Month: May 2025

2025-05-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – Now that winter has officially ended, it’s time to get started on spring yardwork! As you start your to-do list, take stock of your current lawn equipment. You may find that you have old, worn-out tools gathering dust that require replacement before you can take on your lawn tasks.

Check out these four reasons why spring is the perfect time to replace or upgrade your outdoor power equipment and tools.

1. Shop the latest and greatest equipment

Many brands drop their latest tools and equipment in the spring, just in time for yard work. Whether you’re looking to add a new tool to your collection or replace worn-out equipment, spring is the perfect time to grab the latest innovations. This spring, ECHO Incorporated, a trusted leader in professional-grade outdoor power equipment, launched a variety of new tools suited for homeowners and professionals, including leaf blowers, string trimmers, mowers and more!

You may think it’s unnecessary to grab the latest tools when older models will do. However, newly launched outdoor power equipment and tools offer cutting-edge power and safety features that make yard work easier and can last a long time when properly maintained.

2. Get ready for what spring brings

Spring brings warmer weather and budding flowers, but it’s also known as storm season in many parts of the U.S. Any debris and fallen or broken branches in your yard can pose a hazard to your property. That’s why it’s critical to get your lawn tidy to help prevent any accidents and damage to your home, cars and, of course, yourself.

Using your new tools, get started on spring tasks as soon as possible. It’s the best and simplest way to protect your house and reduce the risk of damage and injury.

3. Spring sales make equipment purchases more affordable

Quality outdoor equipment and tools are an investment, but they’re well worth the price. You don’t have to break the bank to get quality tools. Many hardware stores offer spring discounts to make outdoor power equipment purchases more affordable.

Check out your local Home Depot, which has ongoing deals on outdoor power equipment products, including many from ECHO. You can also search for one of over 6,000 dealers in the ECHO network near you that offer spring discounts on these and other power equipment tools you’ll need to prep your lawn.

Not sure which tools are right for you? ECHO offers handy buying and maintenance guides that can help you make wise purchases this spring.

4. Spring yardwork sets the pace

Performing yard tasks in the spring helps your lawn wake up after a cold winter and builds the ideal environment for your yard to thrive throughout the year. To do so, you’ll need the right tools. Consider these four tasks and the recommended equipment to get the job done.

Prune the trees: Make sure to prune damaged and overgrown branches, especially those hanging near your car windows or roof.

To safely reach and prune tall branches, you’ll need a fixed-shaft pole saw. ECHO’s battery-powered pruner provides gas-like performance for up to 100 cuts and a 12-foot reach, so you can safely prune tree branches with both feet firmly planted on the ground.

After pruning, use a chainsaw to cut branches and logs into manageable sizes for easy removal and disposal. It’s also a good idea to have a handheld pruning saw to trim smaller limbs and take care of more precise tree pruning within arm’s reach.

Trim the hedges: If you want fuller and healthier hedges, trimming in spring is a must. Use a lightweight, powerful hedge trimmer to remove dead or overgrown branches and make room for new growth to flourish. ECHO’s version provides up to 88 minutes of run time, so you don’t have to worry about recharging as you shape the bushes.

Mow the grass: The first mow of the year is incredibly important to the long-term health of your lawn. A self-propelled lawn mower can quickly remove dead leaves and debris. The model from ECHO comes with an auto-switch dual-battery dock, so you’ll have plenty of juice to finish your weekly mow.

Edge the lawn: Keep your lawn tidy and boost your home’s curb appeal by edging the grass. After mowing, use a string trimmer to whack weeds and grass your mower can’t reach. Next, use an edger for professional-looking crisp lines.

Don’t wait

It’s go-time! Keep these tasks and recommendations in mind as you prepare your yard this spring. By getting the right equipment and taking care of these suggested spring tasks, you’ll be well on your way to a yard that will be the envy of the neighborhood.

2025-05-08T09:01:00

(BPT) – Forget the needles; a new wave of at-home skincare is empowering us to achieve remarkably smooth skin, and the buzz around the “Notox” movement advocating for injection-free alternatives for the same look is only getting louder. In a beauty landscape increasingly focused on proactive skin treatments, the desire for significant results without invasive procedures is undeniable. Enter RoC Skincare’s Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Serum, a product quickly gaining cult-favorite status for its promise of visible line-smoothing without a single injection.

This targeted serum, formulated with the expertise of both dermatologists and plastic surgeons, brings clinical-grade results right to your bathroom shelf — no office visit required. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner notes, “I’m always excited to find affordable and accessible skin solutions that truly deliver, which is why I often recommend RoC’s Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Serum to patients looking to address fine lines quickly.”

The clinical data speaks for itself — 97% of users observed a visible plumping and filling of fine lines and wrinkles within mere minutes. Yes, minutes. Plus, 2 out of 3 users reported they would skip injections and use the Fill + Treat Serum instead. This serum has definitely become a go-to product for those embracing the “Notox” philosophy.

So what really makes this product a game-changer? It starts with RoC’s patented Retinol, a powerhouse ingredient that accelerates skin cell turnover, visibly reducing fine lines. The serum also boasts Triple Hyaluronic Acid, which works to immediately hydrate and plump the skin, effectively filling those tell-tale wrinkles. Rounding out the formula is Swertiamarin, an ingredient that visibly smooths and restores the skin’s texture and appearance. And thanks to a sleek, precision applicator, you can directly target those areas where fine lines and wrinkles tend to appear.

Integrating Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Serum into your routine is easy; simply apply the product on clean skin, focusing on the areas of concern, and follow up with a hydrating moisturizer. With continued use, you may ditch the needles for good. Impressively, after just 4 weeks, 100% showed improvement in the appearance of hard-to-treat wrinkles, including crow’s feet, laugh lines, and those often-bothersome “11” lines between the brows.

The “Notox movement” signifies a shift toward high-performance, accessible, and decidedly less intimidating skincare solutions — and RoC’s Fill + Treat Serum is a prime example. Achieving visibly smoother, younger-looking skin without needles, all for under $30? It’s no surprise this serum has won several awards and found its place on the top shelves of beauty enthusiasts everywhere. Discover this product and explore the wider range of RoC Skincare products at Walmart.com. Your skin might just thank you for it.

2025-05-07T13:15:01

(BPT) – The number of business-savvy mothers blazing the trail as entrepreneurs is at a record high. “Mompreneurs” are transforming the business landscape, not just for themselves, but also for future generations. According to Wells Fargo, growth in the number of female business owners has outpaced the market in recent years, with women-owned companies representing 39% of all businesses.

What could be a driver of this shift? Legacy. One-third of female business owners surveyed in recent Kiddie Academy^® research cite their primary motivation for starting a business as a desire to leave a lasting impact for their children and grandchildren. For these women, entrepreneurship isn’t just a path to work-life balance — it’s an act of generational empowerment that’s essential to their communities.

Mompreneurs fill unique gaps in the market because they often start businesses based on personal experiences. This results in the creation of products and services that effectively solve problems for families and local communities. They’re showing their children what’s possible when you take a personal passion or value and turn it into a business.

According to the same Kiddie Academy survey, 90% of respondents believe it’s important for children to see more female business owners in their communities. Female representation can change what children believe is achievable as they form ideas about their own potential.

Children raised in “mompreneurial” households grow up with firsthand exposure to the highs and lows of business, the dedication it takes to launch and grow an idea and the courage it takes to follow one’s dreams. For daughters, it can plant the seeds of self-confidence. For sons, it can shape respect for women as leaders and equals in the workforce.

“I know that when my children see me going to work each day, I’m making a profound impact on their perception of women business owners,” said Emily Zaghi, franchise owner of three Kiddie Academy locations in New York and mother of three young children. “Beyond the legacy I’m building for my family, I also have so much more freedom to be part of my children’s lives.”

Nearly 70% of mothers say flexibility to spend more time with family is a major reason for starting their business, according to Wells Fargo. With that, mompreneurs have created support ecosystems for themselves and each other, redefining what work-life balance looks like. More and more, moms are designing businesses that prioritize flexibility and purpose.

When a mother becomes an entrepreneur, she’s not just building a business, she’s building a legacy — the ripple effects of which can last for generations.

2025-05-07T10:01:00

(BPT) – Getting older is a gift, one that can bring joy, wisdom and the opportunity to enjoy life’s next chapter. While it can naturally also be associated with health challenges, new research has suggested that travel helps people age well at every stage of life. In the AARP 2025 Travel Trends survey, 85% of adults 50-plus agree travel is beneficial for their physical health and 95% say travel is beneficial for their mental health. So, whether you are hoping to decompress, looking for more social interaction and mental stimulation, ready to explore new destinations or ramp up your physical activity, immersing yourself in travel can boost your longevity.

“Travel isn’t just a passion for those 50-plus, it’s a path to healthier aging,” said AARP Services Director of Travel Steve Guilday. “While the cost of taking a trip may be a hindrance, an AARP membership offers meaningful savings that support both your well-being and your wallet, making it easier to travel smarter and feel better doing it.”

You can plan your trip … by taking advantage of these AARP member benefits.

Choose Your Destination

Spending time with family and friends is a top motivator for travel in 2025, so why not go back to your roots with Ancestry? AARP members can discover the cities, regions, or countries of their family origin and save 30% on the first year of an All Access or a World Explorer subscription. With access to records and online tools to search, you can save and share your family history. If you’re new to Ancestry, you’ll receive the discount on the first year of your subscription only. For those with an existing account, you’ll receive the discount when you renew your subscription for a year. Unlocking your origin provides an exciting and unique roadmap for your next vacation destination.

Speaking of destinations, you can explore the world with ease because Grand European Travel is here to guide you to the ideal destination for your dream getaway. From Europe to Asia, Africa to Australia, you can discover all the sights these places have to offer by using your AARP member benefits to save up to $100 per person. For a limited time, save up to 15% off on Fall Travel with Grand European Travel! Lock in a great deal on select August – October departures to destinations around the globe during their annual Fall Travel Sale. Ends 5/29/25.

Travel Wisely

Traveling well doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to save throughout your trip. Whether you need to rent a car once you reach your destination or you don’t want to put the miles on your own car, AARP members can save up to 35% off base rates when choosing the Pay Now option at reservation or up to 30% off when you choose to Pay Later at the pickup counter with Avis. Plus, members receive a 3% credit to apply to future rentals, a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (subject to availability) and an additional driver at no extra cost. For a limited time, AARP members can also save an extra $15 through the end of June on rentals of three days or more when spending $175 or more.

For extra savings while on the road, link your AARP membership with your Exxon Mobil Rewards+™ account to earn extra points on everyday purchases like fuel, car washes and convenience store items, plus 2x the points on fuel on member days. AARP members who are new to the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ program also get a 500-point welcome bonus after their first fill-up. Every 100 points equals $1 in savings redeemable on fuel, car washes or store items. Use the Exxon Mobil Rewards+™ app or your phone number and PIN at the pump once linked.

Wherever you roam, a comfortable and relaxing place to stay will be top of mind as soon as you arrive at any of the 9,000+ Wyndham Hotels & Resorts properties. AARP members save 10% off the best available rate and for a limited time, you can stay 2+ nights and save 15% off Wyndham Hotels like La Quinta, Baymont, and Days Inn. Book by June 30 and stay by September 1.

Prepare Properly

Well before your departure, make a list to ensure you’ve tackled all of your “away from home to-dos” so you can enjoy your travels stress-free. If you have pets, for example, make a plan for boarding or a pet sitter if they won’t be traveling with you. Be sure to review your pet insurance policy to make sure they are covered for qualifying care for any unexpected injuries and illnesses, emergency vet visits, or routine prescription meds and supplements. If you don’t have pet insurance or are looking to make a change, AARP members can save 10% on monthly premiums for the lifetime of their pet’s policy with Fetch Pet Insurance.

Preparation can also include getting in the right frame of mind. Travel can significantly benefit your mental health by providing stress relief, boosting well-being, and promoting personal growth. Use your member benefits to help support your mental health while on vacation and maintain it after with access to free self-guided programs and self-care strategies from Dario. In the guided programs, you have access to activities, meditations and games that can help strengthen your mental health journey. With Dario, you can find content and tools that may help you relieve stress, sleep better, lift your mood and more.

Finally, make sure you don’t miss a spectacular landmark or brilliant sunset with a new pair of glasses. An AARP membership can help members explore their destination in style with 20% off frames + 50% off prescription lenses with the purchase of a complete pair of eyewear and 30% off non-prescription sunglasses at LensCrafters.

Try traveling as your new health hack and save by using your AARP membership. Learn more about additional discounts for AARP members by visiting https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits.

AARP and its affiliates are not insurers, agents, brokers or producers. AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.

2025-05-07T07:01:00

(BPT) – One in five Americans is a caregiver, meaning they regularly assist relatives, spouses, friends or neighbors with basic tasks like feeding and dressing.

And as our population ages, the need for caregivers is expected to grow even more. Roughly 3% of Americans currently have long-term care insurance, leaving many to rely on family caregivers for regular support.

Utilize available resources

While caregiving can be rewarding and emotionally fulfilling, it can also lead to high levels of stress and fatigue.

“For many people, becoming a caregiver isn’t a choice; it’s the result of a crisis,” says Dr. Michelle Bolden, the founder of Call for Caring who earlier this year received her DNP from Chamberlain University. “When you’re placed in this situation, you must be willing to ask for the help you need, whether that’s from family, friends or community members, and utilize the resources that are out there.” Call for Caring’s website, for example, offers information, programs and grants to support caregivers locally in Atlanta and nationwide.

Pillars of successful caregiving

Dr. Eboni Green, co-founder of Caregiver Support Services and academic program coordinator at Walden University, advises those considering family caregiving to ensure they have the necessary skills to effectively navigate these new responsibilities. She says, “While you may not foresee every challenge, having the right training, a supportive community and the necessary tools can significantly impact your caregiving experience and help you be the best version of yourself.”

Dr. Green’s recent book, “The 7 Pillars of Successful Caregiving,” outlines the importance of self-care, empathy, empowerment, kindness, patience, communication awareness and active listening. In particular, she emphasizes the significance of empowerment in creating a supportive environment. “By embracing empowerment, the focus shifts towards enhancing individual capacities, fostering self-awareness,” she says. “This approach not only nurtures personal growth but also cultivates a sense of agency and autonomy in those under care.”

Preventing burnout

Professional and nonprofessional caregivers alike can easily become emotionally, physically and mentally exhausted. Nearly half of caregivers receive no formal support, and 36% report feelings of depression. In honor of National Nurses Week, Drs. Green and Bolden advise their fellow nurses and caregivers on strategies to combat burnout:

• Take a real break: Take time to step away and recharge. At the end of the day, leave your work at work.
• Avoid overcommitting: Be mindful before taking on extra shifts. Prioritize time with family and personal activities.
• Challenge negative thoughts: Identify self-critical thinking patterns and replace them with positive affirmations. Remember your “why.”
• Emphasize self-care: Dedicate time to activities that nurture your well-being and stick to them. Quick and inexpensive techniques like mindfulness and meditation work wonders.

“There are so many pathways you can take within nursing, like academia or healthcare administration,” Dr. Bolden shares. “If you’re experiencing burnout, I’d recommend exploring if a different branch of nursing might be a better fit for you.” If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, visit Chamberlain.edu and Waldenu.edu to explore their flexible program offerings.

2025-05-06T12:01:00

(BPT) – When you or a loved one undergoes a surgical procedure, it can be overwhelming. Many healthcare professionals comprise the surgical team to ensure your well-being throughout the process. Nurses are among those who make a big impact on your quality of care. One type of nurse who may be involved in your surgery and pain management is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), also known as a nurse anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist. CRNAs are advanced-practice registered nurses who play a critical role in safe surgeries, airway management and making patients comfortable and pain free.

“Because of their unique experience in critical care nursing and advanced training in anesthesia care, CRNAs are qualified to improve patient outcomes in all healthcare settings where anesthesia is delivered,” said President of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) Jan Setnor, MSN, CRNA, Col. (Ret.), USAF, NC. “Thanks to their specialized skills, rigorous education and expertise in advanced patient assessment, CRNAs have expanded the nation’s critical healthcare workforce by providing expert, compassionate care for the whole patient. Being a CRNA is a highly meaningful and fulfilling career.”

In honor of National Nurses Week, celebrating the contributions and sacrifices of everyone in the nursing profession, here are five facts about how CRNAs make a difference for patients.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists:

1. Are advanced practice registered nurses who put patients first — and practice with a high degree of autonomy and professional respect. They’re trained to practice without supervision in all settings, including hospital surgical suites, ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), offices of dentists, podiatrists, ophthalmologists, plastic surgeons and pain management specialists, plus U.S. military, Public Health Services and Department of Veterans Affairs healthcare facilities.

CRNAs are qualified to make independent judgments regarding all aspects of anesthesia care based on their education, licensure and certification. They are educated and trained to make moment-to-moment adjustments and judgments to handle any complications that may arise with any anesthetic procedure, including pain management procedures. They are also the only anesthesia professionals with critical care experience prior to beginning their formal anesthesia education.

CRNAs safely administer over 58 million anesthetics to patients each year in the U.S. Nurse anesthetists deliver comprehensive care using all accepted anesthetic techniques including general, regional, sedation, local and pain management.

2. Require extra years of training and certifications — The education and experience required to become a CRNA is extensive, totaling a commitment of eight years or more in both clinical and educational experience. Today’s CRNAs enter the workforce with a doctoral degree, have a license as a registered nurse (RN) and/or APRN in the U.S. (or its territories), plus a one-year minimum of full-time work or part-time equivalent as a registered nurse in a critical care setting in the U.S., its territories or a U.S. military hospital outside the United States. CRNAs must receive their doctoral degree from a program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA).

3. Provide safe, high-quality, patient-centered care — Reassuring and comforting patients before, during and after medical procedures is what makes CRNAs so unique. This level of highly patient-centered care is especially crucial in fields like pediatric healthcare, where CRNAs are a vital part of providing anesthesia care for patients. Pediatric anesthesia care is a complex field that requires specialized knowledge, skill and sensitivity to the needs of young patients.

Whether through pioneering new anesthesia techniques such as using ultrasound-guided airway management, improving pain management strategies or mentoring the next generation of anesthesia providers, CRNAs are driving innovation, improving patient care and enhancing safety protocols, making them essential to the future of healthcare.

4. Bring anesthesia services to settings that would otherwise lack them — In many rural areas in particular, access to healthcare can be limited. CRNAs are the primary providers of anesthesia care in rural America, representing over 80% of the anesthesia providers in rural counties.

Many rural hospitals are critical access hospitals that rely on independently practicing CRNAs for anesthesia care, and half of U.S. rural hospitals use a CRNA-only model for obstetric care, often saving patients long drives of 75 miles or more to receive needed healthcare services.

5. Make healthcare more cost-effective — because CRNAs are the most versatile and cost-effective anesthesia providers who are fully trained and qualified to work in any practice setting. While still a highly rewarding career, CRNAs offer a lower staffing cost, have proven safety records, and are not required to practice under a physician anesthesiologist.

Nursing is among the nation’s most trusted professions, and CRNAs are proud to be part of that public and patient trust. Nurse anesthesiology continues to be one of the safest, most innovative fields of science today, with CRNAs bringing the best in overall patient experience.

Learn more about CRNAs or how to become a CRNA at AANA.com/about-us/about-crnas.

2025-05-06T15:27:00

(BPT) – Small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) are tiny but mighty. From garage offices to weekend side hustles, small-business owners are constantly turning big ideas into thriving enterprises.

HP believes that small businesses are the heart of innovation. In fact, the company began in a garage as a small business! That’s why it’s committed to shaping the future of work by creating innovative tech solutions that meet the needs of every entrepreneur.

This National Small Business Week, HP wants to help small-business owners like you find the right tools to kick your company up a notch. So, whether you’re building a startup, leading a virtual team or turning your side hustle into your 9 to 5, check out HP’s three top picks to power your SMB’s success.

1. An adaptable laptop for on-the-go productivity

As a busy professional on the go, you need a powerful PC that allows you to work at the office, home, coffee shop or airplane. Choose an adaptable, lightweight and energy-efficient option like the HP EliteBook X Flip G1i.

This next-gen AI PC is built for mobile professionals and designed with sustainability in mind. Powered by Intel Core Ultra processors, this laptop offers high output with low power usage, so you can work all day. The versatile x360 aluminum design can be used in laptop, tablet or tent mode to fit your work style.

2. An all-in-one printer for everyday tasks

Although we live in a digital age, you’ll find that many business ventures still require paper printouts. To offer clients professional-quality printing and to digitize existing paper documents, you’ll need a reliable all-in-one inkjet printer.

A great option for SMBs is the HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e All-in-One printer. Built for small-business productivity, the inkjet printer delivers fast, high-quality printing, scanning and copying. Smart features like dual-sided printing and a customizable touch screen make everyday tasks easier.

Pair the Pro 9125e with HP Instant Ink, the smart subscription that automatically delivers ink to your door before you run out — no more last-minute store runs or overpaying for cartridges you don’t need. With flexible plans based on pages printed (not ink used), your print setup scales with your business as your needs change, saving time, reducing waste and keeping everything running smoothly.

3. Level up virtual meetings with an FHD webcam

Do you regularly host virtual meetings with clients, collaborators and remote employees? Make a great impression by upgrading your existing webcam with a full high-definition (FHD) model. It’s a small upgrade that delivers a big impact for small-business owners who work from anywhere.

Whether you’re pitching a concept to clients or checking in with your remote team, consider the HP 625 FHD Webcam. Designed for virtual collaboration, this FHD webcam delivers crisp video and peace of mind with a built-in privacy shutter that’s perfect for the hybrid work era. Thanks to AI-enhanced lighting and dual noise-reducing microphones, this plug-and-play webcam brings professional polish to every call.

This week, set yourself up for business success

Establishing and maintaining a thriving SMB takes creativity, hard work and the right tools. By upgrading these three indispensable tech products, you can power up your small business this May and lay the groundwork for long-term success.

To see the full lineup of HP’s Small Business Week picks, find buying guides and take advantage of deals and promotions, visit HP.com.

2025-05-06T07:01:00

(BPT) – At a time when mental health is often in the news, it can be overlooked that even children as young as 5-7 years old can have conditions including anxiety, depression and behavior disorders. According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 7 children ages 3-17 had a current, diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition, increasing in prevalence to about 1 in 5 receiving mental health therapy during their teen years (ages 12-17). Even more children may be living with symptoms of mental or behavioral health conditions, but because they may not meet the criteria for a condition, they remain undiagnosed.

For many parents, this could mean worrying about your child’s mental well-being and the effect poor mental health can have on their behavioral development for years to come. And since children spend so much of their time in a school setting, it’s just as important for educators and school staff to support the mental and emotional well-being of children in their care.

What can parents and educators do?

The mind and the body are interdependent on one another. It’s important to normalize the discussion of brain health alongside physical health, as early and as often as possible. Here are some tools parents, caregivers and educators can use to support mental and emotional stability and build resilience in young children.

1. Offer reading materials that are both educational and fun for kids

Presenting reading materials that kids can relate to around mental health issues helps children know they’re not alone and teaches them ways to respond to emotions that can seem overwhelming.

Books are a great tool to discuss how to identify feelings as well as how to manage them. Priority Health, a nationally recognized nonprofit health plan serving more than 1.3 million members, has published a fun new educational children’s book. “Frida’s Fireworks” is a book that helps promote mental health and resilience in kids. It introduces a vibrant, creative and smart young girl named Frida who is navigating the complexities of her emotional health. The storyline follows her as she navigates her first days of kindergarten, and the big, explosive feelings that result from a variety of social and emotional needs. With support from her special education teacher, Frida meets a furry four-legged friend named Scout, who non-judgmentally supports her. She also learns a self-regulation technique to help build her resilience.

The story offers a great way to encourage conversations around behavioral health, and is written by experts Charletta Dennis, MD, medical director of behavioral health at Priority Health, and Nikki Brown, PhD, school psychologist and executive director of Canines for Change. Interested parents and educators can access a free digital version of the book in English and Spanish on a dedicated website. The book and downloadable coloring pages can be found here.

“Children with social, emotional and academic challenges can find it easier to talk to and bond with an animal friend,” said Dr. Dennis. “In this story, Scout offers Frida more than friendship — he provides a proven technique that helps children handle difficult emotions. This story is a fun way for kids to learn an important tool to help them regulate emotions and feel better when times are tough.”

Find additional resources to help you talk to children about mental health issues on the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website.

2. Consider adding a trained facility dog to the team

Research shows that the presence of a trained facility dog can help reduce feelings of stress for children in a variety of settings, including schools and health care. For instance, a recently published study found that kids in an emergency room experienced a significant decrease in their feelings of anxiety after just 10 minutes with a certified dog.

Facility dogs that are expertly trained to work alongside a handler can help reduce children’s stress and anxiety, leading to improvements in their academic experience and success in school.

One example of a successful facility dog program is Priority Health’s Priority Pups^® program in partnership with non-profit Canines for Change. As a part of its commitment to supporting the mental health of kids, Priority Health launched the Priority Pups program to provide early intervention techniques, reduce stress and anxiety and build resilience in children.

Once facility dogs are trained to the specific needs of each institution and its patients or students, they are certified with a staff handler and work together with children to meet their specific academic, social and emotional needs.

“It has been remarkable seeing the impact that facility dogs have on school-age kids, from increasing confidence levels, improving reading and problem-solving skills, and reducing stress levels,” said Nikki Brown, PhD. “Known for their loyalty and affection, dogs have a unique ability to quickly form strong bonds with people, which is why we’ve witnessed such success from this program in offering a sense of security and companionship for kids that need it most.”

3. Practice calming methods to regulate emotions

In “Frida’s Fireworks,” Priority Pup Scout teaches Frida a “1-2-3” method to help regulate her emotions and calm her mind by focusing on specific senses when she’s experiencing a “firework” of feelings — she can stop and ask:

1. What do I see? This helps focus the mind by searching for something concrete and visual in your environment.

2. What do I hear? Step two helps you quiet down so you can hear what’s going on around you.

3. What do I feel? With this step, you concentrate on a tangible sensation your fingers or skin can touch or sense.

Reading the book with your child can be a great way to introduce the technique before a child needs to use it — with or without the help of a facility dog. The goal is to empower children to feel confident to manage their emotions as they arise.

Click here to read a digital version of the Frida’s Fireworks book! Or learn more about the Priority Pups program and other efforts Priority Health is making to help improve the well-being of the community at PriorityHealth.com.