Youth Development

Introducing Young People to Mindfulness Practices

Contributed by Jennifer Bateman, Ph.D., National Vice President, Youth Development Programs at Boys & Girls Clubs of America In today’s hurried, busy, high-tech world, it is easy to for young people to become overwhelmed and overstimulated. Mindfulness practices...

Understanding the Effects of Trauma

Contributed by Anna Blount Imagine you’re hiking in the woods. Suddenly, a huge shape lumbers across the trail – a black bear has crossed your path! Your breathing becomes short, your heartbeat skyrockets, and every muscle tenses as cortisol rushes through your...

Evolving Teen Groups Into Communities

Contributed by Kim Aycock, MST “Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” ~ Henry Ford Your teen group will most likely consist of kids of who decide to give this adventure a try or whose parents encourage them to...

The Power of Family Mealtimes

Contributed by Wendy Palmer, MS, RD, LD, CHES It seems like such a simple part of life, but it’s one that many families are not prioritizing: family mealtimes. Many of us are overbooked, overscheduled and find it hard to fit in a time where the whole family can sit...

Remembering the “Prevention” in National Bullying Prevention Month

Contributed by Katherine Raczynski If you follow the news, you are likely very aware of the challenge of addressing childhood bullying. We know that it happens and can have devastating consequences, but sensational media coverage can leave us feeling disheartened and...