This event is for parents and caregivers of children who will be entering kindergarten 2025-2026 school year and is free to attend.

Do you have a little human making the big leap to kindergarten soon? It’s an exciting milestone—new friends, new routines and, of course, new school supplies. But beyond backpacks and lunchboxes, kindergarten also brings big changes in academics, social skills and independence.

Join us for a fun and informative session on how to support your soon-to-be kindergartener during this exciting transition. We’ll talk about what skills will help them thrive, and how to make the process smoother for everyone (yes, even you!). Let’s get your little one set for kindergarten success — because growing up is a big deal, but you don’t have to figure it out alone!

Presenters include Cat Tompkins, Chesterfield County Public Schools Family and Community Engagement; Ginger Prince and Maria Crostic, Chesterfield Prevention Services; and staff from the Chesterfield Public Library. 

Tuesday, March 4, 2025; 6-8 p.m.
Huguenot Road Baptist Church
10525 W Huguenot Road; North Chesterfield, VA 23235

Coffee & Conversation events are virtual gatherings to explore topics important to parents and caregivers. Each webinar provides an opportunity to learn, ask questions and discuss. Events are facilitated by the CCPS Office of Community Engagement in collaboration with Chesterfield County Prevention Services.

Coffee & Conversation events are held on Wednesdays from 1-2 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Use this form to register for events listed below.

We're introducing a new discussion series for our Spanish-speaking families called Cafe y Conversación.

La crianza de los hijos es difícil. Los niños no vienen con manual de usuario. Entonces, ¡tome una taza de café y obtenga apoyo amistoso! Juan Santacoloma, Especialista en Socios Comunitarios, Oficina de Participación Familiar y Comunitaria y Sierra Garland y María Crostic Especialistas en Prevención, Servicios de Apoyo de Salud Mental de Chesterfield discutirán formas de ayudar y comprender a sus hijos.

Regístrese para tantas sesiones como desee. Se le enviará un enlace de la reunión unos días antes de la sesión. Las sesiones serán grabadas.

Todas las presentaciones son en español y realizadas por profesionales que hablan este idioma.

What's Next Wednesdays is the latest series geared toward high school students and their families who are getting ready to take their next steps after graduation. From finding the "right fit" to navigating financial aid, this process can be stressful for our students and the adults in their lives. What's Next Wednesdays is here to help!

Use the form linked below to register for upcoming events. Once registered, you will receive a Google Meet link to attend the meeting.

All sessions are virtual and start at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 4, 6:30 p.m.
CTC @ Hull auditorium

Join us for a special screening of The New Drug Talk, a powerful film designed to equip parents and caregivers with accurate information about fentanyl and its impact on today’s drug landscape. This film highlights the dangers of self-medication and casual drug use in the fentanyl era while encouraging healthier coping strategies for stress and mental health challenges.

Following the screening, a panel discussion will be held featuring experts from SAFE, Mental Health Support Services of Chesterfield County, and Chesterfield County Public Schools. Panelists will provide insights, answer questions, and share resources to support families in having open and informed conversations with their children.

Attendees will also receive free resources, including Naloxone, medication locking and disposal pouches, printed information about fentanyl and fake pills, and details on regional substance use resources. Don’t miss this important event to learn how we can work together to protect our children and promote healthier choices.

Thursday, Feb. 20, 6:30 p.m.
CTC @ Hull auditorium

Join us for an impactful evening centered on understanding and addressing the growing concerns of anxiety in children and adolescents. We will screen the 51-minute broadcast version of Anxious Nation, a powerful documentary that sheds light on the alarming rise of anxiety in today’s youth. The film explores the science behind anxiety and emphasizes the importance of compassionate care, reducing stigma, and providing evidence-based solutions.

Following the screening, stay for an engaging panel discussion with mental health support specialist Amanda Whitlow and parenting specialist Rachel Bailey. The conversation will provide insights, answer questions, and offer guidance. Attendees will also learn about local resources to support families in their journey toward mental wellness.

This event is designed to spark meaningful conversations, build awareness, and connect our community with tools and support for managing anxiety in children. We invite parents, educators, mental health professionals, and anyone interested in fostering a healthier, more compassionate approach to addressing anxiety in our youth.

Tuesday, Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m.
CTC @ Hull auditorium

Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition is tailored specifically for parents, students, and educators involved with elementary school-age children.

This new film features compelling data and captivating stories that will resonate with anyone who cares about the well-being of young children. The film includes dialogue with incredible thought leaders including social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, author of the current bestselling book, The Anxious Generation.

The 55-minute documentary will be followed by a panel discussion including school staff and county agencies. Screenagers Elementary edition's target audience is parents and caregivers of children in grades K-6.