Relationship guides a ‘hidden gem’ at USU
In an effort to support healthy relationships, Utah State University Extension provides free date night and family adventure guides for all students and staff.
Extension professor Naomi Brower designed these guides and have made them free to download on the USU Extension website.
“The purpose of the guides is to provide couples with an idea for a fun date night activity while also discovering ‘hidden gems’ in their relationship through prompts for conversation around some aspect of healthy relationships,” Brower said.
Focusing on areas along the Wasatch Front, these guides provide lake, mountain peak and trail destinations along with seasonal attractions and a botanical center.
Some of the guides, such as Family Fun at Home Adventures and Family Fun Out and About Adventures, include 21 free-to-download pamphlets with detailed activities to strengthen family relationships and connections.
“We launched limited guides starting in March 2021 and we’ve already had over 350 downloads,” Brower said.
In reviews from users of these resources, there was a noticeable improvement in communication and conflict resolution.
As a result, Brower said participants plan to make the suggested changes, such as continuing to listen to learn, not responding, focusing on being in the moment, talking more about the good and bad, being better and planning date nights once a week.
USU student Marissa Jensen, who had never heard of the resources until now, said she thinks it’s a great idea for students to take advantage of and plans to use them in the future.
Although the guides are available for people at any stage in a relationship, Jensen said she believes it would be most beneficial to strengthen a more serious relationship.
Outside of the guides, Brower said USU Extension hosts date night events. However, due to coronavirus safety measures, Brower has had to postpone the in-person dates for months.
Starting this year, they are planning to slowly start again.
“Anyone from the community is welcome to bring their sweetheart or a date and join us — pre-registration required,” Brower said. “We make an effort to do a variety of activities that are generally held anywhere from Ogden to Salt Lake.”
Brower also encouraged students to attend the Utah Marriage Celebration planned to be held virtually on Feb. 11.
Tickets for the date nights are $10 per ticket through Jan. 31 and $15 per ticket starting Feb. 1. Only one ticket per couple is needed. Couples can find the calendar for upcoming events at www.relationships.usu.edu.
“Research suggests that small, positive things done often can make a true and lasting difference in relationships,” Brower said. “The ultimate goal of these guides is to focus on small ways for couples to strengthen their relationships.”
Hidden Gems adventure guides provide date and activity ideas for married couples, dating couples and families but are hoping to expand guides for individuals seeking information and ideas for personal wellness.
-Maya.Mackinnon@usu.edu