Children and Families

Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in their children’s health, development, and behavior. Raising happy and healthy kids is of primary concern for all of them. Penn State Extension supports parents, caregivers, and education professionals with valuable resources on the ins and outs of child care. Here, you will find information on topics such as nutrition, education, and drug and alcohol prevention.

Raising Healthy Children

To raise strong and healthy kids, parents and caregivers should consider factors such as the child’s diet, physical activity, and stress levels.

Physical Activity and Nutrition

A lack of exercise combined with poor nutrition can contribute to childhood obesity and increase the risks of associated diseases. It is therefore advised that kids get at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily along with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, protein, whole grains, and good fats.

Encouraging children to make healthier choices is a lot easier when they have a good example to follow. Parenting tips to consider include having frequent family meals and empowering kids to have a positive sports experience.

Habits formed in childhood often determine the kid’s health in their adolescent years. Learn more about improving the quality of child care and education practices with Penn State Extension’s Better Kid Care program. The program involves researched-based resources and training for early childhood and school-age practitioners.

Stress in Children and Youth

Stress is a normal part of life at every age, but it can easily become overwhelming. Common stressors in kids and teenagers include learning new things at school, making friends, dealing with bullying, and experiencing tension at home.

Transitioning from childcare, nursery, or home to a school setting can be a big stress factor, as well. Discover parenting techniques that will help you support your child and build a solid foundation for learning with Penn State Extension’s Kindergarten Readiness video series.

To better help children cope with stressful situations, it’s essential that caregivers understand the three types of stress – positive, tolerable, and toxic – as well as their varying outcomes. Parents and other caregivers can further take action by building a nurturing relationship with their children from infancy and throughout childhood.

In the Child Care section, gain access to the ABCs of Growing Healthy Kids articles and find parenting advice on topics such as food, hygiene, bullying, and social media use.

Keeping Children Safe: Alcohol and Drug Prevention

Alcohol and drug prevention starts with parents, which is why it’s essential that they learn how to talk and listen to their children. Communication often becomes more challenging as kids get older, so it’s important to tackle the topic early on.

Nowadays, there are many high-quality programs that can help enhance positive development and decrease problem behaviors among youths. PROSPER (PROmoting School-Community-University Partnerships to Enhance Resilience), for instance, is a partnership that provides families with scientifically-proven prevention programs.

Learn more about preventing substance use in the Alcohol and Drug Prevention section. In addition, gain access to the PROSPER program and discover tips for parent-teacher conferences.