1. 2014 Eco Family Virtual Conference Dec 1 – Jan 2 Energy Jan 3 – Feb 6 New Economy Feb 7 – March 6 Food & Genetic Engineering March 7 – April 3 Air Quality April 4- May 1 We are Nature May 2 – June 5 Water http://bit.ly/ecofam14

2. Eco Family Program Blog http://blogs.extension.iastate. edu/isuecofamily Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pa ges/ISUEco-Family/ Twitter EcoFamilyISU Pinterest bit.ly/EcoFamP

3. Eco Family Program Values Healthy relationships, body, mind Environmental Impact Conscious use of resources Objectives Gain communication skills Build community Understand complexity of issue

4. Assertive Communication Assertive I messages Asks for needs Values other’s needs Respects others’ rights Preserves & strengthens relationships Inspires cooperation Aggressive You messages Demands wants/needs Focuses only on self Violates others rights Destroys relationships and trust Inspires polarity

5. Impact of Messages I messages Responsible for own feelings, thoughts Non-judgmental I feel/need/think/value Understanding and solutions possible Create calmness and positive tone You messages Projects feelings and thoughts onto others Blaming or Shaming You always/never/made me... Misunderstanding & gets discussion off track Create defensiveness & negative tone

6. Guidelines for Discussion Respectful Responsible Responsive Listen with head and heart Use I messages – – I am concerned about – I value Stay Engaged – I have a different experience/perspective – I need time to process – Tell me more – Help me understand