The Early Edge: Essentials for Growing Minds
September 25, 2025
Parenting isn’t one-size-fits-all — and we’re here to support your unique journey. Join our dynamic new series where University experts team up with real parents to explore science-based strategies for the challenges you face every day. From picky eating and screen time battles to nurturing your mental health and your child’s curiosity, we’ll cover it all. Designed for parents of children ages 0 to 10, each session blends expert insights with small-group discussions so you’ll leave feeling informed, empowered and connected. Children are welcome to attend and engage in activities with our college students. Light refreshments and drinks, including wine, will be served.
Date and Time
September 25 – April 16 from 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Location
Various Locations
Sessions Information
Growing Little Brains Through Everyday Activities
Sept. 25, 2025 (Davidson-Gundy Alumni Center, Ballroom A)
Dr. Mandy Maguire
Worried about your child’s academic future or how to give them a strong start? Discover how play and routine activities can help build critical cognitive skills without worksheets or pressure. This session explores cognitive growth and learning through everyday interactions.
Managing Big Feelings and Bigger Behaviors
Oct. 23, 2025 (Callier Center Richardson Addition 12.120)
Dr. Jackie Nelson
Do mornings feel like a battle? Are you constantly calming big emotions? Learn how to decode difficult behaviors and respond in ways that support emotional growth while maintaining your sanity.
Critical Thinking for Curious Minds
Nov. 13, 2025 (Callier Center Richardson Addition 12.120)
Dr. Candice Mills
Wondering how to talk to your child about Santa, Elsa, Bluey, and other beloved characters? This session explores ways to navigate conversations that spark curiosity, promote early thinking skills and build emotional resilience.
*We request that children are not present for this session due to the sensitive nature of the topic.
Caring for the Caregiver: Finding Your Calm in the Chaos
Jan. 22, 2026 (Davidson-Gundy Alumni Center, Ballroom A)
Dr. Heidi Kane
Do you feel overwhelmed or invisible in your own parenting journey? This session explores how to prioritize your mental well-being—because thriving kids need thriving parents.
Feeding Kids Without Frustration
Feb. 19, 2026 (Callier Center Richardson Addition 12.120)
Dr. Shayla Holub
Tired of negotiating every bite or worrying if your child is getting what they need? In this session, we’ll tackle the everyday stress of mealtime and share practical, science-based strategies for make healthy eating more achievable—and less of a power struggle.
Screens, Struggles, and Finding Balance
Mar. 12, 2026 (Callier Center Richardson Addition 12.120)
Dr. Jackie Nelson
Feeling overwhelmed by screen-time struggles or feeling guilty about the amount of tech time your child has? You’re not alone. This session explores the challenges parents face with technology at home—from navigating boundaries to managing devices without the drama.
Bilingual Beginnings: What Parents Need to Know
Apr. 16, 2026 (Davidson-Gundy Alumni Center, Ballroom A)
Dr. Pumpki Lei Su
Worried that speaking two languages might confuse your child—or delay their development? This session clears up common misconceptions and offers research-based strategies to help your child thrive in a multilingual world.