Content
Taking Time to Listen
Author: Dr. Michelle Krehbiel
Springtime in Nebraska can be a roller coaster. 70 degrees and sunny one day to blowing snow and 30 degrees another day. Mother Nature appears to either be angry or simply confused. The weather extremes this year include drought, intense winds, and temperature swings. Recently, parts of the state have experienced uncontrolled fires which . . .
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Connecting During the Holidays
Author: Brandy VanDeWalle
The holidays are often a time filled with joy as many reunite with family or friends not seen on a regular basis. Holiday gatherings are a time to share special traditions such as favorite recipes, playing games, watching movies or just “catching up”. Holiday gatherings help children, youth, and adults create social connections whether meeting face to face or virtually . . .
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Creating a Routine in Changing Times
Author: Dr. Jill Lingard
Youth are growing up in a constantly changing world. Change is hard. Yet, amidst some times of uncertainty and change we are searching to find a new normal. A sense of stability, routine, and familiarity are important for youth. Parents, care-providers, and youth development professionals can help youth plan their day to reestablish routine . . .
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Helping Youth Belong
Author: Dr. Michelle Krehbiel
The hit TV series “Cheers” in the 1980’s provided great acting, interesting storylines, and comedy but one of the best things that the show gave the audience was the lyrics in the theme song. The lyrics from this song illustrate the human need and desire to “fit in” or simply belong. This need for belonging is important for adults but it is absolutely . . .
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Helping Youth Cope with Holiday Stresses
Author: Kerry Elsen
Certain years deliver more challenges than others, especially for youth. With the holiday season quickly approaching the stress from the year may make this season more stressful than others. As individuals and families celebrate, traditions may change as youth grow older, especially when family conditions are changed . . .
Coping in Changing Times
Author: Dr. Saundra Frerichs
How can someone like me cope with something so unexpected? As I searched for this answer, I read recommendations for different groups of people: individuals living alone, families, children with special needs, empty nesters, and seniors. I found suggestions that can help all of us cope. Create a routine . . .
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Making Contributions During the Holidays
Author: Dr. Dawn Lindsley
The holiday season gives youth and adults an opportunity to stop and reflect on events of the past year, one’s beliefs and values, and what gives life meaning and purpose. The end of the year always gives many young people and adults the opportunity to re-evaluate what is important to them. As this year draws to a close . . .
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Could This Be Grief?
Authors: Dr. Holly Hatton-Bowers and Dr. Amy Napoli
It’s important to know that youth may be experiencing grief. According to the National Institute of Health, grief is defined as a reaction to a major loss of someone or something. It is common for young people to feel grief during this time of great uncertainty. For some, this will be their first major encounter with grief . . .
Connecting in Changing Times
Author: Jill Goedeken
Maintaining positive social connections for youth is important for supporting their social and emotional well-being. These connections are critically important for all youth; those who appear to be doing okay with in uncertain times and for those who may be struggling . . .
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Communicating During the Holidays
Author: Kerry Elsen
The holiday season is upon us and for some us, the holiday season adds to one’s stress level. As individuals and families plan holiday gatherings, many are wondering how topics about politics, health, wealth, or a favorite sports team will come up in conversation. Additionally, children and young people . . .
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Contributing in a Changing World
Author: Dr. Dawn Lindsley
Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” We are all a part of something larger than ourselves. We live in a global society that is interconnected, and in times of . . .
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Comfort in a Changing World
Author: Dr. Michelle Krehbiel
“I don’t like this!” This statement is one that children or youth might use during a heated game, when being asked to correct unwanted behavior or when plans change. For those children and youth who were looking forward to certain events that may change, they have reason to believe that life can be sad, frustrating, and difficult . . .
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