The time to plan for the care needs of yourself, a family member or another you care about is before the person might need it. At the least, planning often can occur before the care needs become more significant. Planning for care involves strategies such as assessing the situation, discussing the big concerns and forming a support or caregiving team.

Support and resources in the caregiving process come in many forms: prayer, talking to family or friends, visits with professionals or assistive equipment. One of the most important aspects of managing life as a caregiver is accessing useful resources that can provide needed knowledge, skills or assistance.

Understanding myths versus realities in family caregiving can be helpful. This publication explores different realities you can face with family caregiving.

Family members or friends may feel awkward or uncertain about having a conversation with you about providing care. They may worry about your feelings or be unsure of what you think. You can help them by starting the care conversation.

Caregiving provided to aging family members or others in need often is associated with stress and burnout. Although providing direct care to a family member or someone else can result in significant stress, remember that this experience can have positive benefits as well. Consider the rewards and challenges of the caregiving experience honestly.

One of the most important aspects of managing life as a family caregiver is accessing useful resources that can provide needed knowledge and skills. The list of helpful resources below provides information about educational materials and support organizations related to family caregiving. It is not exhaustive but instead provides a beginning point for those involved in family caregiving.

Early childhood education programs and resources can provide important benefits to young children and their families between birth and five years of age. This report reviews findings from research in North Dakota on family engagement opportunities, issues and resources in the state.

Family engagement focuses on building positive relationships and supporting children and families. This document provides a menu of resources and organizations for understanding and promoting family engagement in early childhood settings.

Early childhood education programs and resources can provide important benefits to young children and their families between birth and five years of age. This report shares key findings from research in North Dakota on family engagement opportunities, issues and preferences among parents and early childhood professionals.

People have different definitions of stress. Probably the most common definition is “physical, mental or emotion strain or tension.” Stress is different for all of us. People will perceive the same stressor in a number of ways and, therefore, react to it differently. An event can be overwhelming to one person and exciting to another. For example, many politicians, comedians and public speakers truly enjoy appearing on stage in front of huge crowds, while the same situation provides anxiety and fear for other people.