Often when we talk about self-care, it’s focused on the things we can do as individuals to handle stress. It’s also important to acknowledge that we are part of a larger community that experiences stress and offers strength.

OP's Training & Outreach program provides skill development for youth-serving providers to help serve girls and youth from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective.

Growing up, changing bodies, relationships and dating… all of these topics and more are covered in OP’s What You Wish You Learned in Health Class.

Youth are more dialed into elections or your feelings surrounding them than we might think. Help the young people in your family manage post-election anxiety with the following tips.

The Oregon wildfires reminded us that the best thing we can do to stay grounded and hopeful is to help others.

Relationships are a valuable part of a family and of growing up. While healthy relationships provide so much joy and value to the lives of youth, they also have their challenges. One tool that families and youth can use is a Relationship Bill of Rights.

The friendships teen make are an integral part of growing up with fun, memories, support, and growth. They also introduce challenges like gossip, bullying, and relational aggression. How can you best support your teens and their friendships?

What are the characteristics of a healthy family? What are some ways to build strong(er) family relationships? A child’s earliest relationships begin at the family level. Learn how to support youth by fostering healthy family relationships.

Think about an adult who was important to you when you were a teenager. A teacher? A youth group counselor? A cool aunt? Odds are, you can think of at least one adult who has made a difference in your life. What is it about them that makes them so memorable? Was it the way they talked to you? The way they made you feel?

How many times have you heard one of these? (Or said one of them?)

“You’re so smart for a 15-year-old.”

“You think this is hard? Wait until you’re older!”

“Would you grow up?”

Social media isn’t the only online tool for youth to stay connected.

We know the potential risks that social media plays in our young people’s lives. As parents and educators, many of our conversations with young people revolve around cyberbullying, hacking, online drama, and staying safe.

While COVID-19 requires all of us stay 6+ feet apart and at home, staying connected requires just a few swipes and clicks.

Young people use social media to stay in contact with friends, peers, and dating partners. And while parents may feel pressure to heavily regulate and monitor screen time, we need to remember that social media is helping youth stay connected to the people who are important to them.

How do you negotiate screen time when you and your kids are balancing school, work, and socializing? Creating a technology contract is a great place to start.

Teachers and youth-serving professionals are in the middle of striking a balance between being supportive to the people in your life, while also owning that you equally need extra support. Being vulnerable while collectively grieving can help.