Vermont Child Health Improvement Program

• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Council on School Health (COSH) published personal stories written by two VT RAYS members, Julia and Kate. They wrote about their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their stories are posted with permission.

• Julia Shannon-Grillo: 18 in the time of COVID

• Katherine Lewton: Still Kids

• The VT RAYS and Vermont Afterschool partnered to convene a State Youth Advisory Group (SYAG) to focus on Health Equity in 2021. A report maps out the group’s suggestions for strategies and recommendations to affect change around health equity. Read the Health Equity Report.

• Four VT RAYS members participated in a panel discussion, “Hot Topics in Social Justice:  Important Issues that Impact Youth Mental Health” at VCHIP’s 2022 CHAMP Learning Session. 

• Five VT RAYS presented at the April 6, 2022, University of Vermont Medical Center’s Pediatric Grand Rounds titled, “Youth Friendly and Culturally Responsive Care: A Youth Led Panel”. Follow the steps below to access the recording.

• If you are interested in viewing the recording, please click here to request access.

Youth Voice

• Have you ever wondered how to bring the perspectives and thoughts of youth to your work? Click here to learn about the VT RAYS Youth Advisory Board and how they can meaningfully contribute to your work and practice.  

Clinic Supports

• Adolescent and Youth Friendly Service Tour Clinic Environment Assessment Tool - VT RAYS created a clinic assessment tool to support youth-led walk throughs during which youth share ideas and recommendations for making the environment more youth friendly.

• Your Health is in Your Hands - VT RAYS created a clinic poster to encourage young people to schedule their annual well care visit.

Youth -- Parents/Caregivers -- Healthcare Providers

For Youth

• Access information here on topics such as healthy nutrition guidance, sexual and reproductive health, LGBTQ & Transgender health, and alcohol and drug support.

• View a video of the VT RAYS as they share a youth perspective on issues that affect adolescent health care. (Scroll to the bottom for the video.)
  

For Parents/Caregivers

• Access resources here for parenting adolescents and young adults including information on understanding adolescent health, drowning and fire prevention, recommended immunizations, and mental and sexual health
  

For Healthcare Providers

• Access materials here including information regarding confidentiality, eating disorders, LGBTQ and Transgender health, mental health, sexual reproductive health and education and substance use and much more. 
  

COVID-19 Materials