Youth First Blog

Informative articles by Youth First Social Workers

Wisdom Instead of Wine Jokes

By Valorie Dassel, LCSW, LCAC - May 19, 2020 -All of our lives have changed with the pandemic, guidelines for social distancing and stay-at-home orders. We have been challenged to find new routines and a new normal during these unprecedented…

If You See Something, Say Something

By Jordan Beach, LSW - May 12, 2020 -It’s not pleasant to think about, but unfortunately many children are abused or neglected every day, sometimes by their parents or guardians.In most states teachers are mandated reporters of child…

Talk. They Hear You.

Counties, Youth First Blog

By Grace Wilson - May 12, 2020 -Have you talked with your kids about the dangers of underage drinking? It can certainly be a difficult topic to navigate.You may ask yourself all sorts of questions: When is the right time to have the…

Keeping Kids Busy While Working from Home

Counties, Youth First Blog

By Jordan Beach, LSW - May 5, 2020 -As I am writing this I am following our state’s stay-at-home orders by practicing social distancing and working from home. For a lot of us this means working with children and spouses also in the home.It’s…

Managing Your Child’s Fears During the Pandemic

Counties, Youth First Blog

By Shannon Loehrlein, LCSW - April 21, 2020 -COVID-19 has led us into uncharted territory. Never before have schools across the country closed because of a pandemic. As adults we may be worried about the future. How long will…

Parenting During the Pandemic: Give Yourself Some Grace

Counties, Youth First Blog

By Laura Keys, LCSW - April 15, 2020 -I have been a parent for more than a couple of decades. I’ve scolded, hugged, corrected, and loved two wonderful boys.When they were very young their father died from cancer, which left me to…