This Thanksgiving, focus on gratitude, family, and balance. Keep routines like regular meal and sleep times to reduce stress, and encourage kids to express thanks through fun activities. Set up a quiet space for breaks and practice sharing and manners. Remember, it’s about quality time, not perfection—take care of yourself too! Family Gratitude Rituals: Start a tradition where each person shares what they’re thankful for before the meal. This promotes mindfulness and connection. Gratitude Crafts: Younger children can create thankful trees or cards to express gratitude creatively. Quiet Zones: Set up a calm space for children to take breaks if they feel overwhelmed. Role-Play Manners: Help children practice good manners and sharing before holiday gatherings. Outdoor Play: Encourage family walks or games to burn off energy and bond. Even just sitting on the porch can de-escalate a situation. Volunteer Together: Engage in charitable activities to teach kids about giving. Set

Annual Event Honors Families who have a child with Down syndrome (COLUMBIA, SC, October 7, 2024)—The Felder family of Lexington is serving as Ambassadors for Family Connection of South Carolina’s Buddy Walk 2024. Buddy Walk is held in honor of families who have a child with Down syndrome. Funds raised through Buddy Walk help Family Connection provide services and resources to families across South Carolina who have a child with a disability or chronic health condition. Buddy Walk also supports the vision of the National Down Syndrome Society to help create a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations and become valued members of welcoming communities.   Claire Felder is a rising fifth-grade student at Lake Murray Elementary School in Lexington. Reading is her strength academically and also a favorite activity outside the classroom. Whether she is

(COLUMBIA, SC)—The Kendra Scott store, located at 4840 Forest Drive in Columbia, will be donating 20% of proceeds from sales in store and online on Friday, September 13, 2024 to Family Connection of South Carolina. Use code: GIVEBACK-HAQYY The theme of the day is “Intisar’s Favorite Things” in honor of Intisar Faulker, co-anchor with WIS-TV in Columbia. A highlight of the day’s event will be from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. when shoppers may visit with Intisar and Family Connection representatives, and enjoy sips, sweets, a raffle, and more. Online shoppers must use the giveback code “GIVEBACK-HAQYY” to ensure 20% of their purchase will be donated to Family Connection. Online purchases made on Friday, September 13, and Saturday, September 14 will qualify for the give-back event. Visit www.kendrascott.com. Family Connection’s Ambassadors, the Felder family, will also be at the store from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 13. Claire Felder

(COLUMBIA, SC)—Across South Carolina, there is an increasing number of families who are navigating raising a child with a disability while experiencing housing instability.   Family Connection of South Carolina is hosting a series of summits for community-serving organizations and other professionals working with families who would like to learn more about rights and resources for students under several federal laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.   “We know students experiencing homelessness and who have disabilities may face many educational barriers” states Amy Holbert, CEO of family Connection of South Carolina. “We also recognize community-serving organizations may be unaware of the array of supports available to these students. As we approach a new school year, we are working to promote collaboration and awareness among organizations and professionals to ensure families are aware of the services