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 Beating Boredom
School is out, and chances are you've heard "there's nothing to do" on several occasions. While boredom can lead to creativity, it can also lead to finding trouble, so it is important we allow our kids a variety of opportunities be active and fill up their time. Being active promotes a healthy weight, better self esteem, and improved sleep, and you don't have to be jogging to reap the benefits!
Shut the TV off - It's time for some REAL fun!
- Grab a camera and start shooting. Eastlake Park is a beautiful location to snap nature shots or for a child to take photos of their friends in action. For an evening or rainy day activity, they can create their own scrapbook.
- Visit the Farmer's Market and let the kids make dinner. BONUS- Kids are more likely to eat their veggies if they helped make them!
- Go for a bike ride. From Lake Geode to Lacey Keosaqua Park there is a 46 mile bike trail. See how far you can make it now, and see how far you can make it by the end of the summer!
- Spend a few hours at Lake Geode or Oakland Mills and go "day camping". Pack some foods to cook over the fire, explore the trails, and go fishing! At the Lake Geode beach, have a friendly sand castle building competition.
- Make a time capsule for the child to open on a pre-determined time.
Tips
- The most important thing is that the child has fun or they may not want to continue to find new activities
- The activity won't be as fun if it feels forced. Guide them with ideas, but ultimately let them lead the way.
- It's okay if they get a little dirty, sweaty, and to fall down, it's part of the fun!
- Remember, the library has free book and movie rentals for those rainy days.
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 Communicating Effectively1. Be an active listener. Paraphrase what you just heard, this not only ensures the other person you were listening, it also gives you a chance to understand something you misunderstood.
2. Avoid Absolutes and the blame game. Using "never" and "always" you leave yourself open to the exception that could take away your believability. Using "you" statements in a disagreement can make the person feel blamed and resentful. Instead of saying "you make me mad", try "I feel_____when you_____ because____"
3. Avoid roadblocks. Being told what to do, lecturing, threatening, teasing (even playful) and minimizing feelings can quickly cause someone to shut down the lines of communication.
4. Stay positive. Try to avoid negative words. "Please walk" sounds much more pleasant than shouting "no running", and is more likely to get the response you want. |
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FUN JULY FACTS
Iowa has 4 places with the name "Liberty" in it, more than any other state.
(Libertyville, North Liberty, West Liberty & New Liberty)
Each year, $900M is spent on fireworks for 4th of July celebrations, weighing in at 272M pounds
Q:What did one flag say to the other flag?
A:Nothing. It just waved!
 | | Have a fun July! |
JULY ACTIVITIES
July 10-16th: Henry County Fair
July 11: Teen talent show at Mt. Pleasant Public Library, 5-7:30.
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Spread the word
Do you know anyone who may benefit from becoming a mentor or mentee? Share your personal experiences with them and encourage them to participate in the program. Let them know how just one hour a week can make a huge difference! |
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