5210 Let's Go!

Make your health a priority this Falls Prevention Week.
Confidence matters! Many older adults cut back on activities because they’re afraid of falling. But avoiding movement can actually increase your fall risk.
✅ That’s where A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns about Falls, a free program, comes in—an evidence-based, field-tested program that teaches practical strategies to reduce fear of falling and increase strength & balance. No referral necessary.
Stay active. Stay confident. Stay independent.
FMI & to register: https://tinyurl.com/bdd86as3

Congratulations to the 84 school nutrition professionals representing 36 school nutrition programs in Maine who completed the 2026 Culinary Skills for School Meals Training this summer. One participant said, "This has been the best training that I have had in my 6 years of cooking. This was so informative and I gained confidence and knowledge."
📍Parents – make sure to ask your kids what they had for school lunch and let us know in the comments what they think.
📍School nutrition professionals – tell/show us what you are making in the comments.

Thanks to Full Plates Full Potential for their support.

Is AI affecting the way young people think, learn, create and solve problems?

Children and Screens Institute of Digital Media and Child Development hosted an webinar “Raising Independent Thinkers in the Age of AI,”

A panel of researchers discuss how parents, caregivers and educators can grapple with the challenges and opportunities AI presents in shaping children’s ability and motivation to learn new things, think critically and creatively, and persist through challenges.

Listen here: https://tinyurl.com/2hpun2dv

September’s Harvest of the Month is tomatoes! 🍅 This little sweet veggie packs a punch - rich in vitamin A & C, potassium and fiber. Eating tomatoes as part of a nutrient rich diet can help prevent illness and disease. And there are so many options besides cut in a salad or sandwich. Add to sauces, sauté with other veggies, add to flatbread or make soup! Get some fresh Maine ones and enjoy!

How do you like them apples? 🍎 Sunday is Maine Apple Sunday - a great day to take the family to a participating orchard. Each host different activities but all have delicious, freshly picked apples. Snacking or baking, an apple a day…
📍Find an orchard near you:
https://tinyurl.com/bde7bcdu

Back to School, Back to Healthy Habits!
The beginning of the school year is a great opportunity to get back into a routine. Throughout September we will be posting tips on bringing healthy habits back into daily life.
Fueling up for the day with good nutrition is important for brain health and physical health:
🍳Start the day fueled: Make breakfast part of the morning routine, whether it’s at home or school.
✏️Take advantage of school meals: School lunch can save families time while giving kids access to balanced meals.
💧Keep water handy: Send kids with a reusable water bottle and make water the go-to drink at home.
Check out our tips on healthy, easy breakfast ideas: https://tinyurl.com/ywvymszz
What are your favorite before school breakfasts?

Saturday is Maine Open Lighthouse Day! Get outside and explore some of Maine’s historic treasures. Bonus- it’s a great way to get in your steps for the day!

Maine Open Lighthouse Day – American Lighthouse Foundation Maine Open Lighthouse Day - September 12, 2026...this popular annual event, sponsored by the United States Coast Guard, the Maine Office of Tourism and the American Lighthouse Foundation, attracts between 15,000 to 18,000 visitors each year and offers the general public the rare opportunity to climb...

Moose Alley Daycare is teaching kids about science and math through their new gardens thanks to the Hannaford Supermarkets Eat Well, Be Well grant money. Six new beds and an expanded area are also allowing for sensory exploration and physical activity. They're learning about teamwork, responsibility and patience. The gardens are flourishing and they can't wait to see the fruits and vegeables grow! Lots of growth all around!

Build healthy habits as a family this fall!
Bright Bodies is welcoming families for a new 12-week session starting this October in Norway and South Portland!
Designed for children ages 6–12 who have extra weight or obesity, Bright Bodies helps kids and their families build healthy habits together in a positive, supportive environment. Families will learn practical ways to make nutritious food choices, be more active, build confidence and create healthy routines that last.
Learn more about Bright Bodies and how to join the upcoming session: letsgo.org/brightbodies

Bright Bodies | MaineHealth Let's Go! Bright Bodies is a 12-week program that uses Smart Moves curriculum which has been shown in studies to improve health. It is a healthy lifestyle and family approach for children ages 6-17 who are overweight or have obesity.

The rain isn't stopping these little penguins! At KidzFirst, the Hannaford Supermarkets Eat Well, Be Well grant money enabled them to purchase new rain suits. The kids love being penguins and splashing around. We love that they can enjoy outdoor play in all weather!