Social-Emotional Health

hands that appear to be holding the word clear clutter with smaller words surrounding

Spring forward with clearing the clutter

Family Files
Clutter can be described as a disordered heap or mass of objects. When we think about what qualifies as clutter it can mean different things for different people. For example, magnets on a fridge could qualify as clutter to one person but to someone else, it wouldn’t be. Clutter is very subjective...
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Picture of a brain with the words Brain Awareness Week next to it.

Celebrate Brain Awareness Week

Family Files
Brain Awareness Week (BAW) is the global campaign to foster public enthusiasm and support for brain science. BAW was founded by the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives (DABI) and the European Dana Alliance for the Brain (EDAB), and is coordinated by the Dana...
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Two people walking together on a snowy trail.

Staying active and socially connected in winter

Family Files
During the winter months, I usually notice a significant downward shift in my energy level and motivation to get out and socialize with friends. The cold, dark, snowy weather often makes me want to curl up on the couch to watch a movie or read a book in my free time.  Can anyone else relate?...
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three children holding hands

Helping children learn to get along

Family Files
As the oldest child of three, and also having a child of my own, I can say first-hand that children are going to argue, not get along, and even fight sometimes. When facilitating parenting classes, the topic of how to prevent children’s arguments was brought up often. Fortunately, getting along...
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Piece of paper with the word resolutions written on it.

New Year's resolutions for mental health

Family Files
According to Google’s English Dictionary, the word “resolution” means a firm decision to do or not do something. So many of us feel that the beginning of a new year is a great time to set resolutions or goals to work on, but how successful are we? A...
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family eating dinner

Making family mealtimes happen

Family Files
With many families in back-to-school busy mode, it can sometimes be difficult to enjoy having meals together. However, research shows that having meals together is beneficial for individuals as well as the whole family. Family members who eat together tend to eat healthier – they eat more fruits...
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two childen playing a game

Tips for a fun family night in July

Family Files
It’s hard to think about the 4th of July without visions of flags and fireworks appearing.  The holiday event is rich with traditions that help us celebrate our country’s heritage with pride and a sense of belonging.  Families also have a wealth of traditions that help us feel special and...
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a family playing a board game

Take time for a "family night in" this April

Family Files
April is here and brings many changes. The temperature. The clock. Even our clothing.  Why not add one more change to the list?  Get out your calendars and pick a night for a “family night in” to relax and spend time together. What children really want is more time with friends and family...
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