Creative kids. Creative Arts and Crafts Classes in After School Activities.

As back to school mode goes into full swing, purchasing school meals is a great way to help you save time and money. It’s also a great way for kids to get the nutrients they need. According to the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program website, about 60 percent of schoolchildren in the U.S. receive school-provided meals each day through these programs. (1) With the majority of kids buying school meals, let’s talk more about what goes into them followed by specific tips and tricks you can use to promote healthy eating at school. About School Meals School meals have to meet specific nutritional guidelines. Both breakfast and lunch are required to have fruits and/or vegetables and one cup of fat-free or 1% milk. Half of grains provided must be whole grains, and there are limits on certain nutrients, such as sodium (salt). Lunches must include a protein source (called […]

While back to school season is usually an exciting time for most students, many kids and teens may also be feeling anxious or worried about what this school year might have in store. For many students, this is the first time they will return to in person learning since the COVID-19 pandemic began. While some may be looking forward to getting back to their normal schedules, there are those who are struggling with returning to school under new conditions.  A lot of kids and teens have struggled with stress and uncertainty over the last year because of the disruptions to “normal” life caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While returning to in person learning has many benefits for mental health and well-being, especially increased socializing that is crucial for kids and teens, your child may also have some concerns about heading back to school this year, including: Being behind other classmates […]

The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the lives of our children in many ways:  adapting to online learning, navigating the “new normal” when heading back to school, rescheduling and cancelling of school events, and creating feelings of social isolation. These restrictions have negatively influenced some of our kids’ mental health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the second leading cause of death among school-age youth. But often it can be prevented, and by knowing the risk factors and signs, it can be a lifesaver. Youth Suicide Statistics: Cause for Concern According to the CDC, during 2020, mental health–related emergency room (ER) visits among adolescents ages 12–17 increased 31% compared to 2019. During the COVID-19 pandemic, suicide attempts also increased for adolescents, especially girls. Children with mental illness are at a higher risk for suicide. In fact, 9 in 10 teens who take their own lives […]