Blog Posts

Parent reading a bedtime story to child in bed.
Read article: The power of a good night’s sleep: helping kids thrive
The power of a good night’s sleep: helping kids thrive
After a restful summer, you may find there's one thing your children are not happy about: waking up early for school again! Did you know that...
Fence with signs on it that say Don't give up and You Matter.
Read article: This September: Start a conversation. Be the difference.
This September: Start a conversation. Be the difference.
Each September is national Suicide Prevention Month. In 2023, 12.8 people seriously thought about suicide and 1.5 million people attempted it. Over...
Woman drinking a bottle of water
Read article: The many faces of water
The many faces of water
Water is pretty straightforward. That is until you realize that you can not only drink tap water, filtered water, spring water or natural mineral...
plate of different cheeses
Read article: It ain't easy being cheesy
It ain't easy being cheesy
Who doesn't love cheese? Grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, baked lasagna with ooey gooey cheese melted all over it are common cheesy...

News Releases

open air hous for indoor air quality
Breathe Easier This October: 7 Steps to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
October is Healthy Lung Month, a timely reminder to prioritize lung health and early detection. With most people spending nearly 90% of their time indoors, the air inside our homes plays a critical role in overall well-being. Children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or heart disease...
two people walking outside
Stay Strong, Stay Connected: Learn How to Maintain Muscle Strength as You Age
Did you know that proper nutrition and regular physical activity can slow the rate of muscle loss and support bone health, metabolism, and blood sugar control? To learn more, join University of Illinois Extension Nutrition and Wellness Educator, Diane Reinhold, at the Stephenson County Senior...

Videos

Enjoying the Outdoors and Staying Safe in the Sun

Illinois Extension 4-H Educator Melissa Wilson explores how to stay safe in the sun while playing outdoors. Learn about different types of UV rays, what SPF means, and how to protect yourself from a sunburn. This video includes a hands-on learning activity you can do at home by purchasing UV...

Staff

Melissa Schumacher staff photo

Melissa Schumacher

Family and Consumer Sciences Digital Nutrition Education Outreach Associate