Popular U of I Extension Parenting Website Wins Award
Published: Oct. 27, 2008
URBANA - University of Illinois Extension's popular "Parenting 24/7" website has received the National Extension Association for Family and Consumer Sciences National and North Central Region (NEAFCS) Florence Hall Award, said site developer Aaron Ebata.
"The website, found at www.parenting247.org, provides research-based, practical round-the-clock parenting advice for today's families--for parents of infants, preschoolers, school-aged kids, and teens," said Ebata, a U of I associate professor of social development.
Ebata said "Parenting 24/7" gives parents access to advice from child-development and family-life specialists, and it also lets them hear what other parents have to say about a topic.
"On the website, experts discuss the sort of things parents can do to promote the development of their child at a particular age and teach them how to deal with issues they may be having at that time," said Ebata.
"We also feature articles and videos on lots of topics--from monitoring children's media use, to promoting fitness and good nutrition, to reclaiming family time by managing children's activities. We also offer tips for couples who want to work on their relationship," he added.
"Parenting 24/7" also has a feedback feature so that parents can comment on articles and first-time visitors can determine whether others found an article or video helpful, he said.
Since its launch in 2005, the site has grown steadily, with users reporting gains in parenting knowledge and positive parenting practices as a result of using the site, he added.
The award was given to U of I Extension family life team members Ebata, Giesela Grumbach, Patti Faughn, Milly Kaiser, Janice McCoy, Geraldine Peeples, Angela Reinhart, Sherry Rocha, Diane Ryals, Angela Wiley, and Deborah McClellan.
Development and maintenance of the website are supported in part by The Pampered Chef® Family Resiliency Program at the U of I.
The Florence Hall Award is given to an outstanding program conducted by NEAFCS members who have been alert in recognizing new concerns and interests of families and have involved people in planning and implementing programs that benefit families. Hall, regional field agent--Eastern states, initiated the award in 1952.
-30-