Family Files 2026

You may have heard the phrase, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Attributed to Benjamin Franklin, this saying highlights an important truth: taking small, proactive steps now can help prevent much larger challenges in the future. Prevention is often easier, less...

May is Mental Health Month, and University of Illinois Extension is joining Mental Health America (MHA) to focus on a simple, shared goal: helping people have more good days, together. MHA’s More Good Days, Together campaign is about meeting people where they are and recognizing that “good” looks...

We use technology in many ways during everyday routines, and young children don’t want to be left out. The Illinois Early Learning Project has a tip sheet that shares some ways families and caregivers can find a healthy balance...

Think about a fond memory you have. Think about how you felt, the excitement or happiness you may have felt. Think about how this memory smells or tastes. It could be the smell of your family home or the taste of a particular food. Think about what you heard during this memory. It could be a...

Habits are repeated — and often subconscious — actions that are triggered in response to contextual cues. Wearing a seat belt is an example of a habit. For many people, the action of buckling a seat belt is triggered by the contextual cue of shutting the vehicle door after you get in. Research...

Stress can be caused by normal life changes such as the addition of a baby or pet into the family or moving. Major family events or community disruptions like divorce or natural disasters can also cause a great deal of stress. Despite the cause of stress, all family members can benefit from special...