Back to school. African descent girl on school campus. She wears a mask for COVID-19, Coronavirus protection.

Back to School!

Whether you’re at your kitchen table or in a classroom, the school year has started. At this time of year, it’s a great idea to check in and see how you are and if you’re taking care of yourself:

  • Getting enough sleep? This might be a good time to evaluate and make any changes if needed.
  • Have you been getting outside every day? A short walk really clears our heads.
  • Drinking enough water?
  • Have you been eating breakfast? Our brains learn better when our stomachs are full.
  • Have you been reading over the summer? Time to bring it back. Did you know that reading before going to sleep is relaxing and makes falling asleep easier?
a child drawing pictures

Sharpen your pencils and let’s dive in!

In this issue, we’ll share activities happening around the state, share some healthy, seasonal recipes, and highlight resources to make your life easier!

This is one of my favorite times of the year. Or, maybe it’s just my favorite! The cooler air is energizing. We’re so lucky to live in Massachusetts. New England in the fall is spectacular.

a row of houses by a river

And don’t forget the apples. There are many great places to pick your own apple state-wide. Check the link below:

https://www.mass.gov/guides/pick-your-own-farms#-apples-

The Mass Cultural Center has partnered with the Dept. of Transitional Assistance and developed the “EBT Card to Culture, the nation’s most comprehensive effort to expand cultural access for low-income families”. Interested in going to a museum (inside and out), wildlife sanctuary, Aquarium, theatre (inside and out), and more? To find out what you can do with your EBT card besides purchase food look at the links below:

Children's Museum in Boston,  Massachusetts

https://massculturalcouncil.org/organizations/universal-participation-initiative/ebt-card-to-culture/overview/

https://www.mass.gov/ebt-card-to-culture

You can even rent a bike with your EBT card through Bluebikes. Learn more in the link below:

a row of bikes

https://www.bluebikes.com/pricing/income-eligible-program

Back to school!

Many libraries are supporting distance learning with online tutoring and if you live in Massachusetts you are eligible for a Boston Public Library card. Check out your local library and see what they are doing to support virtual classes.

https://libraries.state.ma.us/pages/Your-Library-Online

What are you going to do with all those apples you picked? Apples are rich in fiber, Vitamin C (not just in oranges!), and antioxidants. They help lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and Type II Diabetes. Reduces the risk of some cancers and helps keep you full!

How about five different recipes for apples?

https://cookingmatters.org/fall-apples-five-ways

Something else that’s in season now is Squash. There are so many different kinds to choose from. Butternut Squash is versatile and so healthy. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. You can’t go wrong with Butternut Squash Soup. Perfect for the cooler weather:

https://extension.umass.edu/nutrition/recipes/butternut-squash-soup

Are you stumped about what to make for dinner? Sometimes we just need some new ideas. The USDA has provided lots of tips to make mealtime easier!

https://snaped.fns.usda.gov/nutrition-education/nutrition-education-materials/stay-safe-and-healthy-home

Thanks for stopping by, we enjoy the company!

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