Cope With Stress During Tough Times
(Posted on 10/18/2009)
Stress can pull family members apart just when they need each other the most. Donna Donald, Family Life Program Specialist offers ideas to strengthen families during these tough times of layoffs, state budget cuts and the overall economic uncertainty.

When Things Don’t Go Well, Help Your Child Succeed
(Posted on 10/4/2009)
It’s natural for parents to try to soften the blow for their children when things don’t go well. Donna Donald, Family Life Program Specialist suggests parents affirm feelings, listen carefully, and then encourage the child to try again.

Changes Mean Endings and New Beginnings
(Posted on 8/2/2009)
Major life change often triggers strong emotions and inner turmoil. Understanding the three phases of the transition process can help people deal with their reactions to a difficult change.

Keep Your Marriage Strong in Stressful Times
(Posted on 5/31/2009)
Iowa State University's research on strong marriages suggests that men and women truly can vary in the ways they handle highly stressful times.

Plan For Backyard Playground Safety
(Posted on 3/8/2009)
Spring weather and backyard playgrounds are beckoning children. Here are suggestions to help improve the safety of your backyard play area.

Managing Tough Times
(Posted on 3/1/2009)
During today's uncertain economic times, Iowans must make the most of their money, knowledge and skills as they make decisions.

Living With Your Teenager
(Posted on 2/15/2009)
Being parents of teenagers is not for the faint hearted. But knowing what to expect makes parenting easier.

Attitude Is Key to Enjoying Life
(Posted on 1/11/2009)
How are you handling the realities of life? How we deal with our reality will make a different to how we handle life.

Kids and TV: Limit Screen Time
(Posted on 1/9/2009)
Does background television have any unintended consequences for children’s behavior and development?

Stewards of Children Program
(Posted on 12/30/2008)
One in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused before their 18th birthdays, but it doesn’t have to happen. YOU can help lower those numbers and protect the children in this community.

Tools To Help Build Positive Relationships
(Posted on 11/2/2008)
Building positive relationships with children is a lifelong task. Donna K. Donald, Iowa State University Extension Family Life Field Specialist, recommends five tools to help the effort which can yield lifelong rewards.

Understand How Brain Style Affects Parenting
(Posted on 9/7/2008)
Ever wonder why you and your child sometimes mix about as well as oil and water? It may be that your brain styles are opposites. By understanding the four brain styles, you and your child can get along and even learn to enjoy each other.

Talk To Children About Tough Times
(Posted on 7/29/2008)
Many families are facing financial concerns that are causing changes in how they live. Be honest and open with your family about what is happening. Think about what message you want to sent to your children.