On Wednesday, April 8 from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. in the library's Howard Room, join us for a parenting workshop on supporting children with ADHD, anxiety, and neurodivergence with Tara McKernan and Andrea Howell from Echo Consulting.

Raising a child who thinks and experiences the world differently can be both rewarding and challenging, especially when anxiety enters the picture. This workshop offers parents and caregivers a comprehensive introduction to understanding the diverse ways children’s brains can process information and emotions. 

Through an inclusive, strengths-based lens, participants will learn how ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence influence learning, social dynamics, and daily routines, and how anxiety can emerge as a companion to these differences.  Attendees will gain practical tools for recognizing and addressing anxiety triggers, fostering emotional resilience, and improving communication. By the end of the workshop, parents will feel more confident and empowered, equipped with strategies that support their child’s growth, happiness, and long-term well-being.

This program is free and cosponsored by the library and Echo Consulting. Childcare will be provided for this event for children in Pre-K and up who are potty-trained-- registration is required.  Register for this event using the library’s interactive calendar or by calling 374-5515.  For more information, contact Claire at claire.malina@bhpl.net.

Andrea Howell, M.Ed., is an experienced educator who has specialized in working with children and families for over 30 years. She brings together her knowledge and expertise in the areas of child development, positive parenting and social-emotional development to support parents in creating a sense of calm, confidence and connection within themselves and their families. A resident of Mount Desert Island, Maine for the last 21 years, Andrea specializes in positive behavior supports, conflict resolution, and encouraging developmentally appropriate independence. Her business website can be found at www.andreawilsonhowell.com.

Tara McKernan, M.Ed, LCPC is a local therapist who runs a private practice at The Counseling Collaborative.  Prior to her work as a counselor, Tara worked for 24 years as a school counselor and special education teacher.  Currently, she is also teaching a class on child development at The College of the Atlantic.   Her clinical work has a strong focus on anxiety, ADHD, depression and trauma.  With a deep background in social-emotional learning, Tara also works closely with children and families to help strengthen those skills.  Tara and her family live and work on MDI and have loved calling it home for the past 25 years.  Additional information on Tara can be found at: www.taramckernancounseling.com