Free mental health resources for SFSD families are available through ParentGuidance.org, on-demand thanks to funding from the Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation.
ParentGuidance.org is a trusted platform offering professional resources and expert-led support, and a safe, confidential environment where parents and caregivers can find answers to their mental health questions and learn how to support their children. The online resources cover a wide-range of topics such as anxiety and depression, behavior, coping with grief and loss, self help, parent support, and more.
Student mental health impacts emotional stability and social interaction as well as academic performance. Improving and protecting student mental wellness is a collaborative effort involving parents, educators, and mental health professionals. ParentGuidance.org empowers parents and guardians to build the knowledge and skills they need, when they need support, to help their children and themselves thrive.
“Families and students are facing increasing mental health needs, but they often lack access to resources when they need them,” said Senior Coordinator of Counseling Services Kim Sharping. “We’re offering a proactive, positive resource to help parents help their children and navigate the complexities of raising a child today.”
Sioux Falls School District and the Cook Center are pleased to offer the following services through ParentGuidance.org as part of this partnership:
● On-Demand Video Courses – A library of more than 70 courses on a variety of topics such as anxiety, depression, bullying, grief, and social media are led by licensed therapists and mental health experts. The site also offers quick-read articles and topic–related resources. All courses and content are available for families to access at any time in both English and Spanish.
● Ask a Therapist – Family members can submit their questions and receive expert answers from mental health professionals as well as access more than 200 previously asked questions and answers.
● Mental Health Series – online catalog of 30+ critical topics designed to give parents what they need, in a way that works for them. It includes live events, on-demand deep-dive videos, articles, and quick takeaways to support the unique needs of each family in your community. Some topics include bullying, emotional regulation, anxiety, and more.
“Talking about mental health and other concerns is the key to understanding,” said Superintendent Dr. Jamie Nold. “Through ParentGuidance.org resources, parents will gain tools and strategies to empower them to talk with their children, engage in, and normalize important conversations about mental health.”
“ParentGuidance.org is a powerful tool to help families be the first line of support for their children,” said Anne Brown, president and CEO of Cook Center for Human Connection. “By providing education, resources, and direct support to families, we are helping the people who love and care for their children most: the parents and guardians. We are proud to partner with Sioux Falls School District in their stewardship of student and family wellness and fostering a supportive mental health environment for all.”