Fall 2020: Green Child Magazine

MAKING FRIENDS DURING LOCK DOWN

Fall 2020

Riding the Wave

HOW AARONICA COLE IS LEARNING TO COPE AND THRIVE THROUGH 2020

8

BENEFITS O F BA BY WEARING

Back to

School

H O W T O E M O T I O N A L LY P R E P A R E YO U R C H I L D

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Publisher & Editor in Chief Amity Hook-Sopko Creative Team Kaitlyn Kirby Tamara Hackett Cover Photography Denvor Cole Contributors Peggy O’Mara Aaronica Cole Mellisa Dormoy Carolina King Sierra Cortazzo Kari Peters Stacy Roth Copy Editor Maria Moser Advertising Director Tracy Carter tracy@greenchildmagazine.com Media & Other Inquiries media@greenchildmagazine.com

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10 8 MOTHER AND BABY

BENEFITS OF BABYWEARING

Celebrate Babywearing Week with

these snuggly facts

14 HOW TO EMOTIONALLY

PREP YOUR KIDS FOR

BACK TO SCHOOL

Get your little ones ready for the

season, no matter how you’re learning

18 RIDING THE WAVE

How influencer and mom of three

Aaronica Cole is coping and thriving in 2020

24 LOOK LISTEN READ

Our picks for books, apps, and

podcasts to check out right now

26 RESALE GETS AN A+

Why sustainable Back to School

shopping is the way to go

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Scan Me

29 FINDING YOUR CAUSE

Peggy O’Mara talks how to get

involved in groups that move you

34 STAYING CONNECTED

DURING LOCKDOWN 38 INTENTIONALLY INCLUSIVE

How we can create a more

inclusive culture

44 EXPLAINING ECZEMA

All of your questions, answered 46 CONSCIOUS KITCHEN

Two family friendly recipes to

add to your fall line-up

50 GUIDED MEDITATION

This health-conscious script

walks you through a boost to the immune system

EDITOR’S LETTER Fall usually signifies a return to routine. This year has been anything but routine, but there’s something about Back to School that brings some of the normalcy we all seem to be craving.

If you’re eager for inspiration on how to merge our current situation with your long-held Fall routines and traditions, this issue is for you. You’ll find helpful advice Reach Green Child’s Executive Editor on preparing your child emotionally for school in all editor@greenchildmagazine.com its different forms this year. Your child’s education is important, but their wellbeing is essential.

Blogger and mother of three Aaronica Cole shares how she has learned to deal with the daily challenges 2020 has brought. We share her commitment to social justice, and we’re continuously encouraged by her stance on body positivity.

And because moms are always busy making everyone else feels safe and adjusted, we’ve got some reminders for you to put yourself on the list. Carolina King explains how to stay connected with your friends (and even make new ones) during social distancing. For those of us who only feel fulfilled when we’re helping others, Peggy O’Mara shares her wisdom on how to find a cause you believe in and support it.

You’ll also find family-friendly meals, Babywearing Week fun, and the latest Good Green News… because who doesn’t need some good news these days?

Please know that our hearts are with all of the Green Child family far and wide. We’re sending an extra helping of patience, grace, and humor to you as you navigate the season ahead.

Amity

Amity Hook-Sopko Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

H OW T O E M O T I O N A L LY

P R E PA R E YO U R K I D S F O R

BACK TO SCHOOL

Between quarantine, online learning, and time away from friends, many children may need extra support as they head back to school this fall.

While your child will probably be happy to be among friends, their days will be vastly different than when they left back in March. They’ll have to deal with constant distancing, plexiglass shields, and hand sanitizer… all while they miss seeing the smiles on friends’ and teachers’ mask-covered faces.

By taking the time to acknowledge your child’s feelings and think ahead about the transition, you can emotionally prepare them to return to school with confidence, optimism and excitement.

AC KNOWLEDGE YO U R C H I L D ’ S FEELINGS Children often take cues about how to react from their parents. Think about what it takes for you to feel calm and prepared (or even excited) for the start of a new school year.

That could mean talking with your

child’s teacher or school about the safety precautions so you can feel more at ease, taking a few minutes to establish a morning routine, or consciously avoiding the news.

Focus on the positive aspects of school, like the opportunity your child will have to learn, make friends, interact with others, and grow into his or her own person.

TALK ABOUT WHAT TO EXPECT Some children may feel ready to go and eager to explore, while others can be more reserved or even fearful of new places, faces and routines. When your child knows what to expect, it can go a long way in soothing any worries he or she may have about leaving home and going to school.

It’s also important to respect your child’s growing independence and empower them to help others. As you explain the safety precautions your school is taking, you can gently emphasize how your child’s actions can help keep family, friends, and teachers safe.

“Children may already be apprehensive about returning to school, let alone trying to cope with new safety practices,” explains Dr. Joelle Simpson, a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Children’s National Hospital.

Explaining the precautions ahead of time can help your child see them as a new / temporary part of the school day routine instead of something to fear.

CELEBRATE THE START OF THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR Don’t let the chaos of 2020 ruin traditions. Try to plan a special activity or some extra family time the week before school starts and encourage your child to participate in the planning. “Remember, children didn’t have time for a celebration at the end of the last school year, and this can help your child mentally adjust to a new routine and schedule,” explains Dr. Elanna Yalow, chief academic officer for KinderCare Learning Centers.

So take those first day of school pics and share them with the grandparents or on social media. Make your child’s favorite meal or get carryout from their favorite restaurant for dinner. Even though this school year is different, it’s still worth celebrating.

8 M OT H E R A N D BABY B ENEF IT S O F

BABYWEARING While babywearing may seem trendy, it’s actually an age-old tradition that, at its most fundamental, lets you keep your baby safe and close while still allowing freedom of movement, activity, and your hands.

Breastfeeding is one of the pillars of Attachment Parenting, a style of parenting that can set your child up for a lifetime of independence, trust, and healthy relationships.

The benefits of babywearing are plentiful for little ones, but there are also some pretty great perks for moms, too!

YOU’LL GET YOUR HANDS BACK If your baby is only happy being held, a wrap or sling can be a physical and emotional life saver. It’s far easier to work, do chores, make a meal, or even get in a light workout when you have full use of your hands. Wearing your baby also allows you to be available for an older child who still needs plenty of attention, play time, and physical closeness.

IT’S AN IMPORTANT WAY TO BOND WITH YOUR BABY The physiological effects of loving touch are impressive. Touch lowers the stress hormone cortisol and boosts “feel-good” endorphins, along with oxytocin, the hormone largely responsible for bonding behavior.

When you wear your baby, you provide constant touch and reassurance, plus you’re always available to respond to their cues and meet their needs.

BABYWEARING BOOSTS BRAIN DEVELOPMENT Touch can also activate particular areas of the brain and influence thought processes, reactions, and even physiological responses. One study shows brain scans that reveal how affective touch activates the orbitofrontal cortex, a brain region associated with learning and decision-making as well as with emotional and social behaviors. And when your baby spends less time crying or

worrying that their needs will be met, they can get on with the business of learning and growing with confidence.

IT CAN DETER STRANGERS FROM TOUCHING YOUR BABY A baby snuggled right up to your body is less available for random hands and cheek-pinchers than one in a stroller or shopping cart basket.

This can help your baby feel safer around strangers and keep unwanted germs at bay.

YOU CAN NURSE DISCREETLY Another pillar of Attachment Parenting is following baby’s cues on frequency and timing of feeding. With many front carries, your little one is in the perfect spot to breastfeed, and they’ll let you know when they’re ready. Plus, studies have shown that babywearing increases extended breastfeeding rates.

BABYWEARING MAKES TRAVEL EASY While there are situations where a stroller (and its carrying capacity) makes sense, wearing your baby is the ideal way to travel light. Transi-

tioning (changing environments or going in and out of sleep) is easier, and most parents feel more comfortable having our small child close to us in an unfamiliar place.

IT CAN DECREASE THE RISK OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION A more content baby can help with the transition into motherhood and enhance your overall mental wellbeing. Babywearing increases the amount of time spent in skin-to-skin contact with your newborn, which studies have connected with decreased rates of postpartum depression.

BABYWEARING IS FOR DADS TOO! It’s an equally important bonding experience for dad, and it gives you some much-needed time to yourself.

Ciaran McKenna, The Babywearing Dad explains, “The best way to bond, in my opinion, is babywearing.

Having your baby so close to you, sleeping on you, getting used to your voice, your smell, your heartbeat.”

S O L L Y B A B Y. C O M

# S O L LY B A B Y

LO O K L I S T E N R E A D

7 Books, Podcasts, Apps to Check Out Right Now URBAN FOREST SCHOOL

by Naomi Walmsley and Dan Westall Their first book focused on Forest School education in forests, but this new book brings the action to towns and cities to show it doesn’t matter where you live. As long as there are gardens, parks, trees, and green spaces there will be a way to share and enjoy the natural world with your child.

MORE LULLABY RENDITIONS OF SONGS FROM HAMILTON

THE OFFICE: A DAY AT DUNDER MIFFLIN ELEMENTARY

by Robb Pearlman and Melanie Demmer Michael Scott is Line Leader at Dunder Mifflin Elementary. Michael wants to live up to the “World’s Best Line Leader” title printed on his water bottle. There’s just one problem - Michael doesn’t know how to lead the line.

This adorable book is filled with colorful illustrations, nods to iconic moments from the show, and young Dwight Schrute as the ambitious “Assistant to the Line Leader.”

by Rockabye Baby If you were baffled why “Say No to This” was on the first Hamilton Lullaby collection and “Dear Theodosia” wasn’t, you’ll be happy to find the follow up collection.

If you’re a Prime member, you can stream it for free and take those little moments to relax with your latest favorite soundtrack... even if your toddler is “NonStop.”

DANCING HANDS: HOW TERESA CARRENO PLAYED THE PIANO FOR PRESIDENT LINCOLN

by Margarita Engle This book tells the story of how a young refugee from Venezuela comforted the grieving president with her music. Music helps her express her feelings and cope with her family’s emigration to the U.S. Her reputation as a prodigy leads to an invitation to the White House. Intimidated, she tries her best—“the memory of meeting past challenges now helped her fingers dance.”

PIKU CALM KIDS APP

Mellisa Dormoy has been writing guided meditation scripts for Green Child since 2012. Now, your child can experience her soothing voice as she leads relaxation exercises, magical trips with animal friends, and rides on a flying carpet in her new app. Each mindfulness meditation is purposefully chosen to suit the unique needs of children, as well as different situations, and times within a day, including natural solutions for hyperactive and ADHD children.

NATURE’S BEST HOPE

MILLION BAZILLION PODCAST

Kids are fascinated by money from an early age. Hosted by Jed Kim, and featuring celebrity guest voices like Kristen Bell, Duff Goldman and LeVar Burton, this podcast answers the awkward and surprising questions kids have about money and explains how we can all get smarter about using it.

by Douglas Tallamy This uplifting book presents an urgent and heartfelt call for a new approach to conservation—one that starts in every backyard. Filled with specific advice and easy to incorporate suggestions, this vital guidebook shows how homeowners everywhere can turn their yards into conservation corridors that provide wildlife habitats.

Riding the Wave WE SPOKE WITH AWARD- WINNIN G BLOGGER, INFLUENCER, AND MOTHER OF THREE AARONICA COLE ABOUT THE HIGHS AND LOWS OF 2020 AND HOW SHE’S LEARNING TO COPE AND THRIVE THROUGH IT ALL

How has quarantine affected you and your family?

Depending on the day, my answer is different! Today is a good day, so we’ll go with that answer. Quarantine is tough. I’m a person who loves being alone to recenter. My husband likes being alone, too, to gather his thoughts and emotions.

Having a house filled with three large personalities outside of our own is hard. It’s hard emotionally because this isn’t the childhood I wanted for my kids, and we’ve been working hard to build upon the foundation that our parents have given us. It’s hard because this was our first year with everyone in school, making friends, and creating relationships, and all of that just got taken away without warning.

There is a lot of sadness that’s being masked as anger. I’m overwhelmed with a lot... I want my kids to remember this as a time that brought us together and it’s hard having that on your shoulders while developing three brands, pivoting a business in a pandemic, nurturing a marriage, and balancing my own emotions.

There have been lots of tears and some breakdowns, but this time has also shown me how solid my marriage is, how much I love my children, and how blessed we are to have our health.

You’ve said that raising joyful Black children is an act of resistance, and we completely agree. Is there any way to describe what it’s like in a time like this?

Hard. Really hard.

It’s hard to be conscious and see what’s happening in the world and not let it color the natural joy that Black children have. In our society, once they hit a certain age, they go from being these cute babies that everyone gushes over to either threats or angry small adults.

It’s like they lose their ability to just be children and make mistakes and learn unless parents are intentional about putting them in spaces that celebrate and affirm this. Because of the impacts of racism and socioeconomic status, this isn’t always possible. Teetering the line of being aware of what’s happening in the world with wanting better for our children is hard.

In addition to becoming more aware and actively doing anti-racism work, is there anything you wish white mothers were doing to be better allies?

Being anti-racist is an everyday action word.

It’s messy and it can be really hard, but it’s worth it. Black parents need White parents specifically moms - to do a better job of raising anti-racist children.

Racism will always exist but only because it’s perpetuated from generation to generation.

We aren’t born thinking that because someone’s skin color looks different than our own they are better or worse. This is taught to us. It may not be taught directly from a mother but realistically speaking, as moms we’re often the governors of what our children consume, experience, and what we allow in our homes.

So this means standing up to moms, dads, spouses, grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins at every chance you get. This means potentially getting uncomfortable and making friends of different backgrounds (race, religion, sexuality, etc) on purpose so that this becomes a norm for children. This means buying the Black dolls and books that feature a Brown main character so that White children see that people who don’t look like them are worthy of being stars in life, too.

And never teach children not to see color or differences. Teach them to celebrate individualism and to stand up for others.

What advice can you give moms who are struggling without support right now?

Whew. This is hard because I think everyone is struggling right now, and it looks different for

each of us. The first thing I would do is figure out what support you need. Do you need a couple of hours a week just to yourself? Do you need therapy? A housecleaner? Help with meal prep? Or is just everything a struggle right now?

Once you’ve identified the support you need, make a plan to get it. One of the things I struggled with was meal planning and cooking all the food. Early into the pandemic, I had to let my husband know that this was a source of pain for me. I normally get some solid work time in the evenings but having to cook dinner all the time took away from this. So he took two days a week to meal plan, order groceries, and prepare dinner for the family. And now we’ve recently added Dinnerly to two meals a night too because I was just over all of our meals. This was a huge impact on my anxiety in the beginning.

But so many of us struggle without knowing what kind of help and support we need. Identify it, communicate with your core people, and make a plan to get what you need.

One of the highlights of Instagram is seeing the clothes you make for yourself. What inspired you to start sewing?

I started sewing when I was 13. I’ve always had busy hands and a busy mind. I would take things apart as a kid to see how they worked and try my hand at putting them back together. My mom, not wanting me to destroy anything else, put me in a sewing class to busy my hands.

I thought it was a waste of time because by the time the class ended, all I had was a drawstring backpack. Womp! But when I was pregnant with my second child, I picked it back up consistently to upcycle thrifted clothes into maternity wear. And from there I just couldn’t stop sewing!

After I had my second baby, I didn’t “snap back” and none of my clothes fit. I wanted to make clothes that didn’t make me feel like a sausage and that were cute while being comfortable. That’s still what keeps me going.

I also LOVE your focus on body positivity. I’m sure it’s not easy to be so open and honest, but what a service you’re doing for other women! Do you ever second guess what you share?

Thank you! Yes, every. single.day. But one

of the things that I have always hated about social media is that it gets a bad rap for having only people share the good things. The reality is that none of us (influencers included) are perfect, and what’s inspiring is sharing the struggle, the triumphs, and the journey. More people need to see that it’s ok to love who you are right now. But most important is that if a moment of discomfort can inspire or help even just one person, it’s worth it to me.

Your blog is about practical green living. What do you most want people to know about transitioning to sustainable and healthier living?

It’s not all or nothing. As we started our journey into greener living, I was really overwhelmed because there were just SO many changes we needed to make! It became discouraging.

But here’s the thing: if we all make one, two, or three small changes, it makes a huge impact. Thankfully, there are so many things that

make replacing toxic things easier now. You can find replacements in Target or have them delivered to you! Just start small and stay consistent, and the rest will follow.

really an everyday thing. Like taking your vitamins, probiotics, moving your body, getting enough rest... These are all acts of self-care.

Favorite food

If you could trade places with anyone for one day, who would it be?

Pizza! I’m a native New Yorker so definitely pizza.

Ideal way to practice self-care

Daily. I think self-care has this reputation of being something you do once in a while when you show signs you need it, but it’s

Don’t judge me— Zac Efron. I just loved his documentary on Netflix.

Words to live by

To the world you might be one person, but to one person you might be the world.

Resale Gets an A+ THE BENEFITS OF S U S TA I N A B L E B AC K T O S C H O O L SHOPPING

Back to school often means a wardrobe update for your kids, so they can look and feel their best for the start of a new school year.

We all remember the epic highs and lows of finding the perfect pair of sneakers for gym class or putting together the coolest outfit for that upcoming field trip. However, this year may look quite different for our young ones, as we navigate new health and safety measures.

Many of us have turned to more economically sound ways of shopping for the things we love, which includes buying resale items.

Purchasing secondhand clothing is a great choice for a variety of reasons, and data suggests that in recent months, many would agree.

Some 70% of consumers say they are now open to buying resale items, according to

ThredUP, a popular site for online second hand finds. Since the start of COVID-19, the demand for resale has exploded, as fashion forward folks look for ways to save money without sacrificing their personal style.

Many resale boutiques and online stores have a surprising amount of quality top brand items, at a fraction of the cost for both adults and children. There also may be even more items available than before, as spending more time from home has led to much needed closet purges. It’s simply smarter shopping!

Buying resale is also a great way to practice living more sustainably. As much as we might love shopping retail, many of our favorite brands rely on fast fashion; inexpensive clothing produced in mass quantities that follow the latest trends.

Some retailers in the fast fashion industry may also be unethical, underpaying their workers and ignoring the safety of their employees.

Not to mention, fast fashion is one of the most pollutive industries in the world, contributing to our carbon emissions and landfills. It’s important to ask ourselves what we can change about our lifestyle that may seem small but can actually have a huge and positive impact on the environment.

It’s also important to not only buy resale, but to sell or donate to resale boutiques and stores as well. By optimizing the lifespan of our clothes, we can keep from throwing away quality items that are still in great shape.

Instead of ending up in a landfill, your slightly used clothes can be passed on to someone else who will love them.

Did you buy a pair of jeans that your kid barely wore before instantly growing out of?

Consider selling or donating them. By doing this, we continue the cycle for others looking for quality items at a fraction of the cost.

We all know kids are constantly growing, and buying expensive retail items every year for back to school can really add up. Not to mention the fact that kids may be learning from home this year, so some parents may want to opt for more affordable fashion looks kids can strut in the hallways at home.

Implementing cost efficient habits that are also sustainable doesn’t have to be difficult.

By making the switch to buying more resale items for your little fashionistas, you can make a big difference not only for your wallet but for the environment as well. And you don’t have to sacrifice style to do it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sierra Cortazzo is the owner of Kangaroo Kids—an upscale children’s & maternity resale and gift boutique and full-service breastfeeding support center. Sierra is a full-time mother, lactation specialist, and entrepreneur who is genuinely passionate about supporting mothers with children of all ages.

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N A P T I M E AC T I V I S M

FINDING YOUR CAUSE In previous articles, I’ve written about giving back to the larger community by getting involved in a worthy cause and I’ve suggested that you do so only to the extent that your time and resources allow. But, what is your worthy cause?

Some mothers, like Candace Lightner, who founded Moms Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) in 1980, are propelled to activism by personal tragedies.

You can use your voice as a woman and a mother to denounce injustice and promote positive political change. First, explore groups in your local community that need help.

For some people, their cause

BY PEGGY O’MARA is obvious; it gets right in peggyomara.com their face and they get involved without realizing that they’re even doing so. If you’re not one of If you don’t find something local, here are these and feel overwhelmed by the numerous some mother-centric national groups to conworthy causes and your own limited time, re- sider: member that women and mothers are behind many of our most beloved organizations.

G RO U P S T O C O N S I D E R Look for ways to get involved in community work that help to improve the lives of your own family members and neighbors.

For example, historically, women have been involved with improving access to education, protecting the environment, ensuring affordable healthcare, advocating for housing, and working to prevent drug abuse, alcoholism, and violence.

Negative experiences with racism, classicism, and sexism have sparked mothers of color to advocate for accessible childcare, voter registration, and elder care.

Another Mother for Peace is a non-profit, non-partisan organization founded in 1967 “to educate women to take an active role in eliminating war as a means of solving disputes between nations, people and ideologies.”

—anothermother.org Black Mamas Matter Alliance envisions “a world in which black mamas have the rights, respect, and resources to thrive before, during and after pregnancy.”

—blackmamasmatter.org

Black Mothers Breastfeeding Assocation wants to reduce racial disparities in breastfeeding success for black families through direct service, education and advocacy.

—blackmothersbreastfeeding.org Blue Star Mothers of America is a private non-profit organization that provides support for mothers who have sons or daughters in active service in the US Armed Forces. It was originally formed during World War II and has local chapters.

—bluestarmothers.org Every Mother Counts works to make pregnancy and childbirth safe for every mother, everywhere by raising awareness, investing in solutions and mobilizing action.

—everymothercounts. org Free Black Mamas puts together funds to bail people out of jail. Women are the fastest growing group of people incarcerated in jails and prisons.

Sixty percent of people in local women’s jails have not even been convicted of a crime and are awaiting trail. Eighty percent of them are parents and many are without support, a safety net or someone to come for them. — nationalbailout.org/history Incarcerated Mothers Law Project. For over 25 years, a team of committed attor-

neys has provided legal advice, information and advocacy to women in jail and prison.

Through this unique project in upstate New York, mothers who are separated from their children due to incarceration receive critical family law counsel to help them preserve and protect parental rights, arrange care for their children, maintain family ties and plan for re-unification. —volsprobono.org/projects/ incarcerated-mothers March for Moms has organized a rally on the National Mall every year since 2017. Its purpose is to share the experiences of extraordinary people working to produce a safer and more equitable American maternal health care system. The organization highlights solutions that will end maternal mortality, improve access to high quality and equitable care and broaden support for the challenges of early parenting.

—marchformoms.org Moms Clean Air Force is “a community of over 1,000,000 moms and dads united against air pollution and committed to fighting for climate safety to protect our children’s health.” —momscleanairforce.org Moms Demand Action is a grassroots movement fighting for public safety measures that can protect people from gun vio-

lence. They work for the passage of stronger gun laws and also work in the community to encourage a culture of responsible gun ownership. —momsdemandaction.org Mothers Against Police Brutality unites mothers who have lost their children to police violence. This is a multi-racial, multi-ethnic coalition uniting mothers nationwide to fight for civil rights, police accountability, and policy reform.

—mothersagainstpolicebrutality.org Mothers of Transgender Children provides support, education, resources and articles for mothers whose children are transitioning from one gender to another.

—mothersoftransgenderchildren.wordpress. com

Mothers Out Front is “an organization of mothers, grandmothers, and other caregivers coming together to make climate change an issue that our leaders can no longer ignore.”

—mothersoutfront.org Single Mothers Outreach “scaffolds families facing sudden housing instability, income loss, emotional trauma and social deterioration as the result of divorce, abandonment, or widowhood.” —singlemothersoutreach.org Social Good Moms is a global coalition of over 3000 mom bloggers from over 20 countries. “When our partners need to reach the masses about new initiatives, advocacy campaigns, or fundraising efforts, Social Good Moms work voluntarily and collectively to spread the word through social media and blogging.” —mombloggersforsocialgood.com

GOOD

Green

NEWS Positive changes are happening for the environment.

Here are the stories that are giving us hope for the future of the planet right now.

U.S. secures permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund. This fund uses oil and gas revenue to finance national parks and historic sites, along with local and state parks and recreation areas. The bill also designated $6.5 billion over the next five years to address the maintenance backlog currently on the shoulders of the National Park System.

Norway is the world’s first nation to ban deforestation. Norway’s deforestation ban is a commitment to deforestation-free supply chains. Norwegians will refuse to award government contracts to companies that engage in clear-cutting.

A Scottish startup created a breakthrough brick made from construction waste. A startup company called Kenoteq has launched a sustainable building brick that generates less than 10 percent of the carbon emissions released during the manufacture of regular bricks.

Eleven new colonies of emperor penguins have been discovered in Antarctica using satellite photography. The emperor penguin is the largest penguin species, and the new find brings their known population to around a half-million.

Researchers discover how to recycle Coronavirus PPE into liquid biofuel. Dr. Bhawna Yadav Lamba, who co-authored the study, believes the recycling process the team discovered is far more sustainable than incinerating or landfilling used PPE.

More coal power generation closed than opened around the world this year, research finds. The size of the global coal power fleet fell for the first time on record over the first six months of the year, with more generation capacity shutting than starting operation.

Staying Connected with Friends DURING LOCKDOWN

The pandemic hit, and all of a sudden our lives felt unstable, unpredictable, and at times, scary. Most of us have had to juggle being a parent and teacher, while keeping up with housework and our jobs‌ with no end in sight.

This time has certainly shown how essential connection with other humans is for our mental wellness. But, how can you spend

time with or make close friends during a lockdown?

I was born and raised in Costa Rica. Nine years ago I moved to the U.S. without knowing anyone but my husband. Here I was, in a new country, with a different culture and language trying to make friends. Soon after, we started a family, and free time for making friends was in limited supply. So I did what

most moms do: I joined Facebook groups to chat and vent with women who were in my shoes.

Little did I know, I would meet my new best friend in one of those groups— a woman who has changed my life forever in many positive ways.

The thing is, we became friends from opposite sides of the country. We built our friendship virtually for five years before we met in person. Yes, my best friend was someone I didn’t meet in person for FIVE years. Yet, she knew all my deepest secrets, and I knew hers. Many times she was the one who kept me sane during the overwhelming years of parenting two small children mostly alone while running a parenting blog.

I’ve met some of my greatest friends online; some I have met in person, but most I haven’t because we live in different parts of the country.

You might be thinking that it’s not the same online, and I agree.

It isn’t, but because it’s different, it comes with perks, such as building a friendship without ever having to get out of your pajamas.

BY C A RO L I N A K I N G MAMAINSTINCTS.COM

And the biggest benefit I’ve found about growing a friendship online is that you can talk whenever, which means you can talk often too, which is the base of a solid friendship.

S O C I A L D I S TA N C I N G S H O U L D N ’ T S T O P YO U F RO M C O N N E C T I N G W I T H P E O P L E

Find creative ways to stay in contact with your local friends. Seeing a friend’s face on a video chat or hearing her voice over the phone can really help you stay in touch with a friend. Some extended families have started new traditions with a weekly Zoom and are actually more in tune with one another than they were before the pandemic.

Start a group text. Even if it’s just a place to lament this week’s math lesson or send a gif that describes your day, just knowing your friends are there to commiserate with you can do wonders for your mental health. You can always set it to “do not disturb” if it gets to be too much.

Arrange a backyard or local park visit.

Everyone needs nature right now. Fresh air and sunshine work wonders on the immune system, and kids need space to burn off some of their bounding energy. You can enjoy seeing each other’s faces and talking in person - and still keep a safe distance.

MAKING FRIENDS ONLINE

I’ve found social media to be the best way to make friends online.

You can join Facebook groups with like-minded women or interact with people on Instagram that seem to be the type of people you enjoy hanging out with.

If you see someone in a group you’d like to connect with beyond the group, start commenting on their posts or comments, create a connection, and then move the conversation to a private messaging platform.

Just like in person, you can’t force a friendship. Relationships take time to build, but don’t let that stop you. Put yourself out there, talk to people and you will find people that you will want to get to know more.

Keep in mind, in the beginning, the conversations might be limited, but if it’s someone you’re feeling you click with, check in when you can, make an effort to be in their lives and see if they make the effort, too.

Ideally chat with your new friend once a day, even if it’s short. You’re both getting to know each other so consistency helps at the beginning. And then, let it evolve.

Every time I start a friendship online, we start chatting. However, I’m a mom who’s trying to work, be a full time parent, take care of a messy house and feed my kids yummy, healthy meals.

Typing can be time consuming, so I like to switch to voice audios. This allows you to hear each other’s tone and can strengthen a connection. It felt a little awkward at first for my best friend and I to record ourselves speaking, but now this is how I communicate with most of my friends.

There are many apps out there which facilitate that but my favorite one is WhatsApp. It’s free, you can send audios as long as you like but also pictures and videos. You might think you won’t be sending pictures or videos but after a while you will! And it’s very convenient to have all of it in one place.

Although this situation has been challenging, we’re fortunate to live in a time where we have many ways to communicate. You can befriend people anywhere in the world.

And who knows... one day you might find yourself traveling to a new place to meet the friend you made during the pandemic.

How to Create a More

In clu s iv e Culture

BY S TAC Y RO T H

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Dr. Maya Angelou’s words show how an inclusive culture helps us feel comfortable, connected, and supported with individuals who are similar, and also with those who are different.

They are free to express their opinions and disagree because there is a high level of trust among all group members. Some think diversity is only about differences.

But as the term is applied in workplaces and social contexts, diversity refers to both the differences that help us see each other as distinct individuals and the similarities that help to connect us.

These differences and similarities can be characteristics such as age, race, religion, sexual orientation, ethnic background, and physical ability. But diversity also encompasses other aspects of our identity—gender identity and expression, core values, cultural norms, and the ways we process information and approach problems.

Being intentionally inclusive means being mindful and curious about the life experiences and viewpoints of other people. It is these individual life experiences and standpoints that need to be embraced with a lens of curiosity, so that people feel seen, heard, and respected.

Being mindful of how we can show up for others in our life and community to feel seen, heard, and respected will be the nec-

essary first step to being intentionally inclusive.

There needs to be a willingness to engage in this practice through these four pillars: Building Knowledge, Kindness, Empathetic and Emotional Understanding, and Compassion.

K N OW L E D G E

Examine your own beliefs, biases, and values will help you take the first step to make a conscious choice of ways you want to build your knowledge and practice being intentionally inclusive. Building knowledge can take on many forms for you and your family. One valuable form is to connect with people in your community and children’s schools to begin understanding their life experience and standpoint. This connection can lead to a greater understanding and meaningful experience for everyone.

KINDNESS

It is through our acts of kindness that makes a difference in a practice of being intentionally inclusive. Our words and actions that we are willing to choose, so that people feel seen, heard, and respected will foster support and trust.

E M PAT H E T I C A N D E M O T I O N A L U N D E R S TA N D I N G

Trying to really envision how an individual’s life experience and standpoint are for them and a willingness to share in their feelings. It is emotional empathy that helps us build emotional connections with other

people and ultimately serves as the thread of our existence as social beings.

C O M PA S S I O N

Showing a willingness to be an ally for others during their challenging times and celebrating their triumphs with them. It is through our words and actions that will express caring and support for their circumstances. Being intentional about our connections with people that is based on treating them with dignity and respect will be key to foster compassion. This will cultivate a greater connection and better understanding of one another.

Taking the time to practice these four pillars is important to creating a meaningful intention in your life.

A B O U T T H E AU T H O R

Stacy I. Roth, M.S. in Counseling Psychology has provided individual, group, and crisis counseling to adults, children, and at risk youth in clinical and school settings. Stacy is the recipient of the 2006 Excellence in Teaching Award.

USA

Goat milk has always been a trade secret among moms. That’s why Kabrita has harnessed the gentle benefits of goat milk into our line of Goat Milk Foods, designed for babies and toddlers.

Are you curious to see if Kabrita Goat Milk Foods* may be right for your family? Get your FREE Trial Kit** today at kabritaUSA.com!

Feeding instructions: Just add water. Kabrita goat milk porridge already contains the gentle goodness and nutrition of goat milk.

1

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40°C 40°C

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Nutrition Facts About 2 serving per bag Serving size 3 tbsp powder (15g) Amount per serving

Fill a bowl with 100 ml of boiled water that has been cooled down to lukewarm temperature.

Add 3 tablespoons (± 15 g) Kabrita goat milk porridge to the bowl.

60

Calories

Organic

Stir well for a smooth porridge. Test the temperature of the porridge and always use clean utensils.

Goat milk porridge APPLE & CINNAMON

WITH GOAT CHEESE Infants through Children 12 months 1-3 years % DV* % DV*

Total Fat 1.5g

6%

Saturated Fat 1g

9%

Cholesterol <5mg Sodium 25mg

1% 2% 9%

Dietary Fiber <1g

6% 3%

Total Sugars 4g

Includes 0g Added Sugars Protein 3g

Store Kabrita porridge at room temperature. After opening, keep tightly covered, store in a dry area and use contents within one month.

Filled by weight not by volume.

Some settling may occur.

4%

Trans Fat 0g

Total Carbohydrate 8g

Incorrect preparation may put your baby’s health at risk. Use the porridge within one hour after preparation and throw away any left overs.

Manufactured in the Netherlands for Kabrita USA 6 Pardee Avenue Toronto, Ontario M6K 3H5 W: kabritausa.com T: 1-855-816-3999 @hellokabrita #kabritakid

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NL-BIO-01 EU/Non-EU Agriculture

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Iron 0.3mg

all natural

Net Wt 1.3oz (38g)

Potassium 150mg

0% 25%

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Ingredients: organic whole grain oat flour, organic nonfat dry goats’ milk, organic whole dry goats’ milk, organic buckwheat flakes, organic apple powder, organic rice flakes, organic cinnamon.

Contains Milk. May contain traces of Wheat.

Not suitable for children with a diagnosed cow milk protein allergy.

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*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 1,000 calories

9+ M

no added a day is used for general nutrition advice for children 1-3. sugar

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Net Wt 0.53 oz (15g) 1004420_Kabrita_Zak_PorridgeAppleCinnamon_Sample_Sachet_38g_310x120_US.indd 1

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Explaining Eczema :

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Managing your child’s eczema can be challenging. We spoke with Gladskin dermatologist and Scientific Advisory Board member for the National Eczema Association, Dr. Peter Lio, to help answer some of your questions about eczema and the skin microbiome.

Up to 1 in 5 children have eczema, and its prevalence has continued to increase over the last couple of decades. Eczema can begin during childhood, adolescence, or adulthood and it can range from mild to severe.

W H AT I S E C Z E M A ?

WHY ARE SOME CHILDREN MORE L I K E LY T O G E T E C Z E M A T H A N O T H E R S ?

The National Eczema Association describes eczema as a group of conditions that cause the skin to become itchy, inflamed, or have a rash-like appearance.

There are seven types of eczema: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis.

There is a genetic component to eczema that makes some children more likely to flare than others. However, some children who have the ‘eczema gene’ never get eczema, and there are children without the ‘eczema gene’ that still get eczema. There are many complex factors at play with eczema, however, one thing we do know is

that nearly every child with eczema has a skin microbiome that is out of balance.

I S E C Z E M A C AU S E D BY F O O D A L L E RG I E S ?

We know that if your child has food allergies, they are more likely to have eczema (and also asthma— known as the ‘atopic triangle’) . In fact, up to 80% of children with eczema also have asthma or allergies to pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, or certain foods. However, scientists are still on the lookout for the connection between eczema and allergies.

D O K I D S O U T G ROW E C Z E M A ?

W H AT I S T H E S K I N M I C RO B I O M E ?

Yes, kids often outgrow eczema, but it’s also possible for adults who never had eczema to develop it later in life.

The skin microbiome is the community of bacteria that naturally live on your skin to help keep your skin healthy. Just like your gut needs a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria, so does your skin. Disruptions in that balance can result in chronic skin conditions, like eczema. Keeping our skin microbiome balanced helps our skin to produce vitamins and nutrients to keep the skin strong and healthy.

C A N P RO B I O T I C S H E L P W I T H E C Z E M A ?

Although there are many case reports of people who have tried probiotics and noticed an improvement in the skin, there is no great scientific evidence that we are aware of supporting the fact that probiotics are an effective treatment for eczema.

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I think we’re heading a new respect for that “balance” [of bacteria] as a concept. Using a broad-spectrum antiseptic or antibiotic is probably not the answer anymore, and as we’re seeing increasing strains of super-bacteria and bacteria resistant to drugs, we need to keep our eye on that point that it is possible to overuse broad-spectrum medications.

W H AT D O E S A “ BA L A N C E D ” M I C RO B I O M E E N TA I L ?

A healthy skin barrier is really composed of a number of different layers, if you will, or parts. We have the acidity of the skin, sometimes called the acid mantle [because] that lower pH has to be present. Then we have the actual barrier function itself, and there’s a whole bunch of important proteins in there that keep the wall built and strong against outside invaders.

There’s also the immune system playing a role in surveillance, aka making sure that we don’t let invaders in. But, an important part of a healthy skin barrier and healthy skin, is a microbiome that is diverse — that has a number of different bacterial elements, and probably even some viruses and fungal elements that we don’t know as much about yet. They just have to be all playing well together.

W H AT E X AC T LY I S T H E C O N N E C T I O N B E T W E E N A S K I N M I C RO B I O M E I M BA L A N C E A N D E C Z E M A F L A R E UPS?

We know that in 80% of people with eczema there is an overgrowth of one specific type of bacteria that perpetuates the itch-scratch-irritation cycle. We see that right before an eczema flare up happens, this bad bacteria starts to overgrow, producing toxins that cause inflammation.

If you can safely remove this bad bacteria while keeping the healthy bacteria intact, your skin will be much happier.

C A N A N A L L E RGY T E S T S H OW W H AT I S C AU S I N G M Y C H I L D ’ S E C Z E M A ?

An allergy test will uncover ingredients that your child should avoid. However, eczema is complex, so there may be many factors that contribute to the eczema.

C A N S T E RO I D S M A K E E C Z E M A WO R S E O R C AU S E A D D I T I O N A L H E A LT H I S S U E S ?

This is a very controversial topic. While most dermatologists recommend steroid creams as a way to keep eczema under control, they are only supposed to be used for short periods of time.

CONSCIOUS KITC HEN

Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice

BY K A R I P E T E R S

This recipe combines two classic combinations for the ultimate comfort food, plus it’s easy to make in an Instant Pot. INGREDIENTS

2 Tablespoons butter or olive oil 2 cups carrots, peeled and diced 3 stalks celery, diced, 2 cups 1 onion, peeled and diced 1/2 inch, 3 cups 2 clove garlic, minced 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1” pieces 1 Teaspoon poultry seasoning 1 1/2 cups chicken broth 1 cup long grain white jasmine rice 1 Teaspoon sea salt, more or less to taste, see notes 1/2 Teaspoon ground black pepper 1 – 1 pound bag frozen broccoli florets, thawed and cut into bite sized pieces if necessary Thinly slice fresh chives or green onions for an optional garnish 2 cups grated aged white cheddar

DIRECTIONS Select the sauté function on the Instant

Pot. When it’s hot, add the butter or olive oil along with the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally until the veggies begin to soften with some browning.

Then add the chicken and sauté about 2

minutes until the outer edges of the chicken begin to turn white before stirring in the poultry seasoning.

Next turn off the sauté function and add

the chicken stock. Scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot well to make sure to remove any browned bits. This is important so you don’t get a burn signal.

Finally add the rice, salt, (you can also add

salt at the end if you prefer) and pepper to the Instant Pot. Stir to evenly distribute, then set the valve to sealing, and pressure cook for 8 minutes.

When the timer is up, let the Instant Pot

naturally release for 2 minutes, then use the quick release function. I find it useful to cover the valve with a cloth to prevent splattering.

Add the broccoli and grated cheddar, stir to

combine. Then place the lid back on, select the keep warm function and let the broccoli cook for 5 minutes.

When the broccoli is done cooking, season

to taste if needed with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

CONSCIOUS KITC HEN

Nourishing Lentil Soup This easy lentil soup with spinach makes a nutrient-rich plant-based meal thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freezer-friendly.

INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup olive oil 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes 1 onion, chopped 2 celery stalks, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 tsp oregano 2 bay leaves 2 tsp basil

1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes 2 cups dry lentils (brown or red) 4 cups water 4 cups broth (chicken or veggie) 1 cup baby spinach, chopped 1 tbsp salt 2 tsp pepper 3 tbsp lemon juice

DIRECTIONS

In a large soup pot or dutch oven, heat the olive oil.

Add the red pepper flakes, onion, carrot, and celery to the pot.

Cook until onion is translucent (about 6 minutes).

Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, bay leaf, basil, salt, & pepper and cook until fragrant (about

3 minutes).

Add the can of tomatoes, dried lentils, broth, and water.

Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 1.5 hours or until the lentils are soft.

Optional: add broth to get the desired consistency for your soup.

Right before serving, add in the spinach and lemon juice.

Add additional salt and pepper to taste.

GUIDED MEDITATION B O O S T YO U R I M M UN E S YS T E M

BY MELLISA DORMOY ShambalaKids.com

Today we are going to do a fun visualization to help ourselves be super strong and healthy and stay that way. Get comfortable and close your eyes.

Take in a nice, deep breath in through your nose. Fill up your belly like a big orange pumpkin, and then exhale slowly. When you exhale, let all your thoughts or worries just float away with your breath. Let them all go.

Continue breathing slowly as you pay attention to your in-breath and out-breath. Let yourself become more and more relaxed with every breath. Very good.

Now, as you continue to relax and focus on my voice, we are going to use our imagination. Our minds are so incredible because we can imagine anything we want. So, we always want to use our imagination in a positive way. Now we will do that by imagining our bodies very healthy and strong which helps to keep them that way.

Inside our bodies, we have tiny white blood cells that are like strong little warriors protecting and defending us against anything that shouldn’t be there. They help keep us healthy and strong all day long. You can be the leader of your own little warrior squad by always imagining them as strong, tough, mighty defenders of your body. You can even encourage them by visualizing them and knowing they are doing an excellent job, always protecting you.

Imagine them now marching along swiftly, clearing out anything that doesn’t belong in your body. Maybe you can imagine them beaming light at any bad germs that shouldn’t be there... and then those germs totally evaporate! The light in your body is so powerful, nothing bad or harmful can stay there. Only goodness can stay in the light. You and your whole defender squad are healthy and fierce protectors, so you stay strong and full of happy, vibrant energy.

Our thoughts matter, so in life we remember to stay focused on the positive, think good things about ourselves, speak kindly to ourselves, and always expect the best from any situation. We stay healthy with good thoughts, good intentions, healthy eating, and exercising, too. Remember to do the things that are good for you, like eating your vegetables, and thinking happy thoughts.

A simple affirmation to use every day is “I am always healthy and strong.”

Take in a nice, deep breath now and bring your attention back to the room. Open your eyes when you’re ready. You’ve done a great job!