Kee Dunning to Present at SD2 Parent Resource Night

January 24, 2023

by Kelly McCandless

Across the country it is becoming more common to see schools focus on whole child skill development, meaning more than academics are prominent in education. Whole child skills, according to the Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI), include self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationships skills, and the ability to make responsible decisions. Not only does the development of these skills lead to lower levels of emotional distress, enhanced wellbeing, and improved academic outcomes, these skills also lead to stronger soft skills and more stable employment in adulthood.

This work also means that discussions around mental health and emotional responses and behaviors are becoming more common in the public sphere. Even though 100% of all humans experience emotions, we aren’t always taught how to handle them. And, managing difficult emotions is difficult for all of us, particularly children. Coping skills are critical to whole child skill development, making emotional awareness and behavioral management a key part of the human experience.

With increases in behavioral issues and more interference from screens, peers, and more impacting emotional development, some children exhibit strong emotions and parents aren’t sure how to help. What is “normal” and what should catch your attention for seeking help and/or guidance? An upcoming event aims to guide parents in recognizing, managing, and supporting three major emotions: Anger, Anxiety and Depression.

Kee Dunning, MS, MEd, LCPC, LMFT, is a licensed clinical professional counselor and owner of Dunning Counseling and Consulting in Billings. On January 26, 2023 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. in the Lincoln Center Auditorium, Dunning will hold a parent night focused on these emotions. While anger, anxiety and depression are totally normal, they can sometimes be challenging, particularly for youth. This presentation will provide parents and caregivers with information and tools to help themselves and their kids cope with difficult emotions.

Dunning offers her “Kee Concepts” which include simple tips and strategies to support communication with your child and simple tips and strategies in helping support that communication. There will also be a question-and-answer session following the presentation. The presentation is open to parents, caregivers, and community members.

Attend the free event on January 26th from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. in the Lincoln Center Auditorium.

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Kelly McCandless

Kelly McCandless is a Billings native who loves a well-planned adventure, being outdoors when the weather is nice, historic fiction and hot coffee. She’s passionate about writing, cooking, education, travel and doing all of these things with her husband Ryan and their two incredible daughters

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