Content by Audrey Rider

SDSU Extension Early Childhood Field Specialist Audrey Rider reading a book to a group of four children.

Reading for Resilience

Caregivers play a significant role in young children’s emotional development in addition to helping them cope. Using children’s literature in an interactive way, caregivers can help children heal. Using an engaging format, Read for Resilience may help children better understand their experiences and improve their coping skills.

Daughter and happy mother join hands in heart shape.

Teaching Kids To Be Grateful

Research shows that gratitude plays a big part in our well-being and can even reduce stress and depression over time. So how can we start teaching our children gratitude starting at birth?

SDSU Extension experts receive national awards for mental health, early childhood programming

October 17, 2023

SDSU Extension’s Mental Health First Aid team received a regional Excellence in Extension Team Award, and SDSU Extension Early Childhood Field Specialist Audrey Rider is on the team that won a regional and national Excellence in Multi-State Collaboration Award from the National Extension Association for Family and Consumer Sciences.

Grandmother and grandchild using a tablet.

Media Use for Young Children

Like it or not, screens are here to stay. What you expose children to and how you share it with them can make a difference in whether or not learning takes place during screen time.

Mother and son reading bedtime story under a blanket.

Quality Versus Quantity

Children need high-quality and truly “connected time” with their parents to feel supported and help develop social and emotional skills. Learn some expert tips for making high-quality moments with your kids.

Mother and daughter packing backpack and brown lunch bag.

Getting Ready for School!

Where did summer go? Several schools are starting soon. By taking some proactive steps, you can set yourself up for a healthy, successful start to the new school year.

Child wearing a sunhat.

Keeping Your Kids Safe in the Sun and Heat

Have you been spending lots of time in the sun this summer? Before you take off for our state's parks and lakes, consider these sun safety tips.

Two children reading a book on their lawn.

Summer Learning: Fun Ideas

Summer is almost here! Learn some tips and ideas to keep your kids' development on pace during the break by offering fun opportunities to read!

Family walking in an open, country field.

Get Your Kids Outside This Summer

Daily experiences in natural environments can have immediate and long-lasting benefits for children, including decreases in depression and anxiety. Learn some tips and ideas for getting your family outdoors this summer!

Mother pushing laundry basket along the floor with two children riding inside it.

Spend Time Playing During Christmas Break!

This Christmas break, challenge yourself to take time to play with your child and be present with them. Remember that experiences, no matter how big or little, will be the memories you and your child will remember for years to come!