Your library is not alone. Teens across Massachusetts are a bit more challenging than they had been prior to the pandemic. After three years of limited social contact, teens are now gaining back the independence generations of teens had before them, but they are doing so with a shakier foundation of social and emotional skills. And when they test boundaries and experiment with risky behavior at the library, both staff and patrons get frustrated.

This workshop is designed for any library staff member who interacts with tweens and teens. We will discuss teen developmental needs and milestones as well as brainstorm ways to both support teen development and to react to unwanted behavior. There will also be time for library staff to share their experience with other participants.

As a result of this workshop, participants will be able to:

1. Identify “ages and stages” teen behaviors for at least one teen developmental group.
2. Define social-emotional learning (SEL) and explain where libraries can fit in to develop SEL skills in teens.
3. Make connections with other library staff and brainstorm approaches for dealing with teens.

How will I be participating?

During this live virtual workshop, expect frequent, active participation for maximum impact! Collaborate with peers through the use of breakout rooms and other digital tools. Microphones and cameras are essential for full participation. Please note, sessions will not be recorded.

LOCATION:

This workshop will be held virtually via Zoom. A login link will be emailed out to all registrants 24 before the start of the program. If you do not receive the email, please check your spam folder as the reminder email is automated and can sometimes be filtered out. If you do not find the email, please contact info@masslibsystem.org to request a link.