The Long Game
Understanding the years that shape the relationship with your child
A thoughtful Saturday workshop for parents of pre-teens and teenagers.
This workshop helps parents step back and understand the longer journey of parenting — so that the teenage years feel less like a battle and more like a relationship that continues to grow.
The Workshop
Currently held in Dublin
One-day workshop: 10am–4pm
For parents of pre-teens and teenagers
Focused on understanding the emotional and developmental changes of the teenage years
Includes workbook + guided reflections
Why this workshop exists
The teenage years can bring enormous change for both parents and children.
Young people are growing into themselves, questioning the world around them, and gradually stepping further into independence.
At the same time, many parents find that the approaches that worked when their children were younger suddenly feel less effective.
Conversations can become more difficult. Emotions can run high. Parents often wonder how to stay close to their child while still offering guidance.
This workshop exists to give parents the chance to step back and think about the longer journey of parenting — and the kind of relationship they want to carry into their child’s teenage years and beyond.
What this workshop is designed to offer
This workshop gives parents the space to reflect on the changing nature of their role as their child grows.
Rather than focusing on control or quick solutions, the day looks at the bigger picture of development, independence, and connection.
During the workshop we explore ideas that can help parents:
- understand the developmental changes happening during the pre-teen and teenage years
- recognise why conflict can become more common during this stage
- stay connected with their child while allowing space for independence
- approach the teenage years with more confidence and perspective
What we explore in the workshop
During the workshop we look at some of the questions that often come up as children move into the pre-teen and teenage years.
- how children’s development changes during this stage, and why emotions and reactions can become more intense
- the growing need for independence and what that means for the parent–child relationship
- why conflict often increases during these years and how parents can respond without damaging connection
- how everyday interactions between parents and teenagers continue to shape trust, respect, and communication
- how parents can stay present and supportive while allowing their child to gradually step further into their own life
The aim is not to give parents a fixed set of rules, but to help them think clearly about the kind of relationship they want to build with their child as they move toward adulthood.
What the workshop feels like
The workshop is relaxed and conversational rather than formal. It isn’t a lecture.
We look at ideas together, using real-life examples and discussion, and couples have time to think about their own experiences and the kind of family life they hope to create.
Some people like to talk things through during the session, while others prefer to listen and reflect — both are completely fine.
Many couples say it feels good to take a step back before the baby arrives and have these conversations early, rather than trying to figure everything out in the middle of the newborn months.
What to expect on the day
Breaks
Tea and
coffee are available throughout the day, with a break for lunch.
Lunch
Lunch is not provided, so participants are asked to bring something with them.
Most people bring a simple lunch that can be eaten easily in the workshop room. There are not usually places nearby to buy food during the break unless specifically stated in your booking email.
You’re very welcome to step outside the room during lunch if you’d prefer a bit of quiet time. Some people choose to eat elsewhere in the building, outside, or in their car — whatever feels most comfortable.
Locations
Additional workshops in other parts of Ireland may be organised if there is enough interest.
Accessibility
Workshops are designed to feel
calm, flexible and accessible.
You can read more about the accessibility approach
here.
About Jennifer
Jennifer Farrell is a parent educator, former primary school teacher, and mother of three.
After more than ten years working with children and families, she became increasingly interested in the everyday dynamics between parents and children, and how those relationships shape family life.
Through her work as The Jentle Parent, she runs workshops that help parents make sense of children’s behaviour and think more clearly about the kind of relationships they want to build at home.
The ideas explored in the workshops are informed by research in child development, attachment, and nervous system science, alongside Jennifer’s experience working with children, parents, and families.
Join a Family Blueprint workshop
Preparing for a baby is one of the biggest transitions in life.
Taking a day to step back and think about how you want to approach parenting together can make the early months feel much calmer and clearer.
Have a question before booking?
