Parents can learn about strategies for use when their children talk back or refuse to listen at a symposium this month.

Chefanices Williams, an educational therapist at Victor Scott Primary School, is organising the forum after the “extremely positive” reception from parents and teachers who took part in an earlier session in January.

Four panellists discussed topics such as how trauma impacts children’s behaviour and ability to learn at the event in January.

Ms Williams said: “One parent noted that parenting a child with behavioural challenges can sometimes feel isolating and the symposium reminded her that she is not alone in navigating these experiences.”

The next free symposium, set for March 31, will feature Nicholas Darcueil, a founder of Dignity House, and Kacee Simons, of Metanoia Psychological Services, alongside returning speakers Keisha Allen-Smith, a founder of Target Learning, and Donavin Durrant, of Success Academy.

Representatives from Family Centre, The Reading Clinic, Bermuda Autism Support and Education, and Big Brothers Big Sisters will also be at the event.

Ms Williams urged caregivers to spend quality time with children, as behaviour problems sometimes start when young people don’t have positive engagement or meaningful connections at home.

She explained: “Quality time does not necessarily require elaborate or expensive activities.

“Simple daily interactions such as cooking together, talking about the child’s day, playing games, discussing friendships or completing chores together can create meaningful opportunities for connection, communication and skill development.”

Ms Williams urged parents to remain calm when children answer back or don’t follow instructions.

She noted: “Responding in a calm and neutral manner helps prevent escalation and models emotional regulation for children.”

Ms Williams added: “Providing clear instructions and consistently following through with expectations and consequences is essential.

“It is also important for parents to actively teach children appropriate ways to express frustration and disagreement, while reinforcing moments when children communicate respectfully.”

Refreshments will be served at 5pm, with the discussion set to start at 5.30pm.

Parents and caregivers were encouraged to attend the event in the school’s gymnasium and free childcare will be available.