Advice from Our Professionals

Informative articles by Youth First’s Service Team

Sitting in the Dark with Your Teen

By Angel Wagner, MSW, LCSW - October 21, 2026 - Depression can affect people of any age, yet it is easy to overlook the possibility that teens may be struggling. As adults, we may view adolescence as a time of freedom and excitement…

Keeping our Kids Safe from Cyberbullying and Online Dangers

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By Rebecca Williams, MSW, LSW - October 15, 2026 - Bullying may begin in the classroom or on the playground, but today’s children and teens can face it anywhere - even in the comfort of their own home through their electronic devices.…

Teens and Social Media: Finding Balance Beyond the School Day

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By Molly Meriwether , MSW, LSW, MHA - October 7, 2026 - Social media is a common part of daily life for many students. TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram are often used to stay connected with friends, share laughs, and pass the time. While…

How Can a School Social Worker Help Your Child?

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By Kacie Shipman, MSW, LCSW - September 30, 2026 - Have you ever wondered what a school social worker actually does? In this role, I often hear students’ ideas and questions about my job and what my role looks like within the school…

The Struggle is Real

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By Diann Moesner, MSW, LCSW - September 23, 2026 - Whether you are interacting with students as a school professional, a parent, or both, it can feel uncomfortable to watch kids struggle to navigate the world around them. When we see…

The Benefits of a Close Sibling Relationship

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By Beth Thomas, MSW, LSW - September 16, 2026 - Close sibling relationships can have a lifelong impact. They are an important part of our development and can provide valuable knowledge, guidance and support throughout different stages…