In 1953, Reverend James Crowe had a vision for a place where “wayward” young people could find a “reorientation of self.” His vision was a working ranch where young men (we expanded to include girls in the ’70s) would get the guidance and support they needed to find a path to a promising future. That’s when Idaho Youth Ranch was born.
People often ask how, exactly, horses can make such a big impact on people who have experienced trauma. Many people think it is about simply riding horses and are surprised to learn that Idaho Youth Ranch Equine Therapy is ground-based.
Stress has the ability to bring out the best and the worst in people. Certainly, COVID-19 has created a new and unprecedented kind of stress through which we as a global community are trying to navigate.
One of the most basic needs of every child is the need for their parents’ approval. This is so important that it is at the basis of self-esteem, self-worth, and even their identity as they grow.
The COVID-19 pandemic is giving parents more time than ever to spend with their kids. Many parents are taking advantage of the time to enjoy some much-needed quality time and using this situation as a time to create stronger bonds and improve communication with their kids.
It’s easy for adults to believe that because children are small, their emotions are also small or somehow less real. This could not be further from the truth.
In this digital age we now find ourselves in, it is easier than ever for kids and teens to bully their peers. In this digital world, bullies can say something harmful without having to see the physical reactions of their victim or visually experience the effects of their words. To understand the injustice more fully, we first have to admit it exists, educate ourselves, and then take actions to prevent and protect the children in our care.
The parenting catchphrase “because I said so” is so ingrained in our culture it launched a feature film by the same name.
But what is this fallback phrase doing for kids? Unfortunately, not much. “Because I said so” is a fast, easy way to end a conversation, but as for teaching kids reasoning and decision-making skills, it leaves much to be desired.
Dealing with discipline is tough for parents. Are you being too strict? Are you being too lenient? Learning when to pick your battles is a skill every parent struggles with. Here are a few things we do at the Idaho Youth Ranch to change kids' behavior.