July 18, 2020

Quote of the Week

"When schools, families, and community groups work together to support learning, children tend to do better in school, stay in school longer, and like school more." - Anne Henderson

What Kids Can Do To Help Their Community During The COVID-19 Pandemic

"One silver lining of the current pandemic is that it presents an opportunity for us to teach kids about the importance of helping and caring for others. Right now just about everyone can use as much support as possible, and kids are in a perfect position to spread some of that kindness.

Not only does helping others make everyone, including children, feel good, there’s actual evidence that it’s great for mental health, too, helping you cope when feelings of loneliness or grief set in — something more and more kids are dealing with as school closures and social isolation continue. There’s also plenty of evidence linking generosity and happiness, so if your child tends to be moody or has been struggling emotionally during the pandemic, this may help combat negative feelings. It can also help the do-gooder self-regulate their emotions in general, decreasing the chance of depression, and improving their overall well-being." [read more]

Reading Corner

Title: A Kind Of Paradise
By: Amy Rebecca Tan
Ages: 8-12

"Thirteen-year-old Jamie Bunn made a mistake at the end of the school year. A big one. And every kid in her middle school knows all about it. Now she has to spend her summer vacation volunteering at the local library—as punishment. What a waste of a summer!

Or so she thinks.

A Kind of Paradise is an unforgettable story about the power of community, the power of the library, and the power of forgiveness." - Publishers

Be the Change

The Internet offers lots of sites with information about volunteer opportunities. You can also call a favorite charity, hospital, or shelter home directly to see if they have any needs.

Here are some ideas to get your family started in an experience that may create stronger bonds as a family and as a community. But please be sure to stay safe and responsible while you help!