Growing Futures: Health and Well-being for Children, Part 1 of 2

From healthy foods and outdoor play to caring friendships, kindness, and emotional support, the experiences children have while growing up can help them feel happier, stronger, and more confident. One inspiring program helping children learn healthy habits is the Green Bronx Machine in New York City, USA. Some schools in the program even use indoor hydroponic “tower gardens,” which allow students to grow fresh vegetables year-round using water and special growing systems instead of traditional soil. These creative gardens help children discover new ways to grow food while learning about healthy eating, science, and caring for plants. As students help care for the gardens, they also have opportunities to try new fruits and vegetables and build a stronger connection to nature. “My favorite part is we’re working with plants because we get to help them grow.”

In many schools and communities, wellness activities are helping young people feel more relaxed, focused, and connected to others. Through simple activities such as breathing exercises, quiet time, movement, journaling, and supportive group conversations, students are learning to better understand their emotions and care for their minds and feelings. One school helping students practice these calming activities is Narciso G. Cavazos Elementary School, located in Mission, Texas, United States. There, children are taking part in mindfulness activities through nonprofit program called Inner Explorer. “Mostly, it’s changed the way I think. I feel more sure of myself and it helps me forget my problems.”