Benefits of Team Sports with Dr. Cassidy Preston, Mental Performance Coach
Benefits of Team Sports with Dr. Cassidy Preston, Mental Performance Coach With warm weather rolling in, kids are itching to get outside and back to their favourite sports. We know that participating in team sports can positively impact children’s health and provide social benefits. We spoke with Dr. Cassidy Preston, Mental Performance Coach who has partnered with Sport Chek to share his insights on character-building benefits, like teamwork, resilience and leadership, that go beyond the sport for kids that parents should know about. Q: Why is it important for kids to participate in team sports, and for families to prioritize playing together? A: Prioritizing team sports as a kid can provide health, social and character-building benefits that go beyond the sport itself. Some of those skills include: Building social connections and communication skills Working with team members and leadership skills Developing healthy habits around exercise, sleep, and nutrition Fostering life skills such as confidence, resilience, and focus Q: What are the psychological benefits of participating in team sports programs? A: Research shows it can have a positive impact on people outside of the traditional sense of the sport. Psychological benefits of team sports may include:Stress reliever and a sense of purpose Social connections and a sense of belonging Feeling of competence and confidence as they develop Q: What are the life-long values and habits that sports teach children, that they can take into adulthood?A: Team sports provide life-long values that you can bring well into adulthood, from leadership and communication to teamwork and physical health. I’ve partnered with Sport Chek because they believe in the valuable life lessons kids learn beyond the field. Lessons like sportsmanship, communication, resilience, determination and leadership – all skills you can take beyond a sports game and into your everyday. Other examples include:Social Connections Character-building skills Time management skills Q: How can parents help prepare their kids for team sports? A: As parents prepare for the upcoming sports season this summer, whether it be baseball or soccer, there are a few ways to help prepare your kids:Don’t over-focus on the external results like winning and rankings, instead, prioritize the mental skills sport that your child can develop through sport Help manage expectations about the range of results and develop a growth mindset by encouraging effort and normalizing failure as part of the development process Make sure fun is not tied to just the results, but rather focus on the enjoyment of the game itself; the
5 Gift Ideas for the Mom Who Seems to Have It All
5 Gift Ideas for the Mom Who Seems to Have It All by Frances Go Have you ever found yourself thinking, 'What do you get for a mom who already has everything?' It's a common challenge, but don't worry! There are plenty of ways to show her how much you care. Whether it's a heartfelt gesture, a personalized gift, or just spending quality time together, there's always something special you can do to make her day. We've compiled these gift ideas for you to try: Craft a Personalized PhotobookCompile cherished memories from recent family adventures or the past year into a stunning photo book, offering her a timeless keepsake she'll treasure forever. Pour Your Heart into Handwritten LettersExpress your deepest emotions and appreciation through heartfelt letters, letting her know just how much she means to you. Share stories of special moments you've shared and the impact she's had on your life. These personal touches will make your gift truly memorable. Gift of RelaxationEase her stress by giving the house a thorough tidy-up, allowing her to unwind without the worry of chores weighing on her mind. Consider adding small touches like fresh flowers or lighting her favourite scented candles to create a tranquil atmosphere she'll appreciate. It's these thoughtful gestures that show her just how much you care.Breakfast Fit for a QueenKickstart her day with a decadent breakfast served in the comfort of her own bed, a thoughtful gesture showcasing your culinary skills and love. Quality Time TogetherPlan a special outing with Mom, because no gift compares to the gift of time. Whether it's a scenic picnic or trying out a new hobby together, create unforgettable moments that'll stay with her forever.
How to Cope with Your Empty Nest
How to Cope with Your Empty Nest By Favour Jonah One minute, we hear the sound of children's laughter echoing through the halls, and then suddenly it fades into a lingering emptiness. A calm understanding sets in—our children are all grown up. Parenthood, once characterized by a hectic schedule of early weekend practices, school concerts, birthday parties, and field trips, shifts into a new period of tranquillity known as empty nesting. Empty nesting is defined as a period of transition when children are prepared to move out and start living independently. It could also mean an empty house without the children present. This may happen when they go to college, leave their parents' house, relocate to a different city or country, or begin a family. Suddenly, the home seems quieter, and there is a feeling of change as parents adjust to life without their children always around. For Danielle Miller, a Toronto-based mom who just went through the empty nest stage, the change was emotional and difficult. Reflecting on being a mother of two amazing boys, she acknowledges that her daily life was centred around her sons' schedules and activities. "When they departed for university, I found myself struggling with feelings of emptiness and doubt." Similar to Miller, a lot of parents experience strong emotions during this stage, which can make it challenging for them to cope. Over time, it impacts not only their self-relationship but also their relationships with others, particularly with their significant others. Tim Albert, a father of one, and his wife, Jules, residing in Mississauga, found it challenging to reconnect with each other after their child left the nest. "We were often unsure of what to do most times," he revealed. We reached out to Krista Huyer, a certified psychotherapist who focuses on supporting individuals, specifically women, in navigating healing and empowering themselves to enhance self-esteem, to learn more about empty nesting and how it impacts people, as well as coping mechanisms to adapt. Understanding Empty Nesting Huyer believes that empty nesting goes beyond a quiet house; it signifies a significant change in family dynamics that results in a sense of something being absent. “Nesting is such a natural human instinct for us to create a home, not just a home, but a safe space for the children,” she says. "When this home that we've created doesn't have what we had filled it with, that's going to feel unfamiliar for people, and perhaps create
10 Teen Slang Words You Need to Know Now
Teen Language Decoded: 10 Teen Slang Words You Need to Know Now By Favour Jonah Have you ever observed how every generation has its own unique way of communicating? It's a distinct code of words that characterizes their identity, commonly known as slang. The Evolution of Slang Once considered very cool, Millennials' slang is now preserved like old records in an archive. Just as we're starting to adjust, Gen Z arrives with a new set of words to communicate and connect with their peers. Making matters even more interesting, we now have Gen Alpha (children born from 2010 onwards), bringing their vocabulary to the table and keeping us engaged. Modern Teen Slang If you find yourself in a conversation with tweens or teens, you might feel completely lost. Sometimes, you may need to grab your phone and look up slang on Google to stay current with the conversation. But why not flip the script and be the parent who's not only informed but also speaks their language? With some help, you can effortlessly join those conversations like a pro—or even throw in a playful tease using their lingo! So, here's your updated teen slang cheat sheet for 2024. Bussin If something's "bussin," it's not just good – it's great! This positive term is all about describing something truly awesome and outstanding. Skibidi This word may sound mysterious, but people use it to sound cool rather than to convey a specific meaning. It often appears in a negative context to describe something bad or evil. Its origin traces back to the phrase "skibidi toilet," inspired by a viral video meme of a man’s head in a toilet. People frequently add phrases like "skibidi ohio rizz" or "skibidi ohio sigma rizz" to enhance its charm. Rizz To have "rizz," means to be good at flirting. It's not just about charisma; it's about effortlessly charming others with smooth pickup lines. A "rizzler" is someone who at flirting, a professional in flirting. Ate This is used to praise someone for doing something exceptional. It means someone did a great job. For example, "She ate and left no crumbs" means she did something amazing. Yes! "Left no crumbs" is another slang. People normally pair it with the word "Ate." Do it for the plot This phrase is all about seizing the moment and being the main character of every narrative. It's like saying, "Take control of your life and make the most of it." It's a motivational phrase to inspire people
Navigating the Holidays After Divorce: 3 Steps to a Fresh Start
Navigating the Holidays After Divorce: 3 Steps to a Fresh Start by Sarjae Irving While Christmas is often filled with joy, love and family celebrations, it can get complicated when navigating a new divorce. Every Hallmark movie might idealize the holidays as a picture-perfect season but the reality is separation is a part of many Canadians’ lives. Still, this doesn’t mean you still can’t have an amazing Christmas with your family — it’s just that the transition from shared household to divided festivities requires proper planning to ensure a positive experience for all involved. Here’s how. Be Proactive The first tip on navigating the holidays is to take a proactive approach and create a schedule, says Dr. Vinita Puri a Toronto-based registered Social Worker, Accredited Family Mediator, Coach and Consultant with expertise in educational training and group facilitation. “Preparation and mutual respect is key when creating an effective co-parenting schedule, especially around the time of the holidays,” she says. The schedule could include sharing the actual holiday, for instance, one parent gets the child on Christmas Eve and the other on Christmas Day or alternating the holidays each year. Another tip is to practice self-care. “You’re also trying to navigate loss, pain, and grief. Self-care is extremely important when going through divorce and even more so stressful around the time of the holidays,” says Dr. Puri, who also encourages newly divorced parents to set expectations. “This way, the child/children are aware and understand that this is the new reality,” she says.“It may be difficult, but these steps can be taken to ease the transition, along with surrounding yourself with loved ones and creating new traditions.” Plan to attend or not The concept of honour and shame may be a cultural factor that newly divorced parents take into consideration when it pertains to invitations to holiday events that involve both parents. In essence, there is still a lot of stigma and shame around divorce in many communities. “If divorced parents are a part of the same circle where people accept that divorce is normal and that people may no longer be compatible, the divorce should not be a hindering factor of whether to attend a holiday event,” says Dr. Puri. She further emphasized that once the divorced parents themselves are willing and able to control their emotions, she would encourage both parents to attend and/or continue to host holiday gatherings. Practice Self-Care When trying to navigate the holidays as a newly
Top 6 Gifts for Everyone On Your List
Top 6 Gifts for Everyone On Your List by Rachel Naud It’s here! It’s the busiest time of the year and to make it easier for you, we’ve hand-selected a list *and checked it twice!* of amazing gift ideas for everyone on your list from toddlers and tweens to teens and more! la Vie en Rose For those cozy moments by the fire or during meaningful gatherings with loved ones, la Vie en Rose has the perfect gift – luxurious and comfortable PJs. They come gift-ready and beautifully wrapped in a variety of prints and fabrics. There's nothing better than wrapping yourself in a brand-new cozy robe, and with more than 30 options to choose from, you can find the perfect one at your local la Vie en Rose. Paw Patrol Lookout Tower When it comes to snagging the season’s hottest toys, Toys R Us has got you covered with an amazing selection and fantastic deals. Whether you're on the hunt for Play-Doh, Hasbro games, or more, you can score up to 40% off on select brands. Plus, the store will price-match everything in the Toy Book until December 24th. One of Toys R Us' top picks is the Paw Patrol Lookout Tower. This tower is a dream for any Paw Patrol fan, complete with two Chase action figures and one police rescue cruiser—everything they need for a high-speed rescue mission. For an extra dose of excitement, bring the kids to the store for demos of top toys like this one. They're welcome to test the toys out for themselves. Grab it in-store or online at toysrus.ca Schick Hydro Sensitive Razor Everyone wants to look and feel their best, especially over the holidays. These grooming gifts from Schick are great for everyone in the house, including men and women! The men can get the Schick Hydro Sensitive because this razor is designed to pamper and care for your face, with cushioning gel pools and Skin Guards on every blade to protect against irritation while crafting your look. The 7 gel pools are enriched with aloe and Pro-Vitamin B5 to soothe and hydrate your skin for maximum comfort. The women can get the Schick Hydro Silk set because the curve-sensing blades give a close shave with a heavier, premium metal handle for grip and precision. The set also includes two refills and 3 of the Schick Hydro Silk Touch-Up razors. You can grab both of these sets at major retailers
4 Trendy Gift Ideas That’ll Impress Your Tweens and Teens
4 Trendy Gift Ideas That'll Impress Your Tweens and Teens by Rachel Naud Tweens and Teens can be hard to shop for with fads that come and go faster than those eye rolls they give you on the daily! This season, surprise them with everything they’ll love whether they’re fashionistas, sneakerheads, gamers or more! For the Gamer With the holiday season just around the corner, who else is looking forward to their annual family reunion? The Nintendo Switch system is a great way for the entire family to play together. The Nintendo Switch – Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle is a perfect choice, featuring a Nintendo Switch with the fan-favourite game Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and a 3-Month Nintendo Switch Online Individual Membership. Fun fact: did you know that you can double your courses in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe? Well, you can with the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Booster Course Pass DLC! This downloadable content (available separately) adds a whopping 48 extra courses, including the crowd-favourite – Mute City. You can grab The Nintendo Switch - Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle at most major retailers and nintendo.ca for $399.99 – a savings value of just under $90! You can download the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Booster Course Pass for $32.99. For the Athlete For the ultimate sneakerhead in your household, we have the hottest new shoe to add to their holiday wish list. Gift them the Curry 11 Future Curry from Under Armour and the Curry Brand. The UA Intellilknit makes it lightweight, comfortable, and breathable and the flow cushioning provides comfort that is super light, bouncy and has insane grip. And for those teens constantly on the move, the Under Armour Unstoppable ½ zip sweater is an ideal choice for a cool and cozy look. Its breathable and comfortable design makes it suitable for different occasions, whether your teen wants to work out or spend some time with friends. Check out both of these items at ua.ca. For the Trendsetter Winter is all about the accessories. ‘Tis the season to rock those stylish hats, gloves, and earmuffs, and Joe Fresh has the perfect holiday lineup. Not only are these accessories stylish, but they also double as fantastic gifts and stocking stuffers for the fashionista teen on your list. Joe Fresh offers a variety of on-trend styles: from the classic charm of pearl gloves and berets to the playful vibes of their lavender sequin gloves and beanie combo. And of
Mental Health and the Back-To-School Transition
Mental Health and the Back-To-School Transition By Emmett Wells, LCSW, Clinical Director at Embark Behavioral Health in Greenwood Village, CO The back-to-school season marks a significant shift in the lives of children and young people. As students return to the structured academic year this fall, they not only face the demands of coursework but also the responsibility and social pressures. Amid the ongoing youth mental health crisis in the United States, it's crucial for families to communicate and lean on each other. This transition can bring both positive and negative effects. It offers opportunities for growth and learning but can also trigger mood swings, heightened anxiety, and depression in young individuals. To effectively support adolescents during this crucial time, parents and caregivers must adapt to the unique challenges their children may encounter. Active Listening and Relationship Building During this back-to-school transition, active listening is crucial. Parents and caregivers should be prepared for conversations that might be challenging for their children. This could include discussions about academic stress, social dynamics, or personal struggles. By actively listening and creating a safe space for dialogue, caregivers can nurture a secure caregiver-child relationship. This relationship provides a foundation for adolescents to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without fear of judgment. It's within these safe spaces that young people are more likely to open up about their struggles, making it easier for parents to provide the support they need. Cultivating Positive Habits for Youth Mental Health Positive habits play a pivotal role in the mental well-being of anxious or depressed youth as they return to school. These habits not only help in managing academic and social responsibilities but also serve as valuable life skills. Establishing routines that incorporate healthy practices is an excellent starting point. These routines can include consistent sleep schedules, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise. Such practices contribute to physical well-being, which, in turn, positively impacts mental health. Encouraging children to participate in after-school activities aligned with their interests and passions can foster a sense of community, providing much-needed emotional support and a sense of belonging. Moreover, dedicating time to develop coping skills is essential. Adolescents should be equipped with effective strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. This can include mindfulness exercises, deep breathing techniques, or seeking professional guidance when necessary. Parental Engagement and Adaptability Parental involvement in a child's education is a delicate balancing act. Encouraging independence while offering support can establish healthy boundaries without becoming overly involved. As adolescents
4 Wellness Tips to Give Your Teen Before They Move to College
4 Wellness Tips to Give Your Teen Before They Move to College Moving out for college is both exciting and scary for you and your teen. You might feel thrilled to see where life takes them, but also a bit nervous about their new life living alone. At the same time, your kid is looking forward to independence, yet they might have some concerns too. Previously, we provided advice on how to support your second-year college student living away from home, including tips on cleaning and preparing meals. Now, what advice can you offer to a first-time dormer, especially regarding their health? If you have a soon-to-be dormer, here are a few wellness tips you can share with them. Watch their portion sizes All parents want their children to eat well. However, that doesn't mean giving them free rein. After all, there's something called the "Freshman 15," which refers to the weight gain college students may experience in the first year due to lifestyle changes. This can be especially common among dormers who often resort to convenient yet unhealthy foods. Ignoring this issue could lead to more significant problems, like becoming overweight and its impact on overall health. Luckily, your kid can avoid this by simply being more mindful of their meal portion sizes—a habit encouraged by sustainable weight loss plans. By doing so, they can still enjoy their favourite foods while keeping track of what they eat. For example, if they notice they've been consuming too much fried food lately, it's a good sign to include more fresh fruits and vegetables in their meals. Additionally, they can focus on eating until they're no longer hungry rather than eating until they feel full. This way, they can maintain a healthier lifestyle without feeling deprived. Move their body College life is always busy with classes to attend, papers to pass, and presentations to make. Despite this, it's essential to remind your kid about the importance of regular exercise to keep their physical health in check. The best part is they can choose the type of exercise they enjoy the most. If dancing to music is their thing, they'll be glad to know that it not only brings joy but also helps build strength, improves mood, and enhances memory. On the other hand, if relaxation is more their style, yoga is a great option. It's low-impact and can improve balance and flexibility. The best part is they can do both
10 Strategies for Keeping Kids Off Screens This Summer
10 Strategies for Keeping Kids Off Screens This Summer by Katherine Johnson Martinko Summer is the best time to give kids a digital reset. You’re out of the regular routine and there are numerous ways to keep busy without relying on devices. What follows is a rough plan for helping your family have a screen-free summer. By the time fall rolls around, your kid will be recharged and ready to cope with the digital deluge that school brings. Talk About Screens Talk to your kid about why it’s important to reduce screen time and what you hope the entire family will gain from the experience. They don’t have to like it or agree. Just be transparent and consistent in your approach, and acknowledge that boredom can be a powerfully creative state. Confiscate the Devices “Out of sight, out of mind,” as the saying goes. If you make devices temporarily inaccessible, kids will be more inclined to find other activities. Much of the allure of handheld devices lies in their accessibility and the ease of distraction. When that option disappears, it opens the door to other creative endeavours. Sign Up for Activities See if there are sports camps, art classes, or music lessons offered in your community. Having an activity that gets kids out of the house each day goes a long way toward filling time and fueling enthusiasm, especially if friends join. Prioritize Outdoor Time Send your child outside every day. It doesn’t matter what they do, whether it’s reading or art, lying in a hammock, visiting a skate park or BMX track, meeting friends for basketball or soccer, practicing on a trampoline or pogo stick, or going for bike rides; the point is to normalize being outside. Use a tracker like those created by 1000 Hours Outside as motivation. Engage in Microadventures The concept of microadventures is delightful—doing outdoorsy things between 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. Often, we wait for bigger chunks of time to plan things like hikes, camping, and stargazing, but then they never happen. If we can squeeze in these activities during the week, they help us feel refreshed. Take your kid on some microadventures this summer. Put Them to Work Assigning household chores keeps kids busy and reduces parental workload. Put them to work doing dishes, laundry, and vacuuming. Outdoors, let them handle weeding, watering, and cutting grass. Older kids can tackle jobs like repainting, cleaning gutters, and washing windows. Get Them Cooking Cooking is a fundamental skill that everyone should