Youth First to Honor Carol Lynch as 2026 Dr. William Wooten Champion

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EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Long-time Youth First advocate Carol Lynch has been selected to receive the 2026 Dr. William Wooten Champion of Youth First Award. Lynch will be recognized at Youth First’s Annual Breakfast of Champions event, presented by German American Bank, on October 27, 2026, at Friedman Park Events Center in Newburgh. Named in honor of Youth First’s founder Dr. William Wooten, the Champion of Youth First Award recognizes leading advocates whose generosity and commitment to Youth First’s mission have made a lasting impact on the organization and the lives of countless young people.
A former educator and founding board member, Carol Lynch has been a steadfast supporter of Youth First for 29 years, championing the organization’s efforts to expand access to free, effective prevention programming and mental health services. Through her dedication to helping young people elevate their potential by equipping them with coping skills, Lynch has advanced Youth First’s presence and impact in Southwest Indiana.
“Carol has been an extraordinary force throughout Youth First’s history,” said Youth First President & CEO Holli Sullivan, “Her belief in the power of the next generation of leaders inspires us to invest in opportunities that make a proven difference in young lives. We are honored to recognize Carol and are deeply grateful to German American Bank for serving as our presenting sponsor and investing in stronger futures for our communities.”
The Breakfast of Champions is a signature Youth First event that celebrates collaboration between community leaders, partners, and supporters. For information about attending or sponsoring the Breakfast of Champions, visit youthfirstinc.org/breakfastofchampions or contact Youth First Events & Volunteer Coordinator, Amanda Redenbaugh at aredenbaugh@youthfirstinc.org.
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How to Help Your Kids Make Good Decisions

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By Christine Weinzapfel-Hayden, MSW, LCSW – July 22, 2026 –

Guiding children to make good decisions is one of a parent’s most important responsibilities. Children are constantly faced with choices, big and small, that shape their character, habits, and future. The ability to make sound decisions will serve them throughout life, from deciding how to spend their free time to choosing friends and handling peer pressure. While children must learn through their own experiences, parents play a crucial role in teaching them the skills and values that enable them to make wise choices.

How can parents help their children learn to make good decisions? First, modeling good decision-making skills is one of the most powerful ways to teach children. Children pay close attention to their parents’ actions, often more than to the words they hear. When parents weigh options carefully, consider consequences, and demonstrate self-control, they provide a living example for their children to follow.

For instance, explaining why you choose to save money rather than making impulsive purchases helps your child see that thoughtful decisions often lead to long-term rewards. By being transparent about your decision-making process, you show your child how to think through decisions rather than acting on impulse.

Second, parents can help children by encouraging them to think critically. Instead of simply giving them answers, ask guiding questions that push them to consider the outcomes of their choices. For example, if a child is weighing whether to complete homework or play video games, you might ask, “What might happen if you don’t finish your homework tonight?” This approach allows children to weigh consequences themselves, rather than always relying on parental instruction. Over time, this practice builds independence and confidence in their decision-making abilities.

Another important step is teaching children values and principles early. Children who have a strong foundation of honesty, responsibility, kindness, and respect are better equipped to make ethical choices. Parents can reinforce these values through conversations, stories, and real-life examples. When kids understand why certain behaviors are right or wrong, they are more likely to make good decisions consistent with those principles, even when no one is watching.

It is also helpful to provide opportunities for children to practice decision-making in a safe environment. Allowing them to choose their clothing, plan family activities, or budget their allowance gives them a sense of responsibility. Even if their choices are not always perfect, these experiences teach valuable lessons. When mistakes occur, parents should respond with patience and guidance rather than harsh criticism. Discussing what went wrong and how to make a better choice next time turns mistakes into learning opportunities.

Finally, maintaining open communication is key. Children need to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, struggles, and questions without fear of judgment. When parents listen attentively and offer support, kids are more likely to seek advice before making difficult decisions. Creating an environment of trust ensures that children know they are not alone when facing challenges.
Helping children make good decisions is not about controlling every choice they make but about equipping them with the tools, values, and confidence to choose wisely on their own. By modeling good behavior, encouraging critical thinking, teaching values, offering practice, and maintaining open communication, parents can prepare their children to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and integrity. Good decision-making is a skill, and with guidance and love, children can grow into thoughtful and responsible adults.

Christine Weinzapfel-Hayden, MSW, LCSW, is a Youth First Mental Health Professional at Corpus Christi Catholic School in Vanderburgh County and St. Philip Catholic School in Posey County. Youth First, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), prevention programs, parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel to 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families each year are served by Youth First’s school-based social work and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.

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Youth First Receives $40,000 Award from CenterPoint Energy Foundation

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EVANSVILLE, IN – Youth First is celebrating CenterPoint Energy Foundation for investing in Indiana youth. The organization recently awarded $40,000 to Youth First, Inc. to strengthen the mental health and well-being of students at 12 Youth First partner schools in Vanderburgh County.

This significant gift from CenterPoint Energy Foundation, along with funding from other sources, will enable Youth First to provide its school-based student assistance program and family and community prevention programs at Academy for Innovative Studies, Central High School, Daniel Wertz Elementary School, Dexter Elementary School, Fairlawn Elementary School, Harrison High School, McGary Middle School, New Tech Institute, North High School, FJ Reitz High School, Tekoppel Elementary School, and Washington Middle School.

Amanda Schmitt, CenterPoint Foundation Manager, says: “This gift is part of our commitment to seeing communities thrive and seeing students reach their potential. We are so honored to partner with organizations like Youth First to ensure the success of all our students — regardless of the challenges they may face.”

Youth First offers an array of prevention programs and mental health services to help with emotional, behavioral, and academic issues that youth, families, and communities may be experiencing in today’s world. The organization embeds highly trained mental health professionals in school buildings, partnering with 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties.

Youth First President & CEO Holli Sullivan shared, “Young people are navigating increasingly complex challenges in today’s world. That’s why accessible support and early prevention are more important than ever. Youth First provides core services and programs in schools and communities that elevate student potential and better prepare youth to face life’s challenges, lead productive lives, and be an active part of a thriving community. We are grateful for our partnership with CenterPoint Energy Foundation, allowing us to strengthen futures for kids and families.”
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About Youth First, Inc.:
Youth First, Inc. is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides prevention programs and over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel who assess needs, develop and implement prevention plans, and connect students and their families to vital resources in 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families per year are served by Youth First’s school-based student assistance program and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.

Pictured in photo (L to R):
Courtney Lander, Foundation Specialist, CenterPoint Energy
Amanda Schmitt, Manager, Foundation and Community Relations North, CenterPoint Energy
Christy Walker, Vice President of Development, Youth First, Inc.
Taylor Houchin, Director of Development, Youth First, Inc.

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Establishing a Smooth Transition from Home to School

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By Lisa Glahn, MSW, LCSW – July 15, 2026 –

Returning to school after a break can be challenging for many children, especially after extended time away during summer or winter breaks. Typically, the longer students are out of their routine, the more challenging it can be to adjust to early mornings, structured schedules, and classroom expectations. Fortunately, there are several simple strategies parents and guardians can use to make this transition smoother and create a more positive start to each school day.

One of the most effective ways to support a successful return to school is by establishing a consistent morning routine. Predictable schedules help children feel prepared, reduce stress, and encourage independence. Creating a visual schedule with pictures or simple words can be especially helpful for younger children or those who benefit from visual reminders. As children practice the same routine each morning, they become more confident and develop healthy habits that make getting ready for school easier.

Waking up with enough time to prepare for the day is another important part of a successful morning. Oversleeping often leads to feeling rushed, which can increase stress for both children and parents. When mornings are hurried, children may skip breakfast, forget homework or school supplies, or arrive at school feeling anxious. Allowing extra time to wake up, eat a healthy breakfast, and get organized helps create a calm environment that sets the stage for a positive school day.

A special goodbye ritual can also make school drop-offs easier. Whether it is a hug, a high-five, a secret handshake, or a simple phrase shared each morning, a consistent goodbye routine provides reassurance and strengthens the connection between a child and their parent or guardian. These small moments can help children feel loved, supported, and ready to begin their day with confidence.

Talking with your child about the upcoming school day is another helpful strategy. Discussing what they can expect allows them to ask questions, voice concerns, and share any worries they may have. These conversations allow parents to offer encouragement and problem-solving while helping children feel more prepared for the day ahead.

Positive reinforcement can also encourage a smoother transition back to school. Simple reward systems, such as sticker charts or earning small privileges, can motivate children to complete their morning routine and enter the school building with confidence. Celebrating progress, even in small ways, reinforces positive behaviors and builds motivation over time.

For some children, bringing a comfort item can provide an added sense of security. Before sending an item to school, it is helpful to check with the teacher about classroom expectations. While stuffed animals or blankets may stay in the car, a family photo tucked into a backpack, folder, or locker can offer comfort throughout the day. Including these comforting items as part of the morning routine can help ease separation anxiety.

Finally, never underestimate the power of encouragement. Offering positive affirmations, praising your child’s efforts, and reminding them that you believe in their abilities can boost confidence and self-esteem. Even a short note tucked into a lunchbox or backpack can provide reassurance and brighten their day. With patience, consistency, and support, families can help children return to school feeling confident, prepared, and excited to learn.

Lisa Glahn, MSW, LCSW, is a Youth First Mental Health Professional at St. John the Baptist Catholic School in Warrick County and St. Bernard Catholic School in Spencer County. Youth First, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), prevention programs, parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel to 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families each year are served by Youth First’s school-based social work and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.

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Promoting Patience in a Fast-Moving World

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By Emily Bernhardt, MSW, LCSW – July 8, 2026 –

Patience is a virtue. Good things come to those who wait. There are so many phrases we have heard time and time again that emphasize the importance of patience. Yet, even if we agree that being patient is important, it can be so hard to practice.

For a long time, I thought patience was a personality trait you were born with, like how some people are born funny or athletic. However, I have realized that patience can be learned, and though it may be hard, some practices help strengthen our ability to be patient.

Why should we make the change? You may be thinking, “I’m 40 years old – why should I make this change now after all this time?” Of course, being patient helps us strengthen and maintain our relationships, but it also offers health benefits. Patience supports our mental health and well-being; it helps us reach personal goals, is linked to hopefulness and positive outlooks, and is also associated with better outcomes. People who are patient report fewer health problems such as headaches, acne, ulcers, diarrhea, and pneumonia. Sign me up!

So now you may be thinking, “Okay fine, that sounds great, but how? I’ve tried being patient, and it just doesn’t come naturally to me.” There are many ways to practice patience and improve. Give yourself time and grace, because like any skill, it takes time. No one would expect to become a basketball star overnight, and learning a new skill such as patience is no different. It may take time, but it is possible.

One skill that you can incorporate to practice patience is mindfulness. Mindfulness is staying in the present moment. Think of it like “mind full” vs. mindful. When our mind is full of overwhelming thoughts or a checklist of future things we need to do, it is harder to stay patient in the present moment. Some examples of mindfulness include taking time for meditation, keeping a journal, or practicing breathing techniques.

Another skill that is helpful when our patience is thin is acknowledging what we can and cannot control. If your house is messy and there’s a long list of things adding to your stress, sit down and find time to knock things out on the to-do list. That is something in your control. However, if you have errands to run and you know there’s going to be a long line at the grocery store or heavy traffic to drive through—that’s not in your control. Sometimes just recognizing what is out of our control shifts our mindset. And is there a way you can put a positive spin on those situations? Try listening to a positive podcast or uplifting music while you wait.

Here is one last skill that will help build your tolerance for life’s setbacks. If you can practice patience with smaller setbacks that come your way, you will be able to handle the bigger ones much more easily. It’s okay to slow down in general, which can help you stay patient in other situations. Small ways you can practice include letting a car go in front of you in traffic, letting people get in front of you in line, trying a new hobby that promotes patience (like knitting), and ignoring notifications on your phone for at least a few minutes.

Like all skills, learning patience takes time. However, the more we incorporate it into the small moments of everyday life, the more likely we will be to reach for that skill in the bigger moments. Not only will it benefit your mental and physical health, but it is also important to model this skill for our children and other important relationships around us. When our children see us keep our cool in a stressful situation, we show them that this is possible for them too.

Emily Bernhardt, MSW, LCSW, is a Youth First Mental Health Professional at Signature School in Vanderburgh County. Youth First, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), prevention programs, parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel to 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families each year are served by Youth First’s school-based social work and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.

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Building Self-Esteem in Children: A Foundation for Lifelong Success

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By Ashley Lingafelter, MSW, LSW – July 1, 2026 –

Research indicates that nearly 40% of children experience feelings of inadequacy, which can severely hinder their emotional and social development. These statistics underline an alarming reality: low self-esteem in children is linked to a host of negative outcomes, including poor academic performance, mental health issues, and difficulties forming healthy relationships.

However, children with positive self-esteem are more likely to embrace challenges, engage in social settings, and develop resilience. As such, fostering self-esteem in children is not a mere parental preference; it is an essential investment in their future.

Positive self-esteem serves as the foundation for children’s identities. It allows them to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and fosters a sense of belonging, acceptance, and security. Children who see themselves positively are more likely to engage in behaviors that promote growth, such as trying out for a school play or joining a sports team. Self-esteem also becomes a protective factor that shields children from the adverse effects of peer pressure and bullying, ultimately leading to healthier emotional regulation and mental well-being.

Self-esteem in children emerges at an early age and is influenced by various factors, including family dynamics, social interactions, and individual experiences. As children grow, they internalize feedback from their environment, particularly from their parents and caregivers. Therefore, the role of parents in nurturing self-esteem cannot be overlooked. It is a delicate balance of offering support while allowing children to learn and grow independently. Parents who emphasize their children’s strengths, celebrate their achievements, and provide constructive feedback create an environment conducive to healthy self-esteem development.

To aid in building a child’s self-esteem, parents can adopt several effective strategies:

1. Encourage Open Communication: Parents should create a safe space for children to express their thoughts and feelings. Encouraging open dialogue fosters emotional intelligence and helps children articulate their concerns.

2. Promote Independence: Allowing children to make choices fosters a sense of autonomy. Even small decisions, like selecting their outfit for the day or choosing an afternoon activity, can empower children and enhance their confidence.

3. Celebrate Efforts, Not Just Results: Parents should recognize the effort their children put into tasks, not just the outcome. This approach instills a growth mindset, teaching children that persistence is valuable even in the face of setbacks.

4. Set Realistic Expectations: While it is natural for parents to want their children to succeed, setting unattainable expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy. It is crucial to set goals that are challenging yet achievable, allowing children to feel a sense of accomplishment.

5. Model Positive Self-Talk: This is arguably the most important and impactful tip. Children learn by observing adults. Parents should exemplify healthy self-esteem by practicing positive self-talk and demonstrating self-compassion in the face of their own challenges.

In conclusion, nurturing self-esteem is fundamental to a child’s emotional, social, and academic development. By recognizing the significance of their role, parents can utilize practical strategies that empower their children, laying the groundwork for a confident and resilient adult life. Building self-esteem is an investment in a child’s future—one that can lead to lifelong happiness and success.

Ashley Lingafelter, MSW, LSW, is a Youth First Mental Health Professional at North Elementary School in Posey County. Youth First, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), prevention programs, parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel to 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families each year are served by Youth First’s school-based social work and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.

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Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten this Summer

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By Tiffany Austin, MSW, LSW – June 24, 2026 –

Summer always seems to fly by. Before long, August arrives and a new school year begins. For incoming kindergarteners and their families, this milestone can bring a mix of excitement and nervousness. While children may look forward to new experiences, parents and caregivers often wonder how to best prepare them for this important transition.

The following are five ways families can help children prepare for kindergarten this summer:

  1. Maintain a Regular Schedule. The school day is very structured, with set time frames for different subjects, activities and events. Adjusting to this level of routine can be challenging for some children. Establishing a consistent daily schedule at home can help children become more comfortable with routines and expectations. While a home schedule may not mirror the school day exactly, it can reinforce the idea that specific times are set aside for specific activities and responsibilities.
  2. Encourage Independence. Children at this age take great pride in completing tasks on their own. Encouraging independence through everyday tasks can build self-confidence and help children feel prepared for kindergarten. Practice skills such as putting on shoes, zipping jackets, packing a backpack, and opening lunch items. Creating a simple checklist for leaving the house can also help children develop self-help skills. Tasks might include using the restroom, putting on shoes, fastening a seatbelt, and gathering belongings.
  3. Read Books about Kindergarten. Reading books about starting kindergarten is a great way to prepare children for this new experience. Many books explore common feelings associated with the first day of school, including excitement, curiosity, and nervousness. These stories help children understand that their emotions are normal and shared by others. Reading together also creates opportunities for parents/caregivers to answer questions, discuss concerns, and introduce healthy coping strategies. These conversations can help ease anxiety and build confidence before school begins.
  4. Focus on Social Skills. Kindergarten requires children to interact with peers, follow group expectations, and build new relationships. Providing opportunities for your child to play with others can help strengthen important social skills. Whether through playdates, family gatherings, community activities, or visits to the park, children can practice sharing, taking turns, cooperating, resolving conflicts, and using good manners. These experiences help children gain confidence in social settings and prepare them for success in the classroom.
  5. Practice the School Morning Routine. A few weeks before school starts, begin practicing the morning routine your child will follow during the school year. Gradually adjust bedtimes and wake-up times to align with the school schedule. It can also be helpful to familiarize your child with the trip to school by driving the route and pointing out where they will enter the building. Practicing these routines ahead of time can reduce anxiety and help children feel more comfortable on the first day.

Kindergarten is an exciting milestone filled with opportunities for learning, growth, and new friendships. By taking time to practice these five strategies, families can help children approach the first day with greater confidence and enthusiasm. While some nervousness is natural, preparation can make the transition smoother for both children and parents/caregivers. If you have concerns about your child’s adjustment to school, please reach out to your school’s Youth First Mental Health Professional or school counselor for support and guidance.

Tiffany Austin, MSW, LSW, is a Youth First Mental Health Professional at Glenwood Leadership Academy in Vanderburgh County. Youth First, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), prevention programs, parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel to 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families each year are served by Youth First’s school-based social work and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.

 

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Dealing with Anger: How to Help Your Child

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By Leah Doughty, LMHC – June 11, 2026 –

Anger can feel scary for both parents and children, especially if you don’t know how to talk about it or handle it healthily. Many parents think that if they do everything “right,” their child won’t have a problem with anger. But that isn’t realistic. All children feel many emotions, including anger, no matter how loving or supportive their parents are.

Childhood is full of fun, but it can also be hard. Children often feel confused, scared, or frustrated because they have little control over their lives. As they grow, hormones, school pressure, and activities can add even more stress. All of this can lead to anger.

Anger is a normal feeling that everyone has and does not make your child a “bad” child. Your job isn’t to stop your child from feeling angry. Your job is to help them learn safe and healthy ways to handle it.

Ways You Can Help Your Child Deal with Anger:

  1. Stay Calm. When your child is very angry, try to stay calm—even when it’s hard. When you stay calm, you help prevent the situation from getting worse. You are also teaching your child how to handle big feelings by showing them what it looks like.
  2. Let Your Child Know You Understand. If your child is angry, there is usually a reason. Let them know you see how they feel. You can say something simple like, “I can see how upset you are.” This works better than saying, “Calm down” or “It’s not a big deal.” When children feel understood, they are more likely to calm down and talk.
  3. Identify the Cause. Work with the child to understand what triggers their anger. Is it a feeling of being unsafe, controlled, or tired? Helping them identify the root cause fosters self-awareness.
  4. Help Them Get the Anger Out Safely. Help your child release their anger in healthy ways.
  • Young children might draw pictures of how they feel.
  • Older children may need to run, jump, or play outside.
  • Teenagers might like lifting weights or going for a walk.
  • Squeezing stress balls or popping bubble wrap can also help and can even lighten the mood.

Anger is part of life. Try not to shame your child for feeling angry, and don’t blame yourself as a parent. Anger happens to everyone. What matters is helping your child learn how to handle it safely and positively.

Some children struggle more with anger than others. This can happen because of big life changes, such as divorce, the loss of a loved one, or living with adults who have trouble managing their own anger. This does not mean you have failed as a parent. It means your family may need extra support. If your child’s anger feels hard to manage, talking to a professional can help. A good first step is to ask your child’s pediatrician for support and resources.

Leah Doughty, LMHC, is a Youth First Mental Health Professional at Mt. Vernon High School in Posey County. Youth First, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), prevention programs, parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel to 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families each year are served by Youth First’s school-based social work and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.

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Community Good Grants Awarded to Youth First, Inc.

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Grants to Provide Mental Health Support for Vanderburgh and Warrick County Students

June 10, 2026

(Evansville, IN) Youth First is celebrating a $10,000 Community Good Grant from the Vanderburgh Community Foundation and a $15,000 Community Good Grant from the Warrick County Community Foundation. This funding will strengthen the mental health and well-being of students in 32 Youth First partner schools in Vanderburgh County and 13 Youth First partner schools in Warrick County.

These grants will enable Youth First to provide its school-based student assistance program and family and community prevention programs to help students build valuable life skills and healthy mindsets as they grow into thriving adults and enter the workforce.

Youth First embeds highly trained mental health professionals in school buildings and partners with over 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Youth First Mental Health Professionals build caring relationships, promote healthy choices, foster readiness for positive change, and boost resiliency, along with other valuable life skills.

“Every grant we make is a testament to the power of local philanthropy,” said Alysia Rhinefort, Community Impact Director. Our donors make it possible for the Community Foundation to invest in organizations like Youth First that are improving lives and strengthening our community. We are honored to steward these resources and help turn generosity into meaningful impact.”

Youth First President & CEO Holli Sullivan shared, “Our kids and families are dealing with busier schedules, greater stress and more complex challenges than ever. That’s why it’s so important to have easy access to skilled mental health support and prevention programs in school buildings, where students, parents, and teachers can take full advantage of it. We are grateful for a partnership with the Community Foundation to build strong futures for kids.”

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About Youth First, Inc.:

Youth First, Inc. is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides prevention programs and over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel who assess needs, develop and implement prevention plans, and connect students and their families to vital resources in 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families per year are served by Youth First’s school-based student assistance program and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.

About the Community Foundation:

The Community Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to strengthen communities, today and for generations to come. Since its founding, the Foundation has directed nearly $80 million in grants to local nonprofits, supported scholarships for students, and invested in programs that make the region stronger, healthier, and more resilient. As a trusted convener and philanthropic leader, it works alongside donors, nonprofits, civic partners, and community members to address shared challenges and create lasting impact across Southwest Indiana.

 

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It’s Important to Help Children Identify Their Feelings

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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 vital role in a child’s well-being by supporting healthy relationships, improving problem-solving abilities, and promoting positive mental health.

Children experience a wide range of emotions, but they cannot always communicate what they are feeling. As a result, they may express their emotions through behaviors such as crying, screaming, withdrawing from others, or becoming uncooperative. These reactions often occur because children lack the vocabulary needed to describe their feelings and have not yet developed effective coping skills.

Teaching children to recognize and understand their emotions can help them develop essential life skills. One of the most important is self-awareness, a key component of emotional intelligence. According to Mental Health America, emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions, as well as those of others. Developing emotional intelligence can help children build stronger relationships, perform better academically, and maintain positive mental health.

Labeling emotions also helps children develop self-control and regulate their feelings in healthy ways. When children are encouraged to identify and explain their emotions, they gain a better understanding of their emotional responses. For example, allowing a child to name how they are feeling and discuss why they feel that way promotes self-awareness and emotional regulation. In my role as a social work intern with Youth First, we use “I-statements” to help children identify and express their feelings. This approach encourages reflection and helps children understand the situations that triggered their emotions, which is essential for developing self-regulation skills.

Understanding emotions can also help children develop empathy. When children recognize and understand their own feelings, they become better equipped to identify and respond to the emotions of others. This emotional awareness encourages children to consider different perspectives and fosters respectful, compassionate interactions. As a result, they are more likely to build positive relationships and communicate effectively with those around them.

Parents and guardians play a critical role in supporting emotional development. One of the most important steps is creating a warm and supportive environment where children feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings. Parents can help children develop emotional literacy by teaching them to recognize and label emotions, pay attention to facial expressions and body language, and connect emotions to physical sensations. Asking questions such as, “When you feel scared, where do you feel it in your body?” can help children better understand their emotional experiences.

Parents can also encourage emotional learning through activities such as reading books, watching movies, playing feeling charades, and using emotion-themed coloring sheets. These activities provide opportunities for children to explore and discuss emotions in engaging ways. Additionally, parents should model healthy emotional expression by practicing active listening, communicating feelings appropriately, and responding to others with empathy.

Children who learn to recognize and understand their emotions are more likely to develop healthy coping skills, regulate their emotional responses, and build positive relationships. They are also better prepared to handle conflict, overcome challenges, and demonstrate resilience. Emotional literacy is a lifelong skill that supports social and emotional well-being. By helping children develop this skill early in life, parents and guardians can provide a strong foundation for future success and overall well-being.

Madelynn Wood was a Youth First MSW Intern at Cynthia Heights Elementary School in Vanderburgh County. Youth First, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), prevention programs, parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel to 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families each year are served by Youth First’s school-based social work and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.

 

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