October is Child Health Awareness Month

In October, celebrate Child Health Awareness Month by becoming more aware of children’s health issues and evidence-based strategies to prevent them. This unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has shifted the way children are interacting with their peers, participating in activities and receiving education. By staying connected with their pediatrician, kids can fight against health disparities and strengthen their immune system and mental well-being.

Most Texas schools are conducting distance learning, so staying active will help children to learn better and reduce their stress levels. Physical activity and play are still important parts of the curriculum. Parents also play a vital role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle for their child. At home, parents are encouraged to implement sitting less and moving more, along with discussing the benefits of healthy eating.

Physical activity and healthy eating can be combined during virtual learning to provide education, movement and fun! Studies show that incorporating movement into learning can assist a child in gaining and retaining knowledge.

While any activity has benefits, walking is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to stay healthy. Another way to help form a sustained habit of walking and activity is by participating in any of Extension’s Walk Across Texas programs. Walk Across Texas is a free, eight-week program designed to help Texans establish the habit of regular physical activity. A new online feature, Walk Through Texas History, is a four-week program designed to help Texans establish the habit of regular physical activity while learning the rich history of Texas. Watch for start-up dates coming soon!

FALL FESTIVAL HAPPENINGS

The 2020 Hopkins County Fall Festival is offering lots of opportunities! The Arts & Crafts Show, scheduled for Oct. 23 and 24, provides shopping for those one-of-a-kind, handmade, handcrafted items. So far, a great variety of items will be on display, and I plan to do some serious shopping! Spaces are still available for anyone who would like to be a vendor. The Mothers’ Culture Club will provide a concession stand during the two-day event.

Another great opportunity is the Creative Arts Contest. Hopkins County residents are encouraged to enter items for judging. Categories include art, clothing, creative crafts, food preservation, holiday corner, photography, horticulture, woodworking, handiwork and more. We have an age division for all ages. For more information

on both of these events, contact the Extension office at 903-885-3443 or go to http://hopkins.agrilife. org. Click on “Publications.” Also, check out the Hay Bale Contest, petting zoo, and more—lots of fun in store!

2020 CHRISTMAS JOYS

Even though the event will look a little different this year, the annual Extension Christmas Joys will take place! The date is Monday, Nov. 9, at the ROC (Recreation Outreach Center), 115 Putman St. in Sulphur Springs.

Three sessions are being offered to allow for social distancing: 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Sessions will fill quickly, so don’t procrastinate! Call the Extension Office at 903-885-3443 to reserve a seat. We must have a name and phone number for each seat reserved. Please note that it is best to call rather than send a message on social media. The cost is $5, which will cover a booklet of all the ideas and recipes demonstrated, goody bag, door prizes and refreshments. We ask that you wear a face covering, if possible.

CLOSING THOUGHT

“I have found that a lot of people want to focus on the darkest day in their life instead of all the good that there is.”—Terri Roberts