Fun Facts: June 2025

Wellness Wisdom: Activities for Building Happy, Healthy Families

Sunshine, Fresh Air, and Family Fun: Why Nature Matters

Spending time outdoors can provide numerous health benefits, strengthen family bonds, and create lasting memories. Walking, hiking, and playing outside help children and adults stay active, improving heart health and overall fitness. Fresh air and natural surroundings reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, promoting a sense of calm and happiness. Nature provides a wonderful setting for families to connect and learn together. Parks offer chances to learn about wildlife, plants, and conservation. Kids can explore, climb, and imagine in ways that foster creativity and problem-solving.

South Dakota has amazing state parks that are great for summer fun! Thanks to a partnership between the South Dakota Department of Education and the Department of Game, Fish, and Parks, South Dakota residents can visit these parks for free. With the "Check Out South Dakota State Parks" program, anyone with a library card can borrow a 3-day state park vehicle pass from their local public library. This pass lets you explore state parks without paying an entrance fee. Want to learn more? Check out this page for details!

Breastfed From the Start: Helpful Tips for Mastering Breastfeeding

Making Milk: Breast Changes

Many moms worry about making enough milk, but the body is designed to support breastfeeding. During Pregnancy, your body begins making colostrum, baby’s first milk, halfway through pregnancy. Breast size or leaking milk does not predict your ability to breastfeed—most moms produce plenty of milk. Common breast changes include tenderness, darkening nipples, and growth.

Milk production increases after birth. Frequent breastfeeding—within the first hour and 8–12 times daily—helps maintain supply. Skin-to-skin contact also supports milk production. Nipples come in different shapes. Babies can usually latch with guidance, but if needed, a nipple shield may help temporarily. Lactation consultants can assist with latching techniques.

Breastfeeding takes practice! Responding to hunger cues and removing milk often signals your body to keep producing. With patience and support, you can successfully breastfeed and nourish your baby.

Learn more here.

Delicious & Nutritious Recipes: Simple, Kid Approved Dishes to Try at Home

French Toast

Ingredients:

1 cup fresh or frozen berries of choice
2 eggs
1/3 cup fat-free skim milk
1 tablespoon oil
4 slices whole wheat bread
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
1/8 teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions:

Wash prep surfaces, your hands, and fruit if using fresh.
Beat together eggs and milk in a shallow bowl. If using, add vanilla and salt and mix.
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Dunk each slice of bread in egg mixture.
Place bread in pan and cook until golden, about 2 minutes per side.
Transfer to serving plate and top with berries of choice. You may also choose to sprinkle with powdered sugar or cinnamon.

TIPS: Top with any sliced fresh, frozen, or canned fruit that you like. You can also top with non-fat yogurt. Finely diced nuts are good too! You may choose to add the cinnamon, or other spices of your choice, to the milk mixture.

Source: WICHealth.org Health eKitchen