Families

Creative Solutions to Holiday Stress

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.

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New HBO show, “Euphoria,” shines a stark light on adolescent issues

There’s a new teen drama on HBO that parents will want to know about. Euphoria follows "a group of high school students as they navigate drugs, sex, identity, trauma, social media, love and friendship." Euphoria will no doubt attract a teen audience. JCFS Chicago Response for Teens encourages parents and caregivers to watch Euphoria – and other teen-oriented shows – with your children. Here are some additional tips for talking with your kids about provocative media.

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We're All in This Together: Handling the Transition to Middle School

A child’s school-age years are filled with many different lessons and experiences, including the challenges of peer acceptance and positive socialization. While many students attend elementary school together for years, children in foster care have the added burden of coming into a school or social setting as the “new kid,” a label that is hard to overcome for many children with poor self-esteem and trauma history. Making the transition from elementary school to middle school or junior high can be stressful, especially for foster children. The National Education Association offers ways that students and parents can successfully manage this transition.

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