Marta Nielsen, former Girl Scout Regional Director in Vermont, Salmonberry School teacher and director of Orcas Island Prevention Partnership, will conduct an interactive program for parents of teens and tweens called “Active Parenting of Teens.”

Meetings will be at the Orcas Library, 6-8 p.m. on five Thursdays, beginning Nov. 3 through Dec. 8, with a break on Nov. 24. Donation of $25 or $40 per couple; scholarships available. Registration closes Oct. 31. To register, call 376-1566, or email mdoyle@orcas.k12.wa.us

Some of the topics discussed will be: building mutual respect; control vs. influence; positive communication with teens; using encouragement and winning cooperation; problem solving, building courage; redirecting misbehaviors; drugs, sexuality and violence – reducing the risks; and bringing peace to blended and traditional families.

Nielsen taught this class last fall, and says it is once again open to “white collar, blue collar, no collar, husband, wife, single, remarried or partnered — whatever your race, from wherever you hail, regardless of creed or past misdeed, Mom, Dad, Uncle or Granny, parent or guardian, pull up a chair. If you love your child and are willing to engage – you are welcome!”