Welcome to B-PEN!
The Brookline Parent Education Network (B-PEN) supports parents and caregivers in addressing the social, emotional, and developmental challenges affecting Brookline's teens and pre-teens. B-PEN works in collaboration with the Public Schools of Brookline and Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs) to help parents & caregivers connect with each other, as well as with school and community resources. It provides valuable information through written and electronic materials covering a wide range of topics related to teen concerns.
Wanna keep up with what's going on?
Save the Date!
A Conversation for 10th Grade Families with
Jon Cohan, CADC
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With more than 13 years of professional experience treating mental health issues and substance use disorder, Jon Cohan, CADC, brings insight, compassion and widespread knowledge to his work with adolescents and families. In this evening presentation, he will share guidance, communication tips, and strategies to help parents and caregivers support the well-being and healthy decision-making of their 10th graders as they navigate life at BHS. We'll see you on Monday, November 17, 2025 at 7:00 PM in BHS' Freshman Building. 22 Tappan Street, Brookline, MA 02445. |
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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT The recent 9th grade PTO/B-PEN presentation on October 22nd featured parenting expert Joani Geltman who discussed adolescent development and navigating tricky conversations with teenagers. Check out our Parent Update to see what you missed and click here for a printable version. |
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LET'S TALK ABOUT TEENS AND GAMBLING...
The number of children experiencing gambling problems has quadrupled in just two years – currently, over 40,000 adolescents in Massachusetts, with studies showing that 60–80% of high school students have gambled in the past year. Children exposed to betting before age 12 are four times more likely to face gambling challenges as adults. What may start as seemingly harmless activities, such as video games with loot boxes, can lead to serious issues – gambling is linked to the highest suicide rates among addictions. Check out our page on Teens & Gambling for prevention tips, warning signs, resources, articles.
The number of children experiencing gambling problems has quadrupled in just two years – currently, over 40,000 adolescents in Massachusetts, with studies showing that 60–80% of high school students have gambled in the past year. Children exposed to betting before age 12 are four times more likely to face gambling challenges as adults. What may start as seemingly harmless activities, such as video games with loot boxes, can lead to serious issues – gambling is linked to the highest suicide rates among addictions. Check out our page on Teens & Gambling for prevention tips, warning signs, resources, articles.
Need Advice?
Brookline’s Public Health social workers, located in Room 149 at Brookline High School, offer families a safe and confidential source of advice, support, and information. They assist with issues related to working with teens, student mental health (including depression and anxiety) and prevention. For more information, call 617-713-5149 or contact Abby Dean at [email protected].
Karen Campbell
B-PEN Coordinator [email protected] |
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B-PEN is part of the Brookline Department of Public Health and Public Schools of Brookline Prevention/Intervention Programs for Youth.