This series, "Talking with Teens,'' addresses the need for parents and their teens to talk more about tough issues, and a Northern Kentucky conference on Saturday will take up hands-on examples of how to become a better parent.

A variety of workshops and speakers will offer practical advice at the fourth annual For the Love of Kids parenting conference. Chicken Soup book series author Mark Victor Hansen is the morning keynote speaker.

Madelyn Swift, author of Teach Your Children Well: A Parent's Guide to Encouraging Character and Integrity (Childright; $21.95), is the afternoon keynote speaker.

Topics include "Avoiding the Chores Wars," "How to Dad," "Raising Your Spirited Child," "Ride Safely," "Siblings Without Rivalry," "Simplify Your Family Life" and "Your Marriage Matters."

Admission includes continental breakfast, lunch, refreshments and a gift bag. Child care is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are required. Call 241-7696.

• What: For the Love of Kids parenting conference

• When: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday

• Where: Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington

• How much: $25 registration, $10 child-care fee

• More info: 241-7696