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Need Food or Support in Lubbock? Help Is Here.
At Family Guidance & Outreach, we know many families in Lubbock rely on programs like SNAP and WIC. If you’re worried about food access during the shutdown, these local organizations can help — today, this week, and beyond.

Abby Reed


Building a Family Budget That Actually Works
Let’s be honest—money can be one of the hardest things for families to talk about. Between bills, groceries, and unexpected expenses, it can feel like your paycheck disappears before the month even begins. But the truth is this: a family budget isn’t about restriction—it’s about direction.

John Kirby


Parenting Teen Drivers: Deep Breaths, Patience, and Plenty of Practice
Let’s be honest: parenting teen drivers is NOT easy. That’s especially true today, when teens are learning from social media, juggling smartphones, and living in a fast-paced digital world that can make driving feel more like a distraction zone than a milestone.

John Kirby


Understanding Sibling Rivalry
If you’re raising more than one child, you’ve probably seen sibling rivalry in action—whether it’s a small squabble over toys or a full-blown argument at the dinner table. While it can be exhausting for parents, sibling rivalry is a natural part of growing up.

John Kirby


The Power of Positive Male Role Models
When it comes to raising children, there’s no question that fathers and male role models play a powerful, lasting role. From everyday...

John Kirby


Expectations vs. Reality in Parenting
When you first imagine parenthood, the vision is often wrapped in picture-perfect scenes: family dinners with laughter, a spotless living room, and children who say “please” and “thank you” without a reminder. But the reality? Parenting is messy, unpredictable, exhausting, and—at the same time—deeply rewarding.

John Kirby


Truancy in Texas: What Parents Need to Know
When it comes to school attendance, the words “truancy” and “absenteeism” often get mixed up, but in Texas, there are specific definitions and real consequences tied to each.

John Kirby


Parental Burnout: What It Is and How to Cope
Parenting is one of the most rewarding jobs in the world but it is also one of the hardest. Between sleepless nights, constant schedules, work-life balance, and the daily stress of raising kids, it’s no wonder so many parents find themselves running on empty.

John Kirby


Treading Water: Learning to Cope with Empty Nest Syndrome
Her father and I have done our job. So, then what gives us the right to be sad? Nothing. But we both are.

Margaret Kirby, J.D.


Helping Your Child Build Better Study Habits
Getting your child motivated to study isn’t always easy, especially when schoolwork feels overwhelming or when procrastination takes...

John Kirby


Helping Your Child Succeed in School
There’s no magic wand for school success, but there is a magic formula and it starts with you. If you want your child to shine, remember...

FGO Staff


Parenting Twins: A Deep Dive Into Raising Strong, Separate Individuals
Parenting twins is often misunderstood. Society tends to view twins as a package deal: the “double trouble” duo dressed alike, inseparable, and expected to share everything from classrooms to interests. But Greg Principato, a father of (now adult) twin boys Luke and Brian, challenges this norm head-on.

Abby Reed


Why Education Matters
Education is one of the most powerful tools we have to create lasting change: for individuals, families, and communities.

John Kirby


Helping Kids Cope with First‑Day of School Nerves
The first day of school can feel exciting (and a little scary) for kids (and parents too). New teachers, new classmates, new routines… it’s a lot to take in. If your child is showing signs of first‑day jitters, you’re not alone. Here are some ways to help calm the nerves and set them up for a confident start.

FGO Staff


Online Safety Refresher for the School Year
A new school year means new routines — and often, more screen time. From school‑issued devices and online assignments to group chats and social media, kids are spending more time online than ever before. Back‑to‑school is the perfect time to reset your family’s digital safety plan. Here’s a comprehensive refresher for parents in Lubbock and beyond.

FGO Staff


Partnering with Teachers for a Smooth Year
A new school year isn’t just about kids adjusting — parents and teachers are building a partnership too. When families and teachers work...

FGO Staff


Helping Kids Stay Organized All School Year
Backpacks overflowing, missing homework, forgotten permission slips — sound familiar? The good news is, organization is a skill kids can learn, and it makes the whole school year smoother for everyone. Here are some simple ways to help your child stay on top of their schoolwork and responsibilities.

FGO Staff


Building After‑School Routines: Balancing Homework, Activities, and Family Time
The school day may end in the afternoon, but for parents, the busiest hours are often just beginning. Between homework, extracurriculars,...

FGO Staff


How to Talk with Your Child About Their School Day
Many kids struggle to share details about their day, especially when they’re tired or overwhelmed. The good news: with a few simple changes, you can open the door to better conversations and a stronger connection.

FGO Staff


Back-to-School Sleep: How Much Do Kids Really Need?
As the school year begins, one of the best ways to set your child up for success isn’t found on a supply list — it’s making sure they get enough sleep. A consistent bedtime routine helps kids focus better, regulate emotions, and stay healthier. But how much sleep is enough?

FGO Staff
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