parenting tips

 Why should you talk to kids about alcohol? Underage drinking is a real problem in Wisconsin, and it starts earlier and can be more dangerous than you might think. But parents, loved ones, and other caring adults can make a real difference. All you have to do is talk. That’s right. Having small, casual conversations with kids, starting around age 8, can help prevent underage drinking. 

 Think kids won’t listen? Think again. Research shows that parents and other caring adults are the most powerful influence on children’s choices about underage drinking. That means you can make a real difference, especially if you start early. Don’t worry; it’s easier than you may think. We can show you how. 

Marshfield Clinic Health System recommends the following resources:

• 3 ways to focus on your mental health
• Parenting Tips from the Child Mine Institute, including how to soothe an anxious child and help teens cope with loss of milestones such as prom and graduation
• Their facebook page, which is updated with COVID-19 announcements and tips.

What is 4-H?  4-H lessons and programs are delivered by educators from UW-Madison's Division of Extension.  In 4-H programs, kids and teens complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement in a positive environment with adult mentors.  Education specialists have created a list of activities for various age levels that are cheap, require very little preparation, and use objects already found at home!  Check them out at Extension's website.

 Tobacco is developing new products and tactics so fast, it’s tough for parents to recognize tobacco when they see it, and even tougher to talk to your kids about the terrible damage tobacco products can do. But that can change right here. It has to. Because the tobacco industry has already found ways to get around restrictions that banned a few flavored tobacco products and made it illegal to sell tobacco to anyone under 21. Tobacco is changing, faster than ever, parents. Let us help you keep up. 

National parks offer extraordinary experiences, but it’s not always possible to get to a park in person. Fortunately we have ways to connect with national parks from a distance through digital opportunities and activities to do in your own home or neighborhood.  There are virtual tours, junior ranger programs, and a kids portal.  Explore some of America's most beautiful places and learn about your own backyard.

Follow along with daily activities that focus on an engineering topic and includes resources, video recommendations, and bedtime boredom buster thoughts. 

Topics range from how the LEGO company got its start, to the importance of bees.  Every day is a new theme with  new activities!  And the video recommendations include movies as well as educational items.

NASA’s journeys have propelled technological breakthroughs, pushed the frontiers of scientific research, and expanded our understanding of the universe.   To inspire the next generation of astronauts, engineers and programmers, NASA has created free games, coloring sheets, and activities for kids in grades K-4th and 5th-8th.  Looking for something more challenging?  Try the experiments and educational videos geared towards high school youth.

Isolation and other pressures caused by COVID-19 may have bigger impacts on those who struggle with mental health issues and substance use disorders.  If you or someone you know needs help: 

• SAMHSA has Virtual Recovery Resources for Substance Use and  Mental Illness. Includes links to online meetings and recovery support resources offered by various mutual help groups and other organizations, as well as information on setting up a virtual meeting.
• The Center for Addiction has  Resources for Parents, Families, and Caregivers. Provides mobile (phone- and text-based) education and support for family members struggling with a loved one’s addiction as well as links to other virtual resources. 
• Our stoptheuse site lists local resources, and you can use it to connect with a Recovery Coach.