Branch Out Coming Soon!
A web-based format of Branch Out will be available in December 2021 at no cost to civilian and military families. During adolescence, youth need their parents’ attention and support more than ever. With so many changes and transitions happening during adolescence, this phase of life is a time of excitement and anxiety―for youth and their …
Family Meetings
Many families may think family time is having a meal together, watching a favorite television show, or even going on a new family adventure. While each of these activities is family time and is important, having intentional family time, called the family meeting, is also important. Family meetings are planned or short-notice conversations, and each family member should be included. …
Helping Children use Inclusive Pronouns
Language has always evolved as societies have changed and progressed. Today, as gender diversity becomes more common, our language is transforming to become more inclusive and more accurately represent all individuals. One way language has changed is in our use of pronouns regarding gender. Your child may have questions about how to use pronouns, and …
Actively Listening to your Adolescent
Quality communication is a critical part of successful parenting, and active listening is an important component of positive and productive communication with your adolescent. Active listening is making a conscious effort to hear the words your adolescent is saying and to understand the entire message he or she is conveying. There are four key steps …
Talking to Children about Germs, COVID-19, and Practicing Proper Hygiene
With the recent outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), many children may have questions about the virus or germs in general. What are Germs? Germs are everywhere! They are small and can enter our bodies without us knowing. Some germs can live on surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, countertops) for a short period of time. Once they …
Helping Children be Socially Successful
A young child’s learning ability and development are impacted by a range of factors. One of these factors is a child’s social health. A young child’s social health is primarily based on the quality of his or her relationships with peers and adults in his or her life (United States Department of Education, n.d.). Some …
Branch Out Coming Soon!
Branch Out, a program for parents and caregivers of youth and teens ages 10 to 18 years old, is part of the Thrive Initiative. This Initiative is a portfolio of parent education programs that focus on family strengths and meet parents and caregivers where they are. During adolescence, youth need their parents’ attention and support …
Thrive programming is getting a new look!
In July 2021, in order to provide you with the best experience, the individual Thrive programs that are available online – Take Root, Sprout, and Grow – will be getting a new look! During this time the online Thrive programming may not be available. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. If you have …