Parents from across the City of Chicago and the near suburbs gathered on Saturday, May 9, for Midtown Educational Foundation’s (MEF) 15th Annual Parenting Conference—an all-day program designed to provide the tools necessary for parents to succeed as the primary educators of their children. The conference opened with nationally recognized parent educator and lecturer Barbara Falk, who delivered this year’s keynote address, entitled “Successful Parenthood: The X Factor is Your Home.” Parents also took part in a variety of breakout sessions covering topics such as balancing your child’s freedom and responsibilities, how to communicate effectively with your child, instilling self-esteem without selfishness and tips for maintaining a strong family.

MEF, currently celebrating its 50th anniversary, offers high-quality enrichment opportunities for low-income students and their parents through a unique, holistic approach to after-school and summertime programs. Enrollment is now open for MEF’s summer programs, which offer a fun and enriching combination of academic tutoring, character education, athletic and artistic activities, and field trips. Summer programs for children in grades 4-12 take place Monday through Friday, from late June through early August. Program spots fill up quickly, so parents are encouraged to apply as early as possible by visiting www.midtown-metro.org/apply or calling 312-982-8585. Parents can learn more about summer programs at www.midtown-metro.org/midtown and http://www.midtown-metro.org/metro. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

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Midtown Educational Foundation parents Cristobal Galvan and Cecilia Hernandez at MEF’s 15th Annual Parenting Conference at Metro Achievement Center for girls on Saturday, May 9th.

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Midtown Educational Foundation parents Anna Cuevas and Alfonso Villanueva at MEF’s 15th Annual Parenting Conference at Metro Achievement Center for girls on Saturday, May 9th.