On a Mission: Recent Episodes
Mission WV
The On a Mission Podcast guides real and raw conversations to increase understanding of issues we all experience such as communication, mental health, mindfulness, and relationships. Join in on the positive conversation and change the lives of youth and families.
Before your teen can build a healthy relationship with someone else, they need to understand who they are. In this episode of the On a Mission Podcast, we explore why self-awareness is the foundation for healthy dating and friendships—and how parents can help teens recognize their strengths, manage their weaknesses, and grow into the person they are meant to be.
Why do relationships feel so complicated for teens today? In this episode of the On a Mission Podcast, we explore the nonstop pressures of social media, peer influence, and fast-moving dating culture—and how parents can help their teens build a clear vision for healthy relationships. Walk away with three practical steps to guide meaningful conversations at home.
Emotions can feel like an unpredictable rollercoaster, especially during the teenage years. In this episode of On a Mission, we’re breaking down the basics in Emotions 101.
From understanding what emotions are and why they sometimes feel overwhelming to learning practical tips for managing those intense moments, we’re here to guide you through it all. Whether it’s happiness, sadness, anger, or fear, emotions are a natural part of life—and learning to navigate them is a crucial step in growing up.
With relatable examples and actionable advice, this episode is perfect for teens looking to better understand their feelings or for parents wanting to support their kids through life’s ups and downs. Don’t miss this essential guide to emotional well-being!
In this episode, we are tackling a conversation that every parent knows is important but often doesn’t know where to begin: talking about puberty with your teen. Kids today are bombarded with information from social media, TV, and their peers. While they may learn about puberty and even sex at a young age, that information isn’t always accurate or appropriate. Starting the conversation early, in a truthful and age-appropriate way, can make all the difference in helping them understand what’s happening to their body and emotions as they grow.
In this episode, we are tackling an important stage of life that every teen goes through—puberty.
Puberty is a time of big changes, both physical and emotional, and understanding what’s happening can make a huge difference for teens and the people who care about them. In this episode, we’re going to walk through the basics of puberty: from growth spurts to hormonal changes, mood shifts, and everything in between.
Whether you’re a parent preparing to talk to your teen, or a young person curious about what to expect, this episode will help you understand what’s happening to the body and mind during these pivotal years. We’ll break down the stages, explore the normal range of experiences, and talk about how to handle these changes with confidence and care.
So, let’s dive in and demystify puberty together!
This episode goes into the art of connecting with teenagers through communication that they can truly hear. Talking with teens can be a delicate process, especially in emotionally charged moments. Becky explores techniques for staying calm and collected so that, even when conversations get tough, your teen feels heard rather than pressured.
Listeners will learn practical methods for emotional self-regulation, like deep-breathing techniques and knowing when to take a timeout. Becky also shares advice on handling pushback, taking things less personally, and becoming a role model for positive communication. She explores what to share—and what to withhold—when discussing personal experiences, so teens get empathy without feeling overwhelmed.
Perfect for parents and caregivers eager to build a healthier, more open relationship with their teens, this episode is packed with resources to help you foster connection and trust. Join us as we discover how to keep conversations with teens productive, insightful, and authentic.
In this episode of On a Mission, we explore one of the biggest challenges parents face: talking to their teens. With emotional changes, a thirst for independence, and new social pressures, connecting with adolescents can be a daunting task. But open, effective communication is essential to building a strong, supportive relationship that will last well beyond the teenage years.
Becky shares a practical guide on the do’s and don’ts of engaging with teens, from asking the right questions to validating their experiences and avoiding conversation-stopping generalizations. Listeners will gain insights on active listening, empathetic responses, and staying calm through tough conversations. Plus, there are tips on setting clear expectations, modeling positive behavior, and understanding when professional help might be beneficial.
Tune in to discover strategies for building trust, encouraging independence, and supporting your teen as they navigate the complexities of adolescence. Perfect for parents, caregivers, and anyone invested in the well-being of young people, this episode offers tools for a more connected, compassionate approach to parenting.
In this episode of On a Mission, we tackles= a crucial topic for parents of teens: understanding birth control options. With one in four teens likely to become pregnant by age 20, it’s essential for parents to be prepared for open conversations about sexual and reproductive health. Becky covers the variety of contraceptive methods available today—from long-acting options like IUDs and implants to barrier methods and emergency contraception. She also discusses the effectiveness of each method, the importance of STI prevention, and how parents can support teens in making safe, informed choices.
Whether your teen is actively dating or simply entering a phase of curiosity, this episode provides practical insights on guiding them through this important aspect of growing up. Perfect for parents, caregivers, and educators, this episode is packed with resources and advice to help foster honest, supportive conversations about sexual health.
In this episode of On a Mission, we delve into the dynamics of relationships during adolescence. From friendships to dating and the evolving relationship between teens and their parents, Becky unpacks the foundation of healthy relationships, highlighting mutual respect, trust, and effective communication. She also explores the warning signs of unhealthy dynamics, addressing common challenges teens face as they navigate social connections.
Tune in as we discuss practical ways to support young people in forming lasting, positive relationships that will shape their lives and self-identity. Perfect for parents, educators, and those who care about adolescent well-being, this episode offers insights on guiding teens toward a lifetime of healthy connections.
Don’t miss this essential conversation on fostering resilience and relationship skills in today’s youth!
In this episode, we review some of the latest slang terms used by teens.
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In this episode of the On a Mission podcast, we are listening in on an interview that took place in our public access show hosted by Rachel Kinder. In this interview, she speaks with Autumn Wagoner, Youth Support Liaison about Meghan's Law.
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This episode of On a Mission tackles a subject that many parents of teenagers find daunting: how to have open and constructive conversations about dating and sex. We guide listeners through practical strategies for approaching these sensitive topics, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive and non-judgmental space for teens. From identifying the green flags of a healthy relationship to recognizing the warning signs of an unhealthy one, this episode is packed with invaluable advice for helping your teen navigate the complexities of relationships and sexuality.
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In this enlightening episode of "On A Mission," we delve into the critical topic of internet safety for teenagers, providing parents with the essential knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complex digital landscape. Our host explores the various online risks that teenagers face, such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and privacy breaches, and offers practical conversation starters to help parents initiate meaningful discussions with their teens. With a focus on educating teenagers about the importance of digital footprints, online scams, and the psychological impacts of internet misuse, this episode also highlights valuable US-based resources for further support. Whether you're looking to set healthy internet boundaries or foster critical thinking about digital content, this episode is a must-listen for parents seeking to protect and empower their teenagers in an increasingly connected world.
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In this concluding episode of "On a Mission" for National Adolescent Health Month™, Becky addresses the vital themes of eliminating health disparities and advancing equity, alongside the need for increased coordination and collaboration across various systems. She explores actionable steps towards creating a fair and supportive health landscape for all adolescents, emphasizing the importance of a united effort among healthcare providers, schools, community organizations, and families. Through advocacy, policy support, and listening to youth voices, Becky inspires listeners to commit to a continuous journey toward health equity and collaborative well-being.
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In this insightful episode of "On a Mission," host Becky White explores the importance of increasing youth agency and engagement and providing robust support and training for the adults who guide them. Becky discusses how empowering young people to participate in the development of programs and policies not only enhances their leadership skills but also ensures these initiatives are truly reflective of their needs. The episode also highlights actionable steps for policymakers, healthcare providers, youth-serving professionals, and parents to effectively support and engage with young people. Additionally, Becky addresses the crucial role of caring adults, emphasizing the need for accessible training and resources to help them understand and meet the developmental needs of adolescents. Tune in to gain valuable insights into fostering a collaborative and supportive environment that empowers both young people and the adults in their lives.
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In this episode of "On a Mission," host Becky White delves into the vital topics of adolescent health research and health literacy. Discover the importance of involving young people in the research process to ensure accuracy and innovation, and learn how enhancing health literacy empowers adolescents to make informed decisions and navigate complex health systems effectively. Becky outlines actionable steps for policymakers, researchers, healthcare providers, youth-serving professionals, and caregivers to improve the dissemination of research and boost health literacy. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on how these efforts not only support public health but also foster youth engagement and agency.
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In this week’s episode of "On a Mission," host Becky White focuses on the vital topic of ensuring and expanding access to health care, human services, and safe and supportive environments for adolescents. Dive into discussions on the importance of creating safe spaces in homes, schools, and communities, and learn about the collaborative efforts required across all levels of government and professionals to make a real difference. Becky provides actionable steps for policymakers, healthcare providers, youth-serving professionals, and parents to help support the growth and well-being of young people. Tune in to understand how we can all contribute to nurturing healthy, well-supported adolescents.
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National Adolescent Health Month™ (NAHM™) in May is a dedicated observance aimed at promoting the health and well-being of adolescents across the United States. With a focus on "Take Action for Adolescents," the month encourages individuals and organizations to work towards creating supportive environments where young people can thrive and access equitable opportunities. Each week highlights specific goals, from expanding healthcare access to increasing youth engagement, providing a structured framework for addressing the comprehensive needs of adolescents.
Dive into the essential world of teaching consent to teenagers with the latest episode of "On a Mission," where we guide parents through the nuances of discussing respect, boundaries, and understanding with middle and high school students. From practical scenarios for initiating the conversation to handling difficult questions with grace, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for those looking to foster a culture of consent at home.
Resources for Parents:
• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): https://www.rainn.org/ - Guides and support on consent.
• Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/ - Sexual education resources, including consent.
• Love is Respect: https://www.loveisrespect.org/ - Tools and advice for discussing healthy relationships and consent with teens.
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In this episode of "On a Mission," we tackle the pressing issue of teen vaping, a challenge that’s clouding the future of our youth. As vaping devices become more disguised and flavors more enticing, parents find themselves navigating through a fog of misinformation and concern. We cut through the haze, offering insights into the hidden dangers of vaping and providing parents with actionable strategies to protect their teens.
Support and Resources: You’re not alone on this journey. There are numerous resources at your disposal:
- The Truth Initiative: Offers a text-to-quit program specifically for teens. Encourage your teen to text "DITCHVAPE" to 88709 for personalized support.
- Smokefree Teen: A fantastic tool for both parents and teens to explore together, providing insights and strategies to resist vaping. Dive into the resources at teen.smokefree.gov.
- The American Lung Association: Need someone to talk to or more information? They’re just a call away at 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872), or visit www.lung.org for a wealth of knowledge. WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Please record your message and we will answer it on a future podcast.
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This episode is dedicated to understanding and combating sexual assault. We dive deep into the heart of a topic that affects millions yet often remains shrouded in silence. Through a blend of compelling statistics, insightful discussions on warning signs, and invaluable resources for prevention and support, this episode is a beacon of hope and empowerment. Whether you're a teen, young adult, member of the LGBTQ+ community, or an ally looking to make a difference, this episode offers the knowledge, empathy, and tools needed to combat sexual assault. Tune in to become part of a movement towards a safer, more understanding world.
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Dive into the crucial world of cyberbullying with our latest podcast episode, where we simplify the complexities of digital parenting into actionable advice. As technology becomes more intertwined with our children's daily lives, understanding the signs and solutions of cyberbullying is essential for every parent. Our host breaks down what cyberbullying is, how to detect if your child is affected, and practical steps to protect them, all in language that's easy to understand. Whether you're worried about your child's online safety or looking for ways to foster open communication, this episode offers the insights and tools you need to navigate the challenges of raising kids in the digital age. Tune in to empower yourself and your child against the perils of cyberbullying, ensuring they have a positive and safe online experience.
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This episode is dedicated to Eating Disorder Awareness Week, from February 26th to March 3rd. In this insightful session, we shine a light on the often-hidden world of eating disorders, exploring the complex mental health conditions that affect individuals and families worldwide. With a focus on hope and recovery, we delve into the signs of eating disorders, practical ways to offer support, and the invaluable resources available in the USA, including the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) and the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED).
Whether you're seeking to understand more about these conditions, looking for ways to support a loved one, or navigating your own journey toward recovery, this episode is a beacon of knowledge, compassion, and encouragement. We cover everything from recognizing early warning signs and changes in behavior to the importance of professional help and the power of patient, supportive care.
Join us as we unite to spread awareness, promote understanding, and foster an environment where recovery from eating disorders is not just a possibility but a reality. This is more than just a podcast episode—it's a step towards change, understanding, and hope for countless individuals. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a meaningful conversation during Eating Disorder Awareness Week. Listen, learn, and let's make a difference together.
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WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Please record your message and we will answer it on a future podcast.
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Attempting to stop your teenager from having a romantic relationship could lead to a problematic dynamic between you two in the long run.
Rather than preventing, support your teen in establishing limits and encourage positive practices from the outset, such as when they are simply engaging in hand-holding or participating in group outings. This approach ensures they are ready for more private moments with a partner when the time comes. In this episode, we'll cover ways to assist your teenager in setting suitable boundaries in their dating life.
Resources
- Love Is Respect: An invaluable resource offering advice, tools, and support to empower teens and young adults to find healthy ways to understand and navigate relationships. Available 24/7 by text (“LOVEIS” to 22522), call (866.331.9474), or live chat online.
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We gain power when we take active steps to relax, even as the world seems to swirl around us. When relaxed, we maintain the presence and clarity of mind that enables us to make wise decisions and problem-solve. We prepare ourselves and our children to think clearly, even in stressful times— through active relaxation.
In this episode, we go over a few breathing techniques to help you get into active relaxation mode. We also discuss Mindfulness exercises by Dr. Dzung Vo, you can find those videos here: https://youtu.be/iCNSDtzHgXo.
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Adolescence marks a time of significant changes in physical development. It’s a time when teens question what’s happening to their bodies and what’s expected. They often compare themselves to their friends — noticing differences in height as they stand in line or their bodies as they change into gym clothes. Sometimes these changes in development can trigger both parents and teens to have concerns. Those issues can range from concerns about puberty, physical development, self-esteem, and body image.
In this episode, we will review some common concerns and issues related to physical development so you are more comfortable discussing questions and concerns.
National Adolescent Health Month™ (NAHM™) is a health observance that emphasizes the importance of building on young people’s strengths and potential, encouraging meaningful youth engagement in adolescent health activities, and highlighting key topics in adolescent health.
- Week 1: Expand sexual and reproductive health information and services. Better information and improved access to services will help adolescents make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
So in this episode we are going to go over 7 Tips for Youth-Supporting Professionals for Talking with Youth About Sexual and Reproductive Health provides tangible recommendations to promote effective and open conversations about sexual and reproductive health with young people.
Resources from Activate: The Center to Bring Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Research to Youth-Supporting Professionals is a partnership between Child Trends and Chapin Hall and creates research-based resources for use by professionals who support young people experiencing the child welfare and/or justice systems, homelessness, and/or disconnection from school and work (i.e., opportunity youth).
In this podcast, we go over a few things parents can do to help teens avoid online mistakes.
Resources:
- Riasing Digital Citizens - Parents Guide
- Common Sense Media
- Healthy Children
- Family Online Safety Institute
- Kelly Wallace, CNN
Research shows that parents can have a powerful impact on their childrens’ mindsets. The language you use and the actions you take show your children about what you expect. Giving process praise, talking about the brain, accepting mistakes as learning opportunities, and understanding the role of emotions in learning are all practices you can begin today.
Teen dating violence affects nearly 10% of all teenagers throughout the U.S. We wanted to do this podcast in order to provide information and resources to help bring attention to this serious issue.
Resources:
- https://www.safesecurekids.org/
- www.loveisrespect.org
- Parent discussion guide: https://www.loveisrespect.org/wp-content/uploads/media/sites/3/2021/09/Parent-Guide-2021_TAF_love-is-respect.pdf
- www.nsvrc.org
- I ask how to teach consent early: https://www.nsvrc.org/sites/default/files/publications/2019-01/TeachHandout_508.pdf
- Healthy communications with kids: https://www.nsvrc.org/sites/default/files/2018-01/healthycommunicationwkids_508.pdf
- Parent postcard: https://www.nsvrc.org/sites/default/files/publications/2018-04/parents_FINAL508.pdf
- https://www.missionwv.org/parent-resources
- https://amaze.org/
Mission WV changes the lives of youth and families. We promote positive futures by recruiting foster families, providing life skills education and creating community connections.
Learn more about who we are and what we do in this episode.
In this episode we go over the different types of bullying, warning signs, and how to get support.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood. ACEs can include violence, abuse, and growing up in a family with mental health or substance use problems. Toxic stress from ACEs can change brain development and affect how the body responds to stress. ACEs are linked to chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance misuse in adulthood.
In this episode we go over what ACEs are, some of the impact they have on our lives, and some prevention options.
Below are some additional resources for ACEs.
- Overview of ACEs (CDC)
- Take your ACEs test
- ACEs and Toxic Stress
- Preventing ACEs Training
Sexual assault is a severe, punishable act that should not be taken lightly. In this epside, we go over:
- What sexual assault is.
- How drugs and alcohol play a factor.
- Red flags to watch out for.
- What to do if you or a friend has been a victim of sexual assault.
Support Information:
- Crisis Support Lines
- Resources for Healthy Relationships
- Domestic Violence Support Information
Consent in simple terms means choosing for something to happen. The legal definition says a person gives consent when they ‘agree by choice, and have the freedom and capacity to make that choice.'
In this episode, we clearly define what consent is.
In this episode, we tell a story written by a Bridge Program Mentor, about a young man named Jackson.
The Bridge is devoted to serving foster children in West Virginia with the vision of creating meaningful and effective support for foster children to be successful in school and beyond. When students are successful, we create wealth not only in the life of the student, but also our communities.
In the classroom our educators respond to a wide variety of questions from middle and high school students. This podcast segment called, Ask Us Anything, will go over some of those questions and our typical responses. This episode will address questions related to teen pregnancy.
So, your son or daughter lied to you. What should you do? The most important first step you can take, the one that can preserve your relationship, is to remain calm. But the ability to keep your cool and discuss this challenging moment – openly and honestly – will accomplish yet another essential goal: Make it less likely they will be dishonest with you again.
For help repairing a fractured relationship, read Create Opportunities for Teens to Regain Trust.
Love bombing happens when someone overwhelms you with loving words, actions, and behavior as a manipulation technique.
In this episode, we do a quick recap of what love bombing is, some signs, and go over how to gain support if you believe you may be in a love bombing situation.
When you first meet someone, being swept off your feet can feel fun and exciting. Having someone shower you with affection and admiration is especially exhilarating when you’re in the beginning stages of a new relationship.
Love bombing, however, is another story. It happens when someone overwhelms you with loving words, actions, and behavior as a manipulation technique.
During NAHM, sustain equitable, accessible, youth-friendly services
Join the Office of Population Affairs during National Adolescent Health Month to sustain equitable, accessible, youth-friendly services. Young people—especially those with chronic conditions and disabilities—can experience serious gaps in care as they get older. Young people who experience homelessness, foster care, and the juvenile justice system and who live in mixed immigration status households can have a difficult time obtaining healthcare. Access to healthcare services is essential, and it's important for parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers to help adolescents learn to navigate the healthcare system. Resources to sustain equitable, accessible, youth-friendly services Vaccines * Videos for Healthcare Providers | HHS Office of Population Affairs
* Videos about Flu Vaccination | HHS Office of Population Affairs
* Vaccines for Teens and Pre-Teens | HHS Office of Population Affairs
Youth-Friendly Services * Listen Up! Youth Listening Session Toolkit | HHS Office of Population Affairs * Promoting Positive Adolescent Health Behaviors and Outcomes: Thriving in the 21st Century | National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine * TAG Multimedia | Youth.gov * Gender-Affirming Care and Young People | HHS Office of Population Affairs - PDF * Clinical Preventive Services | HHS Office of Population Affairs * Recommended Clinical Preventive Services for Adolescents | HHS Office of Population Affairs * Adolescent Development Explained | HHS Office of Population Affairs * Where Teens Receive Preventive Healthcare | HHS Office of Population Affairs * Learning to Use the Healthcare System | HHS Office of Population Affairs * Tips for Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers | HHS Office of Population Affairs
Sexual and Reproductive Health * Reproductive Health and Teen Pregnancy | HHS Office of Population Affairs * Reproductive Health | HHS Office of Population Affairs
As symptoms of mental health disorders emerge and develop, they have strong influences on an adolescent’s behavior and can become more difficult to treat. Although effective therapies exist for many mental health disorders, not all adolescents who need treatment receive it. In this episode, we talk about some disparities that may partially explain why use of mental health services differs. We also go over many mental health resources.
Mental health is not simply the presence or absence of symptoms. Variations in how adolescents experience symptoms can make identification and diagnosis of mental health disorders challenging. In this episode, we go over some warning signs of mental health disorders in adolescence, as well as, common mental health disorders in adolescence include those related to anxiety, depression, attention deficit-hyperactivity, and eating.
During adolescence, youth grow physically, try new activities, begin to think more critically, and develop more varied and complex relationships. Ensuring adolescent health requires giving youth the sexual and reproductive health information and services they need to empower healthy decision-making. In this podcast we go over some tips on how to talk to your teen about relationships.
During adolescence, young people learn how to form safe and healthy relationships with friends, parents, caregivers, teachers, and romantic partners. In this podcast, we go over what healthy relationships in dating, friendships and with caregivers look like for adolescence. Stay tuned for future podcasts where we will provide more information about talking with teens about relationships and conversation tools for parents and caregivers.
May is National Adolescent Health Month! Join us in celebrating young people’s strengths and potential, encouraging youth engagement, and highlighting key topics in adolescent health. Parents, caregivers, youth-serving professionals, and healthcare providers can empower youth to make decisions about their own health and become leaders in their communities. During NAHM, help adolescents build on their strengths, overcome barriers to accessing services and resources, and make healthy and informed decisions.
In this podcast, we discuss what condoms are, answer questions from our youth and share some important facts. For information about the age of consent please check out this article.
The brain undergoes tremendous changes during adolescence. In this episode, we discuss several ways you can support teen brain growth and development. Information from Parent And Teen. Visit our website. Submit a question.
In the classroom our educators respond to a wide variety of questions from middle and high school students. This podcast segment called, Ask Us Anything, will go over some of those questions and our typical responses. This episode will address questions related to relationships and teen pregnancy.
Does your child seem unusually sad, irritable or quiet lately? Such changes in mood could be due to a temporary stress in life. But how do you know if it’s something more? In this episode we go over the warning signs of childhood depression. Leave us a voicemail
Consent is an agreement between participants to engage in sexual activity. Consent should be clearly defined and communicated. In this podcast, we discuss what consent is and isn't.
During February’s National Teen Dating Violence Awareness & Prevention Month, teens and those who support them join together to raise awareness to teen dating violence. Dating violence is more common than many people think. One in three teens in a dating relationship experience abuse – emotional, sexual or physical. This month, we will go over ways we can empower young people with knowledge and skills to increase awareness and stop dating abuse before it starts! By learning about unhealthy and healthy relationships, and especially sharing how friends can support friends in abusive relationships, every teen can make a difference. Love is Respect: Safety Plan
When parents talk to their kids about healthy relationships, they help protect kids from dating violence. Middle school is the right time to have those conversations. Even as young teens are moving towards stronger peer influence, they are still listening to what their parents have to say. In this episode, we have provided 10 tips for talking to your teen about relationships. Ask a question Leave us a voicemail
Welcome to Season 2 of the On a Mission Podcast. In this episodes, we go over the top 5 episodes of 2021 and replay the top episode. Please leave us a message and we will answer it on a future podcast.
In this episode we discuss Mission WV's Bridge program. The Bridge is devoted to serving West Virginia's youth in foster care. The Bridge serves these children with the vision of creating meaningful and effective support so that they can be successful in school and beyond.
Visit our website.
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Teens don’t easily open about what is going on in their lives. However, open communication with teens is a vital part of their relationship with you and is a key factor in your ability to support them. Here are some tips adapted from from several sources about improving parent-child communication.
Sources located on podcast show page at www.missionwv.org.
Self-harm is defined as any intentional injury to one's own body. This disorder also is called self-harm or self-mutilation. Usually, self-injury leaves marks or causes tissue damage. In this episode, we discuss what self-harm is, warning signs and support.
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This is a time of changes for how teenagers think, feel, and interact with others, and how their bodies grow. Most girls will be physically mature by now, and most will have completed puberty. Boys might still be maturing physically during this time. Your teen might have concerns about her body size, shape, or weight. Eating disorders also can be common, especially among girls. During this time, your teen is developing his unique personality and opinions. Relationships with friends are still important, yet your teen will have other interests as he develops a more clear sense of who he is. This is also an important time to prepare for more independence and responsibility; many teenagers start working, and many will be leaving home soon after high school.
This episode goes over information on how teens develop and offers some parenting tips.
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Your child’s growing independence from the family and interest in friends might be obvious by now. Healthy friendships are very important to your child’s development, but peer pressure can become strong during this time. Children who feel good about themselves are more able to resist negative peer pressure and make better choices for themselves. This is an important time for children to gain a sense of responsibility along with their growing independence. Also, physical changes of puberty might be showing by now, especially for girls. Another big change children need to prepare for during this time is starting middle or junior high school.
This episode goes over information on how children develop during middle childhood and offers some parenting tips.
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It's National Adoption Month. This podcast outlines some of the most asked questions about adopting through the foster care system. Visit our website. Submit a question.
Mission West Virginia sat down with foster family, Brandon and Jenny Krawczyk from Burlington United Methodist Family Services, to speak about what it’s like to be a foster parent with their agency during the COVID-19 Pandemic. This is a great opportunity to learn first hand what it’s like being a foster parent in West Virginia with one of the 11 private foster care agencies.
In the classroom our educators respond to a wide variety of questions from middle and high school students. This podcast segment called, Ask Us Anything, will go over some of those questions and our typical responses. This episode will address questions related to unhealthy relationships.
On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men. In this podcast, we go over the signs of domestic violence and support options.
Many people assume abuse means that physical violence is happening, but that’s not always the case! Abuse comes in many forms—it’s not just physical. In this episode, we explore a few of the common types of abuse so you can better identify them. Experiencing even one or two of these warning signs in a relationship is a red flag that abuse may be present. Remember, each type of abuse is serious and no one deserves to experience abuse of any kind.
If you recognize any of these warning signs in your own relationship, you can always text LOVEIS to 22522.
We'd love to hear from you! Got a question? Leave a voicemail for the show. https://bit.ly/38sASM6
You’ve thought about becoming a foster and/or adoptive parent and you are ready to start the process but what to do first? Mission West Virginia is here to help you get started with the process and to provide help along the way. This podcast outlines steps that will help you get started. Visit our website.
Submit a question.
No one wants to get an STD. However, it’s a fact of life that sexually transmitted diseases are out there and that you’re at risk to get one, especially if you’re sexually active. It’s important to be educated about STDs and to know what kinds are out there and what symptoms they can have. Visit our website.
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