When you think of a family bulletin board or chore chart, you might picture something a little “old-school”—a corkboard with thumbtacks or a messy calendar on the fridge. But in reality, this simple tool is one of the most effective modern hacks for keeping families connected, reducing stress, and giving kids a sense of belonging.

 

Topics: positive parenting, family bonding, parent peer group, family dinner, back to school, Family Table Time

September is a special month at Informed Families as we celebrate Family Day on September 22—a national movement that reminds us of the power of eating meals together and making time for meaningful connection.

Topics: President's Message, lock your meds, safe parties, safe homes smart parties, alcohol, Informed Families, lock your meds pledge, alcohol use, summer, alcohol abuse, substance abuse

Let’s be real—putting our phones down is hard. Notifications buzz, emails pile up, and the scroll is endless. But while we’re glued to screens, our kids are watching. They notice when our attention is split between them and a device. They also notice when we choose them over the phone.

 

Topics: positive parenting, peer pressure, red ribbon certified schools, parent peer group, family dinner, back to school

The start of a new school year brings excitement for some children—but for others, it sparks worry and fear. Back-to-school anxiety is more common than many parents realize, especially after long breaks filled with flexible routines and comfort at home. Recognizing the signs and providing calm, consistent support can make all the difference in helping kids feel confident and ready to learn.

Topics: positive parenting, peer pressure, red ribbon certified schools, parent peer group, family dinner, back to school

The back-to-school season brings more than just new schedules, supplies, and routines—it also carries a big emotional shift for children. Transitioning from the carefree days of summer to the structured demands of school can spark excitement, stress, and even anxiety. As parents and caregivers, your support during this time is key to helping children feel confident and prepared for the year ahead.

Topics: positive parenting, peer pressure, red ribbon certified schools, parent peer group, family dinner, back to school

The start of a new school year brings more than new teachers, sharpened pencils, and busy schedules. It’s also a natural opportunity for families to pause, reset, and recommit to the routines and values that create a safe, healthy, and supportive home environment.

Topics: Family Day, positive parenting, family bonding, peer pressure, parent peer group, family dinner, Family Table Time

Informed Families proudly welcome the newly appointed DEA Administrator, Mr. Cole, and look forward to working together to strengthen prevention efforts, reduce drug demand, and build safer, healthier communities nationwide.

Topics: President's Message, lock your meds, safe parties, safe homes smart parties, alcohol, Informed Families, lock your meds pledge, alcohol use, summer, alcohol abuse, substance abuse

Peer pressure today looks a lot different than it did a decade ago. In 2025, it’s no longer just about fitting in at school—it’s about standing out on social media, navigating online trends, and managing constant connectivity. Teens are bombarded with curated lives, viral challenges, and pressures that are as digital as they are personal. As parents and caregivers, it’s more important than ever to equip teens with the confidence and tools they need to make healthy, drug-free choices.

Topics: positive parenting, peer pressure, parent peer group

Nearly 95% of U.S. teens use social media, with most spending over three hours daily—exceeding safe thresholds linked to doubled risk of anxiety and depression 

Topics: social media, mental health, anxiety, depression

In 2024, the DEA seized enough counterfeit pills to represent 380 million lethal doses. In 2025 alone, seizures equated to 196 million lethal doses—an unprecedented surge 

Topics: social media, drug trend, drug free usa forever stamp, emojis