We’re starting our support meeting off with a special guest speaker - Dr. Myka Hanson, Teen Forward!

Goal-Setting for Neurodiverse Adolescents: When a SMART Goal Isn't Enough

Goal setting is a part of life, and it's an important practice we begin with our children at a very young age. As kids get older, goal setting is integrated into the school setting with questions like, "what are your goals for this quarter?" or "what would you like to achieve in this class?" While school can be an excellent place to form goals, often the generalized goal-setting instruction students are given doesn't support the needs of neurodiverse teens. Dr. Hanson will explain goal-setting with neurodiversity in mind and will take you through a sample goal-setting exercise that you'll be able to use for yourself, help your adolescent use, or adapt for younger children.

About Dr. Myka Hanson

As a high school English teacher for more than fifteen years, Myka worked with every type of student from those who were identified as at-risk, gifted and talented, and everywhere in between. Her classroom philosophy was to be the hour of the day where teens felt accepted, allowed to be themselves, and safe. She has carried that philosophy into founding Teen Forward and believes that adolescence does not need to be a struggle but can be an ultimately enjoyable experience remembered fondly as an adult.

Myka holds a bachelor’s degree in English/secondary education from St. Olaf College in Minnesota, master’s degrees in special education (University of Minnesota) and depth psychology (Pacifica Graduate Institute), and a Ph.D. in depth psychology and somatic studies from Pacifica Graduate Institute.

Learn about Teen Forward at www.teenforward.com.

Stick around for the Support Meeting after our guest speaker!

A safe space for parents/guardians/anyone who needs additional support while caring for neurodiverse children. Our mission for this support group is to connect, share, and support one another on our journey.