News & Library
Keep up with the latest news about Firefly Children and Family Alliance, from recent announcements to new programs and services
SCHOOL BREAK SOLUTIONS: AFFORDABLE CHILDCARE AND PROGRAMS FOR KIDS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
Fall and spring break, winter vacation, holidays, early dismissals and school closings. Do these phrases generate a feeling of excitement for our kids? Absolutely. Do these same phrases cause a sense of mild panic or anxiety for parents. Yes, they sure can!
EXPLORING A CAREER IN SOCIAL WORK?
“What do you want to do with your life?” is a question we all must ponder at some point. College, high school, and even junior high students are being asked to make a career choice earlier and earlier. For some of us, discovering our path in life comes easily and for others it’s more difficult. I knew I wanted to be a Social Worker in elementary school, but I didn’t know that’s what it was called. I just knew I wanted to help children.
FREE AND LOW-COST SPRING BREAK ACTIVITIES IN INDY
While Mother Nature may not be aware, many of us are trying to enjoy a spring break staycation, since traveling isn’t always in the budget. Instead of binge-watching Netflix or playing video games all day, there are plenty of activities to get out of the house and have some fun! Here are some free or low-cost activities to do in Indy during spring break:
BUILDING A BETTER BRAIN: EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT AND MENTAL HEALTH
HOW BUILDING BETTER BRAINS MAKES A BETTER FUTURE FOR ALL
Families are the first nurturers, educators, protectors, and caregivers in our society. When our families are strong and healthy, our community thrives. This is the reason why Families First exists.
TEEN DATING VIOLENCE
Did you know that teens in an abusive relationship are more likely to harm or abuse themselves? They are also more likely to become involved in an abusive relationship as an adult. Congress designated February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month in 2010 and Families First wants to bring attention to this very prevalent issue. While it’s always a great time to talk to teens about healthy relationships, this month serves as an opportunity to start the conversation on dating violence if you haven’t already.
FUN, EASY PROJECTS TO MAKE WITH STUFF AROUND THE HOUSE
We’ve been having a LOT of wet and cold days this winter in Indianapolis, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop when you’re stuck indoors. It’s a great time to try something new. With just a few household items, you can make some really sweet family memories with your children, and learn a new skill or hobby together!
These projects are all easy to make, with minimal materials or ingredients. Most of these items are things you probably have around the house. Not only that, the following tutorial videos are for some of the most popular DIY projects that the kids are into these days. We hope you try one (or all of them) and have fun!
TECHNOLOGY TOOLS TO STAY CURRENT ON PUBLIC POLICY ISSUES
Do you care about making policy changes but think you have no time to make your voice heard? There are ways to stay involved with local public policy issues without having to camp out at your local state house. It’s a busy world out there and it can be hard to work, care for your family, and make your voice heard on the political front. Fortunately, technology now makes it possible to stay up to date and be active on issues you care about. Here’s a few ways to be actively engaged in your community:
SOBRIETY OFFERS OPPORTUNITY TO HELP OTHERS FIND A NEW NORMAL
Sometimes family is there to show us the way…but sometimes they’re part of the problem. From the time he was a child, Nick experimented with various substances that were available to him through his family. On and off drugs throughout his life, he began dealing, and the partying eventually led to addiction. Nick and his wife shared this addiction while raising their 2 daughters age 7 and 8. Nick sees now that they were both oblivious to the pain and destruction their substance abuse was imposing upon their family.