Content by Audrey Rider

A child’s crayon drawing of various pets.

Losing Pets and Talking About Death

As we are dealing with illnesses and diseases running through our animal population, it is important to discuss the loss of a pets with children. Learn some expert tips for starting the conversation.

Young girl pretending to cook in a children's play kitchen.

Ages and Stages of Youth Development

Fact sheet on the ages and stages of youth development.

Group of young children climbing on a playground obstacle course.

Kids Are Tough, but They Still Need Resiliency Skills!

Kids are tough, but how can we teach them to become resilient and recover from the difficulties they will face during their childhood? Learn some tips to help children build resilience during difficult times.

Silhoutte of mother and daughter holding hands at sunset.

Helping Kids Cope and Understand Family Stressors

South Dakota and many of our neighboring states experience natural disasters and agricultural family stress. While we know this can cause added stress on adults and parents, don’t forget to visit with your children of all ages and help them cope with the added stress and changes in their routine.

Mother and young daughter wearing masks in an outdoor park.

Helping Kids Deal With Change

As we are all going through these times of change and uncertainty, remember to talk to your child or children in your care and don’t just avoid the behaviors.

Parents playing with their children in a living room.

All Kids and Adults Need To Play and Let Loose!

Movement and unstructured activity help increase memory, perception, attention, emotion and basic decision making. Incorporate play into your daily routine to improve your health while making memories with your kids!

An adult and several children's hands at a table planting a seedling in a container.

Grow Getters: Garden-Based Education for Preschool-3rd Grades

The “Grow Getters” series consists of lessons and resources to engage youth and families in hands-on, at-home activities related to gardening—even without a garden!

teacher with a small group of children learning at a table

Growing Active Readers

These lessons and activities bring together evidence-based environmental and behavioral changes to promote improved long-term health outcomes.

A young woman in workout clothes stretching on a pink yoga mat.

Keep Moving Indoors

There are so many opportunities to squeeze in activity during the day. The current Physical Activity Guidelines say that any activity counts towards meeting the recommended 150 minutes of activity each week. So, get creative, find what you enjoy and keep your body moving as much as possible every day. 

A young male student studying at the kitchen table with an older sister.

Managing Child Care Options When Schools Close

As schools and some child cares close across South Dakota, many parents are left scrambling for child care options.