By Madelynn Wood, BSW – June 10, 2026 – Emotional development is an important part of a child’s overall growth, yet it is often overlooked in comparison to physical and academic milestones. A key aspect of emotional development is the ability to recognize, understand, and identify emotions. This skill, known as emotional literacy, plays a […]
By Jacob Bambenek – June 3, 2026 – According to data collected in 2022 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 30.7% of teens reported using cannabis at least once, and 6.3% reported daily use within the previous 30 days. For educators, parents, and other adults who work closely with young people, these statistics reflect […]
By Lori McIntire, MSW, LCSW – May 27, 2026 – Raising happy, healthy children is a top priority for most parents. They ensure their kids attend all their medical check-ups, provide for their basic needs, nurture and guide them, and offer emotional support, aiming to foster optimal mental and physical health in their little ones. […]
By Camryn Cater, MSW, LSW – May 20, 2026 – Technology. It’s everywhere, woven into the fabric of our daily lives, influencing how we work, communicate and live. While the use of technology can be beneficial to children, it can also have negative effects. Excessive screen time can impact children cognitively, academically, physically, socially, behaviorally, […]
By Maggie Robertson, MSW, LSW – May 13, 2026 – Summer can be stressful and chaotic for some families. When kids are out of school, it can be difficult for parents and guardians to keep them busy all day. Having a plan or a “bucket list” for the summer can be helpful for families. Meaningful […]
By Beth Thomas, MSW, LSW – May 6, 2026 – Parenting a child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can sometimes feel overwhelming, leading to feelings of frustration, stress, confusion, or even feeling disrespected by your child. Children with ADHD are often unfairly labeled as “lazy” or “daydreamers,” but these characterizations are common misconceptions that overlook the […]
By Kelli Knight, MSW, LCSW – April 29, 2026 – Graduation is a huge milestone for high school seniors, but it can also bring a lot of anxiety. While many students are excited to finish high school, the idea of what comes next can feel overwhelming. Whether they’re thinking about college, their career, or simply […]
“D-Patrick Boonville Brings Hope” Campaign to Assist Worthy Local Organizations Continues Boonville, IN, April 28, 2026: D-Patrick Boonville Ford will present a check for $1,000 to Youth First on Wednesday, April 29, at 10 am. The presentation occurs at the D-Patrick Boonville Ford dealership on Highway 62 near Walmart in Boonville. General Manager Peter O’Daniel […]
By Kelly McClarnon, MSW, LCSW – April 21, 2026 – Recently, while sitting in the cafeteria during fourth, third and first-grade lunch, I noticed how many children were drinking dye-laden beverages, eating candy and processed foods, and generally lacking nutritious options in their lunchboxes or on their cafeteria tray. I watched a first grader eat […]
Thursday, April 23, 2026 – 5:00 pm CT – Bally’s Riverfront Center, Downtown Evansville, IN [Evansville, IN] Youth First impacts thousands of Indiana students each year, and the community is invited to help by supporting its annual benefit auction on Thursday, April 23, from 5-7:30 pm CT at Bally’s Riverfront Event Center in downtown Evansville. […]