Advice from Our Professionals

Informative articles by Youth First’s Service Team

Talk to Your Teen about the Dangers of Vaping

By Amanda Haney, LSW According to the CDC, electronic cigarettes or vapes have been the most used tobacco product by youths since 2014. Many teens believe that partaking in e-cigarettes or vapes is “no big deal.” Due to this perception,…

Encouraging Body Positivity in Teens

By Angel Wagner, LSW Whether we remember them fondly or not, many of us would agree that our teenage years had their share of challenging moments. While teenagers are going through the adventure of figuring out who they are and who they…

Sleep Issues in Elementary School Kids

Counties, Youth First Blog

By Shannon Loehrlein, LCSW Most parents are familiar with sleep-related issues in infants and toddlers. Developmentally, it is normal for babies to wake up every few hours. Toddlers can also struggle with sleep issues - especially while…

Helping Your Child Make Friends at School

Counties, Youth First Blog

By Audrey Bowlds, LSW Going back to school can be stressful for children in many ways, especially as we continue to deal with the pandemic and its aftereffects. A child diagnosed with a mental or physical illness may also struggle…

Helping Your Child Transition to High School

Counties, Youth First Blog

By Valorie Dassel, LCSW, LCAC The transition from elementary or middle school to high school can come with a wave of emotions for both students and parents. Often there is excitement surrounding the new environment, both socially and…

Getting Back into the Groove of School

Counties, Youth First Blog

By Christine Weinzapfel-Hayden, LCSW - July 29, 2022 - I know you feel it. The new school year is looming. A new school year always comes with a variety of emotions, excitement, nervousness, and dread (Looking at you, common-core…