PARENTING SWEET JANUARY 2026

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Appalachian Promise Parenting Education Network Programs
Find a program that fits your needs! Click to search for free or low cost, morning or evening, online or in-person, first-time or veteran parent/caregiver, and more.

Appalachian Promise Alliance is Making Parenting Sweet!

We have tips, information, practices, and parenting classes, sessions, workshops, support groups, seasoned educators, and friendships that can help lighten some of your load and make parenting easier. Wish you had an extra hand? A little help? A hack that makes things a little easier? Wondering if doing something different would help? Check out the Parenting Educator Network opportunities below in the highlights.

Visit www.AppalachianPromise.org to learn more about: The Parenting Education Network, Bristol Family Resource Center, YWCA MOMS R US, Mom Power, Hope House, Frontier Health, Highlands Community Services, Breastfeeding Essentials, Ahh Babies – Appalachian Highlands Healthy Babies – La Leche League Breastfeeding Support, Cherished Mom, Attached at the Heart Classes, Twin City Reads, Buckle Up Appalachia, Doula by Donation, Sullivan County Family Services, Parenting Sweet, Tricities Parenting, Tricities Babywearing, High Country Doulas, ETSU Family Physicians, Bethany Services, TriCities Babywearing TN, Sullivan County Health Department, Strong Starts, TN Voices, and more.



This Month’s Focus:
Supporting Parent and Children’s Mental Health

Short daylight hours, less time outdoors, sick kids, cancelled events, post-holiday blues or exhaustion… this time of year can be hard. If you’re struggling, please know that you are not alone.

This month we’re talking about helpful resources to support mental health, both for parents and for children. Whether you’re looking for links to crisis helplines, a local mental health provider, a parent support group, or encouragement in your parenting journey, we hope this issue will lighten your load and make your 2026 a little brighter.

Crisis Support

Help is a phone call or text away. Reaching out in times of crisis can save a life. Calling 911 is the first choice for emergencies, but special hotlines exist for mental health crises or if you just need to talk. Here are some crisis resources ready to help, and there are more available too.

988 Lifeline (Dial 988)

“At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.”

For parents with a struggling child or teen, 988 can be a lifesaving call as well. A compassionate counselor in your area can help you find local resources and guide you in this difficult time.

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-852-6262)

You deserve support.
Pregnant or just had a baby? The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is free, confidential, and here to help, 24/7.

Text or call 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)

Some common signs of postpartum depression are:

  • Feeling sad or hopeless most of the time 
  • Having no interest in things you used to enjoy
  • Not caring for yourself as well (dressing, showering)
  • Trouble focusing
  • Not managing daily chores 
  • Sleeping or eating too much or too little

Disaster Distress Helpline

The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) is the first national hotline dedicated to providing year-round disaster crisis counseling. The helpline is open to anyone experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters. This includes survivors of disasters; loved ones of victims; first responders; rescue, recovery, and relief workers; clergy; and parents and caregivers. You may call for yourself or on behalf of someone else.

  Call or text 1-800-985-5990.

National Domestic Violence Hotline

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is here to serve all those impacted by relationship abuse 24/7 confidentially. 

Call: 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)
Text: Text “START” to 88788
Start a Live Chat at https://www.thehotline.org/

Local Mental Health Care Providers

A licensed Mental Health Care Provider can be a good choice for ongoing support. While we can’t possibly list all the providers in our area, here are a few places to look if you are exploring options.


Register Now for Our January 2026 Parenting Series!

Registration is now open for our popular parenting series: the Attached at the Heart Parenting Program and Guiding Good Choices Workshops. Find the program that best fits your parenting situation and sign-up today! These series are offered free of charge thanks to support by our generous sponsors.

Attached at the Heart Parenting Program

This program is best for parents and caregivers of children prenatal through age 5. Join one or both spaces for access to our program sessions, meeting times, and more.

Invest in your family's future with free parenting workshops! Guiding Good Choices. Attention parents of 4th graders through High Schoolers.

Guiding Good Choices Parenting Workshops

For parents and caregivers of students in 4th through 9th grades.

Sign Up for Wednesday Sessions – offered online on Wednesdays at 7:30 PM, starting January 28, 2026.


Kingsport Aquatic Center: Let’s Glow Swimming Party

The Kingsport Aquatic Center is thrilled to ring in the New Year with one of its most popular events – A Let’s Glow Swimming Party!

This special nighttime event will take place in the warm water and play pools from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on January 3.

Children of all ages are invited to attend, but those under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The event is limited to 200 people. Admission per person is $4 (pre-registration) and $6 (at the door). Every person must pay admission even if not swimming.

Pre-register online.



Theatre Bristol: Charlotte’s Web Auditions

Theatre Bristol announces auditions for “Charlotte’s Web” January 17 & 18, 2026! Learn more and fill out the audition form at theatrebristol.org/audition.

Roles are available for children, teens, women, and men.

PLAYtime in the ARTspace – Returns this February!

Note: PLAYtime will NOT meet in January. Join us again in February!

PLAYtime in the ARTspace is for littles and those who love them. A just right-sized show with Ms. Camille, yummy bagels (and coffee) from Bristol Bagel and Bakery, friendships formed, and great resources from the Parenting Sweet!

Join us on the 2nd Saturday of each month at 10:00 am at the ARTspace, 506 State Street, Bristol, TN.

Learn more and reserve tickets at TheatreBristol.org/tickets.
Free admission always for Attached at the Heart attendees!

Spring Creative Dramatics for 5 & 6 year olds registering now

Have a child who loves to perform or a child who is needing encouragement and confidence? Theatre Bristol registrations are open for Spring Creative Dramatics classes running February 3 – March 24, 2026! Learn more and fill out the registration form at theatrebristol.org/TBarts.

$165 for 8 week classes
Financial aid available


Connect with all the Parenting Sweet Programs in the Mighty Networks App!

We’re making it easier than ever to connect with all the Parenting Sweet programs in one place! This month we are launching our Parenting Sweet Space in the Mighty Networks App. Find upcoming events, parenting coaching, parenting classes for Attached at the Heart and Guiding Good choices, local meet-ups and so much more on one convenient site – and it’s free!

Click to join the Parenting Sweet Space! You can access the Parenting Sweet and our entire Promise Network community through your web browser or by downloading the Mighty Networks App.

The Mighty Networks App makes it easy to log into the Parenting Sweet community anytime to check for events, upcoming classes, and more! Download for free on Android and Apple and search for the Promise Network Community.


Free Parenting Coaching Sessions

Receive local parenting support on your schedule! Reserve a time to chat with a parenting educator, get support or resources.

Our Parenting Coaching is available through the Parenting Sweet free of charge with support from generous donors.


The Parenting Sweet’s Babywearing Library and Coaching

The Parenting Sweet has a variety of wraps, slings, buckle carriers, and more. Mei Tais, Woven Wraps, Buckle Carriers, Ring Slings – we have such a variety of baby carriers to choose from! View details about each carrier in our online database. Come in to try out different styles and learn the best fit for you and your baby. We’d love to invite you to the Parenting Sweet in Bristol, TN, to try out different styles and learn the best fit for you and your baby (by appointment only).

If you’re interested in trying our baby carriers or want to learn about babywearing, you can fill out our Babywearing Interest Form. Or, contact us at ParentingSweet@AppalachianPromise.org to learn more!


Nature Story Circle at Steele Creek Park

Wednesday January 7, 2026 at 10 AM

Join us on the First Wednesday of every month at 10 AM for a pre-school storytime in the Nature Center Classroom at Steele Creek Park. The monthly event will feature nature-themed stories followed by a related engaging activity for the youngest naturalists (ages 2-5 or so) and their caregivers.

January’s storytime will feature pre-school friendly books about nature in winter followed by a fun, educational activity and snack.

Free event included with the $2 park entrance fee.


We Rock the Spectrum: Parents‘ Night Out

Parents’ Night Out, is BACK in a big way! Drop your little(s) off with us on Friday, January 9th from 5:30pm-8:30pm to play, create, and GLOW.

$35/child ($5 discount for siblings). Ages 3 and up. Cheese pizza and beverages provided for dinner. Preregistration required.


Appalachian Highlands Healthy Babies (Ahh Babies)

Appalachian Highlands Healthy Babies, or affectionately AHH Babies, provides free breastfeeding information and encouragement.

  • 1st Fridays at 10 am at the Parenting Sweet, Bristol
  • 4th Tuesdays at 6:00 pm at YWCA Southwest VA/Northeast TN, Bristol TN

AHH Babies provides:

  • Mother-to-Mother support
  • Leaders accredited by La Leche League International
  • Latest breastfeeding information

Visit AhhBabies.com/Meetings


Bristol Dad Support Group at the Parenting Sweet

Carter County Drug Prevention and the Parenting Sweet have partnered for a monthly Dad Support Group! The group meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 6pm at the Parenting Sweet. Drop in or email ParentingSweet@appalachianpromise.org for more information.

The Parenting Sweet can be found at 100 Ash St, Bristol, TN. Look for our door with the bright yellow Parenting Sweet sign!


INDOOR EXERCISE INSPIRATION!

Winter weather and cold temperatures can make it difficult for our children (and adults!) to get outdoor playtime and exercise. The good news is that we can still get moving inside! Here are some fun and easy ideas for indoor exercise in any weather.

PBS Kids in Motion Videos

The PBS Kids in Motion website hosts a collection of free exercise videos and resources for teachers or families. Find Birthday Fitness, School Day Fitness, Fitness Bingo, Uno Fitness, and more!


8 Indoor Activities to Release Kids’ Energy

Exercise doesn’t have to look structured! PBS Kids suggests these at-home activities to get the wiggles out while having fun together.


Active for Life: 50 Indoor Physical Activities for Kids

Need even more ideas to get you and your little ones moving? This list of 50 activities includes all sorts of silly and creative suggestions!


Move Your Way: Tips for Getting Active Indoors

Kids stuck in the house? Watch this video for tips to help your kids get physical activity when they can’t go outside.

The US Department of Health and Human Services offers more tips on health and exercise on their webpage for Move Your Way, at https://odphp.health.gov/moveyourway/get-kids-active


Fit Kids Free Workout Videos

The Fit Kids Foundation offers some free workout videos for kids on their homepage. Plus, find many more exercise and workout videos on the Fit Kids YouTube channel!


Children’s Mental Health and the Benefits of Exercise

Did you know that experts recommend at least one hour of activity for kids each day? Plus, spending just 20 minutes outside each day can:

  • Decrease stress, anxiety and negative thinking
  • Improve mood and self-esteem
  • Reduce depression and feelings of isolation
  • Reduce aggression, and more!

This article by Children’s Hospital Colorado explains the “Brain-Body” connection between mental health and exercise. If that one-hour-per-day sounds overwhelming, the article contains suggestions for how to make small choices that add up throughout the day.


Parents Need Nurturing, Too

We loved this recent Nurturings News feature so much that we just had to share!

“Many parents worry that prioritizing themselves takes something away from their children. In reality, it gives something invaluable: the example of an adult who honors their needs, navigates their emotions, and invests in their own renewal.

Children learn far more from what we model than what we instruct. When they witness you slowing down, forgiving yourself, beginning again, or returning to what brings you peace, they absorb these lessons into their own developing sense of self.”

For more encouragement in your inbox, you can sign up for the monthly Nurturings News.


Annual MLK Children’s Day

Save the date for an exciting day of fun and learning as we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr’s Legacy! Join us for MLK Children’s Day—a fun, free community event where kids can play, create, and learn together.

Monday January 19, 2026
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
YWCA Gymnasium – 106 State St, Bristol, TN 37620

Children will enjoy hands-on crafts, games, lunch, and free books (for up to 100 children) while learning about history, diversity, and inclusion in an engaging, age-appropriate way.

At 1:45 PM, families are invited to march to the iconic Bristol TN/VA sign to honor Dr. King’s legacy.

Come for the fun—leave inspired. 


MOMS-R-US: Teen Pregnancy and Family Support

PREPARED CHILDBIRTH CLASSES

Find free support, classes, and community for teens 19 and younger who are pregnant for the first time.

Fridays in Bristol, TN

Wednesdays in Glade Spring, VA

For details and meeting times, please contact Caitlin Talley or Mandy Boy at teenpregnancysupport@ywcatnva.org or call the 423-968-9444.

Learn more at https://www.ywcatnva.org/moms/


Candle Dipping Class at Sycamore Shoals

January 17, 2026 from 2:00 PM – 2:45 PM
Price: $10.00 – Register online
Candles were an essential source of light in the 18th century. In this hands-on program, learn the history of the candle, the common materials used to make them, and dip your own candle to bring home with you. Ages 7 and up. Children must be assisted by an adult to ensure the safety of all participants. Parents assisting their children but not making their own candle do not need to pay for admission.


Elizabethton Parks & Rec: Glow Dodgeball Youth Night

January 10, 2026 from 6 – 8 PM
Elizabethton Recreation Center at 300 W. Mill Street.

Participants are encouraged to come dressed to glow in their brightest neon outfits and enjoy dodgeball under black lights with glowing dodgeballs for a fun experience!

Concessions will be available for purchase at all events, with proceeds benefiting the Carter County Drug Prevention Coalition and their mission to prevent drug abuse in our community.


Project Dads

Project Dads is a comprehensive and innovative parenting class for fathers that utilizes the 24/7 Dad curriculum. Topics covered include discipline, working with mom and co-parenting, showing and handling feelings, masculinity, dealing with anger, improving communication skills, stress, substance use, work and more.

Sign up today! Contact David Ledgerwood at at Highland Community Services: dledgerwood@highlandscsb.org or 276-525-2233


Strengthening Families

The Strengthening Families Program is a free family-focused parenting class that covers managing stress, improving communication skills, goal setting, solving problems as a family and discipline.

Sign up today! Contact Kelly Thomas (kthomas@highlandscsb.org) or Kelly Walker (kwalker@highlandscsb.org) at Highlands Community Services.


JAM Kids Weekly Music Lessons at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum

Group instruction on guitar, fiddle, & banjo for students grade 4-8 and beyond.

Saturdays at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. ET

Instruments will be provided or students may bring their own. Lessons may be paid for per class or for up to 10 classes at a time. Scholarships are available upon request. The cost per class is $5 or $45 for 10 classes.


Lego Day: Think Outside the Blocks

January 31, 2026 from 6 to 8 PM
Mill Street Recreation Center, Elizabethton

This FREE Community event celebrates National LEGO® Day. The event will be open to all ages and invites builders of all skill levels to join in on a day of creativity and fun!


Parenting Sweet Meetups: Parenting Prime Time!

Connect, share, and grow with other parents!
Free Drop-In Social Time (online and in-person)
Your Parenting Questions, Answers, and Referrals
Open to all Parents and Caregivers

Thursdays at 8pm (online only), or the 2nd Sunday of every month at 6pm (online or in-person at the Parenting Sweet)

Register through our Parenting App, or contact us at ParentingSweet@appalachianpromise.org to join!

Parenting Prime Time - You're invited to meet other parents and caregivers! Free parenting nurturing for everyone! Drop-in parent prime times! No commitment required! Prime your parenting!

Attached at the Heart Conversations - Join us 11 am Tuesdays at the Bristol Public Library

Attached at the Heart Conversations

If you are a parent or caregiver, join our Attached at the Heart Conversations! These meet-ups are held on Mondays and Tuesdays, right after story-time at the Bristol Public Library. Our supportive Parenting Sweet staff will be there to share the latest in parenting, chat about child development, and make book or resource recommendations.

This is a judgment-free zone where you can share your parenting stories, ask questions, and gain confidence on your parenting journey. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with like-minded parents, learn from each other, and grow together!


January Programs: Hands On! Discovery Center

Hands On! is starting the year off strong with a month full of exciting programs!

  • Nano Science Discovery Lab
  • Wonderful & Wacky Weather Discovery Lab
  • January Art Studio Programs
  • Sensory Night (Jan 26 from 4–6pm | registration required by Jan 22.)

Creative Kids Crafting Corner

January 12, 2025 at 4PM
Kingsport Public Library – 2101 Fort Henry Drive

Creative Kids Corner is a crafting event aimed for children 6-12. Join us in January for cozy hibernation themed crafts!


Free Prenatal Classes & Support Groups

Strong Starts is designed to support you and your growing family every step of the way. If you’re expecting a new arrival and want to learn more about childbirth education tools and breastfeeding basics before the due date, you’re in the right place.

Register for prenatal classes, breastfeeding basics, and support groups.

Find the Childbirth marathon class schedule for 2026.


Family Playtime

This program is focused on providing developmentally appropriate activities for families to do with their child(ren). It is a space where parents can gain support from the Strong Starts team or peers while children explore and play.

Free book provided to each family (while supplies last).


LEGO® Building with the Lions

January 10, 2026 from 10:30 AM – 12 PM

Families are invited to drop by the Library’s Jones Meeting Center the second Saturday of every month between 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. for Building with the Lions. You can build creations using LEGO blocks and other construction materials, which will then be displayed in the Children’s Library. This program is facilitated by the Johnson City Lions Club. 


Sullivan County Library Programs

Find family fun and educational programs across all branches of the Sullivan County Library System! Go to https://www.scpltn.org/calendars/ to view all activities on a combined calendar, or check out their Facebook page for separate calendars by branch.


Prenatal Classes

High Country Doulas offers classes on Infant Feeding, Early Postpartum and Newborn Care, and Childbirth preparation classes in Kingsport and Johnson City.

Classes begin at $55 per couple, and can be offered privately for an additional fee.

Email info@HighCountryDoulas.com for more information.


Grand Connections Workshop Flyer

Grand Connections: Grandparenting Workshops


Appalachian Promise is offering a special workshop for grandparents of children ages birth to five! Whether you’re sharing care or raising your grandchildren, we recognize your vital role. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about this program, please submit your information here. Questions? Email Samantha at ParentingSweet@AppalachianPromise.org.

Use our form to learn more or to be added to our interest list!  


Bundles of Joy Diaper Ministry (Bristol, TN)

Held the second Saturday of the month from 10 am to 12 pm.

Addilynn Church, 3225 Avoca Rd, Bristol, TN, United States, Tennessee 37620

Have an emergency diaper need? Come by and let us help!


TN Voices – Free Therapy for Pregnant Moms in TN

TN Voices offers free therapy services for pregnant moms across Tennessee, with virtual options available. Their team provides a safe, confidential space for you to talk and receive support.

Plus, find effective advocacy training, help for behavioral needs or special education needs in school settings, parent advocacy, family support, and more. Visit https://tnvoices.org/ or call 615-269-7751, extension 0.

Spanish-speaking resources and support persons are available.


“I LOVE K-POP” Skating Night at Bristol Skateway

Monday January 5, 2026 from 6 to 8 PM
$10 Admission, $3 Skate Rental

Who loves KPOP? Bristol Skateway is hosting an all KPOP night on January 5th. Just in time before school starts back up! Come roll with us.

Can’t make it? Check out their other open skate times, including ‘CheapSkate’ Night – on Tuesdays from 6 PM to 8:30 PM. $7 Admission / $3 Skate Rental.


Growing Stronger Together Podcast

Growing Stronger Together is a weekly podcast for people who care about children and families developed by faculty at East Tennessee State University, including members of the ETSU Health Department of Pediatrics, the ETSU Center for Early Childhood Learning and Development, and the ETSU Child and Family Health Institute.


YWCA Family Network

On-site Family Navigators work closely with family members to ensure families are receiving the care, training, education, services, and financial assistance they need. As part of the program, you will be invited to participate in community events with your family. From family cookouts to karaoke, you’re sure to find something entire family will enjoy!

For more information or to join YWCA Family Network, please visit the website, email FamilyNetwork@YWCATNVA.org, or call (423) 968-9444.


Appalachian Promise Alliance Parenting Educator Network

Be a Parenting Volunteer

The Appalachian Promise Alliance’s Parenting Network meets the third Thursday of each month at noon and works to support parenting education in our community by sharing efforts, communicating the value and importance of parenting education, and learning more about how we can better serve families. If you are interested in helping teach classes, mentor parents, or have parenting educator updates to share, please contact us at ParentingSweet@AppalachianPromise.org!

Learn more about the Parenting Educator Network on Appalachian Promise Alliance’s website.


Upcoming Parenting Opportunities

Meet other parents and caregivers, gain and give support and knowledge!

  • Moms R Us support group & Friday sessions- FREE, IN PERSON
  • Attached at the Heart Parenting Program – FREE, ONLINE, IN PERSON
  • Strengthening Families open enrollment every Tuesday and Wednesday – FREE, IN PERSON
  • Family Playtime being held in local libraries – FREE, IN PERSON
  • Attached at the Heart Conversations after Storytime in the Bristol Public Library – FREE, IN PERSON
  • Prenatal Support Groups at Ballad Health OB/GYN offices – FREE, IN PERSON
  • AHH Babies breastfeeding support – FREE, IN PERSON, ONLINE

Visit the Parenting Sweet Program Notion Catalog for Details and Registration or email Samantha@AppalachianPromise.org! Don’t see a class you need? Let us know!



Parenting Sweet is here to help make parenting sweet!

Parents get connected to support and information because learning about parenting and getting support does make a difference. If you would you like to continue receiving Parenting Sweet, you’ll need to be sure to sign up on the website. If you know a parent, caregiver, grandparent, or anyone who cares about children, share the sign-up link with them and help them find all that’s great for children and families in our community. Past issues and all the events are available anytime on the AppalachianPromise.org Blog.

Support for this program is provided by Ballad Population Health Community Health Initiative and Bristol Public Housing. Parenting Sweet Team: Samantha Gray, Becky Evenden, Samuel Jones, Emily Macbeth, Shandee Childress, Audrey Arndt, Katherine Wilson-Thompson, and Margaret Feierabend. Have information to share? Submit it to ParentingSweet@AppalachianPromise.org.

Nurturings