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The period of adolescence is characterized by numerous changes, both physically and emotionally. During this phase, your child goes through an intensive development process that is accompanied by major physical changes and emotional upheavals. Although teenagers often give the impression that they have everything under control, special attention and parental care for their well-being and health is of great importance at this time.With the onset of puberty, the body suddenly takes on a different significance and is often critically scrutinized and felt by teenagers themselves. Hair sprouts, the voice changes, half of all teenagers get their period for the first time and the monthly cycle begins. All these changes can cause physical discomfort, which can make adolescents feel insecure and depressed. Now it is particularly important to offer them a sympathetic ear and help them to understand their new experiences.At Familienportal.NRW, we offer you comprehensive information and advice to help you talk to your child about important health issues in adolescence. From physical development and nutrition to mental well-being and dealing with stress and strain.

Safer Internet Day on February 10 will focus on the topic "AI and me. In an artificial relationship." with valuable information and numerous events - online or on site. We have also put together an overview for you with our articles and tips for parents on media use.

The German government has launched a new subsidy program for electric cars and hybrids with retroactive effect from January 2026. It offers a subsidy of up to 6,000 euros for purchases and leasing. Families with children under the age of 18 benefit from a higher income limit and up to €1,000 more funding.

In future, more volunteers will be able to apply for the NRW volunteer card: 200 instead of 250 hours per year or 4 instead of 5 hours per week of voluntary work are required to receive the volunteer card. With the card, committed citizens receive over 5,000 benefits throughout the state.

If you are already receiving housing benefit and your income situation has not improved significantly since your initial application, you can apply for continued benefit.

You receive housing benefit and your total income, your rent burden or the number of household members has increased - then you can apply for an increase in housing benefit.

Are you looking for services for families in your area or do you need local support? Many cities bundle activities, local advice services and contact points for families on a local online portal. You can now find a revised online search for these portals on Familienportal.NRW.

How are families doing today? What is needed for a good family life? On February 28, 2026, families from all over North Rhine-Westphalia are invited to talk to each other at the Familiendialog.NRW in Essen. The registration deadline is February 25, 2026.

A toast to carnival tradition and togetherness across generations: on February 4, 27 child and youth prince and princess couples as well as triumvirates from all over North Rhine-Westphalia were honored with the carnival medal by Minister President Hendrik Wüst.

The state government of North Rhine-Westphalia has appointed Petra Ladenburger as the new Commissioner for Child Protection and Children's Rights for the next five years. The specialist lawyer for family law and expert in the field of child protection and protection against violence wants to ensure that the rights of children and young people are considered and taken into account in all political decisions and social debates. (Photo: MKJFGFI / B. Thissen)