Parent Educator, 2025 Q2
Blanche Waggoner, Extension Agent, B.S., M. Ed.
Blanche.waggoner@ndsu.edu
Hello! It is hard to believe that we are half way through the 2025 year. The spring was filled with classes, trainings and events.
April:
April was a big month for Prevent Child Abuse North Dakota events. I attended some Community Events to share resources and information. Community Easter Egg Hunt held at the Williston Community Library and the Kids Day Out Community Event held at the Williams County Fair Grounds. For both events, I had a table set up with information for parents regarding Child Abuse Prevention, Families Flourish ND swag, Parenting classes and resources in the area. We hosted two Helping ND Families Flourish events. Sadie Kieson-Opperud, LMSW spoke and shared information about self-regulation, safety and family engagement. I spoke on the topic of brain development. The events were hosted at the McKenzie County Public Library and the Williston Community Library. We offered childcare at both events. I also spoke about our class offerings at the Crosby Baby Shower that was hosted at the Divide Courthouse. During the month of April, I offered a virtual book study. We discussed the book “What Happened to You?” The book study was a big success with participants from across North Dakota. I attended the 3-day NDSU Spring Conference in Fargo. I also attended a virtual training for a new parenting class NDSU Extension will be offering.
May:
The Parent Educators had our annual 2-day meeting in Dickinson. During this time, we discussed many things, a few were our program plans, grant funding and our State Parent Advisory Council schedule.
June:
All about the fairs and training. I judged statics for the McKenzie County Fair. I also assisted where needed during the week of the Williams County Fair. After attending a four day zoom training, I am certified in Positive Indian Parenting. I am excited to be able to offer this class for our areas.
As always, please check our website for upcoming classes and events being offered in North Dakota. https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/extension/programs/parent-education/upcoming-courses-events
