Content by Audrey Rider

Mother and young daughter wearing masks in an outdoor park.

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.

Parents playing with their children in a living room.

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!

An adult and several children's hands at a table planting a seedling in a container.

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!

teacher with a small group of children learning at a table

Growing Active Readers

These lessons and activities bring together evidence-based environmental and behavioral changes to promote improved long-term health outcomes.

A young woman in workout clothes stretching on a pink yoga mat.

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.

A young male student studying at the kitchen table with an older sister.

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.

A young female child with red hair running outside alongside a puppy.

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.