Oct. 1, 2007

LUBBOCK – What's the best way to balance work and family? Is there a rule of thumb when trying to choose quality child care? What language is my teenager speaking these days? Am I losing my mind?

Parents can find the answers to these and other difficult questions at the 12th annual "Building Strong Families: Tools For Success" parenting conference set for Nov. 6 at the First Church of the Nazarene. The church is at 6110 Chicago Ave.

The conference is specifically designed for parents and professionals who work with and counsel parents in a 20-county area surrounding Lubbock.

The conference begins with registration at 8 a.m. and will run until about 3 p.m. It will feature local, area, and state presenters. Attendance typically ranges from 700 to more than 1,200 persons.

Concurrent morning and afternoon sessions will cover a variety of family topics. Spanish and English sessions are scheduled during each time period.

Morning speakers and sessions will cover topics including: balancing work and family; helping children of divorce; maintaining unity in marriage; using sign language with children; today's journey through adolescence; dealing with disturbing memories; common parenting mistakes; and choosing quality child care.

Two keynote speakers will address the conference. Dr. Steve Joiner, Lubbock Christian University, will present "Managing Conflict In Important Relationships" at 9 a.m. George Comiskey, Texas Tech University, will address "Family Fun Time" at 1:45 p.m.

Topics for afternoon sessions include: language and teenagers, reducing stress and forgetfulness, community anti-drug efforts, and today's journey through adolescence.

Educational exhibits from more than 30 agencies will showcase local resources for parents and families. Registration is $10 per person, and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. The registration deadline is Oct. 26.

Registration and other information is available by calling 806-792-5468, extension 831 or 836. Additional information about the conference is available from E. Kay Davis, Texas Cooperative Extension agent for family and consumer sciences in Lubbock County, at 806-775-1680.

The annual parenting conference was founded by the Lubbock County Partners for Parenting Coalition.

Conference sponsors include: Region 17 Education Service Center; Extension, Lubbock County; Lubbock Independent School District; National Center for Parenthood Enrichment; Department of State Health Services - Health Service Region I; City of Lubbock; Lubbock Lions Club; Managed Care Center for Addictive/Other Disorders, Inc.; Uniting Parents; Parenting Cottage; Junior League of Lubbock; Superior Health Plan; Covenant School of Nursing; Southwest Dairy Farmers; and Lubbock County Dispute Resolution.