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Helping parents of young children, pre-teens, and teens navigate challenges with local support.

Raising children is never easy — and when you add cultural transitions, new school systems, or social pressure into the mix, it can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re launching Parenting in the Netherlands — a practical, supportive series for parents living in Almere with children aged 4 to 18, led by youth and family expert Ronnie Kendall and child psychologist Dr. Çisem Gürel.

Whether you’re an international newcomer or a local resident, this series is designed to help you strengthen your relationship with your child, access local resources, and build community with other families navigating similar challenges.

Who is this for?

• Parents of children aged 4–18 living in Almere

• Families navigating behavioural challenges, school difficulties, or cultural transitions

• Anyone looking for practical advice and connection in a safe, supportive setting

What to Expect

Each session includes:

• A short, expert-led presentation

• Real-life examples and tools you can use right away

• A supportive group discussion and Q&A

Topics for 2025

🟡 Parenting Through Change
How relocation and life transitions affect children and teens — and how parents can support them through emotional and behavioural challenges.

🟡 Understanding and Communicating with Your Child or Teen
Learn how to set healthy boundaries, manage conflict, and connect with your child or teen in meaningful ways—at every stage of their development.

🟡 Helping Children and Teens Succeed in School
Practical strategies for keeping children and teens engaged, motivated, and supported academically—within the Dutch school system.

🟡 Building a Social Life in Almere
Explore how to help your child or teen build friendships, navigate peer pressure, and develop a strong sense of belonging.

🟡 Preparing for Growing Independence: Preparing Your Child or Teen for Adulthood
Support your child or teen as they develop life skills, independence, and confidence—now and for the future.

MORE INFORMATION

About Dr. Çisem Gürel

Dr. Çisem Gürel is a psychologist based in the Netherlands, providing psychological counselling to children, adolescents, and adults in both English and Turkish. She also teaches scientific research and academic skills courses at Erasmus University Rotterdam and Utrecht University.

She holds a PhD in Psychology and Pedagogy from the University of Amsterdam and has conducted research on self-concept, social anxiety, parent-child dynamics, and motivation at institutions such as Stanford University, the University of Southampton, and Boğaziçi University.

With over 15 years of clinical experience, Dr. Gürel applies a range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, REBT, schema therapy, and solution-focused therapy. She is registered with SKJ (the Foundation for the Quality Register of Youth) in the Netherlands.

About Ronnie Kendall

Ronnie Kendall, an experienced youth counsellor and educator with over 40 years of experience in the field — including more than 24 years working directly with families and young people in Almere.

Originally from New York, Ronnie is the founder of Community Hulpverlening, a local support organization offering practical, community-based guidance to families, teens, and schools in Almere. His work focuses on helping parents and teens manage challenges such as school motivation, behaviour, family stress, and cultural adjustment — always with a personal, hands-on approach.

Ronnie brings a deep understanding of both the Dutch and international context, offering advice that is culturally sensitive, action-oriented, and rooted in real-life experience. He is known for his commitment to meeting families where they are — whether that’s at home, in schools, or in the community — and helping them build stronger, more connected relationships.

Location & Format

• Location: International School Almere, Breskensweg 5, 1324 KE Almere

• Duration: 18:00-20:00

• When: May 8 / July 1 / September 4 / October 30 / December 4