Black History Month: Celebrating Diversity in Fitness

Black History Month, observed every February, is a time dedicated to honoring the achievements and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. It’s a period for reflection, education, and celebration, bringing to light stories and experiences that shape our collective history. In this spirit, it’s crucial to acknowledge another significant aspect of development: fitness in the lives of young girls. 

Regular physical activity is vital for physical health and is crucial to mental well-being and self-esteem. We can offer young girls a unique opportunity by incorporating diverse cultural elements into fitness, such as dance and sports from various African and African Diaspora cultures. This approach enriches their fitness routine and opens a window to the world, helping them appreciate and embrace different cultures. Celebrating diversity in fitness during Black History Month can inspire young girls to develop a deeper understanding of inclusivity, respect for cultural heritage, and a lifelong love for health and wellness.

The Role of Fitness in Young Girls’ Development

Physical activity plays a pivotal role in the holistic development of young girls, impacting their physical health, mental well-being, and self-esteem. Regular exercise helps build stronger muscles and bones, reduce the risk of various health issues, and foster healthy growth and development. Beyond the physical benefits, active lifestyles are crucial for mental health, offering an outlet for stress relief, enhancing mood, and boosting confidence. For young girls, especially, participating in physical activities can significantly improve self-esteem and body image, which is crucial during formative years. 

Parents have a vital role in this journey, not just as facilitators providing opportunities for physical activities but also as role models. Encouraging an active lifestyle through family sports, dance classes, or simply active play can instill a love for fitness from a young age, laying the foundation for a healthy future.

Celebrating Cultural Diversity through Dance

Cultural dance is an exhilarating and enriching form of fitness that goes beyond physical exercise, immersing participants in the rhythms and movements of different cultures. For young girls, engaging in dance forms such as West African danceAfrobeat, and Hip-Hop can be a captivating way to stay active while exploring the rich tapestry of African and African Diaspora cultures. These dance styles are vibrant, energetic, and deeply rooted in history and tradition, offering a unique blend of storytelling and physical activity. 

Through dynamic movements and rhythmic beats, young girls improve their physical health and coordination and gain an appreciation for cultural diversity. This fun and interactive approach to fitness can ignite a passion for dance, foster cultural awareness, and encourage a lifelong engagement with physical activity in an inclusive and enjoyable environment.

Facts About Black Health and Wellness

The health and wellness of Black communities are often impacted by a range of social and economic factors, leading to disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. For instance, studies have shown higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity in these communities compared to others. These challenges underscore the importance of representation in fitness and wellness spaces. When Black athletes, dancers, and fitness influencers are visible and celebrated, they serve as role models and inspire and empower community members to prioritize their health.

Role models like Serena Williams in tennis, Misty Copeland in ballet, and fitness influencer Massy Arias have broken barriers and demonstrated the heights that can be achieved with dedication to physical wellness. Their presence in the fitness world motivates individuals to engage in physical activities and highlights the need for more inclusive and diverse representation in all areas of health and wellness.

Celebrate Culture Every Day 

Celebrating Black History Month through fitness and dance offers a unique and powerful opportunity to honor cultural heritage while promoting physical and mental well-being. By introducing young girls to diverse forms of exercise, particularly those rooted in African and African Diaspora cultures, parents can play a pivotal role in nurturing an appreciation for diversity from a young age. This approach enriches their fitness journey and broadens their understanding of the world. 

The call to action for parents is clear: engage your daughters in activities that celebrate cultural diversity and, in doing so, contribute to their holistic growth and the development of inclusive mindsets. The impact of such cultural appreciation is profound, paving the way for a future where diversity is acknowledged and celebrated, creating a more inclusive and understanding society for the next generation of young girls.

Recognizing Indigenous History Month: Honoring the Heritage of Native Americans

November is a month of vibrant hues and crisp autumn air, but it also holds significant cultural importance. While many of us celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s essential to recognize that November is also Indigenous History Month. It’s a time dedicated to acknowledging and honoring the tapestry of Native American cultures, traditions, and contributions to society. This month offers a unique opportunity to delve into the profound legacy of indigenous peoples, fostering understanding, respect, and appreciation.

Understanding the Significance of Indigenous History Month

Indigenous History Month, observed throughout November, sheds light on the diverse histories, languages, art forms, and customs of Native American tribes and communities. It serves as a reminder that long before the arrival of European settlers, these lands were home to numerous thriving civilizations, each with their unique way of life. Recognizing Indigenous History Month is crucial in fostering awareness about the challenges faced by Indigenous communities and acknowledging their resilience in the face of adversity.

Honoring the Contributions of Native Americans

Native Americans have contributed to various fields, including art, literature, science, and technology. Many iconic figures, such as Sacagawea, who played a vital role in the Lewis and Clark expedition, and Maria Tallchief, the first Native American prima ballerina, have left indelible marks on American history. By acknowledging these contributions during Indigenous History Month, we pay tribute to the talent, intellect, and ingenuity of Native Americans.

Notable Native American women in sports include: 

  • Janee’ Kassanavoid became the first Native American woman to medal in the World Athletics Championship
  • Ice dancer Naomi Lang became the first Native American woman to compete in the Olympics
  • Madison Hammond is the first Native American woman to play on the National Women’s Soccer League
  • Abby Roque became the first Native American woman to play for the U.S. Olympic women’s hockey team

Promoting Cultural Awareness and Respect

Recognizing Indigenous History Month goes beyond celebration; it is an opportunity to foster cultural awareness and respect. Education plays a pivotal role in dismantling stereotypes and misconceptions about indigenous peoples. By incorporating indigenous perspectives into school curricula and public discourse, we can create a society that values diversity and embraces the richness of different cultures.

Supporting Indigenous Communities

Indigenous History Month is also a time to support Indigenous communities’ ongoing struggles for recognition, land rights, and social justice. We can contribute to a more just and equitable society by amplifying their voices and advocating for their rights. Donating to indigenous organizations, participating in cultural events, and engaging in respectful dialogue are meaningful ways to show support.

Farm to School Month 

October means a lot of things to different people. For many, it’s the beginning of Fall when the leaves start turning, and the weather gets chilly. It’s spooky season for others, leading to Halloween on October 31st. While we love all those things, here at Ladybug for Girls, we celebrate October as National Farm to School Month. This annual observance is a way to teach our girls where their food comes from and further instill healthy, nutritional values that can last a lifetime. 

This year’s theme is “Rooted in Community: growing stronger, together.”

Farm to School Month 2023

Last year, we explored the theme of Who’s At the Table. We looked at the different people who make it possible for our kids to get balanced farm-to-school nutrition. From the farmers themselves to the cafeteria, we discussed how fresh food is grown and distributed to schools nationwide and even the compost programs that complete the cycle. This year, the theme is Rooted in Community, and we’re excited to talk about how Farm to School is a grassroots effort. With everyone working together to create a better future for all, Farm to School brings together farmers, parents, students, advocates, teachers, and lawmakers.

Education 

There are many ways to celebrate Farm to School Month, but it should always include the schools so our girls and their classmates can learn about fresh, healthy food and why it matters. For educators, taking a trip to a local farm and featuring a local in-season item are great places to start. You can also promote Farm to School Month in your cafeteria and community by providing educational materials for the kids to take home.

Business

Local businesses can also get involved. Area farms, of course, can partner with schools for educational opportunities. They can provide produce to create delicious meals or snacks for the kids. Other area businesses can help by spreading the word using the hashtags #F2SMonth and #farmtoschool on social media. Invite media to visit your farm or a partnership event with your area schools to add your voice to this crucial healthy movement. You can donate to the Farm to School initiative today.

Home 

Of course, the best education and reinforcement of healthy habits for our girls happens at home. Use Farm to School Month to encourage your kids to talk about healthy eating habits, cooking fresh food, and bringing wholesome lunches to school daily. If you have the space, work with your girls on planning a garden to plant in the spring. You can also volunteer your time or donate. 

How will you get involved in Farm to School Month?   

Back to School: A Complete Parent Survival Guide 

A lot can change about your daily schedule once school starts again for your girls. Finding the right balance between work, school, and extracurriculars is ongoing. Be patient with yourself and your children as you navigate the school year and celebrate the journey together. Here’s a back-to-school survival guide for parents to help you settle into the new routine. 

Set a Family Calendar

Create a shared calendar that includes all family members’ schedules, including school events, extracurricular activities, work commitments, and other important dates. Use digital tools like Google Calendar to keep everyone updated and on track.

Establish Morning and Evening Routines

Develop consistent morning and evening routines to make school days smoother. This includes setting regular wake-up and bedtime hours, packing school bags the night before, and laying out clothes and lunches.

Prioritize Communication

Keep open lines of communication with your children’s teachers and coaches. Stay informed about schoolwork, projects, and upcoming events. Regularly check emails or school communication platforms for updates.

Encourage Independence

Help your girls develop a sense of responsibility by encouraging them to take ownership of their schoolwork and extracurricular commitments. Teach them to plan and manage their time effectively. You can adjust for their age and stage of development. 

Share Responsibilities

Delegate household chores and tasks among family members to lighten the load for everyone. This way, the burden doesn’t fall solely on one person; each family member learns to contribute to the household.

Plan Family Meals

Plan and prepare meals in advance to save time and reduce stress during busy weekdays. Involve your girls in meal planning and preparation to teach them valuable life skills. Use things you’ve learned about healthy eating to build each week’s plan. 

Encourage Physical Activity

Physical activity is crucial for both children and adults. Encourage your girls to participate in sports or other physical activities that interest them. Consider family outings or exercise sessions together to stay active as a family. 

Set Realistic Goals

Help your girls set realistic academic and extracurricular goals. Avoid overloading them with too many activities, and teach them the importance of balancing school, hobbies, and leisure time.

Make Time for Bonding

Amidst the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to spend quality time with your girls. Engage in family activities or even short bonding moments to create lasting memories.

Practice Self-Care

As a parent, it’s vital to take care of yourself too. Find time for hobbies, exercise, or relaxation activities to rejuvenate and reduce stress.

Flexibility is Key

Despite all the planning, life can throw unexpected challenges. Be flexible and adaptable to cope with unforeseen circumstances while maintaining a positive outlook.

Reach Out for Support

Don’t hesitate to seek help from friends, family, or support groups. Sharing experiences and tips with other parents can be invaluable.

Celebrate Achievements

Celebrate your girls’ achievements, both big and small. Acknowledging their efforts will motivate them to continue working hard and staying dedicated to their goals.


What are your favorite tips for back to school? 

Summer Heat Safety

Each year, in June, we discuss summer heat safety. We know that when our girls are outside in the summertime, the risk of sun damage, overheating, and dehydration are dangerous factors. Once again, our year has flown by so fast, and we’re already welcoming summertime. We wanted to provide an updated guide for heat safety that you and your family can follow during the hot summer days. 

Overheating 

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures and strenuous physical activity can lead to heat exhaustion. Symptoms may include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and rapid heartbeat. Girls who are active and participating in sports or outdoor activities may be at a higher risk of heat exhaustion.

Heatstroke is a severe form of heat illness that can be life-threatening. It occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system fails, and the core body temperature rises to dangerous levels. Heatstroke symptoms include a high body temperature, confusion, irritability, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even organ failure. Active girls who are not adequately hydrated or participate in intense physical activities in hot environments are at risk of heatstroke.

Spending extended periods outdoors without proper sun protection can lead to sunburn. Girls in outdoor sports or activities may be more exposed to harmful UV radiation. Sunburn can cause pain, redness, blistering, and long-term damage to the skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer later in life.

Dehydration

Young girls can quickly become dehydrated when engaging in physical activities, especially in hot weather. Sweating during exercise can lead to a significant loss of fluids and electrolytes, which can be dangerous if not replenished adequately.

Encourage young girls to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after physical activities. Water is generally the best choice, but sports drinks can be considered for activities lasting longer than an hour to replenish electrolytes.

Safety in the Summer

To mitigate these concerns and ensure the well-being of active young girls during summertime activities, it is essential to take certain precautions:

  • Breaks and rest: Encourage frequent breaks during activities for rest and cool-down periods. Find shaded areas or indoor facilities where girls can take breaks from the sun and heat.
  • Proper clothing: Dress girls in lightweight, breathable, light-colored clothing that protects them from the sun. Use hats and sunglasses to shield them from direct sunlight.
  • Sun protection: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF before going outdoors. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if sweating heavily. Encourage sun-protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, as an additional barrier.
  • Time of activity: Plan activities during cooler times of the day, such as early mornings or evenings, to avoid the day’s peak heat.
  • Education and awareness: Teach young girls about recognizing signs of heat-related illness and the need to communicate any discomfort or symptoms to adults. Encourage them to listen to their bodies and seek help if they feel unwell.

Supervising and monitoring young girls during physical activities is crucial, ensuring they have access to shade, hydration, and appropriate rest to prevent overheating and related health risks.

National Nutrition Month: Nutrition at Every Age 

Nutrition, like fitness, isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. Throughout our lives, we will have different nutritional needs based on age, body type, health concerns, and activity levels. But what does good nutrition look like at every age? March is National Nutrition Month, and now is a great time to get a snapshot of what nutrition looks like from childhood to adulthood for our girls

Early Childhood

Once a baby is on solid food, they will explore new tastes and textures. When they reach toddlerhood or pre-school age, they may begin to act a little pickier. Because children at this age grow in short spurts, they also tend to eat in spurts feeding their body’s need for growth along the way. Even if their meal patterns are off, offering them healthy options when ready is essential. 

Fiber and calcium are the two most critical nutrients at this age. 

School-Age 

This most significant challenge for school-aged children is the increased access to sugar, fat, and sodium. This is partly due to the change in their social structure, access to these foods, and marketing of unhealthy but very flavorful options for children. Their bodies need carbs for development, but too much can be problematic. 

To provide healthier choices, pack your child’s lunch to include nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins, along with better carb choices will give them a good foundation. 

Adolescence

The onset of puberty also changes your girl’s relationship with food. They’ll need many more calories to support the new changes in their bodies. Often, these problems are compounded by the impact of society and “diet culture,” which can lead girls to make unhealthy choices around food to restrict calories. Attention to preventing eating disorders is critical to teen girls’ well-being. 

Teen girls may also need more iron than boys in the same age group due to the onset of menstruation. 

Young Adulthood

Most of our dietary habits will come from our experiences when we’re young. That’s why building a solid foundation is critical. By the time your girls graduate from high school and move on to college or careers, they’ll have developed many of their food-based habits. 

Focusing on healthy eating through programs such as Ladybug for Girls will give them the tools to make good choices as they enter adulthood. 

Nutrition Based on Activity Levels

Of course, there isn’t a single solution for healthy eating. Your girls may also have different needs based on their fitness levels. Young athletes need to embrace a lifestyle and diet that supports their activity. For last year’s National Nutrition Month, we focused on foods for girls in sports. You can read about that here.

Dietary Concerns

It’s also important to note that some girls will face dietary concerns, such as allergies or sensitivities that can impact their eating. For example, a girl with Celiac Disease cannot process gluten and must develop a healthy gluten-free diet that supports her overall health. The Kids with Food Allergies foundation can help point parents in the right direction for resources and ideas.

We would love to talk to you about healthy food programs for your girls when they become a part of Ladybug for Girls.  

Black History Month: Showing Love in Sports 

In 2021, we shared a listing of Black athletes who impacted sports in the past and present. This year, we want to showcase several more figures in sports for Black History Month. Women of color went unrecognized in sports history for a long time, but their stories are no longer under the radar. Here are five African American women’s stories to celebrate this Black History Month. 

Florence Griffith Joyner

In 2021, we showcased Jackie Joyner-Kersee. This time, we wanted to mention her sister-in-law Florence Griffith Joyner. She became a champion and a personality in the late 1980s after setting records for the 100 and 200-meter dash. She won three gold medals at the 1988 Seoul Olympics in South Korea. From 1993 to 1995, she served as a co-chair of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness. During her career, she also became known as a fashion icon. She passed away unexpectedly in 1998 after a severe epileptic seizure. Her legacy continues, and her name appears on street signs and a park in Mission Viejo, California. In Time Magazine’s 2020 list of the most influential women of the 20th century, she was named the 1988 Woman of the Year. 

Alice Coachman 

Born in 1923, Alice Coachman became the first black woman from any country to win a gold medal at the Olympic Games. She was encouraged as a child to participate in “ladylike” sports, but she chose to go her own way. Coachman competed in track and field and basketball in high school and was spotted by scouts at the Tuskegee Institute. When she attended the institute in 1943, she studied dressmaking. In the 1948 Olympic games in London, she shattered the Olympic record for the high jump and was the first person to be awarded gold at those games. King George VI himself presented her with the medal. When she returned to the U.S. to celebrate her victory, she faced discrimination and segregation, even at ceremonies held in her honor. In 1952, she became the first black female athlete with a major corporate endorsement: Coca-Cola. In 1994, she began the Alice Coachman Track and Field Foundation for young athletes in financial need. She passed away in 2014 at 90 years old. 

Bonnie St. John

A motivational speaker, Bonnie St. John, has lived an incredible life and wants the world to know about it. In the 1984 Winter Paralympics, she became the first black woman to win medals in any winter Olympic event. At age five, St. John had a partial amputation of her right leg, but that didn’t stop her from setting and achieving goals. She was competitive in skiing, and her silver and bronze medals garnered much attention. She is also a Harvard graduate and Rhodes Scholar. President Obama named her to represent the U.S. in the Winter Paralympic games in Vancouver and the Summer Paralympics in Rio. Today, she is an author, speaker, and leadership coach. 

Earlene Brown

Born in Texas, Earlene Brown made her name in track and field and roller derby. She competed in three Olympic games and won Bronze for the shot put in 1960. In 1958, she was ranked number one in the world and the first American to break the 50-foot barrier in the shot put. After retiring from track and field, Brown turned to the roller derby community in 1965. She competed with the Texas Outlaws and New York Bombers. Brown was a formidable competitor in the sport and returned to play with the Los Angeles Thunderbirds even after a short retirement. She retired in 1975. She passed away at the age of 47 in 1983. 

Ora Washington

Though the exact date of her birth is unknown, Ora Washington was born in Virginia around 1889. After her mother passed away, her father moved the family north in The Great Migration in the mid-1910s. She is believed to have joined her Aunt in Germantown, Pennsylvania and the census in 1920 shows her living there. She joined the YMCA in the area opened to serve the black community and began playing tennis. She was a member of the all-Black American Tennis Association, and between 1929 and 1937, she won the singles championship seven times. Washington was denied membership in the United States Lawn Tennis Association as the organization remained segregated until after her retirement. During this time, she also played basketball and won several championships in the 1930s. Due to race policies in the United States at the time of her success, Washington supported herself as a housekeeper. She passed away in 1971 after a long illness. 

Who inspires you? 

National Mentor Month: Setting a Good Example

January is an excellent time for setting intentions, creating goals, and working on personal resolutions. It can also be a time to start a new project, get involved in the community, and make a difference for others. That’s the idea behind National Mentoring Month. Becoming a mentor for young women and girls can allow you to share your knowledge and experiences with someone else. Here are some things you should know about being a mentor. 

How to Become a Mentor

Becoming a mentor can be as casual or formal as you like. Plenty of people had experiences in their childhood when they could look up to a strong person who never took on a formal role as a mentor but was a part of their lives. This might have been a family member, teacher, or long-time family friend. If you want to do something more organized, consider joining a mentor organization such as Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Or you can ensure that your girls have access to multiple role models by enrolling them in a program like Ladybug for Girls

Making a Commitment

The key to becoming a mentor is committing to the process. Some mentors are people like teachers or coaches who are a part of your girls’ lives. Others are individuals in the community who make a positive impact. They are role models, cheerleaders, and advocates. A good mentor is someone who wants to make a difference in the life of a young person, has respect for the children they’re working with, empathy, and flexibility. 

Work on Active Listening Skills

It’s essential to cultivate your active listening skills when working with young girls. Many of us have the instinct to listen to someone else only long enough to develop a response and speak as soon as there is a pause in the conversation. But this can mean you miss out on important information or context. Learn more about active listening here

Have Fun 

Most of all, to be a mentor, have fun with it. Whether you join an organization, are an educator, or are a parent who wants to provide a good role model for your daughter and their friends, be sure to enjoy the time you spend with these girls. When you have fun, they have fun, and they’ll see that learning and engaging are joyful. 

Talk to us about more opportunities for finding positive role models in your girls’ lives. 

The Holidays, The New Year, and Mindfulness for Girls

Last year, we explored mindfulness during the holiday season. We know this time of year can be stressful for adults and children, so it’s an excellent time to take a step back and practice mindfulness. In 2021, we shared how to slow down, take time for yourself, go outdoors, and give back to the community. This year, we wanted to dive deeper into mindfulness and how you can re-center yourself and your girls. Here are our holiday mindfulness tips. 

Cultivate Empathy 

Empathy is a critical part of emotional intelligence that helps us navigate the world. It may be one of the most vital skills you and your girls can develop and continue to work on throughout your lives. Empathy is the ability to see yourself in someone else’s shoes, understand their perspective, and determine your reaction based on that information. During the holidays, when people are stressed, it can be easy to let yourself get caught up in that drama. Instead, try to see why they might be stressed, and if you can do anything to alleviate that, take steps to make it happen. 

Practice Active Listening 

Human nature makes us not great listeners. Some people are better at it than others, but we must work on our listening skills. The holidays are a good time to focus on this and teach your girls to follow suit. Rather than listening only long enough to determine what you will say in response, let yourself focus entirely on the speaker. Let them complete their thoughts and ask clarifying questions to ensure you understand. Then repeat what they’ve said back to them to reinforce that you heard them. That’s active listening. 

Let Go of Old Habits

The New Year is a time for resolutions, which often means letting go of old habits that no longer serve you. It’s also always a good idea to teach your girls skills to help them leave old habits behind and develop new, healthier behaviors. Keep in mind the 3 Rs

  • Reminder: what triggers the behavior? 
  • Routine: how does the trigger create the habit association? 
  • Reward: what benefit do you get from continuing the habit? 

The goal is to redirect these behaviors to something more positive to avoid harmful habits in the future. 

Evaluate Obligations

Obligations feel like the name of the game in December. You have work, school, and family commitments throughout the season. But now is precisely the time to learn to draw boundaries. Evaluate obligations to help you alleviate stress and determine the most important events. It’s okay to bow out or send regrets to activities that conflict or actively make you feel negative before you even arrive. Stay mindful about the events you do attend to make them feel special and festive. 

Avoid Judgement and Self-Criticism

Finally, use mindfulness to go easy on yourself. It’s okay not to be perfect, and it’s okay to let your girls see you as imperfect. When you judge yourself or engage in self-criticism, you’re teaching your daughters valuable lessons on how they should feel about themselves. For example, if you have too many sweet treats at a holiday party, don’t give in to the temptation to talk about your body negatively. This can cause your girls to feel the same way about their bodies because you’ve modeled that behavior. 

How do you stay mindful this holiday season? Let us know in the comments. 


The Ladybug for Girls team wants to wish you a very happy, safe, and mindful Holiday season. 

Gratitude Activities for This Thanksgiving

November means Thanksgiving, which brings us to thoughts of gratitude. While the holiday is all about food, the underlying meaning throughout the season is a time to give thanks. Over the years, we’ve talked about many ways for our girls to be more thankful in their lives. So let’s have some fun with it this year. Here are some activities that promote gratitude and kindness that teachers and families can do with their children during November.

Search for Gratitude in Nature

Late fall, just before winter sets in, is a gorgeous time to go for a nature walk. Bundle up for the weather or head out on a mild day and take your girls on a scavenger hunt in your area. Ask your girls to point out things that reflect their gratitude. Use categories such as: 

  • Something that makes you smile
  • Something your friend would love
  • Something soft
  • Something beautiful when it flies
  • Somewhere you would love to relax

Write a Gratitude Alphabet 

For the little ones, an alphabet exercise is fun and educational. And writing out a gratitude alphabet will present fun opportunities to get creative with words that reflect the season. Help them think of a word starting with each letter of the alphabet as something they are grateful for. They can be a person, place, thing, or feeling. 

Make a Gratitude Banner

If you and your girls love crafting, consider making a gratitude garland that you can use as a decoration on your mantle or across a doorway through the season. Cut out shapes, like leaves or turkeys, and have your girl write words on each one that represents something they’re thankful for, just like the alphabet game. 

Paint Gratitude Rocks

If you want to spread feelings of gratitude, take this time to embrace the painted rocks trend. Have you ever found a painted rock while walking through your neighborhood? They’re typically small, smooth stones with colorful words or messages. You and your girls can paint a few rocks and leave them outside your house where passers-by can find them. 

Put Together a Gratitude Giveaway

Similarly, spread some joy with a “need one, take one” box outside your home. We know someone who put pinwheels in a bucket with a sign encouraging people walking past to take one for themselves just to spread joy. Instead of pinwheels, get creative with things representing Thanksgiving or fall, like paper turkeys on a stick. 

We want to hear from you. What fun gratitude activities can you do with your girls this year?