Category — Health & Wellness

A new Whole Foods opened up in my neighborhood late last year, and I have to say that shopping there is a lovely experience. It’s nowhere near as crowded as the one I used to go to (where you can’t see any sign of the registers from the back of the incredibly long lines), the butcher’s really nice, and they sell the cheapest milk for miles around.

But my frustration with the other location–and my glee when I can get out of there with only spending $20–speaks to a peculiar love-hate relationship that a lot of shoppers (not to mention a lot of health-food advocates) have with the store. The long but interesting New Yorker article on John Mackey, the CEO and co-founder, gets at part of it: Is the store a big business that happens to sell healthy foods, or a health-food store that happened to get big? The fact that so many of us even care is actually great news for whole foods (the actual food, if not the store), because I think the more we talk about the best ways to get healthy foods to people, the better. Do you shop at Whole Foods? What do you think of the selection and the experience? What’s the least (or most!) amount of money you’ve spent there? (My record: $8.43, for milk, butter, and some samosas from the hot bar. Yum.)

–Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Boiron, world leader in homeopathy, is presenting a free webinar, “Natural Approaches to Treating Cold and Flu for the Whole Family,” on Thursday, January 14 at 1 p.m.  The 45-minute webinar, will feature Dr. Woodson Merrell, author of Power Up and chairman of the Department of Integrative Medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York. Dr. Merrell will offer helpful wellness tips and discuss various natural treatment options in addition to answering questions from participants.  Free full-size product packages containing Children’s Oscillococcinum, Children’s Coldcalm Pellets and Children’s Chestal honey cough syrup will be awarded at random to 300 participants completing the webinar.  Registration must be made in advance by visiting http://bit.ly/kiwimag.

When I first started dating my partner, I thought I’d hit the jackpot. Not only is he a funny, smart, wonderful guy, he also has a degree from culinary school. Can anyone say gourmet meals at home?

I still think I’ve hit the jackpot, but after dating him for a while, I noticed that the way I was eating had changed. Whenever we cooked together, he’d serve me up a plate as full of food as his (even though he’s nearly twice my size). And when we’d go out, he’d want to have three-course meals filled with butter, salt, fat, and all manner of delicious, unhealthy things. I quickly learned that my appetite–and my waistline–just couldn’t keep up.

Turns out, other women have the same problem. It’s no surprise that women with children naturally gain weight after giving birth, but a recent study has shown that childless women who have a partner also gain a significant amount more than single gals. The reason? Behavioral changes. Whether it’s more date nights out at restaurants or an unconscious attempt to eat as much as their better halves, women tend to gain weight simply by having a partner in their lives.

So this year, I’m going to keep reminding myself that I don’t have to keep up with my guy’s endless appetite. And if I want to have a Waldorf salad for dinner while he has two cheeseburgers, that’s OK (although I still might steal a couple fries off his plate!).

-Michelle, KIWI Editor

Expecting a baby or know someone else who is? Dedicate some time this week to learning and spreading the word about folic acid, a nutrient that’s vital for proper cell growth and can prevent up to 70% of some forms of serious birth defects like Spina Bifida if taken before and during early pregnancy.

According to the National Council on Folic Acid, women who are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant should take 400 mcg of the B-vitamin each day. Additionally, it’s recommended that women who have a child or pregnancy affected by Spina Bifida or have Spina Bifida themselves take 4,000 mcg of folic acid for one to three months before becoming pregnant.

How to make sure folic acid’s included in your diet?  Eat plenty leafy greens like spinach, plus fortified grains, pastas, or cereals—all of which are good sources of the vitamin. However, it’s likely that you won’t obtain the recommended amount of folic acid from food alone (at least not on a daily basis), so it’s also a good idea to talk with your doctor about taking a supplement.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Renowned children’s author Lori Lite will be returning to ABC’s reality series Shark Tank on Friday, January 8th.  Lite is the author behind a series of books and CDs which provide children with techniques to manage and reduce stress and anxiety, plus positive messages to help build kids’ self-esteem.  Lite first appeared on Shark Tank in August 2009 when Shark real estate mogul, Barbara Corocran, decided to invest in Lite’s brand, Stress Free Kids.   As a result, her company has grown tremendously and her books are available at Border’s Books and Music stores nationwide.

For more information on Lori Lite and Stress Free Kids, check out stressfreekids.com.

-Brittany, KIWI marketing manager

While there’s near-unanimous agreement on the indispensable roles cell phones play in our lives, there’s less consensus over the potential effects of cell phone radiation. Is it really hazardous to our health? Is it more dangerous for kids? Or are the risks overstated?

According to the EWG’s fall 2009 report, cell phone radiation is similar to the kind that’s emitted by televisions or radio—and therefore aren’t as harmful as the stuff that comes out of say, x-ray machines. Safer though it may be, however, most scientists agree that even the radiation from cell phones and other electronics can still penetrate body tissue. And since cell users are in closer proximity to the radiation emitted by their devices than TV watchers or radio listeners, the chances for absorbing the waves are greater.

What effects does cell phone radiation actually have on the body? Since cell phone technology hasn’t been around very long, science isn’t sure. While earlier, short-term studies found no ill effects, more recent research has yielded unsettling results, including an increased risk for certain types of cancer.

Fortunately, you don’t have to swear off cell phones to reduce your level of radiation exposure. Some ways to stay safer:

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I went running this morning. It was COLD. There were days last month that were 15 degrees warmer, and yet I managed to talk myself out of putting on those running shoes. But it’s a new year, and I have a new goal.

I’m not usually one to make resolutions (I can never think of a good one), but here’s what happened: I went for a Christmas run with my brother, who’s a college running coach, and as I moaned and groaned through a slow run, I told him how hard it is to get up when it’s dark and cold. I thought he’d say, “Yeah, I know how that is, but keep trying!” But he didn’t. He said, “I think you need a new goal. How about a half marathon this year?”

This might sound slightly crazy, but here’s the thing: I think it’ll be much, much easier to train for this race than it would be to just “get healthier.” I don’t know about you, but I need specifics. My brother’s going to give me a training plan, and I’ve found in the past that when I run regularly, I eat and sleep better too. Also, I like running–I think that’s key to a good goal, to like at least some aspect of it–but I just haven’t been motivated lately.

So, it’s exciting to have a new challenge that I’m pretty sure I can do–but not entirely. And I’ve already paid the 60 bucks for the entry fee, so I guess I’m in. I’ll keep you updated, but in the meantime, do you have a goal for 2010? Do you do better with narrow or broad goals? Anyone want to run this race with me?

–Sarah, KIWI editorial director

More and more, we’re learning that children’s lifestyles, habits, and experiences can affect their health as grown-ups. First was the study that found lower levels of cardiovascular disease in adults who’d had exposure to some common bacteria as kids. Now, researchers at King’s College of London found that childhood stress can lead to adult disease.

The study followed more than 1,000 kids through the first ten years of life and compared rates of socioeconomic disadvantage, maltreatment, and social isolation (all causes of major stress for a person of any age) with rates of depression, elevated inflammation, and metabolic risk factors when participants reached thirty-two years old. The outcome: The more adverse situations a child experienced, the greater his risk for developing disease in this thirties.

What to do? Help your kid manage negative feelings and stress. Invite her to share concerns about school, friends, or anything else that might be on her mind–and figure out positive ways to deal. Want more ideas? Click here.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

No parent wants a mud-covered child trekking through the house, but new research has shown that a little bit of dirt could actually be good for kids.

Researchers at Northwestern University looked at the link between infections early in life and diseases later in life, and the came up with some interesting stuff—most notably, that being exposed to common bacteria and microbes as a kid can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease as an adult. An overly squeaky-clean environment can depress the immune system’s development.

The study’s lead author, Dr. Thomas McDade, points out that parents’ obsession with protecting their kids from germs is relatively new—not to mention harmful. “We may be depriving developing immune systems of important environmental input needed to guide their function throughout childhood and into adulthood,” he says.

How can you make sure your kids get a healthy dose of bacteria in their lives? Stay away from antibacterial gels and soaps, which are unnecessary since old-fashioned soap and water will do the trip. And the next time your kid comes home covered in dirt, remember that it could help them avoid illness later in life!

-Michelle, KIWI editor

I just read about a fascinating—and pretty scary—report from the Environmental Working Group about the huge number of toxic chemicals found in the cord blood of 10 newborns in a recent study. Want to know how many chemicals they found? Brace yourself: 232! 

There weren’t enough babies in the study for anybody to say that all or most of babies born today are affected by these pollutants (like BPA), but it’s still troubling. The babies were from a variety of U.S. states, and all were racial or ethnic minorities (the study authors wanted to be sure that minorities are part of the equation when other researchers start looking at how these kinds of toxic chemicals affect the population as a whole).  

To me, this all is a clear indication that we have a lot more to do to encourage companies to limit their use of these harmful toxins. In the meantime, the EWG has some great advice for moms-to-be on having a safer pregnancy.

What did you do to limit your exposure to chemicals while pregnant? Do you have other advice for moms-to-be on this front?

–Sarah, KIWI editorial director

I met a fantastic and totally down-to-earth trainer at a party recently–Charlotte Blake lives in Brooklyn and has a ton of mom clients. And she told me something fascinating: Crunches are not going to solve your post-baby belly problems. In fact, they’re going to make them worse!

This is really good news all around because:

1. You don’t have to do crunches anymore.

2. There IS another exercise that’ll work much better. Here’s a post-natal core exercise she recommends to heal a diastasis (what’s that? It’s a separation of the outermost abdominal muscles during pregnancy). 

Charlotte Blake

If you’re in Brooklyn, check out Charlotte’s classes–if not, her website still has lots of great ideas for moms who want to be healthy.

–Sarah, KIWI editorial director

While thinking about the things I’m thankful for this year, I realized everything on the list could fall under the larger umbrella term of abundance. Whether it’s an appreciation for the fulfilling relationships I have with friends and family members, my fun (but still challenging!) job, or the fact that I was able to access and afford nearly all organic food for my Thanksgiving dinner, these feelings of gratitude are really all about recognizing how rich all areas of my life really are.

Whether it initially seems like it or not, we’ve all been bestowed with a bounty of gifts. This Thanksgiving, I encourage you and your family to consider all the ways abundance has touched your lives.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Next time you need a wholesome way to distract your toddler for a few minutes, click here.

This adorable title from Barefoot Books has a catchy song to go with it, sung by the popular SteveSongs from PBS. And psst, it’s even educational—your kid will be counting pigs and cows with the farmer as he drives that tractor all around the farm. You may get the “drivin’ my tractor down a bumpy road” melody stuck in your head, but it’s so upbeat and sweet, you won’t even mind. And if you and your kid fall in love with this bouncy tune, you can buy the book and CD straight from Barefoot Books.

-Sarah, KIWI editorial director

We recently read that indoor air quality can be anywhere from 2 to 100 times worse than it’s outdoor counterpart. This puts kids—who because of cooler weather and shorter days are probably spending more time inside than they’d like—at increased risk for cold, flu, and indoor allergies. No fun! Here are our favorite ways for keeping the air in your house as fresh as possible during the winter:

1. Make friends with houseplants. They take in carbon dioxide and let out oxygen, and some varieties (like spider plants, English ivy, and bamboo palms) can even remove toxins from the air.
2. Keep it clean. Get rid of the dirt and dust particles that build up on the surfaces of, well, everything by vacuuming and cleaning on a regular basis.
3. Take off your shoes. If you don’t already have a designated area near the front door where your kids can put their shoes, make one. It will prevent dirt from being tracked in the house (and result in less time needed to clean).
4. Use an air purifier. They come in a range of prices, and are super effective at capturing icky particles. Try the Honeywell Pure HEPA Round Air Purifier, which manages to get the job done while being relatively inexpensive.
5. Groom your pets. Keep fur and dander at bay by brushing your dog or cat’s fur and bathing dogs frequently.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Sniffle season has begun, and with the added spread of swine flu, it’s even more important to be vigilant about frequent handwashing. Fortunately, the challenge of getting kids to suds up just got a little easier.

While the FDA states that washing hands with hot, soapy water is the only way to ensure bacteria are killed, recent evidence suggests otherwise. A 2005 study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that when it comes to handwashing, the water temperature makes no difference—as long as participants washed long enough (about 25 seconds), they were able to rid their hands of germs.

The takeaway? Your kid can wash her hands at whatever water temperature is comfortable for her.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Every October,  National Breast Cancer Awareness month seeks to promote breast cancer awareness as well as empower women of all ages to take control of their breast health. By participating in walks or runs, handing out educational fliers, and promoting National Mammography Day (October 16th), women (and men!) can all do their part to make a difference.

But what about families with kids? Kids Konnected is a national nonprofit that seeks to help the kids of breast cancer sufferers cope with the devastating disease. Through their books, Love Sick and Moxie, Kids Konnected is able to support young people by helping them deal with the challenging emotions that stem from a cancer diagnosis. Want to help out? KidsKonnected.org provides unique donation opportunities, plus family-friendly volunteer ideas.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Now that school has officially started and our minds are racing with fears of Swine Flu lingering all around, many questions arise. A big one that I often hear is, “What is the single most important thing I can do every day for my kids to protect them?”

It’s simple: Feed them healthy food every day. As a parent and physician, I can assure you that well-nourished children stay healthier–and when they do get sick, recover quicker. The body obtains it’s main source of naturally-occurring vitamins and minerals from fruits and vegetables. Further, these nutrients provide the building blocks for a healthy immune system and cellular integrity throughout the body.

With the importance of childhood nutrition in mind, here are some tips for packing a healthy school lunch or snack:

1. Pack a nutritious snack every day that has at least 2 grams of protein
2. Look for snack foods or bars that are less than 140 calories per serving
3. Always pack at least one fresh fruit or veggie in school lunches
4. For younger kids who may not eat a lot, pack a half a sandwich (but that’s full of good stuff in the middle!)
5. Avoid artificial sweeteners, flavorings, and colors
6. Stay away from high fructose corn sweeteners at all cost
7. Pack a reusable water bottle every day so your child stays hydrated
8. Pack a calcium-rich snack such as a cheese stick or yogurt if your child is not drinking milk with lunch

-Dr. Keri Marshall, MS, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor who specializes in holistic pediatrics and women’s medicine

Throughout September, we’re showing our support for healthy, organic food. Here are 9 fun ways for you to join in!

1. Visit one of the many natural and organic food festivals and fairs that are occurring across the country this month.
2. Support the Organic Consumers Association by writing a letter to your local paper spreading the word about the importance of organic farming and organic foods.
3. Host a potluck dinner for your family and friends using seasonal, organic foods.
4. Take organics beyond the kitchen and seek out organic pet food, personal care products, clothing, and cleaning supplies.
5. Learn more about what goes into your food before it hits the table by reading books that discuss the importance of natural, organic foods. Try Michael Pollan’s In Defense of Food or, for kids, Ready, Set, Go Organic! by Kelley Ann Lovelace.
6. Each week, sample a different organic chocolate bar with your family. At the end of the month, decide which one you liked best!
7. Show support for the organic movement by volunteering or donating to a local organic gardening program.
8. Help kids have fun while they learn about the importance of organics with the “Help Us Grow the Organic Harvest” coloring book from the Organic Trade Association. Call the OTA at 413-774-7511 to place an order.
9. Let others know about Organic Harvest Month by bringing an organic treat to your workplace, place of worship, book club, or your child’s classroom. Take an organic fruit and cheese plate or homemade baked good made with organic ingredients.

For more about the importance of organics, plus recipes, shopping tips, and more, check out kiwimagonline.com/harvest.

It’s not just the younger set that need healthier school lunches–many college students are also victim to unhealthy offerings at university dining halls. Fortunately, administrators have heard the cry for healthy, sustainable food options, and some schools are responding.

Recognizing that the typical fare of pizza and burgers in most college cafeterias isn’t cutting it anymore, big-name schools are bringing new options to the table. The Sustainable Food Project at Yale University manages an organic garden that provides food for the school’s dining program, while Duke University encourages students to compost or choose recyclable or biodegradable food packaging. Even more impressive, the University of California-Berkeley is home to the nation’s first certified-organic salad bar.

These three schools aren’t the only ones making changes, though. With others like the College of the Atlantic, Evergreen State College, and Berea College promoting healthy, sustainable food, it won’t be long before eating for the planet becomes the norm at schools for kids of all ages. To learn about other ways colleges and universities across the country are doing their part to help the planet, check out KIWI’s Green College Report.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Whole Foods Market has teamed up with renegade lunch lady Ann Cooper to create The Lunch Box, an online resource that seeks to help schools serve healthier food to students.

Knowing that schools need more than healthy menus to overhaul a bad lunch program, The Lunch Box covers all the bases (though it’s got plenty of recipes that come complete with nutritional information, too!). Featuring technical tools, financial modeling, educational manuals, and marketing materials, the website has everything schools need to lay the foundation for healthier student meals. Additionally, The Lunch Box will house a blog and discussion forum to encourage teachers, administrators, and school communities to support each other and and exchange ideas. “We hope this website is the go-to place [when it comes to improving school food,” says Chef Ann.

While there’s already plenty of information available on the website, Chef Ann says plenty more is on the way. “We have some other partners that we’re beginning to work with. We’ve really just begun on this site–we’ll be building extensively over the next 18 months,” she says.

Want to learn more about ways to make your school healthier and greener? Check out MyHealthySchool.com.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Between all the water and detergent, plus the electricity used to power the washer and dryer, doing laundry eats up a lot of resources. Most of us can’t just stop washing our clothes the way we might stop drinking bottled water or stop driving to places that are less than a mile away, but we can make the process a little gentler on the planet. Consider the options:

• Wash in cold water. Unless your laundry is super, super dirty, cold water works just as well as hot–but doesn’t need to use electricity to be heated.
• Use a natural detergent. This is a no-brainer, especially when you consider the fact that eco-friendly detergent isn’t much more expensive than regular. I’m a fan of Whole Foods’ store brand.
• Find fabric softener in your pantry. 1/2 cup of baking soda per laundry load is my softener of choice, but 1/2 cup of vinegar works just as well–both are cheap and free of harsh chemicals.
• Wash a full load. This might seem obvious, but everyone has had instances where they’ve put only a few items in the wash at a time (laundromat uses are probably the exception here–we let it pile up!).
• Do it in the morning or evening. If you’ve got the AC running to keep your home cool all day, turning on the warm clothes dryer will only be counter-productive. Try drying clothes in the morning or at night when the temperature outdoors is lower.
• Clean the lint trap. Yes, every time! It’s a little gross, but a dirty lint screen can cause a dryer to use up to 30% more energy.
• Line dry. You don’t need a big backyard and a line full of clothespins–though that would be nice to have. Invest in an indoor drying rack, or drape garments on hooks, doorknobs, or over the shower door.

Got any tips of your own?

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

It’s that time of year again: Everywhere you go it’s blueberry this or raspberry that. Trust me, I am not complaining–next to fresh peaches, I would take a fresh berry any day. And I have to say, one of the best gifts my parents ever gave me as a child was a love for picking berries. And such, it continues to be one of my favorite outings with my own kids.

When a parent tells me that their child does not “like” raspberries or blueberries, the first question I ask, is “have you ever gone and picked your own?” I have never met a child that, when tempted with big, beautiful berries in front of them, fresh from a vine or bush, can’t help but shove one (and then many more) in their mouth and become an instant fan. And the glory of coming home with ten or more pounds of berries? The possibilities are endless.

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If you are in the Long Island area this weekend, please come bring your kiddies to the East End Green Fest in Mattituck, NY! This festival takes place on August 1st and 2nd on Strawberry Fairgrounds 10am-6pm.  Featuring live music on more than 10 solar stages, local foods, seminars, fun events, and natural and sustainable products, this is a wonderful activity for the whole gang.  Adults tickets are $3 and kids 12 and under are FREE! KIWI will be there so come by, grab a magazine and some goodies! We will see you there!

-Brittany, KIWI Staff and Green Fest fan

With uses for personal care, cleaning, laundry, and of course–cooking, baking soda is the ultimate DIY multi-tasker. It’s also incredibly inexpensive, and super earth-friendly (aside from the fact that it’s a non-toxic chemical compound, using versatile baking soda to do 10 jobs rather than buying 10 different products really cuts down on waste!). Here are 10 of my favorite ways to use baking soda, what about you?

1. Face mask. This works especially well for oily skin–form a paste with 2 tsp. baking soda and 1 tsp. honey and leave on face for 10 minutes to tighten pores and banish blackheads.
2. Fabric softener. Surprise, surprise! Conventional fabric softeners can contain a multitude of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances. To keep clothes soft, just toss 1 cup of baking soda in with the wash. Bonus: It can remove heavy stains and odors, too!
3. Shampoo. OK, maybe not all the time. But in a pinch, it works! Add 1 tbsp. of baking soda to 8 oz. of water, then work through hair. Follow with a clarifying rinse made up of 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar and another 8 oz. of water. [Read more →]

When seeking out natural, DIY options to clean and disinfect your home, the list of ingredients usually sounds pretty familiar: Lemon, baking soda, vinegar, club soda, salt, plus some herbs or essential oils to keep things smelling nice. Oh, and borax.

Borax?

It doesn’t sound quite like the others, does it? In fact, it sounds more like…Windex. Or Oxi-Clean! Or who knows what else. However, Borax is actually a naturally-occuring mineral compound can work as a cleaner, disinfectant, or deodorizer. (When the stuff is mixed with hot water, some of the H2O molecules turn into hydrogren peroxide–interesting, right?)

You can mix 2 tsp. of borax with 1/2 cup vinegar and 1/2 gallon of warm water for an effective all-purpose cleaner, or create a paste out of equal parts borax, salt, and vinegar for a heavy-duty carpet cleaner (just let the paste sit for a few hours in the carpet before vacuuming up.)

It’s essential to remember though that borax, while natural, isn’t safe for consumption the way lemon or vinegar is. The compound is toxic if ingested in large doses, so keep out of reach of kids and pets.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Walking is one of the best things you can do for your health as well as the environment. While a study in Washington state found that on average, people living in pedestrian-friendly areas weigh about 7 pounds less than people living in areas that aren’t so pedestrian-friendly, walking also emits zero pollution into the atmosphere. What’s more, walking is good for the community–it’s been shown to increase social interaction as well as help local businesses thrive.

How walkable is your area? Visit WalkScore.com and type in your home address to find out. The website ranks the walkability of over 2,000 U.S. neighborhood according to a number of criteria, including the existance of a discernable town center, parks and public space, pedestrian-centric design, and nearby schools and workplaces. Hopefully, your community shows up as super foot-friendly–but if not, you can take action! Click here to learn more about the 2009 Transportation Bill, which you can support in order to appropriate more government funding for safe walking streets.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

As a parent, you jump through hoops to find the safest cribs, carriers, strollers, and changing tables for your little bundle of joy, but unfortunately, these items don’t usually come with ingredient labels. Many child products are made with fire retardants, which contain toxic chemicals called polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). Exposure to PBDEs have been linked to health problems including cancer, birth defects, hyperactivity, and reproductive disorders.

Last month, the California Senate proposed a bill to ban fire retardant chemicals on kids’ products. California is currently the only state in the nation that requires these items be fire retarded. Unfortunately, the cheapest way for manufacturers to comply with this law is to make all products according to California standards. So whether that baby crib is going to New Jersey or to California, it’s going to contain fire retardants.

If the bill passes in California, it’s likely that manufacturers will stop adding the fire retardants to products, making the whole nation a bit safer.

Won’t the ban on fire retardants mean that kids will be in danger of fire? Not exactly. Even if a fire retardant product were to catch fire, it’s still not fireproof; the retardant only offers six to 12 seconds of flame resistance. Still, if you feel more comfortable buying a fireproof product, go the natural route. Many baby mattresses are made with wool, which is naturally fire retardant, and there are also products made with naturally flame resistant cotton fibers.

-Stephanie Hacker, editorial intern

Are you (or do you know) a mom who’s made an exceptional effort to create a healthier environment for children and families? Healthy Child Healthy World, a non-profit seeking to inspire parents to protect young children from harmful chemicals, will hold their annual benefit gala this October, where the organization will recognize one enthusiastic, health-minded mom for her work.

To nominate yourself or someone you know, share the extraordinary story! Submissions will be accepted until August 15th.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

One summer way back when, my best friend and I made a pledge to go barefoot for as long as possible. Granted, we were only about ten or eleven, so the extent of our travels consisted of crossing the street to go to each other’s houses, a short walk to the lake nextdoor, or at most, a bike ride to the local pool–basically, all places where being sans shoes was perfectly acceptable.

Calloused though they were, our feet  made it through summer vacation without ever wearing a pair of shoes (well, hardly ever, but we definitely considered the venture a success). When it came time to head back to school in September, however, there was no two ways about it–the shoes had to go back on. Even still, though, the weather was warm, and we decided to keep up the shoeless routine outside of the classroom for as long as possible. We’d simply grown accustomed to the feeling and the freedom, and saw no reason to stop. Unfortunately, Mother Nature eventually gave us a reason–frost. It happened in November, and even making the quick trip over to her house to watch movies after school proved painful on my feet. It had to be done. The shoes had to go back on.

As I got older, the opportunities to go barefoot shrunk considerably. School, always, then parties, job interviews, and jobs themselves. Occasionally now I’ll run from the house to get something in my car without my shoes on, and it makes me a little sad that my feet can’t take it. Sure, I was the girl that wore sandals to high school even in January, I wore a pair to my wedding and am wearing a pair right now, but none of those things really compare to going completely barefoot.

Whether it’s soft sand, hot pavement, or dewy grass, I like the feeling of the ground on my feet, and I’m renewing my commitment to experience more of it. At least, until the frost arrives.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

I’m not going to lie–on some of those sweltering summer days, air conditioning can be a great thing. However, I try to reserve my use of the AC, whether at home, work, or in the car, to times when its really necessary. It saves money on gas and energy bills, and makes a significant cut in my CO2 emissions. During the times when its hot, but not unbearably so, I try to rely on other means of cooling off. Here are some of my favorite methods–what about you? Does your family frequently choose greener alternatives to air conditioning?

• Whether preventing overheating while exercising outdoors or trying to cool off inside, try an icy wrap. Place a row of ice cubes in the center of a bandana or other cloth, roll up, and wrap around your neck. Keep the tie in the front and the ice cubes on the back of your neck.
• Essential peppermint oil is sort of like the natural version of Vick’s Vap-o-Rub in the sense that its super cooling. Dab a bit on your wrists or neck for instant heat relief.
• It might seem counterintuitive, but eating spicy food can really help you cool off. Think about very warm places like Thailand, India, and Mexico–each country’s traditional cuisine involves tons of heat in the form of different types of peppers. Spicy food increases perspiration, in turn allowing the body to cool off.
• Practice meditative breathing. Shitali pranayama is an ancient technique used by Indian yogis to cool off, but its easy enough for anyone to do. Prepare by sitting cross-legged and inhaling a few times through the nose, then roll your tongue and stick it out. Inhale through the roll of your tongue and exhale through your nose multiple times for a quick cooling effect.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

With such a successful first year behind them, New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg along with NYC DOT Janette Sadik-Khan have decided to keep this wonderful initiative going. Last August, for three consecutive Saturdays with over 50,000 in attendance, 7 miles of the New York City area was closed down allowing families to enjoy free activities and plenty of room to ride bikes, jog, and enjoy the beautiful summer days without the usual traffic. Summer Streets 2009 promises to be even better with 13 additional locations and over 1500 free activities for all to enjoy. Join in on the fun August 8th, 15th, and 22nd from 7AM-1PM. To learn more about this initiative as well as tips and activities, check out Summer Streets 2009.

-Brittany, KIWI Staff and fitness guru

In an effort to help consumers learn about the chemicals often lurking in conventionally-grown food, The Pesticide Action Network recently launched WhatsOnMyFood.com, a website that seeks to spread awareness of the harmful effects of pesticides on our health and environment.

Synthetic pesticides play a huge role in conventional farming practices, and have been implicated as a cause for range  a range of illnesses including autism and Parkinson’s disease. PAN is committed to working towards the reduction of pesticide use, as well as collaborating with partner companies to voice their collective opposition against the use of chemicals in our food.

Case in point: the average American child receives more than five “servings” of chemical residues in their food and water each day, according to WhatsOnMyFood?. Further, the website allows you to search by food or pesticide to learn what’s potentially hiding in your meal. It also offers ways for concerned parents and families to take action in the fight against the use of these hazardous materials.

As for us? We’re going organic whenever possible. What about your family?

-Brittany, KIWI Staffer

Our sun-loving crew compiled a list of the best summer-related content KIWI has to offer. Whether you’re into surfing, nature walks, gardening, or cooking, you’ll find plenty of ways to have fun all summer while being kind to the planet. Read all about it at kiwimagonline.com/summerfun.

Yesterday, the Senate approved The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, which, if passed, would reduce youth smoking by 11% over the next decade. President Obama has already said he will sign the bill when it reaches his desk, resulting in a victory for anti-smoking advocates everywhere, including Washington group the Campaign Tobacco Free Kids .

With the new law in place, the FDA would have the ability to set standards forcing manufacturers to reduce nicotene content in cigarettes. It would also call for more restriction in cigarette advertisements, making outdoor advertisingof tobacco within 1,000 feet of schools illegal. Further, cigarette packages will no longer be allowed to use terms like “light” or “low tar,” and will be required to display large health-hazard graphics.

If passed, the law would be the first federal smoking regulation since 1988, when cigarettes were banned on commercial airplane flights.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staff writer

Swimming pools are summer vacation icons. Whether it was playing Marco Polo with my eyes closed, psyching myself up to jump off the high dive, or waiting through the agony of adult swim, as soon as I get a whiff of that chlorine smell, I immediately think back to those gloriously hot, sunny days. Unfortunately, while the smell of chlorine conjures up some pretty sweet nostalgia, the stuff certainly isn’t doing anything for my health. As a chemical bleaching agent that is actually toxic in large doses, chlorine can pose a real health risk to swimmers big and small.

Although chlorine has been used since the 1920′s to keep pools clean,  chlorinated water has been found to irritate the eyes and skin, as well as trigger asthma. When the stuff interacts with the dirt and sweat on our bodies, it forms a harmful chemical called trichloramine, which a 2003 Belgian study found in high concentrations in blood samples of children who frequently swim in pools.

[Read more →]

In honor of May being the month to celebrate moms, it seems only appropriate to bring your attention to a very useful website that I just came across. As a naturopathic doctor, I always have friends, family, and patients asking me for resources that I find valuable, or on “the same page as me.” That being said, it is hard to find such resources which with I agree.

The American Pregnancy Association (APA) is the leading non-profit organization in the US committed to promoting reproductive and pregnancy wellness through education, research, advocacy and community awareness. I have found their website to be fair, balanced, and informative for a wide range of readers. The links they provide will answer many important questions for those trying to achieve a healthy pregnancy, as well as answer questions regarding infertility issues and adoption. They also provide a list of resources to find specific practitioners such as doulas, lactation consultants, pregnancy massage and yoga experts, and midwives.

More importantly, and close to my own heart, they provide facts regarding pregnancy-related nutrition and commonly asked questions regarding prenatal vitamins and herbal medicines that are safe to use during pregnancy. In addition, you will find accurate information about what foods should be avoided and what foods should be eaten.

In February of this year, the APA officially announced a partnership with Nordic Naturals, the leader in omega-3 fish oils and essential fatty acid blends. Scientific research has confirmed the importance of essential fatty acids, in particular DHA, for prenatal, maternal and neonatal development. DHA comprises about 30-40% of the fatty tissue found in the brain and is essential for proper development of brain, eyes, male genitalia, nerves, and the immune system.  International organizations have set standards for essential fatty acids during pregnancy at a minimum of 300mg a day. Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA provides 450 mg of DHA in just 2 caps.

If you are pregnant or are thinking of getting pregnant, please visit their website,  americanpregnancy.org.

-Dr. Keri Marshall MS, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor who specializes in holistic pediatrics and women’s medicine.

Toxic Free NC, a North Carolina-based organization seeking to fight pesticide pollution, recently released a report detailing their study of pest control usage in 89 local child care centers.  The results are less than encouraging: Over half of the child care providers who participated in Toxic Free NC’s survey said they regularly use broadcast pesticide sprays.

The dangers that pesticides pose to all people are well-known, and these risks are only magnified in children due to their smaller size and still-developing organs.  Additionally, children are more likely to be in close contact with the chemicals due to their tendency to play close to the ground or floor and put objects in their mouths.

While this information is discouraging, there are some signs of progress.  Roughly 25% of survey respondents reported using Integrated Pest Management, a form of pest control that’s gentler on the environment and people’s health that relies largely on the use of information regarding the life cycle and environment of pests and a minimal amount of pesticides.  Currently IPM is the pest control method of choice for most North Carolina public schools–hopefully North Carolina’s child care centers will begin to follow suit.

To learn more about Toxic Free NC as well as to download their full survey report, visit http://www.toxicfreenc.org/informed/bigrisksforsmallkids.html.

-Marygrace Stergakos, KIWI Staff Writer

The eternal question: How I can stay fit, be outside, get enough exercise and juggle parenting? This Mother’s Day I told my husband that I was mowing the lawn, and that he was in charge of the kids. We recently moved into a new suburban neighborhood in Washington DC and as a result we have to keep up with the “lawn Olympics.” This is what my husband and I refer to as the compulsive need to have the perfect manicured lawn and garden, with all the accessories to manage it. While many of our elderly neighbors have lawn service, our younger generation tends to fend for themselves.

What I have noticed is that while much of the gardening is a shared task between the genders, the actual lawn mowing is most often the male’s “job.” I vote to change that. Not only was my Mother’s Day mow relaxing and meditative (good music on my Ipod), I burned somewhere around 900 calories! And I made Vitamin D in the process from the sun. Mowing the lawn can burn anywhere from 350-500 calories per hour depending on the speed you move and your body weight. There really is no reason why this chore needs to be male dominated.
In fact, I think I finally realized why men find such joy in this. I would take it any day over vacuuming or sweeping dusty floors inside. I am always looking for an excuse to be outside, why not get exercise in the process?  Maybe for Father’s Day this year, tell your husband you are treating him to a morning with the kids while you mow the lawn for him. He will think you are doing him a favor!

– Dr. Keri Marshall MS, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor who specializes in holistic pediatrics and women’s medicine.

If you tried our suggestion for walking meditation that’s great, we hope it went well! If walking meditation however was not your child’s, partner’s or your cup of tea, no worries; there are many ways to meditate. Another great option is guided meditation. The best part is it allows you to be creative in what you choose to guide you and your family. There are a number of different options, one of which I’ll mention in a moment my favorite of which I’ll mention in a moment.  If you do go the traditional route and use a guided meditation CD, there is certainly one that will fit your family’s relaxation needs!

All you and your child will need for guided meditation is a comfortable and quiet place to sit or lie down, a blanket and/or pillow, and the meditation CD of your choice. To prepare your family for your meditation session, allow them to participate in deciding which meditation tape you use. Whether you take a visit to your local bookstore or do some online shopping, your child will be more eager to participate if they feel that there little voices were heard.

My favorite option for a guided meditation CD is to choose the audio version of your favorite children’s book, fairytale or folklore. If you don’t already have one in your home, two of my personal favorites are The Velveteen Rabbit and Hans Brinker or the Silver Skates.

Regardless of what you use to guide you with your meditation, make sure you choose a room that is quiet and where you will not be disturbed. Dim or turn the lights off for a greener meditation and enjoy this special, and most importantly quiet, time with your family.

– Sara, KIWI intern and mindfully meditating

The U.S. News blog Washington Whispers recently reported that Wyntergrace Williams, the 14-year-old daughter of Montel Williams, wrote a letter to Malia and Sasha Obama asking them to support her vegetarian lunch campaign.

Wyntergrace, a vegetarian of four years, attended two hearings on Capitol Hill last week in an effort to amend the Child Nutrition Act to include more healthy vegetarian options in public school cafeterias.  While neither Malia or Sasha are vegetarians, Wyntergrace points out that Sidwell Friends, the private school that the First Daughters attend, offers well-balanced meat-free meals, and that other schools across the country should do the same.

The White House has not commented on Wyntergrace’s effort, however, she continutes to seek improvement within the National School Lunch Program.  Wyntergrace argues that more students will choose vegetarian options if they’re made available, resulting in lower levels of childhood obesity.  Look for a TV commercial in the near future featuring Wyntergrace along with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine touting their veggie lunch campaign.

From the hyperactive toddler to the anxious teen, we’ve all heard that meditation can help the whole family. But if the thought of sitting still yourself just sounds too torturous, walking meditation might be a perfect option.

Having tried walking meditation myself, I think it’s fabulous! The biggest difference (besides the obvious movement) is that during walking meditation you are more aware of your surroundings. You should allow yourself to notice how you feel but not hold on to any unpleasant sensations. This kind of meditation is also great because it can be fit into your daily routine. Any movement such as your walk to work or your child’s walk home from school can become a mini practice in meditation!

A great way to start your family with walking meditation is to take a “mindful stroll” after dinner. Let your kids know that for the first five minutes all you want them to do is to think about how their feet feel. Is the ground hard or soft? Can they feel their toes wiggle in their shoes or feel the fabric on their feet? After these five minutes take a little time to talk about what their feet felt; but remember, there are no wrong answers! Keep a watchful eye on KIWI for ways to meditate with the family!

– Sara, KIWI intern and practicing walking meditation (not while writing this blog)

Do we really need an excuse to eat chocolate? Well it seems we have more and more reasons to eat it these days. Most people don’t realize that chocolate, much like fruits and vegetables is plant derived. Dark chocolate bars, with high-cocoa content, are loaded with something called epicatechin. Epicatechin is a particularly active member of a group of compounds called plant flavoniods. Flavonoids help protect us by exhibiting anti-oxidant activity in the body.

And here is more good news, some of the fats in chocolate are actually good for you! The fats in chocolate are 1/3 oleic acid, 1/3 stearic acid and 1/3 palmitic acid. Oleic Acid is a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat that is also found in olive oil. Stearic Acid is a saturated fat, but one which research is shows has a neutral effect on cholesterol. Palmitic Acid is also a saturated fat, however this one does raise cholesterol and increases the risk for heart disease. That means that only 1/3 of the fat in dark chocolate is bad for you. Not bad when you consider that alternative sweet treats such as baked goods are often loaded in partially hydrogenated fats, and excessive amounts of plant fats such as soy and canola oil which promote inflammation in the body.

In a study published in the journal Hypertension in August 2005, researchers from Italy found that dark chocolate may lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. The research also found that levels of LDL cholesterol in these individuals dropped by 10 percent. Another study showed that flavonoids in cocoa prevent fat-like substances in the bloodstream from oxidizing and clogging the arteries which will make blood platelets less likely to stick together and cause clots.

While a little dark chocolate can be good, a lot is not better. Chocolate is still loaded with calories. If you’re going to put more chocolate in your diet, you’ll have to cut back somewhere else. Don’t forget that a balanced diet, full of other plant based foods, and plenty of exercise is still the key to heart health.

So remember, pure cocoa powder ranks the healthiest amongst all chocolate products, followed by dark chocolate and milk chocolate. The way that cocoa powder and chocolate syrups are manufactured, removes most flavonoids and depletes the finished product of any health benefits. Avoid all chocolate products with artificial sweeteners and corn syrup and look for ones with high cocoa content. According to the Chocolate Manufacturers Association, dark chocolate contains about eight times the amount of polyphenol antioxidants found in strawberries. How about some chocolate covered strawberries? It is almost berry season.

– Dr. Keri Marshall MS, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor who specializes in holistic pediatrics and women’s medicine.

A new study was published this month in the medical journal The Lancet that appeared to be groundbreaking for some but is really common sense when you stop to think about it.  The study came out of Europe and looked at young patients with heart disease and addressed that they are smoking more and twice as many suffer from diabetes compared to 12 years ago. It was determined that heart disease prevention in routine clinical practice is inadequate, with only a third of patients being referred to and joining prevention programs, while doctors are prescribing more and more drugs. The most shocking revelation was that despite large increases in the use of all classes of blood pressure lowering drugs, blood pressure management showed no improvement.

One thing many of us agree with is that lifestyle programs should be the backbone of preventive care. Saving people’s lives from acute heart attacks is one thing where conventional medicine excels, but we need an urgent investment in prevention to address the lifestyle causes of heart disease. The nation’s integrative health care leaders met in Washington DC earlier this month to discuss patient centered health care and how to reduce health care costs in the long term. As I was there to witness this inspiring meeting, the word prevention was repeated over and over.

Just how do we prevent heart disease? Exercise and diet are key. How many times do you hear yourself or friends and family make excuses for not exercising. Well, there is not an excuse; in fact your life depends on it! Remember that even housework and gardening burn a number of calories. Enjoy the increased light and longer days. Get on a bike with your kids or throw your little ones in the jogger. Create a mom’s walking group in your neighborhood.

As for diet, fresh fruits and veggies, 5-8 servings a day! When choosing which ones, always aim for a variety of colors to increase the vitamin and mineral assortment. Fiber is important as well. Try to get a minimum of 25 grams a day. While fresh fruits and veggies have a lot of naturally occurring fiber like pectin, other reliable sources are Chia seed, which also contain essential fatty acids. Try Gaia Herbs Chia Fresh. It can be added to salads, smoothies or taken alone.

And yes, of course, no heart healthy plan will ever be complete without mentioning Omega-3 fatty acids. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish regularly and/or consuming around one gram daily of EPA+DHA from fish oil. For a great quality heart healthy option, try Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega. They have a guaranteed no repeat policy because their oils are so fresh.

-Dr. Keri Marshall MS, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor who specializes in holistic pediatrics and women’s medicine.

Princess Sylvie had a great day yesterday.This feisty 2 1/2 year-old is the daughter of our blogger, Audra Hughes, famous for The Boob Chronicles. Sylvie was diagnosed with a rare form of liver cancer on February 11, 2009. She is going through chemotherapy and may need surgery. The good news is that the doctors tell Audra and husband, Michael, that this cancer can be cured!You can follow Sylvie’s progress on her blog, Princess Sylvie.  On the most recent post, Audra reports, the chemo is working:  Sylvie’s tumors are shrinking and her lymph nodes are normal so the cancer is not spreading. YAY!  I hope you’ll join me in sending  positive thoughts and prayers to Audra, Michael and most of all, Sylvie. I’m counting on a “happily ever after” ending to this Princess’ story.

–Maxine Wolf, CEO & Publisher, KIWI Magazine

Last week temperatures in the Philadelphia-area reached about 60 degrees. For a moment, I thought we beat winter. Visions of spring – fresh veggies, flowers and warm, sunny days – put a smile on my face. Then, I checked the 10 day forecast. Winter storm approaching. Normally I don’t believe storm warnings, but I grabbed my fabric bag and got ready to head to the food store.My partner stopped me and asked what I would be getting. I answered plainly, “Milk, bread, juice, eggs. The standards.” He challenged me to use what we had in the apartment instead of spending money to purchase food we didn’t desperately need. “Okay,” I replied always up for a challenge. I had chicken in the freezer and veggies leftover from Friday night’s dinner. This should be easy.I woke up today and the streets are snow-covered. Winter prevails and I am home cooking. For breakfast, we ate blueberry pancakes. My chicken soup is simmering in our cast iron Dutch oven. I think I’ll whip up some brownies later. I feel like I won, but more importantly, we won. It is a challenge for all of us in this economy. Let’s think to use what we already have to create something we may not have originally thought of.– Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of creative cooking

In an effort to foster community and help parents help each other, we’ve rounded up some of the best offerings from eco-minded mom bloggers.  Here they are!

-Eco Child’s Play reviews Bringing Home Nature by Doug Tallamy, a book aimed at helping families create their own native backyard habitats.

-Is it better to purchase a conventional, second-hand crib, or buy a new one that’s certified greener or safer?  Green Baby Guide discusses.

-Not sure what to do with the piles of boxes you have in your garage?  Looking to get some boxes on the cheap while still avoiding waste?  Visit Mom Goes Green.

-Inhabitots explores attachment parenting, as well as the merits of an arm’s reach co-sleeper.  Learn more about attachment parenting and other sleep training methods in the March articles by Moms Meet.

-Mom Go Green is gearing up for warmer weather with an outdoor bat house.  It keeps mosquitoes at bay, and provides some fun nighttime entertainment!

-Marygrace, KIWI intern and blog enthusiast

An estimated 35 to 50 million Americans will come down with the flu this flu season, which typically lasts from November to March. And that’s just the flu. Millions more will also catch the common cold and pneumonia. So how do you protect your kids?

Here’s how to naturally prevent sickness and what to do if it’s too late.

Stop Sickness in its Tracks                                                                  •Get enough sleep! Adults should have at least seven to eight hours of sound sleep every night. And kids need at least ten. When your body is at rest, all your systems have a chance to recover and restore for the next day.

•Eat at least five servings of fruits and veggies daily. Why? They’re loaded with vitamins and minerals, which serve as co-factors for the different systems in our body. The more nutrients you get from natural sources, the better your body will work!

•Exercise. I know it’s cold out there, but keeping your body moving during the winter months will help keep your blood and lymphatic system moving as well. The lymphatic system carries our immune cells in vessels throughout the body. Without exercise, there are few ways to increase circulation. Go out and sled with your kids or take advantage of midday sun and go for a walk.

•Hydrotherapy helps. If you have access to a steam room or sauna, try and do a 15-20 minute session once a week. Afterwards jump in a cold shower. This a great way to get your blood and lymphatic system flowing.

•Wash your hands. Simple soap and water does the trick. No need for antibacterial soaps: our hands also have good bacteria on them that we need to stay healthy.

Oops! You’re Sick. Now What?
•Rest! Your body needs time to recover. Sometimes getting sick is your body’s way of telling you to slow down.

•Drink plenty of fluids. Water (plain or as an herbal tea) is one of the best ways to break down mucous, and it’s free. Try adding a pack of Emergen-C to get a little boost of Vitamin C and other electrolytes.
•For adults, try using certain natural remedies to help alleviate symptoms at the first sign of a cold. Boiron’s Oscillococcinum or Quick Defense by Gaia Herbs are both great. Products like these need to be taken frequently and in high doses to work. For kids, try Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrups. They have a nighttime version to help children relax and sleep more soundly. All of these are available at your local health food store.

•Healing socks (my personal favorite). At night before bed, get a pair of white cotton socks and a pair of wool socks. Wring the cotton socks under cool water and put on feet. Place wool socks over them and go to bed. Don’t walk around the house in wet socks, make sure you go right to bed. While you are sleeping, the cool wet socks will help draw heat and congestion from the upper respiratory system down to your feet, gradually drying the socks. You’ll wake in the morning feeling less congested. Works great for both kids and adults!

– Dr. Keri Marshall MS, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor who specializes in holistic pediatrics and women’s medicine

Every week I take out my trash and ask myself, “Is ALL of this stuff really mine?” While I am conscious of my trash consumption, some things are unavoidable. However, some things can easily be forgotten.

Here’s Planet Green’s list to let us know what disposable products we can end our relationships with:

1. Bottled water
2. Diapers
3. Air filters
4. Paper towels
5. Wrapping paper
6. Individually-wrapped foods
7. Takeout food
8. Feminine products
9. Razors
10. Furniture

Their honorable mention: Takeout chopsticks

– Stephanie, KIWI staff and seeker of ways to reduce trash consumption

Want to throw a great Super Bowl bash this weekend while keeping your family, your guests, and your planet all happy and healthy? Try some of KIWI’s tips:

• If you’re like us, you’re not a #1 fan of the paper plates and plastic cups that often pop up at parties. Keep trash to a minimum at your get-together by opting for reusable or recyclable dinnerware and flatware.

• Keep your party low-impact by offering some easy vegetarian options. Instead of the usual hummus and veggie tray, try something unexpected, like our Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Pita Pizzas.

• To keep nervous tummies satisfied, serve natural and organic snacks like popchips and Coleman Organic Buffalo Chicken Wings.

• Don’t forget to recycle. Set up several recycling bins for your guests so that glass, plastic and paper can be separated as per your local recycling program.

Be sure to enter our Super Healthy Super Bowl Party and win eco sports equipment & snacks.

Enjoy watching the game, stellar commercials and the Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band halftime show!

– Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of sports

It can be hard to find stuff to do in the winter. You and your family have probably exhausted your stash of games, puzzles, books, and movies, and oftentimes its just too cold to go outside and play. Instead of letting yourselves get stir-crazy, try organizing an indoor family Olympics.

While the games could probably be held in the basement or another room where the furniture can be temporarily re-arranged, why not go all out? Get together with the neighborhood parents and contact your local elementary school to see if its possible to book the gymnasium for a Saturday or Sunday afternoon. Form family teams and get creative—pick names, choose matching uniforms, and create a special, secret handshake.

Holding a variety of events will ensure that everyone can show off his or her particular strength. Try a three-legged race, free-throw contest, volleyball game, or hula hoop competition, for instance. Have a medal ceremony after the games end, then feed your Olympic appetites with some fresh-baked cookies.

Marygrace Stergakos, KIWI Intern and lover of international competitions