Extension programs help families grow stronger as they navigate life’s challenges
Parenting isn’t easy — and neither are a myriad of other experiences that can arise in family life. To help people navigate situations like adjusting to co-parenting after a divorce, family disagreements and end-of-life planning, Extension professionals at land-grant universities lead research-backed initiatives that strengthen families and offer support for those going through difficult circumstances.
Here are a few examples of that work:
- An Oklahoma program aims to teach newly separated and divorced parents how to work as a team to minimize negative effects on their children and help them adjust to the situation. Participants reported creating formal co-parenting plans, avoiding putting children in the middle of conflict and encouraging their children to have positive relationships with the co-parent.
Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service; State appropriations, County funding. See full statement. - A program led by Extension professionals in Mississippi helps parents learn to create safe, nurturing environments for children who have endured maltreatment, abuse, neglect, multiple home placements and violence. Program leaders collaborate with courts and child protective services.
Mississippi State University Extension Service; Smith-Lever. See full statement. - Two Extension programs — one in Oklahoma and one in Wisconsin — strive to strengthen fathers’ parenting skills and give them a supportive space for conversations about their parenting experiences.
University of Wisconsin Extension; State appropriations. See full statement. Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service; State appropriations, Smith-Lever (3b&c). See full statement. - In New York, Extension personnel started a program to raise awareness of and offer solutions to the delicate issue of rifts that divide family members. The program features training and a web platform where people can share stories of estrangement and advice for reconciliation.
Cornell Cooperative Extension. See full statement. - Wisconsin Extension educators developed a series called Planning AHEAD, which includes seven modules that empower older adults to tackle the intimidating yet important task of end-of-life planning. Program participants learn about such topics as advance directives, estate planning, grief and having conversations with family members about their wishes.
University of Wisconsin Extension; State appropriations, Smith-Lever. See full statement.
