Raising Teens with Community, Connection, and Jewish Wisdom

Parenting teenagers can be both rewarding and challenging. Adolescence brings rapid changes in identity, relationships, emotions, and independence. Parents and caregivers do not have to navigate these changes alone – JFS is here for you.

Raising Up Teens classes are designed to bring together parents and caregivers to explore the journey of raising adolescents from a Jewish perspective. JFS Parent Navigation Coach, Becky Goldman, and Rabbi Ronit Tsadok will facilitate, offering a welcoming space for participants to reflect, learn, and connect with others who share the joys and challenges of parenting teens.

During these free interactive sessions, participants will gain current insights into adolescent development, woven together with Jewish wisdom and the opportunity to share their own experiences. The conversations will focus on building strong relationships with your teens while also supporting your adolescents’ increasing desire for independence.

Participants will have opportunities to consider questions such as:

• How can I stay connected with my teen when they begin pulling away?
• How do I respond to strong emotions, conflict, or resistance without escalating the situation?
• How can Jewish values guide the way I parent?
• How do I support my teen’s developing identity while remaining clear about family expectations?
• How can I take care of myself during a demanding stage of parenting?

The classes are designed to be supportive and practical. Participants do not need knowledge of Torah or Jewish texts, and families from various backgrounds and levels of observance are welcome. The goal is not to establish a single “right” way to raise a teenager but to help parents and caregivers respond with greater confidence, curiosity, and compassion. Whether your teenager is currently facing challenges or you want to strengthen your relationship and prepare for the complexities of adolescence, Raising Up Teens offers a valuable opportunity to learn, reflect, and build community.

We hope you will join us on November 18 and December 2 from 6:00–7:30 p.m. for thoughtful conversation, practical support, and Jewish wisdom for the journey of raising teens. These classes are free.

Parent Navigation Coaching provides short-term, supportive guidance to parents and caregivers who have questions or concerns about their children’s emotional, behavioral, developmental, or school-related needs. Support is free, and no diagnosis or professional referral is required.

To find out more and register for Raising Up Teens, email Becky at bgoldman@jfsseattle.org.

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