Parents

Free apps and websites to share with parents and get kids moving!

Managing screen time can be a real challenge for families with young children. Here are a few free digital apps and platforms families can try out for a more positive screen experience. Share them with parents and encourage them to choose apps and online activities that keep their kids active and engaged. 


Increase in Measles Cases

Amid an increase in cases of measles in Canada, here's what you should know about symptoms of measles and how it's spread.


Canadian Partnership for Children’s Health and Environment

The Canadian Partnership for Children’s Health and Environment (CPCHE, ‘kip-chee’) is a national collaboration of organizations with overlapping missions that have been working together since 2001 to improve children’s environmental health in Canada. With a variety of checklists, videos, tools and resources for parents and caregivers, their aim is to increase awareness, mobilize knowledge and catalyze action to ensure that all children in Canada have healthy environments in which to live, learn, play and grow.


Resources from Sesame Workshop for Afghan Parents and Children Affected by Crisis

Sesame Workshop has developed new resources in Dari and Pashto for children and families affected by the earthquakes in Afghanistan. They include videos and digital storybooks offering tips for caregivers to promote children's wellbeing, build their confidence, and to adapt to new environments amid challenging times. Global Initiative to Support Parents has compiled the Dari and Pashto resources here.


21 Learning Activities for Babies and Toddlers

Play is an important part of a baby's learning and growth – it's how they explore their environment, practice developing skills and bond with their caregivers (that’s you!). As babies grow, playtime evolves based on what developmental skills they are working on. Here are 21 activity ideas to share with parents and colleagues that will help them support baby and toddler development, all while having fun!


8 Tips for Talking to Children About Conflict and War

When conflict or war makes headlines, it can cause feelings such as fear, sadness, anger, and anxiety wherever you live. Children look to the adults around them for a sense of safety and security – even more so in times of crisis. Here are 8 tips on how to approach conversations in ways that provide children with support and comfort.


How to Keep Kids Active in Winter

Winter brings shorter, colder days and, typically, much more indoor time for kids. But exercise is essential, no matter the season. It helps kids maintain strong muscles and bones, builds cardiovascular strength, reduces the risk of illness, and improves mental health. Here are some fun ideas to share with parents to keep kids moving all season long!


Newcomer Kids Face Chronic Health Risks. Here’s How You Can Help.

Studies show that newcomer children in Canada are developing chronic adult health conditions as a result of the high cost of healthy food and access to physical activities. So it's important for us to share ideas and resources to help families stay physically active and eat healthy! UnlockFood.ca also has quick, 1-minute videos and tips on everyday food choices and raising healthy kids that are perfect for sharing with parents!


Helping Newcomer Parents Understand the Canadian School Schedule During the Winter

As many immigrants to Canada come from countries with education systems that are different than what their children will encounter here, it is unlikely that they will be familiar with how schools in this country handle extreme/inclement weather situations that can impact their family. Here's an article you can share with parents to help them understand how the public school system operates in Canada during the coldest months.

Healthy Snacks for Children

Healthy snacks are as important to children’s growth and development as healthy meals. Young children have small stomachs and can’t get all the nutrients they need from just 3 regular meals. Older children need snacks to stay alert and energetic throughout the day. Here are some tips for using Canada’s Food Guide to be sure children are getting healthy snacks. They're perfect for sharing with your team and the parents in your program!