Courageous Parenting 101®
Parenting Through the Opioid Crisis and Beyond™

Parents attending a Courageous Parenting 101® substance use prevention program

Courageous Parenting 101® – Parenting Through the Opioid Crisis and Beyond™ is a single-session substance use prevention program that helps parents and caregivers strengthen communication, recognize early warning signs, and support healthy, drug-free choices at home. The program is offered in English and Spanish and is delivered in schools, community organizations, and other family-serving settings.

Parents begin by hearing A Mother’s Story, the true story of Ginger Katz’s son Ian, followed by a guided learning session that provides practical tools they can use right away to protect their children.


What Parents Will Learn

Courageous Parenting 101® gives parents clear, practical information and strategies they can bring into everyday family life. Topics include:

  • How substance use affects the developing adolescent brain.
  • Current trends in youth substance use, including opioids and other drugs.
  • Recognizing early warning signs and changes in behavior.
  • Communication and active listening strategies that keep conversations open.
  • Helping children manage stress and emotions in healthy ways.
  • Understanding denial and the dangers of enabling behaviors.
  • Teaching refusal skills and setting clear, consistent expectations.
  • Where to turn for help and support.

How the Program Works

  • Format: Single-session prevention program delivered in one evening.
  • Delivery: Available in person or virtually, depending on host needs.
  • Part 1 – A Mother’s Story: A powerful, true story shared by Ginger Katz, Founder and CEO of The Courage to Speak® Foundation.
  • Part 2 – Courageous Parenting 101®: A guided session that helps parents apply what they have heard to their own families.
  • Languages: Offered in English and Spanish.

Who This Program Is For

Courageous Parenting 101® is well-suited for:

  • School parent organizations and family engagement nights.
  • Community coalitions and youth-serving agencies.
  • Prevention, health, and behavioral health organizations.
  • Faith-based groups and family ministry programs.
  • Family resource centers and community hubs.

Hosts can schedule the program as a stand-alone parent event or as part of a broader school or community prevention initiative.

For additional information, you may also call 203-831-9700.