Vienna International School (VIS) has unveiled an innovative initiative aimed at enhancing parental engagement and understanding of teenage wellbeing. The VIS Secondary Wellbeing Programme Counsellor has introduced a new book club for parents, providing a platform to delve into literature focusing on the emotional and developmental challenges faced by teenagers.
The inaugural meeting of the VIS Counsellor’s Book Club took place in February, with parents coming together to discuss "The Emotional Lives of Teenagers: Raising Connected, Capable, and Compassionate Adolescents" by author Lisa Damour, Ph.D. The session facilitated enriching conversations centred around the complexities of teenage emotions and shared strategies to support adolescent wellbeing.
Moving forward, the book club will convene regularly throughout the academic year to explore a diverse range of topics. Future readings will delve deeper into understanding the intricacies of adolescent brain development and its implications on teenage behaviour. The next recommended book on the agenda is "Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist’s Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults" by Dr. Frances Jensen. The final session of this year's book club series will feature "The Screentime Solution: A Judgement-Free Guide to Becoming a Tech-Intentional Family" by Dr. Emily Cherkin. This session aims to address the challenges associated with screen time and provide practical strategies for fostering healthy tech habits within families.
Kirsty Hantsch, the founder of the Book Club and VIS Secondary Wellbeing Programme Counsellor, emphasised the importance of informed discussions surrounding teenage emotions. She highlighted how such conversations can empower parents with effective strategies to support their children's wellbeing during this crucial stage of development.
The VIS counselling programme is dedicated to meeting the unique needs of students and their families. By addressing social and emotional concerns, counsellors strive to create an inclusive environment where every student has access to the tools necessary for success. As VIS continues to prioritise holistic student support, initiatives like the Parent Book Club serve as valuable resources for fostering collaboration between school and home, ultimately contributing to the overall wellbeing and success of students.