Pampering Early Learning Parents

As the winter season approaches, the days get shorter, the temperature drops, and many get busy with the bustle of the holidays. Sometimes during these cold months, we need to slow down and make space to take care of ourselves. CYC’s Early Learning Team held their second annual Parent Wellness Expo right on time! This event focused on holistically supporting CYC Early Learning Parents- helping them relax while extending tools and resources to bolster their well-being all through winter and into the new year. At this Expo, 45 attendees were able to spend the afternoon learning more about holistic health and celebrating themselves. 

This event gave caregivers the option to pick topics they would like to learn more about. Each mini class had both an educational portion and an open-ended discussion. These sessions included a presentation about health education, where participants learned about high blood pressure management, diabetes, and stress management. There were also conversations about parenting and how to balance responsibility and self-care. These went hand in hand with activities like painting and jewelry making, so caregivers could have fun together as they learn and chat. Prioritizing discussions around well-being is often difficult, but incredibly important. CYC ensures the spaces we create are welcoming and safe, so caregivers can feel comfortable participating and get the most from events like this one. 

After the mini classes, the CYC team brought in experts to lead the group in yoga and chair yoga, allowing those of any ability time to meditate and stretch. There was even time to see massage therapists, so parents could feel extra pampered! Staff wanted to use this day to remind caregivers that they are appreciated and to celebrate themselves, all their hard work, and their accomplishments. 

CYC also used this afternoon to recognize a group of parents who go above and beyond to support our organization. The Parent Policy Committee is an integral part of CYC and is made up of a parent representative from each Early Learning Site. They're the decision-making body for many parts of our Early Learning Programming. This voluntary Committee works hard to ensure that CYC is operating within the goals and standards for Early Childhood Education Programs. The Wellness Expo was the perfect opportunity to acknowledge their efforts and treat them to rejuvenating experiences to show our gratitude! 

Because of this Expo, attendees said they felt relaxed, well prepared, and excited to continue their holistic self-care practices at home. Often, parents and caregivers do not get many chances to practice self-care or spend time focusing on their well-being. CYC is actively changing this for the families we serve. We have been creating more opportunities to take a break from the hustle of everyday life to connect with the community. Our staff invites families to brave, calm spaces to discuss important issues and share knowledge every chance we get. When a caregiver has the right tools and resources, they can be at their best with their families.

We are so excited to be able to provide experiences like this for the CYC community. Thanks to the generosity of supporters and friends like you, CYC can broaden our Family Engagement Programming. This allows us to offer consistent and fun programming to meet the interests and needs of each person we serve.  

Thank you so much to all who helped put this wonderful wellness event together. A special thank you to Daniel on our Wabash Team and Robert from CYC-Calumet Heights for your support with transportation and set up. We could not have had such a successful event without you all!