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A Comprehensive Guide to CBD Oil for Pets

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A Comprehensive Guide to CBD Oil for Pets - Family Life Tips Magazine

As a pet wellness blogger and proud pet parent, I’m always on the lookout for natural remedies that can improve the quality of life for our furry friends.

 

One such remedy that’s garnered much attention recently is CBD oil.

 

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, another well-known compound, CBD doesn’t have psychoactive effects. It’s been lauded for its potential health benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and even seizure prevention.

 

When it comes to CBD oil for pets, there are three main types: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and CBD isolate.

 

Full-spectrum CBD oil includes all the naturally occurring compounds in cannabis, including trace amounts of THC. While this amount isn’t enough to get your pet ‘high,’ it’s worth noting for those who prefer to avoid THC entirely.

 

Broad-spectrum CBD oil also includes various cannabis plant compounds but without any THC. This type of CBD oil is a good middle ground, offering the benefits of various cannabinoids without the inclusion of THC.

 

CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD, with all other cannabis plant compounds removed. This might be a good choice for those pets who are sensitive to other cannabinoids.

 

When buying CBD oil for your pet, look for products that are organic, free from pesticides and additives, and have been tested by a third-party lab.

 

Dosage is another crucial aspect to consider. The appropriate dosage varies depending on your pet’s weight, age, and overall health condition. Always start with a low dose and gradually increase it while monitoring your pet’s reaction.

 

In my personal experience, I’ve found that my dog responds well to full-spectrum CBD oil. I usually mix it into her food, and it seems to help with her anxiety during thunderstorms.

 

I’ve also heard from other pet parents who have had success with CBD oil. For instance, my friend’s elderly cat seemed to experience less joint pain after starting on a regimen of broad-spectrum CBD oil.

 

Administering CBD oil can be as simple as adding it to your pet’s food or water. Some pet owners also apply the oil topically if their pet has skin issues.

 

Of course, it’s always important to do your research and consult with your vet before introducing any new supplement into your pet’s routine. While CBD oil is generally considered safe, some pets may experience side effects like dry mouth, drowsiness, or lowered blood pressure.

 

Here are some reputable brands that offer high-quality CBD oil for pets:

  1. *Black Oak CBD (*Recommended)
  2. Charlie & Buddy
  3. Billion Pets

 

For further reading, check out these research studies on the benefits of CBD oil for pets:

  1. CBD Oil for Dogs: What You Need to Know

  2. Can CBD Help My Pet?

Using CBD oil for your pets can be a game-changer, but remember, every pet is unique. What works for one might not work for another. Always monitor your pet’s response and adjust the dosage or type of CBD oil as needed.

 

Stay tuned for more pet wellness tips and remember, our furry friends rely on us for their well-being. Let’s make sure we’re doing our best for them!

 

How Much Does CBD For Dogs Cost?

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How Much Does CBD For Dogs Cost - Family Life Tips Magazine

As a pet-care expert, I can tell you that the cost of CBD oil designed specifically for pets can vary widely based on several factors.

The price can range from $20 to over $100 per bottle depending on the brand, the potency of the oil, and the quality of the ingredients used.

Different types of CBD oil are available for pets. Some products are full-spectrum, meaning they contain other beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes along with CBD. There are also broad-spectrum oils that have most cannabinoids but no THC, and CBD isolate products that only contain CBD. Full-spectrum oils are typically more expensive due to their comprehensive cannabinoid profile.

Black Oak CBD Oil for Pet and Pet Pain ManagementIntroducing Black Oak CBD for Pets – the perfect choice for your furry friends. Our all-natural, 100% organic hemp oil liquid is not only fairly priced, but it also offers optimal absorption for your pets. With two strengths available – 250mg and 500mg formulas – giving your pet their daily dose of CBD oil has never been easier. Try Black Oak Pet CBD today for a happier and healthier pet.

Shop for Pet CBD

The extraction method used to obtain the CBD can also affect the price. CO2 extraction is considered the gold standard as it yields a pure and potent product, but it’s also costly which can reflect in the product’s final price.

The quality of the ingredients is another important factor. Organic, locally sourced ingredients tend to be more expensive than non-organic counterparts, but they are also generally safer and more effective.

Finally, the potency of the oil (how much CBD it contains per milliliter) will greatly influence the price. Higher potency oils provide more CBD per drop, so they’re often more cost-effective in the long run.

It’s also worth noting that the dosage required can depend on the animal’s weight, breed, and overall health. Larger or more symptomatic animals may require a higher dose of CBD, which means you’ll go through a bottle faster. Always consult with a vet to determine the optimal dosage for your pet’s specific needs.

In Conclusion

While the cost of CBD oil for pets can vary, it’s important to consider factors like the type of CBD, extraction method, ingredient quality, and potency when choosing a product. These factors not only influence the price but also the effectiveness of the oil.

Raising Successful Kids: The VPK Program at The Academy Preschool in Gainesville, FL

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The VPK Program at The Academy Preschool in Gainesville, FL - Family Life Tips Magazine

The Academy Preschool: Where Excellence Begins

Welcome to The Academy Preschool – the home of Gainesville’s top-tier Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program. Our institution is known for its nurturing environment, child-centric curriculum, and passionate educators, all committed to fostering growth, curiosity, and a love for learning in our young students.

VPK at The Academy: A Rich Blend of Learning and Fun

Our VPK program at The Academy Preschool is uniquely designed to ensure your child’s first educational experiences are positive, enjoyable, and profoundly impactful. Here, children are not merely taught; they are guided to explore, question, and discover.

The Academy Preschool: Where Excellence Begins - Family Life Tips Magazine
The Academy Preschool: Where Excellence Begins – Family Life Tips Magazine

Understanding the Value of the VPK Program

The Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program is an initiative designed to prepare every four-year-old in Florida for kindergarten and lay the foundation for their educational success. The program focuses on boosting each child’s intellectual, social, and physical development through a series of structured learning activities.

Why the VPK Program is Crucial for Early Learners

At the heart of the VPK program is the understanding that the early years are crucial in a child’s development. It is during these formative years that a child learns essential skills that form the basis for future learning and success. The program aims to ensure that every child is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive when they enter the educational system.

The Academy’s Approach to the VPK Program

At The Academy Preschool, we’ve tailored our VPK program to offer a comprehensive, balanced, and engaging learning experience for your child. We believe in providing an environment that not only focuses on academics but also promotes social and emotional growth.

Empowering Children Through Learning - Family Life Tips Magazine
Empowering Children Through Learning – Family Life Tips Magazine

Empowering Children Through Learning

The Academy’s VPK program equips students with essential literacy skills, a crucial foundation for their future academic journey. But beyond literacy, we incorporate lessons in math, science, and the arts, all designed to stimulate children’s curiosity and critical thinking skills.

Our goal is to empower our students, inspiring them to become active learners, confident explorers, and compassionate classmates. We accomplish this through a combination of structured activities and free play, fostering both intellectual growth and personal development.

Cultivating Social Skills in Our VPK Program

At The Academy Preschool, we understand the importance of social skills in early childhood development. Our VPK program is designed to cultivate these skills, fostering a sense of community and respect among our students.

Empowering Children Through Learning - Family Life Tips Magazine
Empowering Children Through Learning – Family Life Tips Magazine

Building Connections: The Social Side of VPK

Our VPK program offers ample opportunities for your child to interact and build relationships with their peers. Through group projects and free play, children learn to communicate effectively, share, empathize, and work collaboratively. This helps them to understand the value of teamwork and cooperation, skills that are vital for their future social and academic success.

The VPK program at The Academy Preschool is more than an early learning curriculum – it’s a journey of discovery, friendship, and growth. Enroll your child today, and let’s take the first steps toward a bright future together.

Curriculum Tailored for Holistic Development

The curriculum of our VPK program strikes a perfect balance between academic readiness and socio-emotional growth. It’s carefully curated to meet each child’s unique developmental needs and paces, ensuring a strong foundation for their future learning journeys. We incorporate a blend of structured learning activities, imaginative play, and child-led projects to stimulate critical thinking, creativity, and autonomy.

Experienced VPK Educators Who Care - Family Life Tips Magazine
Experienced VPK Educators Who Care – Family Life Tips Magazine

Experienced Educators Who Care

At The Academy Preschool, our educators are not just qualified – they are passionate, caring, and dedicated to each child’s growth. Our teachers understand the importance of early childhood education and strive to create a supportive and engaging environment where children feel safe to explore and express themselves.

Our Teachers Are Our Greatest Assets

Our team of educators is experienced, skilled, and committed to fostering a love for learning in each student. They understand each child’s unique needs and adapt teaching methodologies to best cater to these differences. The Academy teachers go above and beyond to ensure your child’s preschool experience is fun, rewarding, and developmental.

Spaces Designed for Little Explorers - Family Life Tips Magazine
Spaces Designed for Little Explorers – Family Life Tips Magazine

Safe and Nurturing Environment

Our Academy is designed to be a haven where your child can grow, learn, and play. We prioritize the safety, comfort, and happiness of our students. From our spacious classrooms to the outdoor play area, every space in our facility is designed to stimulate learning and foster social interaction.

Spaces Designed for Little Explorers

Every inch of our school is tailored to inspire curiosity and exploration. Our classrooms are bright, cheerful, and equipped with age-appropriate learning materials. The outdoor play area encourages physical activity and interaction with peers, crucial for your child’s development.

Join The Academy Family Today

Choosing the Best VPK program in Gainesville FL is a significant decision for your family. At The Academy Preschool in Gainesville, FL, we assure an environment that promotes the best in early childhood education. Enroll your child in our VPK program today and let us partner with you in raising successful, well-rounded, and happy learners.

Follow The Academy Preschool on Facebook

 

The Best LEASH for Walking and Training Your DOG – Flexi Leash, Long Line, Pull Tab, Leash Walking

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What is the right leash for walking and training your dog? In this video I address 4 leashes: The Flexi Leash, the Long Line, the …

The Drug and Alcohol Epidemic: How You Can Make a Difference

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The Drug and Alcohol Epidemic - How You Can Make a Difference - Family Life Tips Magazine

Drug and alcohol addiction has become an increasingly pervasive problem in our society. It affects people of all ages, genders, and walks of life.

 

The devastating impacts of this crisis can be felt by individuals, families, and communities across the nation. That’s why it is so important for us to come together as a community to fight against this devastating epidemic.

 

In the United States, 14.5 million people struggle with alcohol use disorder, accounting for 71.1% of those with substance use disorders. Additionally, 8.3 million Americans have an illicit drug use disorder, which is 40.1% of the total number of individuals with substance use disorders. These figures highlight the severity of substance abuse in the country and the need for effective treatment options.

 

The first step in combating drug and alcohol addiction is to understand why it occurs. Addiction usually begins with experimentation of some type – whether through recreational use or trying to self-medicate mental health issues like depression or anxiety. Over time, this can lead to a physical and psychological dependence on the substance, resulting in an individual’s inability to control their own behavior.

 

Once someone is addicted, they can experience a range of negative consequences including health issues, financial problems, and even criminal activity. For these reasons, it’s important for us to recognize the signs of addiction in order to intervene and provide help as soon as possible. This could include seeking out professional treatment or connecting an individual with support groups or other resources.

 

5 Signs of Addiction

 

The signs of addiction can vary depending on the person and what they are addicted to. However, there are some common signs that indicate a person may be struggling with addiction.

 

  1. Changes in Behavior: People who are struggling with an addiction often display changes in their behavior, such as isolating themselves from family and friends or neglecting personal hygiene.

 

  1. Changes in Appearance: People who are addicted to substances will often show signs of drug or alcohol use, such as bloodshot eyes, track marks on the arms, or changes in weight due to poor nutrition.

 

  1. Loss of Interest in Hobbies and Activities: People with an addiction may find it difficult to stick to activities that previously interested them, such as sports and hobbies.

 

  1. Increase in Secrecy: Addicts will often go to great lengths to hide their addiction from others and be very secretive about what they are doing.

 

  1. Lack of Self-Control: People with addictions can have difficulty controlling their use of the substance or activity they are addicted to, even when it is detrimental to their health and well-being.

 

These five signs can help identify if someone you know is struggling with an addiction. If you suspect a loved one may be showing any of these signs, it is important to seek professional help right away. Addiction can be treated, but it is important to get help as soon as possible.

 

A Community Effort Can Make a Difference

 

In order to truly make an impact on drug and alcohol addiction, we need to go beyond just helping individuals – we must work together as a community. This could mean lobbying for more funding for treatment centers, creating awareness campaigns to educate people on the dangers of substance abuse and how it can be prevented, or even working with local law enforcement to ensure that addicts are being treated humanely and given every opportunity for recovery.

 

No matter what form of support we provide, it is important to remember that addiction affects us all. It doesn’t discriminate based on race, gender, age, or any other factor – anyone can develop an addiction. That’s why it is so important for us to come together as a community and fight against this dangerous issue. We must recognize the signs of addiction, intervene when necessary, and provide support for those in need. By doing this, we can help ensure that fewer people fall victim to drug and alcohol addiction – now and in the future.

 

By coming together as a community, we can make a difference in the fight against drug and alcohol addiction. We can raise awareness of the issue, provide resources for those seeking help, and work together to create a brighter future for everyone. It’s time for us to take action – because only then will we be able to make a meaningful impact on our society.

 

There are a number of ways that we can come together as a community to fight against this crisis. We can start by raising awareness about the dangers and negative impacts of drug and alcohol abuse. We can also encourage people to seek help if they or someone they know is struggling with an addiction. Lastly, we can support organizations that are working to provide assistance and resources to those who are affected.

 

Top 5 Things You Can Do to Help Stop Drug and Alcohol Addiction in Your Community

 

  1. Become a mentor to at-risk youth: One way to help prevent drug and alcohol addiction in your community is by becoming a mentor for at-risk youth. Mentoring programs can provide guidance, support, and positive role models for young people who are in danger of being exposed to or experimenting with drugs and alcohol.

 

  1. Advocate for improved addiction treatment services: Another way to help reduce drug and alcohol abuse in your community is to advocate for better substance use disorder treatment services. This could include lobbying local government officials, attending public meetings, or writing letters to your representatives about the need for more mental health professionals and resources in the area.

 

  1. Organize substance-free community events: One fantastic way to help prevent drug and alcohol abuse in your community is by organizing substance-free events. This could include activities like music festivals, sports tournaments, or movie nights. These events can provide an opportunity for people to come together and enjoy themselves without the influence of drugs and alcohol.

 

  1. Educate yourself and others: Becoming informed and aware of the risks associated with drugs and alcohol can help you spread awareness to your peers, friends, and family members. You can also look for educational resources in your local area, such as public campaigns or school programs about substance abuse and addiction prevention.

 

  1. Support organizations that focus on addiction prevention: There are many local organizations and charities that focus on helping individuals with substance use disorder and their families. Supporting these resources is an important way to help reduce addiction in your community, as it provides treatment options and other forms of support for those struggling with addiction.

 

These are just a few of the ways you can help prevent drug and alcohol abuse in your community. Taking action can make a big difference and every effort counts!

 

Spotlight:  Meet 12 Step Coffee Company

 

12 Step Coffee Company
12 Step Coffee Company Logo

Experience coffee like never before with 12StepCoffeeCompany. Their commitment to ethical and sustainable farming practices and the fact that 10% of all their profits go directly to organizations fighting drug and alcohol addiction is what sets them apart from other coffee companies. Added to that 12StepCoffeeCompany exclusively sources their coffee beans from farmers and cooperatives committed to ethical and sustainable farming practices. The partners share the same values, as 12StepCoffeeCompany making them a force to reckon with. Join them in this meaningful journey towards a “Drug and Addition Free World,” one sip at a time.

 

In Conclusion

 

We must all come together as a community to try and stop the growing problem of drug and alcohol addiction. We can do this by supporting organizations like 12StepCoffeeCompany which are devoted to helping those affected by addiction. We can also educate ourselves and our communities about the risks of substance abuse, as well as provide resources for those seeking help with their addiction. Additionally, we should promote drug-free activities for youth in order to keep our communities safe.

 

By working together, we can have an influence in the fight against drug and alcohol addiction. Let’s do our part to help those affected by this devastating epidemic and make a positive impact on our communities. Together, we can make a difference.

Do You or Someone You Know Need Help with Addiction?

If you or someone you know needs help with addiction, please contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit them on the web at www.samhsa.gov. Resources are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are not alone.

How to BATHE a DOG Properly at HOME 🐶🚿 (Professional Technique)

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Do you take your dog to a professional to bathe them? It is a surefire way to ensure your dog has their bathing needs met and their …

Fun Ways to Foster a Love of Music at an Early Age

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Fun Ways to Foster a Love of Music at an Early Age - Family Life Tips Magazine

(StatePoint) It’s never too early to encourage children to love to make and appreciate music.

Here’s how:

• Attend a Concert: Whether you’re attending a symphony or a rock concert, there is no substitute for the excitement of a live musical performance. Not only will kids enjoy watching the show, the experience may inspire them to learn to dance or play an instrument themselves. To get started, look for events geared towards kids and families, or those with relaxed vibes, to ensure little ones will get the most out of the experience.

• Play With Musical Toys: Toys are a fun and interactive way to encourage musical creativity and help kids find the beat. One of the coolest musical toys out there, a 2022 Toy of the Year finalist, is DJ Beat Boxer from VTech. Each interaction with this music-mixing pup — from scratching DJ’s head and booping her nose to pushing the buttons on her headphones — adds layers to the music. Kids can start a rhythm and add in backbeats, harmonies, record-scratching sounds, an air horn effect, and more to complete any remix. They can even press DJ’s ear to record a quick phrase to drop into their song. Her head will nod along to the music while her jowls flap to the beat.

• Get Immersed: Hit up the library and check out picture books that build music vocabulary or feature musical characters. Look for movies and television shows with musical themes. There are many entertaining ways to immerse kids into the world of music.

• Create a Playlist: Give kids the tools they need to develop their own music tastes and interests. Many streaming services now offer special apps for kids that allow them to explore genres, musicians and songs all on their own. This is a safe and easy way to ensure little ones have access to kid-friendly content, along with the freedom to create their own library and playlists. Of course, a good pair of headphones that are safe for young, sensitive ears is also essential!

From playlists to playtime, you can help foster a child’s lifelong love and appreciation for music.

Great Ways to Encourage Imagination During Playtime

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Great Ways to Encourage Imagination During Playtime - Family Life Tips Magazine

(StatePoint) There’s no better time than playtime to encourage an active imagination. Here are a few ways to bring more inventiveness into the fun.

Introduce Toys

 

Look for toys that allow kids to imagine themselves in new roles and scenarios. For example, little ones can transform into super-duper, fixer-uppers with the Drill & Learn Toolbox Pro from VTech. Featuring a toolbox, tool belt, hammer, wrench, plastic nails, screws, and a working toy drill, along with realistic tool sounds, songs, and information about how the tools are used, little DIYers will have all the basics for pretend home repair.

 

For kids who may have watched older siblings and friends get their game on, another fun toy is the Level Up Gaming Chair. This preschool game station features a swivel chair, joystick and pretend headphones, and a real interactive gaming tablet that teaches letters, numbers, animals and music with gaming sound effects. With no Wi-Fi needed, you can turn game time into learning time safely and without worries, while giving young kids an opportunity to feel like big kid gamers.

 

The Pop & Spin Mower features an engine that rumbles, a sparkly, pretend blade that spins and popping beads that mimic grass clippings. Little gardeners will enjoy pushing this lean, green mowing machine, and those not quite ready to walk can sit and spin the roller or press the light-up buttons to explore gardening themes and colors. While this is a great way to play pretend, the toy also teaches lawn mower safety to help keep kids safe around the real thing.

Use Creative Prompts

 

Art is one of the best avenues for the imagination to run free. And when it comes to different forms of art, the sky is the limit. Encourage kids to create music, poems, stories, paintings, and plays. Feeling stumped? Give them prompts to get them started. Here are a few to try:

• Paint a picture of a beautiful place you want to go.

• Draw a picture of your favorite animal.

• Tell me a story about a kid and their dog.

• Paint a picture of the way you are feeling right now.

• Put on a play about two friends who are lost and trying to find their way home.

 

With fun role-playing toys and a bit of resourcefulness, you can make the most of playtime by letting imaginations run wild.

Resolve to Protect Your Finances and Your Family in the New Year

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Resolve to Protect Your Finances and Your Family in the New Year - Family Life Tips Magazine

(StatePoint) After a holiday season spent racking up credit card bills, many Americans consider making financial resolutions in the New Year.

 

However, now is the perfect time to not only reevaluate your saving and spending, but also commit to creating a more holistic financial plan designed to protect your finances and your family.

Consumers are seeking stability and preparedness in today’s uncertain economic environment, according to a recent Consumer Sentiment Tracker study by Lincoln Financial Group. With ongoing inflation and market volatility, 56% of respondents cited protection from risk as being most important to them. When it comes to thinking about their finances, people said they have the greatest interest in protecting their family (39%) followed by their income (26%).

“Our research reinforced the importance of financial solutions that can help consumers navigate through market cycles and protect their loved ones,” said David Berkowitz, president, Lincoln Financial Network, Lincoln Financial’s wealth management business.

“People are not only concerned about having enough to pay their bills, but also saving for retirement and preparing for the unexpected. It’s important to have a well-rounded financial plan that can address those risks, protect assets and create positive outcomes for today’s families.”

To achieve a stronger financial future, don’t neglect your finances in 2023 — instead, add a little TLC (Talk, Learn, Commit).

Resolve to create a robust financial plan using these three tips from Lincoln Financial:

1. Talk about it. Financial conversations play a crucial role. Be transparent with your loved ones about financial priorities so you can set expectations and work toward your shared financial goals. Initiate ongoing discussions to stay on track with everything from saving for retirement to paying for a long-term healthcare event, which can happen suddenly and be very costly. Also, consider talking to a financial professional who can help identify solutions that best meet your individual needs, as well as drive better outcomes. Lincoln’s research found those who work with financial professionals are more likely to prioritize retirement savings (26% vs. 10%).

2. Learn more about tax-deferred investments. Life insurance can be more than just a death benefit, with some types of policies offering income replacement for unforeseen events. It can also protect your financial security from the impact of taxes, market volatility and longevity. It’s not just for individuals and families either, but businesses too. Also, consider diversifying your portfolio with an annuity, which can provide protected growth and monthly lifetime income to help cover expenses in retirement and ensure you have a stream of income.

3. Commit to maximizing your workplace benefits. Look into supplemental coverages like disability, accident, and life insurance that may be available through your employer. Solutions like these protect against unexpected events that can disrupt your ability to provide for your family or drive you into additional debt. If you have an employer-sponsored retirement plan, make sure you are contributing and getting a match, if offered. Tap into any financial wellness tools offered at work to help provide you with an accurate picture of your holistic financial situation and lower stress.

Visit www.lfg.com for more tools and resources.

With a robust plan, you can help ensure a solid financial future for you and your family.

 

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) g-stockstudio / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Ensuring Good Nutrition and Better Health of Children and Caregivers

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Ensuring Good Nutrition and Better Health of Children and Caregivers - Family Life Tips Magazine

(StatePoint) There are 2.5 million children in the United States growing up in “grandfamilies,” meaning they’re being raised by relatives or close friends without their parents in the home, and they face higher rates of hunger and food insecurity, according to a new report.

The Generations United report, “Together at the Table: Supporting the Nutrition, Health and Well-Being of Grandfamilies,” highlights the particular struggles of such households, which are often unprepared financially for the unexpected job of raising a child, and may encounter difficulty accessing food and nutrition programs designed to help.

In fact, 25% of grandparent-headed households experienced food insecurity between 2019 and 2020, which is more than twice the national rate. The long-term health implications of food insecurity — including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, obesity, and eating disorders — are dire. Additionally, food insecurity negatively affects a child’s ability to learn and grow.

While families from all areas of the country face food insecurity, for the large number of grandfamilies living in the South and in rural areas, services are often more limited or challenging to access. What’s more, grandfamilies are disproportionately Black, Latino and American Indian, and Alaska Native, populations that already have disproportionate rates of food insecurity due to years of systemic racism.

Recently, the White House released a sweeping national strategy to reduce hunger. While advocates describe the plan as welcome and comprehensive on many levels, and say that it identifies the importance of improved outreach to grandfamilies, they also believe it must go further. According to Generations United, some key policy changes to reduce food insecurity for grandfamilies include:

• Developing quality kinship navigator programs that connect grandfamilies to support and services in their communities. These programs should provide food and nutrition support to grandfamilies outside the child welfare system.

• Expanding access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by making a “child-only” benefit that is based on the needs of the child as opposed to household income and by increasing outreach to grandfamilies.

• Ensuring automatic access to free and reduced school meals for children living in grandfamilies.

• Improving outreach of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to help reach more grandfamilies and connect them with benefits for which they are eligible.

• Creating joint meal programs for grandfamily caregivers and the children they raise.

“Research shows that being raised by family members or close friends is the best option for children who can’t be raised by their parents,” said Donna Butts, the executive director of Generations United. “But unfortunately, these families face hunger and food insecurity at much higher rates than the average family. The need for basic nutrition and adequate food is universal, and every family deserves to be healthy and thrive. The fact that many of our policies and programs to reduce hunger were not designed with grandfamilies in mind should not stand in the way of this right.”

To read the full report and learn more about issues affecting grandfamilies, visit https://www.gu.org/.

 

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) monkeybusinessimages / iStock via Getty Images Plus

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