On Tuesday, April 2, Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) held a Virtual Symposium on Building Grit and Strengthening Resilience in Children. Immokalee Middle School opened its doors and welcomed parents and community members interested in attending the virtual presentation.

Six panelists, including Immokalee High School principal Clara Calderon, discussed different ways parents could positively impact social and emotional learning during out-of-school time, as well as how to help children develop the skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed to be successful in school, work, and life.

A video was also shared which demonstrated how books can help teach kids how to deal with complex emotions and give kids tools to navigate through difficult experiences in life. Books can make an emotion, problem, or situation that is abstract to your child, concrete, real, and most importantly, solvable. There are several great books available that present common behaviors we see in kids in ways that are relatable and that offer alternative ways of managing emotions or negotiating with friends.

For those who were unable to attend the Symposium, a Resource Guide and replay of the event will be available on the district’s website (www.collierschools.com). We implore you to visit and see all the ways you can help your child become successful in life.