Sunday, November 22, 2026
1:00pm- 3:00pm
Gates Middle School
460 First Parish Rd, Scituate MA 02066
Free and open to all communities!
VISIT Resource tables and THE DAILY TIDE COFFEE TRUCK FROM 12:30-1:00!
Please pre-register to select a breakout workshop and childcare.
Keynote Presentation- Dining Commons at 1:00pm
More Than Words: The Power of Modeling, Listening, and Connecting With Our Kids
Steve Maguire, MEd
When it comes to preventing substance use and helping our children make healthy decisions, one of the most powerful influences in their lives is closer than we think: us.
Our kids are watching, listening, and learning from us every day; often when we least expect it. How we communicate, handle stress, navigate difficult situations, and model our own behaviors can have a lasting impact on the choices they make. In this engaging, thought-provoking, and practical keynote, we’ll explore the incredible power parents and caregivers have to positively influence their children through intentional role modeling, meaningful connections, and honest conversations.
Together, we’ll examine how to talk openly and effectively with our kids about alcohol, drugs, vaping, and addiction; including the sometimes difficult conversations surrounding substance use and addiction within our own families. Through real-life stories, humor, and practical strategies, participants will discover how to replace lectures with conversations, judgment with curiosity, and fear with connection.
Because prevention isn’t just about what we tell our kids not to do. It’s about what we show them, how we listen to them, and the relationships we build with them. Participants will leave feeling empowered, encouraged, and equipped with practical communication strategies they can begin using immediately.
The Big Takeaway: You don’t have to be a perfect parent to be a powerful influence. You just have to be present, intentional, and willing to have the conversations that matter.
CHOOSE ONE breakout session - 3 choices below:
1) Prevention Strategies for Families with Elementary + Middle School Children
Lindsay Newton. LICSW, Gates Adjustment Counselor
Like a “Mini Guiding Good Choices” - participants will learn about early strategies for substance use prevention including: Family meetings; Setting guideline; Strengthening bonds through skills and recognition; Open communication styles
2) Adolescent Nicotine and Cannabis Use: What Parents Should Know in 2026
Jessie Calihan, MD, Mass General Hospital for Children
Technology, policy and cultural norms have changed the landscape for these substances. Participants in this session will learn how these factors impact trends in adolescent use. Also evidenced-based strategies to intervene and treat problematic use. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions of a pediatrician with expertise in this area.
Dr. Jessie Calihan is a pediatrician and internist with specialty training in adolescent and addiction medicine in the Department of Pediatrics at Mass General Brigham for Children. Clinically, she provides primary, adolescent specialty, and substance use treatment for youth at the Mass General Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine Clinic, and she provides addiction treatment at the Mass General Bridge Clinic.
3) The Peer Perspective: Real Stories & Solutions for Supporting Loved Ones Struggling with Substance Use
Staff and peers from South Shore Peer Recovery and Herren Wellness
Join us for a unique perspective from individuals in recovery on how to best support someone struggling. Panelists will share their personal experiences and explain new models for family support, recovery coaching, apps, medication, and the many pathways of recovery. Open to everyone - those simply interested in learning more, as well as anyone with a concern for a partner, young adult, or friend in their life. Participants will learn practical steps to help a loved one living with problematic substance use - and leave with resources and hope! Not recorded.