We always love sharing great resources from our partner, TogetherCounts!
If you groaned when you saw pumpkins and Christmas trees lining the store shelves back in August, when you were busy buying school supplies, you’re not alone. Fall is a busy time and the pressure to decorate and celebrate weighs on us when we’re trying to simply get the family into a weeknight routine. But as the weather cools, welcoming the Thanksgiving holiday and all it’s traditions gets easier. Right about now we all start feeling grateful in anticipation of the holiday season.
As members of the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation (HWCF), we encourage busy families to check out the Together Counts™ program. Planning to visit farms and take advantage of the local fall bounty? Check out Farming Spotlight—new agriculture resources for schools and families that highlight the connection of farms to food.
We at The OrganWise Guys, love this time of year where the primary focus is on family, friends, food, and fun! We encourage time spent together cooking (healthy foods, of course!) and finding time to be active together. Think about taking a family stroll after your holiday meals … great for exercise and quality together time!
Also, give back to your community this fall with a family activity centering on feeling grateful. Opportunities abound for volunteering this time of year and can remind children of the reason for the season. An easy way to give back is to enter to win a Healthy Playground Makeover for your child’s school. Two grand prize winning schools receive a $30,000 grant plus a new playground! Get your kids involved to start a campaign for their own school or one with greater need. Anyone can enter on behalf of a pre-K through elementary school. Getting 60 minutes of active play time each day is recommended for all children, but did you know there are many benefits to outdoor play and in particular for children ages 3-5? Pre-K schools and Head Starts can apply for one of 11 grants—up to $20,000—to improve wellness at school. Share news about Smart from the Start grants with an early childhood education teacher in your community. A simple post on Facebook can make all the difference and this time of year, a busy teacher in need of new resources will be grateful you did!