Dear Friend,

Just in time for SPRING

This month, we're introducing a fresh new format for our e-newsletter, Connecting with Connections. We hope you like the clean, easy-to-read look. Please let us know with a like or post on Facebook.

We're also excited to announce this month:

• We're highlighting Kindergarten Readiness with great child development tips to help the young children in your life get ready for the transition. Ready for School will be a regular monthly item.
• Our feature article for March, Motivate and Inspire, includes some wonderful tools  for parents and families.
• March is Women's History Month. Each day this month we're  honoring an outstanding woman in the More than Moms series on Facebook. From Susan B. Anthony to Frida Kahlo, from Lucille Ball to Ella Fitzgerald, it's a fascinating list of women who have changed our history and our world.
• This month our Program Spotlight shines on Connections' role in measuring kindergarten readiness in partnership with the UCLA Center for Healthier Children, Families, and Communities.
• Finally, March is also national Nutrition Month and we're sharing some tips for Healthy Kids' Snacks.
  

Starting kindergarten is an exciting adventure for children and families.  It's a new beginning for learning, making friends, building confidence, and gaining independence. It's also totally normal for children and parents to be both nervous and excited about starting kindergarten as well.

There are four key building blocks for children's success. This month, we're focusing on Caring & Sharing - Social & Emotional Development.  As children learn to identify and manage their feelings and emotions, it helps them to deal with changes and challenges that come up. They learn how focus, regulate themselves, and relate to others. For tips to support children's social and emotional development, click on the button:

Healthy Snacks for Kids
When kids get hungry they need nutritious snacks that will provide energy. And when they can put together tasty, fun snacks for themselves it's even better.  

Here are some great resources that will turn snack time into a delicious adventure with opportunities for lots of learning. 

•  25 Healthy Snacks for Kids  
   
• Eating Right on a Budget
  
  
• Fast, Fresh, & Fun - Foods from First 5

You can also visit Connections For Children to learn more about Choose Health LA Child Care, our education programs on healthy nutrition and activity.