Summertime is a cherished season for kids and adults alike. For children, it is a time of less structure and more play. For adults, it is an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures in life. And for everyone, it is a chance to spread a little extra kindness. Whether you are picking up litter in your neighborhood or smiling at a stranger, small acts of kindness can make a big difference. So, this summer, take some time to enjoy the sunny days and show the world a little bit of love and happiness.
Spring into Action!
Spring is a time of new beginnings.The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and the world is starting to bloom. It's a time to come out of hibernation and embrace all that life has to offer. It's also a time to spread kindness. Kindness has so many benefits; it increases happiness and energy, and it even provides a brain benefit to those who spread kindness around. There's nothing like a smile or a kind word to make someone's day, and you never know when you might need a little bit of extra kindness yourself. So go ahead, spring into action, and spread some kindness around. The world will be a better place for it.
Fun, Summer-Friendly Ways to Build Resilience in Your Kids
Even in less-trying times, most parents try to keep their kids from experiencing stress, setbacks, and struggles. These days, with all the anxiety and uncertainty surrounding COVID, that's nearly impossible. But we can provide our kids with the emotional armor and grit-enhancing tools to help them bounce back from hard times - and even "bounce forward" as a stronger person. Here are some ideas for instilling resilience in your child, and having fun doing it.
Fun, Meaningful Ideas for a Low-Cost, No-Camp Summer
Even as we continue the work of building a stronger, healthier, more equitable world, the everyday challenges of work and parenthood are still with us. We don't have the answers to these challenging issues, but we do have a few ideas for how your family can have fun, get outside, be creative, and help others this summer.
Finding Purpose in the Time of COVID-19
The Power of Nature in These Days of Isolation
We know from research that even in the best of times, spending time in nature can decrease stress, sharpen attention, improve physical health (reducing blood pressure, heart rate and muscle tension), decrease pain and increase immune function. During these stay-at-home days, nature can offer constancy, bring solace and inspire wonder and awe.
Make It Fun for Kids to Give Back
Summer is for family and fun, but that doesn't mean that kindness and service need to take a holiday. These lazy days provide all sorts of opportunities to keep exercising that kindness muscle and remind little ones that there is great joy in giving. These eight activities will help you create a memorable, heart-filled summer.