoy and excel at. This could include sports, arts, volunteering, or other extracurricular activities that provide a sense of accomplishment.

  • Discuss the impact of social media and unrealistic standards portrayed in the media. Help your teen develop a critical perspective and promote body positivity.