As I put together this special Kid’s Issue, it occurred to me how important the messaging is. What are the narratives we tell our children about the world and about success? How do we instill values of kindness, hard work and discipline from the very beginning yet always allow them to be children, to play and follow their dreams? While reading the 218 submissions from all over the United States, I was taken by the perseverance so many of these children have, starting at such a young age.
I was also very conscious of honoring both diversity and inclusion in this issue. We captured stories and images from a vast array of kids from different places and different backgrounds, all so incredibly beautiful in their own unique ways.
One section in this issue that really touched me was our work with NDI (National Dance Institute). The show and the stories told by the children gave me hope for a better future for our children. The talent demonstrated in this show was phenomenal. Please take a moment to read more in the following pages.
In addition, for the second year in a row we happily supported the Listen to Your Heart (LTYH) performance. This show focused on the empowerment of young girls through the arts of acting, dancing and modeling. Children ranging in age from 5-15-years-old lite up the stage with their positive energy and confidence.
We also have a special segment on dealing with Nightmares as well as a doctor whose expertise lies in beauty treatments for children. As parents, some of us take the business of coffee very seriously and so we share a piece with you on coffee nuances and just how delicious some of these brands are.
I believe it is always important to keep in mind how young minds work. They are influenced by everything they see and hear and with the presence of social media, they are vulnerable to even more influences. I take my job as a parent very seriously and allow time to laugh and play. Thank you for your support and enjoy the children.
