This page will be updated frequently, so keep scrolling!
parenting tips
Vilas County Youth Coalition members constantly gather resources to help parents and youth. There are fun things for kids to do, tips to help families cope with stress, and evidence-based advice on how to educate your kids on the danger. If you are looking for other resources or have some to share, please contact us.
Resources for Families
TALK TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT ALCOHOL WITH small talks
play an active role in your child's mental & behavioral health
cHANGE THE CONVERSATION ON DRUG USE WITH REAL TALKS
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.
cHANGE THE CONVERSATION ON DRUG USE WITH REAL TALKS
play an active role in your child's mental & behavioral health
cHANGE THE CONVERSATION ON DRUG USE WITH REAL TALKS
Connecting people through meaningful conversations is one way we can reduce and prevent substance use in Wisconsin. Real Talks Wisconsin gives you the information and tools you need to have frequent conversations about substance use. Real talks are based on asking open-ended questions, having empathy, and helping to problem solve. They are the foundation of individual and community health and well-being.
play an active role in your child's mental & behavioral health
play an active role in your child's mental & behavioral health
play an active role in your child's mental & behavioral health
Mental and behavioral health is an important topic, and sometimes it’s hard to know how to talk to kids and teens about it.
Children's Wisconsin has some printable activity guides that you can use to work with the kids in your life. These were crafted by a mental and behavioral health team to help start the conversation.
There are also videos on how to support children of various age levels and those who are struggling with anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Already talking to your child and need more help? There's advice on how to discuss their needs with teachers and doctors.
Marshfield clinic health system
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE activities
play an active role in your child's mental & behavioral health
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.
4-H ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE activities
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE activities
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.
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE activities
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE activities
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE activities
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.
engineering activities from Iowa state 4-h grades 6 - 12
engineering activities from Iowa state 4-h grades 6 - 12
engineering activities from Iowa state 4-h grades 6 - 12
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.
cool stuff from nasa for youth
engineering activities from Iowa state 4-h grades 6 - 12
engineering activities from Iowa state 4-h grades 6 - 12
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.
recovery resources for mental health, substance use
engineering activities from Iowa state 4-h grades 6 - 12
recovery resources for mental health, substance use
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.