Johnson County Mental Health Center offers free back-to-school resources for parents and caregivers

As a new school year begins, it’s not just students facing new challenges. From managing new routines to navigating new emotions and behaviors, the back-to-school season can also be overwhelming for parents and caregivers.

Johnson County Mental Health Center is here to help! There are several upcoming classes and support groups to help give you practical tools, encouragement and a supportive community as you guide your child through a new school year. All programs are free and open to anyone.

Parent Connect Series: Essential Strategies for a Smooth Back-to-School Transition (Virtual)

Header image for the August 2025 edition of Johnson County Mental Health Center's Parent Connect Series

Wednesday, Aug. 27 from 5:30-7 p.m. on Zoom

In this virtual session, Sierra Wright and Tim Kruse from JCMHC’s prevention team will share tips to help you navigate the back-to-school season. Learn valuable tips on transitioning smoothly back into the school routine, strategies for building relationships with your child’s school team and essential self-care techniques to help you thrive during the busy school year.

Register for the Parent Connect Series.

Parenting a Second Time Around (PASTA) Support Group (In Person)

Logo for Johnson County Mental Health Center's Parenting a Second Time Around support group, also known as PASTA.

Starting Thursday, Aug. 28

For grandparents, relatives or caregivers stepping back into a parenting role, Parenting a Second Time Around, or PASTA, is a support group that provides a welcoming space where you can connect with other grandparents and caregivers, share experiences and gain valuable tools to navigate your unique journey. Each session features a presenter who will offer practical information, skills and resources to empower you in your caregiving role.

Group meetings are held during Recovery Night Thursdays at Resurrection, a United Methodist Church, in Leawood.

Register for PASTA.

Nine-Week Parenting Skills Class (In Person or Virtual)

Header image for Johnson County Mental Health Center's Parenting Skills Class, a nine-week class to make you a more confident, empowered parent.

In-person classes on Tuesdays starting Sept. 2, virtual classes on Wednesdays starting Sept. 3

Parenting can be a roller coaster filled with joyful moments and challenges that leave you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed or stuck. Developed by parents and mental health professionals, the nine-week Parenting Skills Class is here to help you build confidence on your parenting journey and feel more connected to your child. The class offers practical tools and strategies to support you in navigating tough situations and strengthening your entire family system.

In Person: Starting Sept. 2, classes will be held weekly on Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Youth & Family Services Center in Olathe. Register for the in-person Parenting Skills Class.

Virtual: Starting Sept. 3, classes will be held weekly on Wednesdays from 12-1:30 p.m. on Zoom. Register for the virtual Parenting Skills Class.

For questions or more information about these programs, please contact Johnson County Mental Health Center's prevention team at JCMHCevents@jocogov.org or 913-715-7880.

Department:
Mental Health
Category:
News