About this Event
Is your teen shutting you out just when they need you most?
As parents, we want to be a trusted anchor for our teens. Yet, the intense pressures of high school can make real communication feel completely out of reach. When we try to help, our advice is often met with rolled eyes, short answers, or closed doors.
Join the Parents Coalition of Bay Area High Schools for an interactive evening with Alexander Kopelman, author of For Real (published June 2026). Alex will shift the focus from trying to "fix" adolescent behavior to helping you become the adult your teenager genuinely wants to turn to.
You will walk away with actionable insights on:
- Breaking the cycle: How your own upbringing unconsciously shapes your parenting expectations.
- Real engagement: Practical tools for honest, compassionate listening that replace reflexive advice-giving.
- Navigating their world: Inside access to the emotional and social terrain your high schooler faces daily.
- Lowering friction: Minor adjustments in adult behavior that instantly 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.
Our Speaker:
Alexander Kopelman is a writer, coach, and founding President and CEO of Children’s Arts Guild. He has spent 40 years supporting young people in overcoming societal stereotypes to develop their authentic selves. He is the author of 10 books and 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.