Attending Jane Stenson Elementary’s PTA Healthy Minds event felt like stepping into a space where community, care, and curiosity all came together in the best way.
The evening centered around something so many families are thinking about right now—how to support mental wellness at home in real, practical ways. One of the highlights was a thoughtful and engaging presentation led by Dr. Rachael Sytsma-Ramos, who spoke with parents about mental wellness and social-emotional learning (SEL). Her approach was both accessible and meaningful, breaking down big ideas into things families can actually use day to day.
Rachael emphasized that mental wellness isn’t just about responding when something feels “off”—it’s about building strong foundations. She walked through ways parents can help children identify and express emotions, develop coping strategies, and strengthen communication within the family. The focus on social-emotional learning really stood out, especially the idea that skills like emotional awareness, empathy, and problem-solving are just as essential as academic learning.
What made the presentation especially impactful was how grounded it felt. Instead of abstract theory, parents walked away with tangible strategies—simple check-ins, modeling emotional language, creating predictable routines, and making space for kids to feel heard. It was clear that small, consistent efforts can have a powerful ripple effect on a family’s overall functioning.
Beyond the presentation, the event also featured a vibrant community health fair. Families had the chance to connect with a range of local organizations and providers, all offering resources and support related to mental health, wellness, and family services. It added another layer to the evening—reminding everyone that support doesn’t stop at home or school, but extends into the broader community. Thanks to Dr. Myk Merrill for supporting Relational Psychology Group’s services by staffing our booth and helping the students build their self-care bags along the way.
Overall, the Healthy Minds event felt like a meaningful investment in families. It created space for learning, connection, and reflection—while reinforcing that supporting mental health is something we can all actively build into our daily lives.
Thank you to the community partners who participated in the Healthy Minds Health Fair: Skokie Public Library, Weber Center, Youth Services of Glenview/Northbrook, Wait Until 8th, and Family Service Center
Thank you to Jane Stenson’s PTA for inviting us to present and participate! We love partnering with our community members to foster mental health in every environment.
