News
Black History Month
February is Black History Month. Being able to access health services and resources that are culturally relevant is important, which is why we're excited to share that the Black Youth Helpline originally established in Manitoba is now Canada-wide! The helpline specifically responds to the need for a Black youth specific service that gives professional and culturally appropriate support for youth, families, and schools. Find out more.
Host a Physical Activity Event for ParticipACTION’s Community Better Challenge
ParticipACTION’s Community Better Challenge is back June 1st to 30th, 2022. This annual campaign promotes physical activity by awarding Canada’s most active community a $100,000 prize. You can help your community win by hosting a physical activity event at your school during the month of June. Apply for a grant for $500 to $1500 to support your event. Deadline is February 21st, 2022. Find out more.
Articles
Recommendations for Child and Youth Sleep Hygiene
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to many changes in students’ routines and schedules which has impacted their sleep as well. This article, written by a team of sleep professionals, provides recommendations to support students to get the right quantity and quality of sleep. Examples include establishing consistent educational schedules that support regular sleep patterns and prioritizing activities that foster healthy sleep hygiene. Find out more.
Stories
SMART Bikes: A Story from Westwood Elementary School
In spring 2021, DASH received 150 Ergonomyx SMART Bikes to donate to schools across the province. Bikes were sent to schools to help support the health and well-being of staff and students. Westwood Elementary School in Prince George, B.C., shared their story with us on how they used the bikes to nourish students’ social and emotional needs. Find out more.
Resources
Handwashing and Antibiotic Resistance Lesson Plans
The Community Antimicrobial Stewardship team at the BC Centre for Disease Control has released updated lesson plans to help educators instruct students about the importance of handwashing and the basics of antibiotic resistance. The lesson plans are designed for a variety of ages from Kindergarten to Grade 8. Each unit includes activities and worksheets to engage students in learning and printouts to hang around your classroom. Find out more.
MindUp For Educators: The Science and Practice of Self-Care and Mindful Teaching
In partnership with the B.C. Ministry of Education, MindUp is offering free access to courses that support adult well-being in the K-12 education system. These courses introduce participants to the research and science around well-being and mindful teaching while also giving them the opportunity to learn, reflect and practice strategies to manage stress and support their mental well-being at work, home and beyond. Find out more.
Announcements
Pink Shirt Day
February 23rd, 2022, is Pink Shirt Day. This year the collaborators behind Pink Shirt Day want people to Lift Each Other Up by celebrating diversity. Inclusion, respect, and acceptance are key to helping people embrace their cultures, identities, and true selves. Funds raised during Pink Shirt Day will go towards supporting inclusive anti-bullying programs. Find out more.
Indigenous Peoples Resilience Fund
The Indigenous Peoples Resilience Fund is an Indigenous-led effort to respond to urgent community needs while at the same time taking a long-term view on building community resilience. Indigenous-led organizations can apply for funding for projects that foster resilience in Inuit, Metis, and First Nations communities. Grants range from $5,000 to $30,000. Find out more.
