HEALTHY FAMILY

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HEALTHY SNACK little drops of sunshine

These two-bite treats get their golden color from dried apricots and contain omega-3s, vitamin E, and magnesium, all nutrients that support emotional health. In a food processor, pulse 1 cup dried apricots and ½ cup pitted dates until coarsely chopped. Add ½ cup unsweetened, shredded coconut, 2 tablespoons fl ax seeds, 3 tablespoons water, and a pinch of salt, and continue pulsing to blend. Add ⅓ cup unsalted, roasted cashews and ¼ cup unsalted, roasted almonds until the mixture forms a ball. Place ½ cup chopped nuts or coconut in a shallow, rimmed dish. With wet hands (to prevent sticking), roll the processed mixture into tablespoon-size balls, then roll the balls in the topping. Refrigerate for 45 minutes before serving. Makes 24 sunshine drops.

NUTRITION PER DROP: 69 calories, 2g protein, 4g fat (1g sat. fat), 7g carbs, 1g fiber, 5g sugar, 13mg calcium, 0mg iron, 8mg sodium

inspiring idea

TOWER OF POWER

Let a pillar of positive thoughts give your child a boost of confi dence before her next school test, sports match, or other milestone event. Use washi tape and number stickers to decorate the outside of a stackable bead organizer (fi nd them at craft stores; we used two sets to make our tower). Jot down encouraging thoughts on slips of paper and place one in each section of the tower. If you like, add a small wrapped treat or trinket. Each day leading up to the special event, your child can open a compartment for a small dose of “Yes, you can!”

fun fact

here’s something to smile about

We all know that happiness can make us smile, but did you know that the reverse can also be true? Smiling can make us happy. “It’s all connected,” says Scott Weems, a cognitive neuroscientist at the University of Maryland. “If you get someone to smile, they’ll eventually be in a good mood.” Not sure you can persuade your pouting little ones to try turning their frowns upside down? Just smile yourself, says Weems. The facial expression can also be contagious!

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