Moods and emotions can be big feelings that even some adults have trouble understanding so we cannot expect children to be masters of theirs. There are many ways in which we can help children understand what they are feelings, such as role modeling, through pretend play, and mood cards. In this blog we will be focusing on mood cards, what they are and how to use them.
Children have just as much stress, frustration, and/or anxiety as most adults but are not able to understand or control it in the moment. During moments of stress and anxiety children tend to tense up certain muscle groups unknowingly and have a challenging time relaxing them. This can lead to the children being in a state of high anxiety for longer periods of time.
First published in the Etobicoke-Lakeshore Magazine, November Edition The Pandemic has taught us to value many local resources we may previously have taken for granted. We have been forced to shop local, eat local and enjoy the hidden gems in our community. These...
Last week our “Fun with Fitness” class emphasized the importance of healthy living. Our virtual lesson highlighted that healthy foods are fundamental to a healthy lifestyle and we need to be aware of the five special food groups in order to grow big and strong and get...
As we all know, adjusting to life in a pandemic can be difficult. For teenagers, this can be especially difficult as summer events were cancelled and many students missed out on exciting milestones. These days, excitement and fun is hard to come by and social...
With the recent events surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, many students have switched to online learning. Due to the pandemic, children are spending more time at home and lacking the physical activity facilitated through recess and gym class when they were physically attending school. It is important for parents to find ways to incorporate physical activity at home and prioritize healthy living. In doing so, families can reduce the risk of childhood obesity and reduce the stress and anxiety experienced during these unprecedented times.
Ever wonder what to do with your kids during those rainy days? We know getting active and moving our bodies are good for us, but how many of us actually spend time intentionally get our bodies moving? This activity will get your kiddos moving while having fun! Even better is the bonding that happens between families when they work out together. I hope you have a blast with this fun dance activity.
Even with the warm weather and the beginning of summer, it can be difficult to stay active as most recreational facilities and programs are still unable to run safely. An obstacle course, whether indoor or outdoor, is a great way to express creativity, stay active and have fun at home. Best of all, an obstacle course can be created using any materials and any amount of space you have available.
I became a Certified Yoga Instructor in 2012 and an Age Group Developmental Swim coach in 2004. My teaching journeys along the way have included, Yoga at a Women’s Prison, an Orphanage, Drug/Alcohol Rehab Centers, Schools, Yoga Centers, Private Clients and Retreats.
Interactive yoga for preschoolers is a fantastic way to start your day. Jumping and stretching are energizing and you can never go wrong!In this video... Set up your yoga mat if you have one, along with any yoga cards you might have (If you have them) Ask your...
Willow OT recaps the Childhood Anxiety: 5 Key Strategies to help children and teens cope – a webinar offered by the
Institute of Child Psychology.
It's a great time to teach kids about germs and how proper handwashing can ensure all of those little microbes get washed down the drain. Talking about ways to take control of the spread of germs and viruses can help children feel less vulnerable when outbreaks...
Written by: Kelly Letros - Behaviour Therapist During spring break, I was enthused to spend my week with children who had registered for a week-long camp program. Daily, they were running to and fro through the corridors of the centre, from one pre-planned activity to...
Whether you are the type of person who wakes up ready to take on the world, or the type of person who needs time and space to prepare for the day, adding a few moments of mindfulness practice to your morning routine can make all the difference to your mindset for the...
Life is hectic! Meal planning, shopping, cooking and even finding time to eat together can be challenging. We worry or feel guilty if we don’t provide all the food groups, or if our children won’t eat them, never have time to read the food labels when shopping...