NORTH ATTLEBORO - In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Christmas is for Kids, the Attleboro Area Council for Children will present an evening with Robert Brooks from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22 in the North Attleboro High School auditorium.

Brooks is one of today's leading speakers on the themes of resilience, self-esteem, motivation, and family relationships. In his presentation, "Raising Resilient Children and Teens," he describes factors that help children and adolescents deal more effectively with stress and pressure. He'll discuss:

The importance of empathy in understanding and responding to children.

Why some children from birth have a more difficult time developing a positive self-image and resilience than other children.

The importance of identifying and reinforcing each child's or adolescent's "islands of competence." Specific strategies for nurturing self-discipline, self-esteem, responsibility, caring, hope, and resilience in our children.

Although there is no charge for this presentation, donations to The Attleboro Area Council for Children will be appreciated in support of Christmas Is For Kids. Copies of Brooks' book, "Raising Resilient Children" will be available for purchase following his presentation.

The event was inspired by an article about Brooks in True North, a publication about events and programs in North Attleboro schools.

North Attleboro Assistant School Superintendent James Rice had written about Brooks' philosophy on raising children and how he thought that his message was appropriate for all parents with children of any age.

"We wanted to do something very special for our local families," said Kelly Fox, president of the council for children, "and I especially liked the idea of bringing in an author to speak so that parents can have something to refer back to after the program. Brooks' warmth and humor will resonate with all parents!"