Parent Chats

We all want our children to explore their world and experience its wonders ... safely. We can't protect them from everything, but we can educate ourselves and support each other to create a nurturing environment that encourages their smart choices.

In 2017, we introduced a new way for parents to connect and support each other. Since then, families have hosted dozens of grade-specific informal get-togethers.

Since Covid is just dragging on, the Leadership Team wants to try something new. Attendees of our Speaker Series seem to appreciate the opportunity to chat with other parents, and many have requested more time for interaction. These virtual chats are our newest option (we will continue to host the speaker series). These chats are more informal than our speaker series, with a Decatur Parent Network member as the facilitator. There will be suggested themes for the meetings to help start the discussion and ensure that there are opportunities for all to share. There will be minimal participation guidelines to facilitate a helpful and encouraging experience. We hope to re-start face-to-face gatherings as soon as it's safe. Please register ahead of time, as space will be limited. These sessions will NOT be recorded.

National Public Radio >

Safely Socializing In The Time Of 'Rona

"Socializing is critical for mental and emotional health. You need it. We need it. People with little kids really need it. But what is the safest way to socialize while we’re still slogging through the pandemic? Short Wave podcast host Maddie Sofia and reporter Emily Kwong spoke to public health experts about best practices for safely spending time with loved ones and how to form your own "social pod" — whether you've been isolating at home or are an essential worker on the job."