Parenting and families : publication
Karen B. DeBord and Vikki FlanaganDepartment of Human Development and Family Studies
This guide helps families manage common illnesses, recognize when to seek medical care, and make informed health decisions at home.
This guide explores how children express creativity and offers strategies for adults to nurture imaginative thinking.
Explore key developmental milestones for children aged 6–11, focusing on self-esteem, peer relationships, and communication skills.
Lynn Blinn Pike
Human Development and Family Studies Extension
The family council is a time for family concerns to be discussed. Visit our website to view our Family Councils: The Key is Communication.
Learn why family meals are important and how they help children develop healthy habits
Get tips for putting a healthy meal on the table in a short time, ideas for stocking the kitchen with quick-meal menu items, and involving children in meal preparation.
Learn how grandparents can navigate caregiving challenges, manage stress, find support, and build positive relationships with grandchildren.
Veronica Stovall
Center on Adolescent Sexuality, Pregnancy and Parenting
Explore practical strategies for families to balance media use and foster meaningful connections through intentional activities and mindful media choices.
Editor’s note The back of the PDF is a worksheet where you can write down or draw a picture of each activity you do without a screen during National Screen-Free Week — or any week you set this challenge for your family.
Learn to resolve everyday conflicts at home, work, and in relationships using practical negotiation strategies for mutual understanding.
Guidance on fostering children's self-esteem by helping them explore and develop their unique talents and learning styles.
Learn key traits that make families strong, including communication, appreciation, commitment, and connection to community.
This handout explains why parents share kids online, the risks involved, and tips for safer, more mindful posting to protect children's privacy and well-being.
Ashley Blake
Graduate assistant
Learn why investing in accessible, high-quality childcare can strengthen Missouri’s economy by reducing worker absences that benefit businesses and government.
Tanja Rothrauff
Graduate student
Human Development and Family Studies
Reviewed by Megan Roodhouse
Human Development and Family Studies
and Brian Bowles
ParentLink
Learn about effective and patient strategies for toilet training, signs of readiness, and tips for smooth transitions during this important milestone.
Learn how to support your child's large motor development with age-specific milestones and activity suggestions from birth to age six.