About this Event
Join The Parents’ Coalition of Bay Area High Schools on Thursday, October 8th:
Becoming the Adult Your Teen Wants to Talk to — with Alex Kopelman
The high school years are a pivotal, often isolating time as teens navigate profound questions about identity, belonging, and purpose—frequently without the language to articulate what they are going through. While parents want to be a trusted anchor, the pressures of adolescence and unexamined expectations can make real connection feel out of reach—just when it matters most.
Alexander Kopelman, author of For Real: Helping Children Remain Their Authentic Selves in a Limiting World, shifts the focus from trying to "fix" adolescent behavior to helping parents become a clearer, more loving mirror for their teens.
Join us for an interactive evening with Alex as he shares actionable insights to help you build authentic, lasting connections with your teen. Alex will discuss:
- How your own upbringing unconsciously shapes your expectations and parenting
- Practical tools for honest, compassionate listening that move you away from reflexive advice-giving and toward real engagement.
- Insight into the social and emotional terrain your high schooler is navigating every day.
- How minor adjustments in adult behavior can lower friction and boost teen resilience.
“Research is unambiguous: teenagers who have at least one caring adult who genuinely sees them develop greater resilience, stronger mental health, and healthier relationships throughout their lives.” —Alexander Kopelman
This presentation is for parents who want to be that adult for their child.
Don't miss this opportunity to hear from Alex on how to become the present, trusted anchor your teenager genuinely wants to turn to during these critical years.
Our Speaker:
Alexander Kopelman is a writer, social entrepreneur, advocate, and coach who has devoted thirty years to advancing social justice and personal empowerment. His lifelong interest in identity, self-determination, and the power of narrative has fueled his commitment to supporting young people, and the adults in their lives, in overcoming the limiting effects of outmoded societal expectations.
As Founding President & CEO of the Children's Arts Guild, Alex helped create and grow a nonprofit organization that supports children in harnessing the power of creativity to transcend limiting expectations and develop their authentic selves.
Prior to For Real, Alex authored and co-authored ten books. He lives in New York City with his wife, daughter, and very small dog.
Event Details:
6:00 PM Registration check-in & Reception
6:30-8:00 PM Event Presentation
8:00 PM Book-signing opportunity following the presentation
Submit your questions for Alex in advance during registration
In Person Event
**Parking is very limited:
- Public transportation & ride-share alternatives highly encouraged
- Drew School is on the Muni 1 California line and 1 block from 24 Divisadero line
Event venue & nearby stays
Drew School, 2901 California Street, San Francisco, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.