As the summer gears up, so do the temperatures, and it is vital that we not only take care of ourselves, but also be mindful of those more vulnerable to the intense heat of summer – children, older adults and those with chronic illnesses. Heatstroke is clinically defined as when a person's...
How times have changed - when I was a kid there were no requirements about car seats. (Yes, I know how old that makes me sound - maybe I am writing this from my rocking chair!). Hopefully, I can give some tips on how to make it easier to get children to not fight their car seats.Make being in a...
Family Night In is doing something at home as a family. It has only one rule - everyone gets to participate and have fun. So turn off the electronics and give one or more of these ideas a try! Plan an outdoor campout. Roast hot dogs and marshmallows over a campfire or barbecue grill, sing...
For many years, I have held workshops for caregivers and just recently hosted a webinar on caregiving for U of I Extension staff. Based on the interactions with participants, I get the feeling that these caregivers are not only searching for information, but also support and validation of what they...
I recently ran into a former colleague who told me that she had retired from the job at which she and I had worked together. She "hated, absolutely hated" retirement so went back to work doing virtually the same thing, but at a different organization. Although I can't say for sure, I wonder if...
View infographic here.Parents have many resources when it comes to developing, growing, nurturing, and cultivating empathy in their children. Empathy is the foundation for developing good relationships, for loving well, and...
For most children, biting is usually short-lived and does not become a habit. Nevertheless, it is usually a big deal for everyone - the child bitten, the adults present, and the parents. (If you have ever been bitten, you know that it HURTS!) Continued biting is one of the reasons that...
It's severe weather season here in the Midwest. All families need a plan for what to do in the case of an emergency or natural disaster.
Be Prepared
Preparation for any emergency or disaster is key. First, you need to look at what could affect your family home. Illinois is prone to many weather-...
When parents possess six protective factors, the risk for abuse and neglect diminish. These factors are: Nurturing and attachment Knowledge of parenting and of child and youth development Parental resilience Social connections Concrete supports for parents Social and emotional...
The Week of the Young Child is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) to shed light on the needs of young children (birth through age 8) and their families. In support, the Family Files blog articles for April will focus on issues...
