Content by Audrey Rider
Kids Are Tough, but They Still Need Resiliency Skills!
Kids are tough, but how can we teach them to become resilient and recover from the difficulties they will face during their childhood? Learn some tips to help children build resilience during difficult times.
Helping Kids Cope and Understand Family Stressors
South Dakota and many of our neighboring states experience natural disasters and agricultural family stress. While we know this can cause added stress on adults and parents, don’t forget to visit with your children of all ages and help them cope with the added stress and changes in their routine.
Helping Kids Deal With Change
As we are all going through these times of change and uncertainty, remember to talk to your child or children in your care and don’t just avoid the behaviors.
All Kids and Adults Need To Play and Let Loose!
Movement and unstructured activity help increase memory, perception, attention, emotion and basic decision making. Incorporate play into your daily routine to improve your health while making memories with your kids!
Grow Getters: Garden-Based Education for Preschool-3rd Grades
The “Grow Getters” series consists of lessons and resources to engage youth and families in hands-on, at-home activities related to gardening—even without a garden!
Growing Active Readers
These lessons and activities bring together evidence-based environmental and behavioral changes to promote improved long-term health outcomes.
Keep Moving Indoors
There are so many opportunities to squeeze in activity during the day. The current Physical Activity Guidelines say that any activity counts towards meeting the recommended 150 minutes of activity each week. So, get creative, find what you enjoy and keep your body moving as much as possible every day.
Managing Child Care Options When Schools Close
As schools and some child cares close across South Dakota, many parents are left scrambling for child care options.
Running Around Like Crazy! It’s Ok!
Who remembers hearing their dad say, “You kids should go outside and run around and let off some steam?" This statement couldn’t be truer today than it was 20-40 years ago. Even if you live in town and don’t have direct access to nature, go visit a playground or park and spend time outdoors in a natural environment.
Let Kids Pretend!
Pretend play is as natural as eating and sleeping to kids and should not be dismissed. It is teaching them to practice being in the world and problem solving.