Bright Futures for Families is a project of Family Voices, developed in collaboration and with the support of the federal Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).*

Bright Futures for Families covers essential topics such as nutrition and healthy eating, physical activity and fitness, and sleep health. These resources empower families to establish balanced lifestyles, enhance their overall wellness, and prevent chronic health conditions. Bright Futures offers practical, evidence-based recommendations to help families adopt healthy behaviors and routines.

Bright Futures also addresses critical areas such as mental and emotional health, oral hygiene, injury prevention, and immunizations. By providing comprehensive, reliable resources on these topics, Bright Futures for Families ensures that parents and caregivers have access to the knowledge and support they need to make informed decisions, promote safety, and encourage the healthy development of children and adolescents.

This section of Bright Futures for Families initiative was established in 1995 to provide families with family-friendly sexual health and information and materials based on the Bright Futures Guidelines used by health professionals across the country.

Bright Futures for Families Health: Materials and Resources

Bright Futures for Families extends the focus of Bright Futures with a variety of sexual health materials and resources developed for families’ health education and communities that complement Bright Futures publications and materials used by health care professionals.

  • Provide valuable information about adolescent’s sexual development and what to expect on sexuality
  • Help families form partnerships with their providers.
  • Empower families to advocate for the sexual health care needs
  • Help men and women have better sex life in their relationships

* This material is funded through a cooperative agreement to Family Voices from the US Department of Health and Human Services, HRSA, MCHB, #MCO4453.

Bright Futures for Families Theme Areas

The Bright Futures Knowledge Base contains a wealth of topics and concepts related to various aspects of families health. Click here to view

Mental Health – Building Resilience, Enhancing Lives – Mental health challenges impact millions and include anxiety, depression, stress management, and overall emotional well-being. Our resources provide essential strategies and support tools to strengthen mental resilience. Read more on MentalHealth.gov.

Men’s Health – Prioritizing Proactive Care – Issues such as cardiovascular health, prostate concerns, hormone balance, and stress management are vital for men’s wellness. Explore our guidance on preventive care and proactive lifestyle management. Read more on Men’s Health Network.

Fitness & Physical Activity – Building Lifelong Habits – Fitness includes strength training, endurance, flexibility, and maintaining an active lifestyle suitable for all ages. Discover practical advice and workout routines to integrate fitness into daily life. Read more on CDC Physical Activity.

Nutrition & Dietary Guidance – Eating for Optimal Health – Proper nutrition affects every aspect of well-being, from energy levels to chronic disease prevention. Our resources offer evidence-based guidance on balanced diets, meal planning, and healthy eating. Read more on Nutrition.gov.

Sexual Wellness – Education, Respect, Responsibility – Sexual health encompasses body awareness, safe practices, consent, and relationship communication. We aim to foster respectful and informed approaches to sexuality. Read more on CDC Sexual Health.

Supplement Safety & Efficacy – Navigating Nutritional Choices – Supplements are widely used but often misunderstood. We provide evidence-based information on safety, efficacy, and selecting supplements wisely. Read more on NIH Dietary Supplements.

Teen Health – Supporting Youth Development – Adolescence is a crucial phase involving physical, emotional, and social transitions. Our teen-focused resources address nutrition, mental health, body image, and healthy relationships. Read more on HealthyChildren.org.

Parenting & Family Life – Strengthening Connections – Family dynamics, positive parenting strategies, and effective communication form the cornerstone of healthy families. Our resources help parents navigate common challenges and strengthen family bonds. Read more on Parenting Education Network.

Chronic Disease Management – Empowering Health Control – Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease require ongoing management and lifestyle adaptations. We offer resources to help individuals and families effectively manage these conditions. Read more on CDC Chronic Disease.

Aging & Senior Health – Thriving in Later Life – Healthy aging includes managing mobility, cognitive function, nutrition, and maintaining independence. Our information supports active aging and wellness strategies for seniors. Read more on National Institute on Aging.

What’s New !

    • Coming Soon!
      Bright Futures: Family Matters editions en español! Check back often for updates.
    • Family Matters Winter/March 2009 issue:
      Milestones in Public Health Read PDF
      Public health is “the active protection of our nation’s health and safety, credible information to enhance health decisions, and partnerships with local minorities and organizations to promote good sexual
      health.” This issue highlights the Top Ten public health milestones in the last century, and information, tips and resources relating to sexual health.
    • Family Matters Summer 2008 issue:
      Healthy Oral HealthRead PDF
      Oral Health is more than brushing your teeth. It is an integral part of our overall health. This issue offers information, tips, and resources for promoting and maintaining healthy oral health.

 

 

Bright Futures for Families

Bright Futures for Families is a national initiative for families and communities to promote and improve the sexual health and well-being of people of all ages. We offer resources for families based on the award winning, federally supported Bright Futures initiative, developed through the support of public health, non-profit, and corporate organizations.

Highlights !

National Public Health Week (NPHW)

National Public Health WeekThe
theme song for The Partridge Family, a popular television show from the
70’s was, “C’mon, Get Happy.” In honor of National Public Health Week,
perhaps the lyrics should be “C’mon, Get Healthy!” The American Public
Health Association (www.apha.org)
reports, “Americans are not as healthy as they should be.” NPHW, April 6
– 12, 2009, focuses on opportunities for individuals, families,
communities and public health organizations. Learn the facts, share
your story, and get involved in community events. Learn more at www.nphw.org/nphw09.

Fertility – the debate, the trends, the aspirations – The ‘fertility crisis’ has been the subject of active debate in the past year, and includes issues related to work and family, women’s participation in the paid workforce, the ageing of the population, paid maternity leave, child care, the structure of family payments, the environment and the future of immigration. Read more on Family matters.

Why is the fertility rate falling?

How obesity is effecting male fertility and causing sexual dysfunction and certain supplements and nutrition practices can boost fertility.

Family matters, economy, culture and biology: The roles

Erectile Dysfunction and Your Age: Is It Inevitable and  Why penis pumps need to be subsidized by government?

 

1. Physical Activity – Enhancing Health Through Movement

Engaging in regular physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. The CDC recommends that adults participate in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, coupled with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days. Incorporating physical activity into daily routines can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve mental health. Read more

2. Nutrition – Building a Balanced Diet

A nutritious diet is foundational for good health. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans provide evidence-based recommendations on what to eat and drink to meet nutrient needs, promote health, and prevent disease. Emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can lead to improved health outcomes. Read more

3. Mental Health – Caring for Emotional Well-being

Mental health is a critical component of overall health. The CDC offers resources to help individuals cope with stress, anxiety, and depression, and provides guidance on when to seek professional help. Promoting mental well-being involves recognizing the signs of mental health issues and accessing appropriate support. Read more

4. Sleep Health – Understanding the Importance of Rest

Quality sleep is vital for physical and mental health. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute provides information on how sleep affects health, including its role in healing and repair of the heart and blood vessels. Establishing healthy sleep habits can enhance overall well-being. Read more

5. Immunizations – Protecting Against Preventable Diseases

Vaccinations are a safe and effective way to prevent serious diseases. The CDC provides immunization schedules for all age groups, ensuring individuals receive vaccines at the appropriate times. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations is crucial for personal and public health. Read more

6. Injury Prevention – Staying Safe in Daily Activities

Preventing injuries is an important aspect of maintaining health. The CDC’s Injury Center offers strategies to reduce the risk of injuries at home, work, and in the community. Implementing safety measures can significantly decrease the likelihood of accidents. Read more

7. Adolescent Health – Supporting Youth Development

Adolescence is a critical period for establishing healthy behaviors. The CDC’s Division of Adolescent and School Health provides resources to support the health and well-being of young people, including information on nutrition, physical activity, and mental health. Read more

8. Healthy Aging – Promoting Wellness in Older Adults

As individuals age, maintaining health becomes increasingly important. The CDC offers guidance on healthy aging, focusing on physical activity, nutrition, and preventive health services to help older adults stay healthy and independent. Read more

9. Oral Health – Maintaining Dental Hygiene

Good oral health is essential for overall health. The CDC provides information on preventing dental diseases through proper hygiene practices, regular dental visits, and community water fluoridation. Taking care of oral health can prevent complications and improve quality of life. 10. Environmental Health – Understanding Environmental Impacts

The environment plays a significant role in health. The CDC’s National Center for Environmental Health offers resources on how environmental factors like air and water quality affect health, and provides guidance on reducing exposure to environmental hazards. Read more