HEALTHY AT HOME
Back to School
with
BY DEELLE HINES AND CAMILLA MACDONALD
Dream Candy S
eptember is always bittersweet. The idea of putting away the beach bags and dusting off school bags can leave a bad taste in our mouths. Transitioning from summer’s fun and freedom, into school’s structure and expectations can be a challenge for children. At Dream Candy, we know every child has infinite potential and the ability to overcome any challenge, and heading back to school is no exception. Since January 2017, Dream Candy, has introduced youth in Pictou County to wellness practices that are scientifically proven to increase happiness, self-esteem and resiliency. The children in our weekly groups have explored meditation, mindfulness, gratitude and creative expression in exciting ways, and have already seen huge benefits in their lives. Jami, an 11 year old girl in the Confident Girl by Dream Candy program says “Meditation has helped me get my mind off things and has taught me to relax. I’ve learned so much about taking a break from day-today life, to take time for myself, to meditate and compliment myself, but also do things for other people.” Whether your child is starting school for the first time, transitioning from middle school to high school, concerned about bullying, or worried about fitting in, each young person is facing a time of change and uncertainty and Dream Candy wants to help sweeten the school year with these tips.
Give & Receive Compliments Bullying is an epidemic in schools and we often hear about children being hurt by unkind words both online and on the Most importantly, make sure children are giving themselves playground. While there is no simple cure for this problem, lots of loving language. Jami says “Complimenting yourself is we can teach children to fill their schools, snapchats and For ALL Your Home, very Farm, AutoIt makes you feel great to sit down and write important. minds with loving language. & Fishing Needs! everything good about yourself.” Complimenting friends, teachers, bus drivers,Boat school Insurance aids Often our internal dialogue can be negative and selfas often as possible, and reaching out to people who need critical. Learning to shift that self-talk in a positive direction positivity the most are excellent habits to instill. Nothing drastically increases self-esteem. Encourage children will boost confidence more than giving or receiving a to compliment themselves internally and be as kind to beautiful compliment. themselves as they would be to their friends. Teach children Encourage children to notice the GOOD things that to smile at themselves in the mirror and give themselves a people say about them. Though it can be hard to receive compliments, they should be accepted as graciously as a gift. compliment before they leave for school.
LOCAL AGENT
136914
Barbara Slaunwhite 902-759-3289
Barbara Slaunwhite
Your representative covering the North Shore, Pictou and Colchester Counties
902-759-3289
LOCAL AGENT
For All Your
barbara@antigonishfarmersmutual.ca
Home, Farm, Auto & Fishing Boat
barbara@antigonishfarmersmutual.ca HEAD OFFICE: 188 Main Street, Antigonish NS
Insurance Needs
1-800-565-3544 • antigonishfarmersmutual.ca
HEAD OFFICE: 188 MAIN ST. ANTIGONISH NS
www.antigonishfarmersmutual.ca • 1-800-565-3544 The North Shore
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