I was emailed the article below, and thought other parents would find it interesting.

Raising Politically Savvy Kids
by Denise Yearian

Election year is a great time for kids to learn about politics — but that learning shouldn’t be confined to the classroom. Experts say that when political issues are talked about both at school and at home, it has a lasting impact on future voters.

Getting informed

The Greater Peoria Family YMCA emphasizes healthy family homes across the Peoria area. Our programs and special events encourage children about the importance of healthy food choices, regular physical activity and strong family relationships. Our programs emphasize the importance of being healthy at home with healthy meals, physical activity and family time.

Congrats to Barack Obama. We should all stand behind him as the president of the United States, even if he wasn’t your candidate. As parents, we should be more involved in the political process and demonstrate this to our children. Voting is a good start, but to let our voices be heard further, we should communicate with our elected officials.

All parents should be aware of the safety resources available to them, so we’re spotlighting the PeoriaParent.com Safety Directory. It lists essential info for parents all in one place. Parents can find info on abuse prevention, including OffenderWatch (a sex offender registry).

Hello Everyone,
You may have noticed that a wonderful family, the Grys' Family, has been chosen for the show Extreme Home Makeover. It is my pleasure to announce a fund raiser offered by Health and Harmony to help pay off their mortgage.

Vote early to avoid the election day lines or for your convenience. Early voting takes place until October 30, including weekends. Set an example for your kids, and show them the importance of the ballot booth. Make your vote count!

Grace Presbyterian's Women's Misistry is hosting a Girls' Night Out Trade Show and Shopping Extavaganza. On Friday, November 7th from 7pm-9:30, you may set a table up to showcase your at home business or craft. Women are welcome to come a shop for the Holiday coming up. To reserve a table, please contact Stacey Miller at 202-3240 or stacellen209@aol.com. The event is free and will try to have only one of each business.

Autumn Leaves
Walk or take a car ride with the family on Grandview Drive this time of year. The leaves of gold, red, brown and orange against the river view is breathtaking. It’s no wonder Teddy Roosevelt called it one of the world’s most beautiful drives.

We are pleased to present to our community a new "Groups" feature on this site. This feature allows registered members of Peoria Parent to create and manage Groups. Groups is an exciting new way to form your own mini-communities within this site.