April 27, 2021
Strengthening Kansas Families
Submitted by Deb Andres & Shandi Andres
The well-being of every county in Kansas depends on strong and loving families. They have the job of producing the next generation of emotionally healthy, responsible, educated citizens who are addiction-free and prepared to maintain the physical and social infrastructure of society. Research shows well-trained parents help youth avoid substance abuse and have better life outcomes:
“Strong families avoid many adverse outcomes: substance abuse, teen pregnancy, school failure, aggression, and delinquency.” (Hops, et al., 2001)
Kansas, like many other states across the United States, has seen a significant increase in teen and adult suicide, depression, substance abuse, addiction and other behavior choices that have a negative effect on the health of our residents (See https://www.americashealthrankings.org/explore/annual/measure/Suicide/state/KS). This challenging trend has only gained more traction in the shadow of the COVID19 pandemic. Families need as many tools as they can acquire to work through these challenges and build on their existing strengths!
A broader research-supported understanding of the impact these negative choices have on parents and their developing children is foundational to this program. SFP was specifically crafted to train parents and youth in family relationship skills and refusal skills that keep children safe from both addiction and adverse childhood experiences (ACE’s).
K-State Research and Extension has a critical role to play in strengthening families. Join us for an in-person training on June 7 and 8 at the Morris County 4-H building in Council Grove. In following KSRE and Morris County health department COVID protocols, there are a limited number of seats open for the training so please register early at http://bit.ly/SFP7-17.
If you are unable to or uncomfortable participating in the face-to-face training in June, please note that an alternative training is planned for this fall to accommodate your needs.