DIversity Club: What Is It?

At my school, we have a club called “The Diversity Club”. We don’t only focus on welcoming our peers to different races and ethnic backgrounds, we also focus on serious subject happening today. Cyber bullying, bullying,  keeping our school fit and active, getting ourselves and our school involved in our community, are some of the many things we do in Diversity Club. If your school has a diversity club, I think you should definitely join. It may not do all of the things I listed, however it’s good to get your school involved in things going on, and make them aware that it’s fun to learn about people’s backgrounds and where they come from.

For example, the diversity club that I am a member of is hosting an ethnic food week at our school. We’ll be making different foods from all over the world, to celebrate people’s backgrounds. We are having a bake sale to raise money for supplies that will be provided by the activist group “Invisible Children” to go to Uganda for the Kony children. We are also going to be sponsoring the new movie “Bully” when it hits our small town’s theater, and as a group, we will go see it the day it comes out.

We make posters with slogans on them about eating healthy, accepting different backgrounds, and bullying, and hang them up around our school. We even create skits that are presented to the school that have to do with different problems that teenagers in high school are facing, like peer pressure, relationships, etcetera.

All in all, diversity club is a good way to express to your school that you care about what’s going on, and you want to get your school to feel the same way. Your able to express how you feel about different situations, and you end up getting involved in some pretty cool stuff. So maybe think about joining your school’s diversity club, or make one of your own. You could be making a big difference in your school.

Talk to you guys later! This is Zoe…Obviously…signing off!

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Boys Town National Hotline

The Boys Town National Hotline reaches out to children and families dealing with emotional, physical, or spiritual problems by giving them a voice through yourlifeyourvoice.org, or through the Boys Town National Hotline that is available 24/7 for teens who are struggling with different issues, or more serious problems like suicidal thoughts. The employees at Boys Town are always there to offer guidance and support to those in need.

At Boys Town, their motto is “Every child has the inherent potential to succeed, no matter what his or her circumstances.” I think that Boys Town is a great opportunity for teenagers to talk to someone if they are having problems with school, family, friends, drugs and alcohol abuse, depression, and more.

Sometimes, we feel uncomfortable telling our parents how we feel about certain issues, so what better way to get your feelings out then by telling someone who you know will listen, and will comfort you every step of the way.

Here are what some kids have to say about how contacting Boys Town completely turned their life around:

DEMARCO
“Boys Town made a difference in my life by providing me with stability.”

TAYLOR
“Boys Town gave me what I needed to put my past behind me and move forward with my life.”

MAYA
“Boys Town believed in me and gave me faith that I had a promising future.”

I believe that when you contact Boys Town or sign up online, your voice will truly be heard, and you won’t have to feel alone any longer.

Talk to you guys later! This is Zoe…Obviously…signing off!

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Things to do with your family in Atlanta this summer

Summer is already winding down, so this will be our last blog in this series.  We are going to take a look at things to do in the cool city of Atlanta.  Atlanta is one of those cities that people forget how amazing it is.

Here are a few things you can do this summer with your family in Atlanta:

1. Fourth Saturday Family Fun Day- Centennial Olympic Park- 4th Saturday of each month May-September

http://atlmomsonthemove.com/2011/05/fourth-saturday-family-fun-days-in-centennial-park/

Every 4th Saturday throughout the summer you can enjoy games, educational programming, concerts, and prizes at Centennial Olympic Park.  It starts at noon and runs until 4pm.  This family event is free.  Your family will love all the different activities that are offered.  There are only 2 left this year so get your family there before it’s over.

2. Kid’s Workshop at Home Depot- Home Depot’s across the country- 1st Saturday every month all year round

http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ContentView?pn=Kids_Workshops&langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053&cm_mmc=thd_marketing-_-vanity-_-kidsworkshop-_-LP&locStoreNum=159

Your kids can learn how to make some very cool things.  They also will learn tool safety and different do-it-yourself skills.  This program is absolutely free.  Your kids will be beaming with pride when they show everyone their newest project.

3. Movies in Central Park- Central Park- Every Thursday May-September

http://www.atlanticstation.com/free-summer-movie-series.php

Every Thursday at sundown you and your family can head to Central Park to see a free movie.  Your kids will love the chance to watch their favorite movies outside.  Make sure you check what is showing because you might not want your kids seeing them all.  Pop some popcorn and head over to Central Park for a fun movie under the stars.

4. Fountain of Rings- Centennial Olympic Park- Daily shows 12:30pm, 3:30pm, 6:30pm and 9:00pm

http://www.centennialpark.com/index.php/things-to-do/fountain-of-rings

The fountains are situated in the center of Centennial Olympic Park.  These fountains were originally built for the Olympics in 1996.  They are one of the most visited sights in Atlanta.  You and your kids a like will love this brilliant light show.  Don’t miss this beautiful sight!

5. The New World Of Coca-Cola- Coca-Cola Factory- Open year round

http://www.worldofcoca-cola.com/

You and your family will love this fun-filled factory tour.  There truly is something for everyone on this tour.  Your kids will have so much fun trying flavors from all over the world and getting their picture taking with the famous Coca-Cola Polar Bear.  This is a tour that they will tell their friends about.  It’s a little on the pricier side but it is well worth the extra money.  Head over to the Coca-Cola Factory and immerse your self in an American staple.

Atlanta is an incredible city both for kids and adults.  Don’t miss out on experiencing some of their amazing attractions.  Whether you live here or are planning to visit, Atlanta has so much to offer.

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Things to do with your family in Chicago this summer

I can’t believe it is almost August.  Seriously where has the summer gone?  I’m going to post 2 more cities in this series.  Today we are going to look at Chicago.  I grew up about 2 hours from Chicago and always loved going there especially in the summer.

I know summer is almost over but Chicago still has some cool things going on for the family.

1. Cirque Shanghai- Navy Pier- June 29th-September 5th

http://www.navypier.com/cirqueshanghai/

You and the kids will love this show which includes amazing sword fights and a death-defying motorcycle aerial wire act.  It’s showing all summer long and is at the beautiful Navy Pier.  Tickets are not super cheap at $15 for kids and $17.50 and up for adults.  You can also pay a little extra and get a Navy Pier pass and enjoy all that the pier has to offer.  Your kids will love it!

2. Pinkalicious- Broadway Playhouse- July 8th-September 3rd

http://broadwayinchicago.com/shows_dyn.php?cmd=display_current&display_showtag=Pinkalicious2011

This play is a fun filled adventure about a girl who eats one to many cupcakes.  It’s an entertaining story willed with fun songs and characters.  Your little girls in particular will love this show.  Check it out before it’s over!

3. Chicago free museum days- Museums all over Chicago- All year round

http://www.chicagokids.com/free.html

This is a different event than I usually add but this is such a wonderful deal I just had to share it.  There are several museums in Chicago that have free days throughout the year.  What an awesome way to have fun with your kids and help them learn a few things as well.

4. Chicago Botanic Gardens Dancin’ Sprouts- Chicago Botanic Garden- Every Wednesday June 8th-August 31st

http://www.chicagokids.com/blog/botanicgardensdancinsprouts.cfm

Your kids will be dancing to the fun beats of a variety of performers.  There is a new performer every week and they are all geared toward entertaining your kids.  The event is completely free.  So head over to the Botanic Gardens and let your kids dance!

5. Summer on Southport- Waveland Ave. near Wrigley Field- July 30th & 31st

http://starevents.com/events/summer-on-southport/

I know this event is this weekend but you don’t want to miss it!  It’s a weekend full of face painting, entertainment, and delicious food for the whole family.  They even have a kid’s corner with a rock climbing wall, bouncy activities and even a 9 hole mini putt.  The kid’s corner is $5 to get in but it covers everything.  This is an event that has something for everybody in the family.  Have some fun this weekend and head over to Southport!

It’s almost August and that means summer is almost over, so enjoy the last few weeks.  Check out some of these events and let us know how you liked them.  Spending some time in Chicago during the summer guarantees fun for the whole family!

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Things to do with your family this summer in LA

This week we are going to look at things you can do with your family in LA.  Most people immediately think about the beaches and all that they have to offer.  True there are gorgeous beaches around LA, but there is so much more for you to do with your family here.

Here are just a few:

1.  Beethoven’s Wig sings along to the classics- Ford Amphitheater- July 23rd 10:00 am

http://fordtheatres.org/en/events/details/id/301

Have you ever wondered how it would sound if classical music had words?  Well now is your chance to find out.  Beethoven’s Wig is a musical group that has won multiple awards.  They set their own words to classics from Mozart, Beethoven and more.  It’s a fun way to expose your kids to classical music.   Anybody under 12 is free with everybody else being only $5.  You won’t want to miss this fun family entertainment.

2.  Kids Club on the Green- The Americana at Brand- Every Tuesday 11am-1pm

http://www.americanaatbrand.com/glendale/promos/promo_page.php?id_promo=10&section=events

The kids club is free and and offers some fun for the little ones.  There is music, entertainment and even arts and crafts for everyone.  The cool thing is that a few of the restaurants in the area offer free food to kids on Tuesday.  The club is free and is held rain or shine.  So don’t miss it!

3. Kids Bowl for free- Bowling Alleys around the US- Memorial Day through late August

http://freethingstodoinlosangeles.net/2011/04/26/kids-bowl-free-this-summer-again/

There are multiple bowling alleys all across the US that offer 2 free games every day for kids.  This is something that the whole family can enjoy.  It’s a fun and interesting way to keep your kids moving this summer!

4. Summer Family Fun- Farmer’s Market LA 6333 W. Third St. Los Angeles, CA  90036-7/24, 8/7, & 8/21 12-3pm

http://www.farmersmarketla.com/special_events/index.asp

The Summer Family Fun at the Farmer’s Market offers all sorts of entertainment.  You can enjoy the shopping while your kids are thoroughly entertained.  Your kid’s can enjoy face painting, juggling, music, puppet shows, and arts and crafts.  The entertainment is free and runs from 12-3pm.  You and your kids will love this so make sure you check it out!

5. Moonlight Movies on the Beach- Different beaches in Long Beach, CA- All summer long. Movies start at dusk

http://lbcinema.org/moonlight-movie/

How fun is sitting on a beach with your family and watching a movie?  Take your kids to see a movie on the beach.  They show family movies all summer long at 3 different locations. They also show classics and cult favorites, so make sure you check what they are showing to make sure it’s something you want your kids to see.  Each movie is free, so try to view as many as you can!

Los Angeles is a beautiful city with tons of different things going on.  The list of things to do is endless.   If you are looking for more ideas on what to do with your family in LA this summer check out these websites.

http://readysetgrowla.org/blog/2011/05/10-educational-fun-and-free-things-to-do-with-kids-in-los-angeles-this-summer/

http://discoverlosangeles.com/play/activities-and-recreation/activities/100-free-things-to-do-activities.jsp

Have fun exploring this incredible city!

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Things to do with your family this summer- NYC edition

Last week I mentioned how I was starting a series on things to do with your family this summer all across America, today we are going to focus on the amazing New York City.  New York City is one of the most popular and incredible cities in the world.  It’s know for being the city that never sleeps.

Let’s take a look at some cool events that NYC has to offer for the family this summer:

1.  Take the family to fireworks on the beach at Coney Island- Last weekend in June- Labor Day

http://www.coneyisland.com/tourism.shtml

Head down to Coney Island around noon on any Friday and take in all the rides.  After you have enjoyed a fun-filled day of rides and arcades, you can head down to the beach and take in a little sun while waiting for the fireworks.  The fireworks start around 9:30 pm every Friday.  Coney Island is a world famous attraction that you and your family cannot miss seeing.

2. Check out Riverflicks for Kids- Pier 46 in West Village Cross at Charles- Friday nights until the middle of August

http://www.riverflicks.com/RFkids.html

Every Friday during the summer you can take your family to see outdoor movies at Hudson River Park’s Pier 46.  The movies run from 8:00-10:00pm.  Your kids will love being able to see some of their favorite movies under the stars.  The best part is that the movies are absolutely free.

3. Go see New York Philharmonic in the parks of NYC- Parks throughout NYC- Various days

http://gonyc.about.com/od/summer/a/philharmonic_2.htm

Not only will your kids enjoy this so will you.  The concerts start at 8 pm, but get there early if you want seats close to the stage.  Bring blankets to sit on and food and drinks to enjoy with your family.  Fireworks are also included after every concert.  Make sure you bring bugs spray!

4. Summerstage Kids presented by Disney- Parks all over NYC- June-August

http://www.cityparksfoundation.org/kids_arts.html

Summerstage Kids is an incredible and unique interactive experience for the whole family.  This experience is all about introducing culture and arts to the youth of NYC.  The entertainment comes in all forms from acrobats, dancing, storytelling, spoken words and music.  You do not want to miss this festival.  This festival is also free so try to g0 to as many days as possible.  You won’t regret it!

5. Summer in the Square- Union Square Park, South Plaza- Every Thursday mid-June through mid-August

http://www.unionsquarenyc.org/explore/events/1982-usp-presents-summer-in-the-square

This free weekly entertainment starts at 7:00 am every Thursday with yoga and fitness classes all morning long.  Then from 10:00 am-12 pm, you and the kids can enjoy dance music and children entertainment.  The evening ends on a high note at 6:00 pm, with musicians playing all different genres.    Summer in the Square has something for everyone.  You can either spend a few hours or enjoy the whole day in Union Square Park with this awesome event.

If you live in New York City or if you are just in the NYC area this summer make sure you check out some of these events.  Summer is one of the best times to be in this great city.  So get out there and enjoy yourself!

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Things to do with the family this summer…Washington D.C.

I am going to start a little series about things that families can do in cities around the United States.  The first city we are going to feature is the city from which MECKids is based out of, Washington D.C.  There are many great events going on this summer, and I’ll fill you in on a few.

1. Charlotte’s Web- Adventure Theater - June 24th- September 5th 2011

http://www.adventuretheatre.org/index.html

The Adventure Theater puts on great plays all year round.  We all love the story of Charlotte’s Web and this show will not disappoint.  Your kids will love it.  Adventure Theater also offers some incredible classes and camps for kids.  Make sure you check them out as well.

2.  Arts in the Park- Five local parks around Virginia- All summer long

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances/arts.htm

Arts in the Park features many different kinds of acts from magic and comedy to puppets and music.  Check out their brochure to find out what is showing around you.  All performances are free, so you can go to as many shows as you would like.  Get out there and support performing arts and your local parks.

3. Kids’ Summer Cinema- Tally Ho Theater- All summer long

http://www.tallyholeesburg.com/

Tally Ho Theater screens kid’s movies every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.  The best part is that the tickets are only $1!  They also provide some very cool workshops if your kids have an interest in theater.

4. The U.S. Army’s Spirit of America- Verizon Center- September 9th and 10th 2011

http://spiritofamerica.mdw.army.mil/index.html

I know this is the end of summer but if you love the history of this country you won’t want to miss this.  This event has historical reenactments, musical numbers and precision military drills.  The stories that are told, are taken from diaries and letters from actual soldiers and all the reenactments are done by active duty soldiers.   The Spirit of America will bring history alive for young and old alike.  This is a free event but make sure you request tickets early.  You don’t want to miss this!

5. Washington D.C. Summer Fairs and Festivals- All over Virginia and Maryland- All throughout the summer

http://www.our-kids.com/public/t/?f=5&s=129&t=279

There are so many incredible fairs and festivals all over the Washington D.C. area.  I could not possibly begin to write about all of them, so instead I am just sharing a link to them.  Try to take in as many as you can this summer.

I also wanted to share a link about things that families can do around Washington D.C. all year round.  Washington D.C. is such a great city.  If you are local make sure you get out and enjoy all that it has to offer.  If you don’t live here, make sure to plan a vacation here soon.  You do not want to miss out on all the great things that go on in this beautiful city.  We hope to see you soon!

http://dc.about.com/od/childrensactivities/tp/15BestforKids.htm

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Happy 4th of July!

Can you believe it is already July?  Honestly, where has this year gone?  How are you doing on your resolutions and goals for 2011?  Instead of looking at it like this year is almost over and I haven’t achieved nearly as much as I would have liked.  Let’s look at it as this year is half way over time to step up my game and get it done!  There is still plenty of time to get done whatever it is you want/need to get done.  So do it!

This weekend most of us will be spending a lot of time with the ones we love.  You’ll be at picnics, where you’ll be tempted with all sorts of goodies.  Don’t feel guilty if you treat yourself a little.  Just remember moderation is key!

You’ll probably be enjoying a couple of parades and fireworks too.  Don’t worry too much about getting to the gym.  Instead of actually going to the gym, why not work out outside?   This weekend is all about having fun, so try something new.  Invite your family to join in the fun.

Also, don’t forget to remember what Independence Day is really all about.  We are able to celebrate this day because many brave men and women have given up their lives so we could be free.  If you see someone in uniform, make sure you thank them!. They have given up so much to fight for our freedom.

Happy 4th of July!

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How teens reduce stress and remain calm under pressure

Cyber bullies, teen fights, anger, depression, these are just some of the issues students face day to day due to all sorts of pressures at home and at school.  How can teens learn to remain calm, control their anger and reduce stress?

YOGA & Pilates!  Both of these exercise genres have added benefits in helping students keep calm under pressure. Learning to use controlled breathing exercises can in turn reduce the fight or flight enzyme “cortisol” that is excreted into the blood stream anytime a person faces a fearful or life threatening situation.

In addition to the calming, relaxing, therapeutic benefits of pilates and yoga, students also derive increased strength and cardiovascular health.  So how and where can you try either out these program to see if they can work for you?  Join MECKids and the YOKid Team for the YOKid Spring Fitness Challenge at Cora Kelly Recreation Center in Alexandria, Virginia.  To learn more visit our events page at http://www.meckids.com/pages/community.php

To your health,

Coach Nik

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Fit – Focused – Balanced

What’s the best way for a kid to stay fit, focused and in balance?  Yoga, pilates, conditioning exercises all offer something different that kids of all ages can benefit from and use.  By simply using many of the stretches and poses found in a basic yoga session, students can learn to improve their breathing and concentration.  Both of which can assist students in managing stress and staying calm in stressful situations.

Pilates offers excellent balance, stretching and strengthening techniques that can assist students who may be prone to injury or participate in sports such as cheerleading, football, basketball and lacrosse.

Although strength conditioning may have many benefits cautioned should be exercised in the amount of weight used, repetitions and frequency of weight training particularly for adolescents.  Strength training can be quite useful for student athletes in improving power and performance but should be provided under the supervision of a certified fitness or athletic trainer.

MECKids provides lots of lesson plans and techniques for health, fitness and sports training.  If you are not yet a MECKids member contact us today and find how to join, contact@meckids.com or visit our Get Started page at http://www.meckids.com/pages/getstarted.php

See you in the Gym!

Coach Fran

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