Skip to navigation Skip to content

Tactical Menu

  • People
  • Counties
  • News
  • Topics
  • Programs
  • Online courses
  • Events
  • Publications
  • Products/Services
  • Missouri 4-H

Breadcrumb

  1. Home
  2. Topic

Topic

Health and human sciences : article

10 tips to keep the romance in relationships

Keep the spark alive with these 10 expert-backed tips to nurture romance, deepen connection, and strengthen your relationship every day.

2023 MU leadership tour showcases partnerships in NE Missouri

What do a lavender farm, a distillery, a lively coffee shop, dozens of cover crop test plots and a college and careers pathway program for youth have in common? They show how the University of Missouri works to strengthen Missouri’s economy and empower people to improve their lives.

4-H alumnus profile: Richard Maltsbarger

“In good times, 4-H is a wonderful resource to help develop the youth of America and around the world. In hard times, like what we’re going to feel through this crisis and into the coming recession, that value expands exponentially,” said Richard Maltsbarger, president and CEO of Pet Retail Brands…

4-H Goes Online now live through MU Extension 4-H

COLUMBIA, Mo. – This fall, Missouri youths ages 5-18 and the volunteers and faculty who serve them will have access to projects in 4-H Goes Online through Canvas, an easy-to-use online learning platform.

4-H program strengthens family ties between children and incarcerated parents

CHILLICOTHE, Mo. – Prison isn't normally thought of as a place to nurture family growth, but one weekend each month dozens of sons, daughters, mothers and grandmothers travel across the state for that very reason.

4-H to award funding to state programs to grow true leaders

COLUMBIA, Mo. – 4-H, the largest youth development program in the nation, is calling on alumni and supporters to raise their hands to help bring 4-H to 10 million youth by 2025. Currently, 4-H empowers nearly 6 million young people in every county across America, including more than 190,000 4-H’ers…

48 compete in 4-H meat judging contest

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The University of Missouri Extension 4-H State Meats Judging contest on Feb. 17 drew 48 competitors, said Don Nicholson, Missouri 4-H interim associate director.

8 reasons young children misbehave

BLUE SPRINGS, Mo.–You're in the middle of a crowded grocery story and your 3-year-old grabs a candy bar from the shelf. You quietly tell him to put it back. He screams at the top of his lungs and throws himself on the floor. You feel that all eyes are on you and you want to become invisible.

A Handwritten Note to a Neighbor Can Be a Game Changer

A handwritten note can have a powerful impact, offering a personal touch that builds connections and encourages others, especially in times of isolation.

Active aging — Stay strong and stay healthy

When people talk about being physically active, many think of aerobic activities, but it is also about being strong. Getting the heart and lungs working to full capacity has great health benefits. Walking is perhaps the most common form of this type of exercise. When the weather permits, the…

Adult children and aging parents

BLUE SPRINGS, Mo.–Members of the baby boomer generation are starting to retire, but that doesn’t mean they are entering a carefree phase of life. Their kids may be all grown up, but boomers who still have a living parent are facing new responsibilities, notes a University of Missouri Extension…

Afterschool, extension professionals learn fundraising sustainability at Lilly Family School of Philanthropy

COLUMBIA, Mo. – More than a dozen working professionals from the afterschool field and University of Missouri Extension recently completed training from The Fund Raising School at Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, learning important fundraising principles and strategies for…

An open letter to the Missouri agriculture community

Rebecca Mott and John Tummons, University of Missouri professors, researchers, livestock producers and parents, share their insights — including Mott’s research on youth livestock production — about handling disappointment and focusing on caring connections in the time of COVID-19.

Are you crazy busy? Setting priorities are key to regaining joy (and sanity)

“Hello, I am busy.” That has nearly become the standard greeting in the United States of America. But there is an answer that brings improvement, and it is not simply better “time management,” according to David Burton, county engagement specialist in community economic development with…

Avoid a holiday meltdown

Columbia, Mo. – We expect the winter holidays to be full of happiness and good will. Just like Charles Dickens’ "A Christmas Carol," we want a fairytale ending where troubles disappear and everyone basks in the glow of holiday spirit. But, "A Tale of Two Cities" might better represent typical…

Back-to-school nutrition

Be wary of energy drinks

Despite their popularity, energy drinks are not the best option nutritionally, said Tammy Roberts, former University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health education specialist.“Unfortunately, the energy in these drinks comes from sugar and stimulants like caffeine, guarana, ginseng and green…

Beans are inexpensive, healthy and convenient

Beans are one of the best values around when it comes to the amount of nutrients for your dollar. One cup of cooked pinto beans provides 14 grams of fiber, 14 grams of protein, less than one gram of fat and around 230 calories.

Beyond the show ring

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Nineteen youths from across the state came to Columbia on May 5 to compete in the first Missouri FFA Swine Facility Management Contest.The event, hosted by the University of Missouri and the Missouri Pork Association, took place at the Mizzou Swine Teaching and Research Farm, part…

Brussels sprouts can be a nutritious treat

Brussels sprouts, the green cruciferous vegetables sometimes referred to by children as “cannon balls,” are not typically a favorite from the vegetable group. But when they are selected well, eaten soon after they are picked and cooked properly, they can be a nutritious treat.

Camp Ca-Pow sparks love and giving

COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri alumni Alyssa Roost, BHS ’16, and Matt Praiswater, BS ’15, met in 2016 when they worked as interns for Camp Ca-Pow (College Access-Planning Our Way), a program that helps middle school students explore career and college opportunities.

Celebrating afterschool professionals

As we mark Afterschool Professional Appreciation Week, it’s time to turn our attention to the unsung heroes who are the driving force behind afterschool programs.

Chancellor announces new vision for MU Extension and Engagement

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – University of Missouri Chancellor Alexander Cartwright announced a new vision for MU Extension and Engagement to fulfill what he referred to as an “all things Missouri” mission.

Check your home for toxic plants

COLUMBIA, Mo. – It is estimated that more than 700 plant species growing in North America can have harmful effects on humans, said University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein.

Child care gaps cost Missouri $1.15 billion per year, research finds

COLUMBIA, Mo. – A new report from University of Missouri Extension reveals a staggering economic toll of Missouri’s child care crisis: an estimated $1.15 billion lost each year due to access challenges.

Choose lean ground beef for better health

While shopping at the grocery store, it is easy to spend a long time at the meat counter trying to make a decision about which package of ground beef to buy. There are percentages written on the package and there is a big price difference. For health, it is best to purchase the leanest ground beef.

Connecting and protecting Knox County

EDINA, Mo. – Jennifer Eldridge Houser never imagined that her Ph.D. in public health education would be put to such urgent use for Knox County’s 5,000 residents. After years of teaching epidemiology at Truman State University, Eldridge knew just how to respond when a global pandemic put communities…

Connecting with science

COLUMBIA, Mo. – More than 600 young scientists and their families joined University of Missouri researchers Feb. 7 at the second annual Columbia Young Scientists Expo, sponsored by The Connector, a program that builds relationships between researchers and communities.

Dietary Guidelines for Americans

Every five years the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services publish the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. These guidelines are developed by an expert panel of nutrition and health professionals to help all Americans consume a healthy and nutritionally adequate diet.

Donors help launch Barton County 4-H endowment fund

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri 4-H Foundation, in partnership with the Barton County 4-H Council, has established the Barton County 4-H Endowment Fund thanks to generous contributions by the Hugh and Fran Nutt family and Don Lucietta. The fund will be used to provide sustainable support for the…

Don’t be fooled by fancy food labels — read the ingredients

These days many people are very intentional about selecting healthy and nutritious foods for themselves and their families. And yet even the most conscientious may be fooled by fancy food labels that cleverly make consumers think they are getting something better than they are. Some tricks have…

Everyone benefits from family meals

Following more than 10 years of research, The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University consistently found that kids who eat dinner with their families are less likely to smoke, drink or use drugs.

Experts see rise in sloth fever among travelers

COLUMBIA, Mo. – If winter travels are in your plans, you might bring back more than just a sunburn and souvenirs. Emily Althoff, extension urban entomologist for the University of Missouri and Lincoln University, says travelers who become ill after visiting South and Central America should let…

Feed your young athlete for maximum performance

Discover nutrition tips to fuel young athletes for energy, focus, and peak performance on and off the field.

File a tax return even if you don't have to

COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension personal finance specialist Andrew Zumwalt offers three reasons why you should file a tax return even if it is not required.

Food labeled as “natural” isn’t necessarily healthy

According to an August 2008 issue of Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter, we are spending $13 billion per year on foods labeled as “natural.” The word “natural” makes it seem like the food is better for you, but that isn’t necessarily the case.

For Aaron Baker, 4-H is a family heritage

Aaron BakerIn 1999 the Dixie Chicks sang the lyrics, "Both members of the 4-H club, both active in the FFA," in t

Free Seasonal and Simple app

The Seasonal and Simple smart phone application is available for both iOS and Android devices. The application is free to download.

Getting employees in recovery back into the workplace

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Opioid addiction keeps an estimated 1 million Missourians out of the workforce and costs the state about $1 million an hour, including the loss of jobs and wages.

Good nutrition can be a tough sell to finicky eaters

The picky food preferences of children can make even the best of parents struggle to ensure their child eats right and to keep mealtimes from being a battle.

Green up your eating plan

Summer is a great time to “green up” your diet by eating more fresh or cooked greens.

Healthy habits for your preschool-aged child

Preschool is a good time to help your child develop good eating habits. Because your child is with you most of the time, it is easier to influence their food choices. Keep in mind that the eating habits learned during this time can be carried into the future.

Heatstroke can kill quickly in hot cars

COLUMBIA, Mo. – When the news has another tragic story about a child accidentally left in a hot car, parents might believe they could never make a mistake like that.

Helping children cope with a parent's job loss

BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. – A change in financial status due to the loss of a job is a difficult crisis for families to experience. How parents handle the situation can influence their children, so it is important to communicate with them in an age-appropriate way, said a University of Missouri Extension…

Helping children develop good health habits

Parents play an important role in helping their children develop good health habits. Healthy children eat well, live a physically active life and feel good about themselves and others.

His time to lead

COLUMBIA, Mo. – For Mike Kateman, selling his grand champion reserve calf, Boots, was a great life lesson, and joining 4-H was just an expectation.“You really learn to be competitive, but to be competitive with yourself in terms of ‘how can I continually do better?’” he said.

Holidays can be lonely for some

MACON, Mo. – Upcoming gatherings can be a sad reminder of who’s not home for the holidays this year.

Horse Bowl tests youth on equine knowledge

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri Horse Shows Association (MHSA) and University of Missouri Extension in Boone County hosted a Horse Bowl competition in Columbia at the Stephens College campus Jan. 27.

How to hobgoblin safely

BOONVILLE, Mo. – Halloween is full of scary images. But nothing is scarier than a child’s safety being compromised, says Sarah Traub, University of Missouri Extension human development and family studies specialist.

Immersion program provides students rural medical experience

The Rural Immersion program offers medical students valuable hands-on experience in rural health care, fostering connections with local health professionals.

Locally grown fruits and vegetables a great choice

Efforts to expand farmers markets are making locally grown fruits and vegetables more accessible for consumers. When you buy locally grown food, you not only contribute to your personal health, you also support Missouri farmers and enhance the economic well-being of area communities.

Make a mystery meal into a culinary delight

It’s time to eat. You open the fridge and find some brown rice, a small piece of meat and some leftover vegetables. How can this possibly become a meal?

Make the most of your food dollars

Master Showman Competitions: Displaying Youths’ Hard Work

The Issue 4-H and FFA Livestock projects impact youth life skill development in motivation, responsibility, goal setting, discipline, and leadership (Anderson et al., 2015; Boleman et al., 2004; Evans, et al. 2019; Heavner et al., 2011; Rusk et al, 2003).

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

University of Missouri Extension has information and resources for individuals, families, caregivers and others.

Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean diet is known for boosting health and lowering risk for chronic diseases like heart

Middle school youth explore nontraditional careers at MU

COLUMBIA, Mo. – More than 70 middle school students became Mizzou Tigers for a day at a nontraditional career exploration event sponsored by University of Missouri campus partners and Commerce Bank on Wednesday, April 4.

Missouri 4-H'ers exceed 250,000-meal food drive goal

Missouri 4-H youth surpassed their goal by raising nearly 300,000 meals during a statewide food drive, helping hunger relief efforts amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Missouri College Advising Corps marks 10 years of service

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri College Advising Corps, headquartered at the University of Missouri, has helped more than 20,000 students enroll in college since 2008. As it begins its second decade, MCAC is poised to help even more students.

Mobilizing mask makers in NW Missouri

CAMERON, Mo. – Volunteers across northwestern Missouri have mobilized into a virtual sewing factory, turning out homemade masks to help protect local health care providers and emergency responders against COVID-19. Their goal is 15,000 masks, and volunteers have already completed — or are actively…

MU clinic offering teleservices for COVID-19 stress

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The University of Missouri Psychological Services Clinic is offering teleservices to help adults and children cope with anxiety and stress related to COVID-19. The clinic offers up to five brief sessions through videoconferencing or telephone, said Debora Bell, longtime director of…

MU Extension and Show-Me ECHO partnership

MU Extension and Show-Me ECHO partnershipAmy Bartels, Human Development & Family Science Specialist WC Region

MU Extension provides a tenfold return on funding

COLUMBIA, Mo. – A recently completed assessment of University of Missouri Extension found that with an annual investment of $86 million (2016), MU Extension generated dividends totaling nearly $950 million.

MU Extension, Platte County 4-H Pivots to Meet the Needs of Today’s Youth

Kansas City, MO., October 19, 2020. Meet Emma M., a 3rd year member of Hoover Heroes 4-H Club. She is passionate about increasing her life skills through her interests in entomology (study of bugs).

MU's Jo Turner to join National 4-H Hall of Fame

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Linda “Jo” Turner, retired Missouri 4-H program leader and former interim director of University of Missouri Extension, will be inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame Oct. 19 at the National 4-H Youth Conference Center in Chevy Chase, Md.

National College Advising Corps to receive national honor for volunteer service

Chicago, IL- On Thursday, June 14, 2012, the National College Advising Corps received the 2012 National Service Impact Award from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) in Chicago.

New physical activity recommendations

The American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association have released their 2007 recommendations for physical activity. These guidelines have been revised since the last update in 1995. Their goal is to help people live more active and healthy lives.

Nutritional supplements

The use of dietary supplements has grown dramatically over the last decade.

Organic produce – Is it the best choice?

Most of us would like to feed ourselves and our families the most nutritious foods we can. Sometimes, however, it is not clear what choice to make.

Pick a peck of peppers this summer

Peppers come in a variety of colors, shapes, sizes and flavors ranging from sweet to spicy hot. They are a colorful addition to any meal, or they can be enjoyed as a snack on their own.

Pills, powders can't replace training and diet for young athletes

Young athletes, eager to be a starting player or earn a scholarship, may be tempted to follow the lead of pros and use performance enhancers to gain a competitive edge.

Play helps farmers talk about succession planning

CHILLICOTHE, Mo. - University of Missouri Extension will present a free play to help farmers talk about succession planning, 7-9 p.m. Friday, June 10, at the Gary Dickinson Performing Arts Center at Chillicothe High School.

Recovery Friendly Workplace-Missouri has new community resources

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Addiction costs Missouri $1.4 million per hour, but a recovery-friendly workplace can increase profits for businesses and foster an employee-focused culture.

Reduce your food budget

Reducing TV/Internet time is good for the whole family

BLUE SPRINGS, Mo.–Are you hassling the kids every night to do their homework when they want to spend too much time watching TV, playing video games or surfing the Internet?

Show Me Resilience

Show Me Resilience. In challenging times, Missourians come together. This simple phrase illustrates how University of Missouri Extension and communities across the state are showing up for each other.

Sports nutrition for better performance

You train hard, learn about the latest techniques and make sure your equipment is top-notch.

Spring into savings at the grocery store

You don’t have to be an extreme couponer to save money on your groceries. Here are nine things you can do to save your family about $200 a month.

Stoddard County art show

What would you do if nearly 2,500 people showed up for an art exhibit in your small county office?

Strengthening families for healthier youths and communities

Strengthening Families helps preteens and parents build communication skills, reduce stress, and foster resilience for healthier youth and communities.

Success in school is a family affair

OZARK, Mo. — Teachers have children in the classroom for about seven hours a day, but what happens during the other 17 hours can make or break your child’s success in school.Attitude can make all the difference, says a University of Missouri Extension human development specialist.

Suicide rate higher in rural areas

COLUMBIA, Mo. – For many, the peace and quiet of country living is the American dream. But that dream can turn to a nightmare for those who become isolated and disconnected from their communities, says University of Missouri Extension safety and health specialist Karen Funkenbusch.

Summer can create challenges for food budget

It is important to provide balanced, nutritious meals for your children throughout the summer. Unfortunately, summertime can pose challenges to the family food budget because children are eating more meals at home.

Summit challenges youth to lead with courage

Missouri youth summit empowers teens to lead with courage, focusing on leadership, service, and community action projects.

Survey Results of COVID-19 Remote Arrangements

University of Missouri Extension Wright County Engagement Specialist Janice Weddle and University of Missouri Extension Douglas County Engagement Specialist Dr.

The ABZzzzs: Set child’s routine for healthy sleep

HIGGINSVILLE, Mo. - Sleep is as important to a child’s growth and development as nutritious food and exercise.

The peaks and valleys of travel

Traveling to the mountains for vacation this summer? Or is the beach more your style? Either way, let’s explore the peaks and valleys of travel in regard to stress and mental health.

The power of protein

Everywhere we look we see new, great protein-boosted drinks and foods. But how much protein is really needed, and do Americans get enough or too much?

Time flies, so don't waste it

CARTHAGE, Mo. – Everyone has the same 24 hours in a day.  However, the way you use those hours can mean the difference between getting important things done and just doing tasks.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are among the most readily available and versatile vegetables. Or are they a fruit? Nutritionally and culinary-wise, tomatoes are considered a vegetable because of the way they are used and their nutrients. Botanically speaking, tomatoes are more of a fruit.

University of Missouri leads call for broadband

Editorial by Marshall Stewart, vice chancellor for extension and engagement and chief engagement officer for UM System.

Vacationing on a budget

The summer is almost here and that usually means families hit the road. But with high gas prices and a sluggish economy, many are having second thoughts about this year's vacation. Yet family fun doesn't have to break the bank. Learn how in this video news story.

Want a healthy independent lifestyle? There’s a class for that

An 8-week program to improve strength, balance, and flexibility for older adults, promoting independence and reducing fall risks. Learn more through this class.

Wantland tops 2020 State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest

SEDALIA, Mo. – The State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest looked somewhat different this year, but Lila Wantland remained consistent and led the field in dominating fashion at the Aug. 22 event held at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. Wantland repeated her 2019 win, following up 2018 and 2017 victories…

Warrensburg Adventure Club provides stability, support and a sense of belonging

Warrensburg R6 Adventure Club provides children with stability, support, and a sense of belonging through holistic development and community engagement.
Displaying 1 - 95 of 95

MU Logo

University of Missouri

Connect with MU Extension

Use our contact form

Find a specialist

Find an office near you

Donate

About us

Careers

Equal opportunity/ADA institution

Español

For employees

Extension councils

Noncredit conversion policy

Permissions policy

Return/refund policies

Shipping policy

Privacy policy

Terms and conditions

MU is an equal opportunity employer.

© 2025 — Curators of the University of Missouri. All rights reserved. DMCA and other copyright information. Privacy policy