Dear GHT Families,
July is here, along with the blazing sun, stifling heat, and outdoor fun and games. At Growing Healthy Together, we believe that healthy kids thrive when they’re outdoors, moving their bodies, and using their imaginations, all while staying safe in the sun and heat!
Office News
📰The Patient Portal
💻Access your GHT patient portal to:
- Pre-check in for your appointment
- Schedule sick and well appointments online
- Review your chart
🍎Wellness Coaching
Nancy is offering wellness coaching at GHT! To schedule your 30-minute consultation, please call the office at (562) 473-4441.
🌞July is UV Safety Month!
Take precious care of your skin and eyes this summer by making sure you and the family:
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours
- Dress in lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and hats
- Stay in the shade during peak sun hours (10 AM – 4 PM)
- Protect eyes with UV-blocking sunglasses
🏃♀️The Power of Unstructured Play
Summer is an excellent time for unstructured play! Unstructured play is excellent for kids’ (and adults too!) minds and bodies.
Unstructured time can:
- Boost problem-solving skills and perspective-taking
- Build healthy bodies
- Increase energy
- Reduce stress, tension, and anxiety
- Build social skills, including empathy, reciprocity, cooperation, connection, and acceptance
You can help facilitate unstructured play by not organizing or directing your kids’ time. Set aside time that has no defined purpose or outcome. Allow for risky and challenging play (within reason) and let them explore their creativity and interaction.
🔥Heat Safety Reminders
In the heat of summer, keep these tips in mind:
- Hydrate often – water is best!
- Avoid outdoor activities during extreme heat
- Never leave kids or pets in parked cars (even briefly!)
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, or confusion
📅Important Dates📅
🤗WHO’s Self-Care Month – June 24-July 24
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines self-care as the promotion and maintenance of health for individuals, families, and communities. You can practice self-care in several ways. Most importantly, it’s about empowering us to take an active role in our health and wellness.
🎆Independence Day – July 4th
GHT is closed Friday, July 4th, for the holiday!
🌴 National Hammock Day – July 22
Relax in the shade this summer!
🎉 Happy birthday, Berenice! – July 27
If you’re in the office on or around July 27, don’t forget to wish our fantastic office manager a wonderful birthday!
We’re here to help your family grow happy and healthy this summer and always. As always, you can reach us on the Spruce app or by calling the office at (562) 473-4441. Check out your patient portal for making appointments.
Sincerely,
⚕️Your Team at GHT⚕️
