Parent Alert March 2025

By rbean | May 28, 2025 |

The Positive Impact of Resiliency Training

Developing resilience is an important part of adolescent development. Society tends to think that kids are naturally resilient because they do not always respond to trauma or other negative experiences the same way adults do. Resilience skills include expressing emotions in a healthy way, developing coping strategies and problem-solving skills, and knowing when to ask for help. These skills must be learned and practiced throughout adolescence to increase positive outcomes.

Resiliency training, or Positive Youth Development (PYD), is based on research showing that providing youth with protective factors teaches them to stay away from risky behaviors and stay on course for healthy development. Adults can help develop these skills by setting clear expectations for behaviors and values, being supportive, and encouraging children to get involved in school or community activities. Parents, teachers, and community members share a responsibility to ensure that children are equipped with the skills they need to deal with negative situations. Children who learn to be resilient have an increased likelihood to experience positive outcomes including:

Healthier relationships
Expressing emotions in a healthy and productive way
Having the ability to push through adversity
Being able to say no to peer pressure

You play an important role in teaching your child how to be resilient. You can do this by providing them with emotional and moral support, reinforcing positive social values and norms, and most importantly, creating an environment in which they feel comfortable talking to you about anything. Please visit the links below to learn more.

Resources

Family and Youth Services Bureau – Positive Youth Development
Jonny Shannon – How to Develop Resilience and Grit in Teenagers and Kids
Kidcentral TN – Building Resilience Helps Prevent Risky Teen Behaviors

March 2025 Awareness

Wayne County Coalitions strives to observe the many different awareness events throughout the year that focus on mental health, substance use prevention, and other important topics. Please visit the links below for information and resources.

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week (March 17 – 23): This annual health observance aims to start conversations about and advance the science of drug use and addiction among youth.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: An estimated 15% of the world’s population lives with a disability. March raises awareness about the inclusion of these individuals and addresses the barriers they face.

National Women’s History Month: Another name for this observance is Gender Equality Month which recognizes the importance of working towards equality for all people regardless of gender identity. This year’s theme, Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations, celebrates the women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership.

National Social Work Month: Social workers are at the forefront of supporting the needs of communities and individuals. Their compassion and hard work help address issues ranging from mental health disorders to income inequality.

National Nutrition Month: The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics celebrates National Nutrition Month in March to focus attention on “the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.” One way you can participate in this celebration is by setting a nutrition or exercise goal.

Resources

National Institute on Drug Abuse – Learn About National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week
National Today – National Disabilities Awareness Month
National Today – National Women’s History Month
National Women’s History Alliance – Women’s History 2025 Theme
International Women’s Day 2025
National Association of Social Workers – Social Work Month
National Day Calendar – National Nutrition Month
eatright.org – About National Nutrition Month

Binge drinking has many negative health effects. Celebrations for St. Patrick’s Day and the March Madness college basketball tournament often encourage drinking to excess. You can still have a good time without consuming too much. Check out the links below to learn more.

Resources

OhioHealth Blog – The Effects of Binge Drinking on the Body

The Times Leader – March mindfulness: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day safely and responsibly
Addiction.org – The Real March Madness

Thank you for being a vital part of our community!

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