It is the tale as old as time. Children are searching for something to believe in. During the battle against COVID, children have acted as main warriors, adapting to new school rules, mask mandates, and lack of social interaction at a crucial age. According to Covid-19 Parental Resources Kit provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Social distancing, stay-at-home orders, and limited gatherings have affected the ability of friends and family to come together in-person to celebrate and/or grieve in typical ways. When parents or caregivers experience grief, young children may also experience emotional challenges.” It is our job to bring magic back into the lives of all children. While many things are out of our control, one thing is in our control. We have the power to redirect their story, create better coping strategies in their lives, and bring a smile to their faces today.
Local Nordonia graduate, Haylee Holt, has decided to create a space for kids to learn about mental health, play games with their favorite princesses, and have a day filled with magic! All proceeds will go to NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness. For $5, your child can sit for storytime, play games, take photos, and eat pizza with princesses! There will also be a raffle with fun prizes and an appearance from Spider-Man! This event is the perfect way to brighten your child’s day and encourage healthy coping strategies!
“Finding new ways to have fun together can help build your bond and help everyone let go of some of their stress,” says Nemours KidsHealth. “Support your kids in safely returning to social activities like sports, clubs, or other programs… read books together…” These are the types of interactions, activities, and coping strategies practiced and promoted at the event.
Guardians are encouraged to stay during the event. It will be held from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM on Sunday, August 14th at the playground in front of the Greenwood Village Club Association. The location is 830 Village Club Rd, Northfield, OH 44067. Fees can be paid via cash, check, or Venmo. Checks would be made out to NAMI.
Holt was inspired to create this event while virtually volunteering with her organization, A Flash’s Fairy Tale. A Flash’s Fairy Tale allows individuals to dress in character while visiting Pediatric patients at Metro Health Hospital. The Nordonia Graduate has previous experience working with kids as a Lead Instructor at The Little Gym, a Substitute Teacher, a lifeguard, an event organizer, a CASA volunteer, and a Cheer Camp Leader. In the Fall of 2022, she will be starting a Masters of Education in Visual Impairments on a full scholarship for The Ohio State University. “My goal is to help kids understand the importance of mental health and make their day a little brighter! As adults, it’s our job to protect, educate, and inspire the younger generation,” says Holt.
For any questions regarding the Princesses and Pizza event, contact Haylee Holt at holthaylee22@gmail.com.
