Get Ready for Get Ready for

from May/June 2023 Bonners Ferry Living Local

ADVENTURE, REST and RELAXATION awaits

by DREW JOHNSON

Summer is a time for fun, sun and relaxation, but for parents, it can also be a stressful time trying to keep kids entertained and engaged while school is out. Prepping for summer activities ahead of time can help alleviate some of that stress and ensure that your kids have a summer filled with fun and meaningful experiences.

One of the first steps in prepping for summer activities is to determine what your child is interested in and what they want to do during the summer months. Having a conversation with your child about their interests and ideas can help you choose the right activities or programs to keep them engaged throughout the summer.

Summer camps can be a great option for kids of all ages and interests. There are a variety of camps available, from traditional day and overnight camps to specialized camps focused on specific activities like sports, arts or technology. Many of these camps also offer specialized programs for children with special needs or those looking for a unique experience, like wilderness camps or adventure camps. If your child is interested in sports, there are a variety of summer programs available that can help them improve their skills and stay active. Many local sports leagues offer summer camps and clinics for kids of all ages and skill levels. There are also specialized sports camps that focus on specific sports like soccer, basketball or gymnastics.

Arts and cultural programs can also be a great way to keep kids engaged and learning during the summer months. Many museums, theaters and community centers offer summer classes and programs for children interested in music, dance, theater or visual arts. These programs can help children develop new skills and explore their creativity while having fun.

Once you have an idea of what your child is interested in, it’s important to start researching and registering for programs as early as possible. Many popular programs fill up quickly, so it’s important to start the registration process early to ensure your child gets a spot. Many programs also offer early bird discounts for families that register early, so it can be a great way to save money as well.

In addition to traditional summer programs, there are also a variety of other activities and experiences that you can plan for your child during the summer months. Family vacations, day trips to local attractions, and outdoor adventures can all be great ways to create lasting memories and keep kids engaged and excited throughout the summer.

To make the most of the summer, involve your child in the planning process. Create a summer bucket list together, and let your child choose activities that they would like to do. This can be anything from trying a new food to learning a new skill. Use the bucket list as a guide for planning summer activities and checking off items throughout the summer.

Before your child starts any summer program or activity, make sure they have everything they need to be prepared. This includes any necessary equipment, clothing and supplies, as well as any required medical or consent forms. Check the program requirements and ensure that your child has everything they need before the program begins.

If your child has any medical conditions or requires special accommodations, it’s important to discuss these with the program staff ahead of time to ensure that your child’s needs can be met. This may include providing medication

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Preparing for summer activities also includes ensuring that your child is emotionally ready for the experience. Starting a new program or activity can be exciting but also nervewracking for children. Talk to your child about their feelings and help them prepare for any challenges or new experiences they may face. Encourage them to try new things, but also let them know that it’s okay to feel nervous or uncertain.

In conclusion, prepping for summer activities for kids can be an enjoyable experience for both parents and children. By taking the time to research and plan ahead, parents can ensure that their children have a fun and meaningful summer filled with a variety of activities and experiences. Whether it’s traditional summer camps, specialized classes and programs, or family vacations and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of options available to keep kids engaged and excited during the summer months. By involving your child in the planning process, creating a summer bucket list, and ensuring they have everything they need for their specific program or activity, you can help set them up for a successful and enjoyable summer.

Shining a Light on the Importance of Mental Health Care in Our Community

With Heather (Sunshine) Bartlett, PMHNP, you can find the care and support you need to overcome mental health challenges

by DANIELLE LARSSON, BOUNDARY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel and behave, and can significantly impact our ability to function in our daily lives. Mental health issues are much more prevalent than most realize. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives.

Individuals suffering from mental health issues may feel overwhelmed, hopeless and alone, leading to decreased quality of life, reduced productivity and work performance, increased risk of physical health problems, problems with substance use, strained relationships, or self-harm. The effects are not limited to the individual. Unaddressed mental health issues have a ripple effect on society, affecting families, communities, and the economy. Unfortunately, mental health issues are still stigmatized in our society, and many people do not seek the help they need due to fear of judgment or lack of access to care. However, the importance of mental health in our society cannot be overstated.

It is essential to understand that mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or background. It is not a weakness or something to be ashamed of; it is a part of the human experience that requires attention and care.

Access to mental health care providers can be difficult, especially in rural areas like Boundary County. Many individuals in these areas face long wait lists, high costs, and limited availability of mental health providers. This can lead to untreated mental health issues and a decreased quality of life for those in need. However, Boundary Community Clinics (BCC) is committed to providing the care our community needs and is proud to announce that Heather (Sunshine) Bartlett, PMHNP, a highly trained psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, will be joining BCC. She is passionate about helping individuals achieve positive mental health and lead fulfilling lives. By providing accessible and affordable mental health care, BCC is positively impacting our community's mental health and well-being.

As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Sunshine can help to provide guidance in diagnosis and medication options to optimize your mental health. Sunshine works in conjunction with your therapist to provide you with the support you need to thrive. She understands mental health’s impact on individuals and society. Her approach to mental health care is holistic, focusing on the person as a whole and addressing the root causes of mental health issues, not just the symptoms. By providing support and care for individuals who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, or chemical dependency, Sunshine is able to help people improve their quality of life by balancing lifestyle changes with appropriate medication(s) as needed.

If you, or a loved one, is struggling with mental health issues, it's important to know that help is available. Heather (Sunshine) Bartlett, PMHNP, is a compassionate and experienced mental health provider, and you can request a referral from your primary care provider to access her care. Sunshine works with patients aged 6 and older and offers a range of services to address various mental health concerns.

For more information about her practice and services, contact Boundary Community Clinics at 208.267.3655. Remember, seeking help for mental health issues is a sign of strength, and with the right support, individuals can overcome their challenges and achieve good mental health.