Though the holidays represent a time of fun, family time and tradition, they can also bring heightened stress. On top of everyday responsibilities, there are plenty of changes to your regular schedule including travel, hosting family dinners and possible financial burden. Integrated Pediatric Therapies director Jennie Marble recommends these tools to help your family thrive this holiday season.

Rapper T.I. is being criticized after recently revealing that he asks his daughter's doctor if her hymen is intact. His behavior, and obsession, over his daughter’s virginity is more than troubling – it also goes against what we stand for at Response for Teens.
 

It is estimated that about 1 in 4 Americans have a mental health condition but despite its prevalence, misunderstanding and stigma surround mental illness. 

Safety is a critical concern for many families who have children with low to non-functional communication. The most constructive way to face these concerns is to have a safety plan in place that is updated and addressed on a regular basis.

No matter how much parents or teachers try to keep the “bad things” away, children’s lives are touched by trauma. Parents and other adults may struggle with how to talk to kids about tragic events. Taking a proactive stance, discussing difficult events in an age-appropriate language while respecting their emotional intelligence and maturity level, helps children grapple with “grown-up” issues. Addressing tough topics not only makes kids feels safer, but also teaches them about the world and helps them become critical thinkers. By investing young children with knowledge, compassion and strong character, we can give them the tools they need to make things better.

When Earnest came to the SEP program, he regularly talked about two things: his knowledge of and experience with cleaning, and his love for animals.

When you have worked your whole life and a progression of circumstances place you in financial distress, some guidance and support go a long way toward security. After more than 20 years as an attorney with the same company, Barbara was laid off. On the recommendation of her rabbi, Barbara came to JVS Career & Employment for help finding a better paying job that was close to home and a good fit for her skills.

JCFS Chicago Knapp School and Park Plaza have embarked upon a new opportunity in which three students of the School’s Transitional and Career Services program are volunteering in Park Plaza’s kitchen and dining room, prepping food, serving drinks, busing tables, and performing many other tasks. 

It was a great summer for kids in kindergarten through 8th grade who attended the JCFS Chicago Hinaynee camp, which provided therapeutic support while school was out.

What do our parents and guardians have to say about the JCFS Knapp School and Yeshiva? Here are some highlights.