(NewsUSA) - For children, the hours before and after the school bell rings are full of potential. For parents, they’re often the most stressful parts of the day: rushing to drop off, coordinating pickups and wondering if their child is safe and happy. That’s where a high-quality before- and after-school program becomes a game-changer.

These programs, like KinderCare’s before- and after- school provider, Champions, do more than fill time. They engage children in experiences that cultivate independence, creativity and critical thinking in intentionally different environments from the school day, while providing parents with peace of mind and a consistent routine they can count on.

Educators and curriculum development experts are increasingly recognizing these programs as vital for nurturing social-emotional learning, independence and real-world problem-solving, all within a supportive, experience-rich environment that complements the school day.

More Than Free Time: A Foundation for Life Skills

Unlike the highly structured school schedule, these programs provide children with flexibility and freedom. In that space, children make decisions, collaborate with peers, and navigate social dynamics in meaningful ways. These experiences build confidence and emotional resilience—skills that are as important as academic achievement.

“Out-of-school time isn’t just a gap in the day,” said Rurik Nackerud, KinderCare education content manager. “It’s these in-between spaces where children explore identity, navigate peer dynamics and build adaptive social-emotional skills with autonomy. It’s formative and in these informal spaces we see self-regulation, resilience, and empathy take root.”

Play That Prepares Children for the Real World

Through fun, hands-on activities, like building projects, science experiments or group games, children are learning more than how to follow directions. They’re practicing leadership, communication and creative thinking. These essential life skills are developed naturally in environments where children have both the freedom to explore and the support of caring adults.

“When learners feel trusted and seen, they lean into challenge,” said Nackerud. “We see it in the way they solve problems together, iterate on ideas and discover what they’re capable of. Confidence grows outside the structures of formal instruction that enhances academic success.”

Daily Routines That Empower Children

Beyond skill-building, before- and after-school programs also provide emotional stability and a dependable rhythm to the day. Consistent routines reduce anxiety and help children ease transitions.

“Children thrive when they know what to expect,” said Nackerud. “These programs offer predictable routines that reduce stress and open the door to deeper engagement and social connection.”

A Space for Lifelong Learning

Ultimately, these programs are about more than filling the hours during out-of-school time, including holiday and summer breaks. They’re about preparing children for life. Whether it’s encouraging a quiet child to take the lead in a group activity, helping a kindergartener learn to manage frustration, or simply giving them time to recharge, out-of-school time programs create safe, enriching spaces where children can be themselves and grow in the process.

The next time you think of before- and after-school care, consider what’s really happening: a place where children’s voices are heard, their curiosity is nurtured and their development is supported in real and lasting ways. Learn more about how Champions is helping children shine bright—before school, after school and beyond at DiscoverChampions.com. 

(NewsUSA) - Grass-stained sneakers. A shiny, round ball. A handful of four-year-olds laughing and clapping nearby. And then, for Soccer Shots participant Ben, a big moment — his very first kick.

For children like Ben, that first kick is much more; it's a step toward building confidence.

Research shows that physical activity can reduce depressive symptoms in children. In addition, for young children struggling with inadequate socialization or self-assurance, sports can be an early opportunity team building and healthy movement. However, many children retreat from youth sports because of costs and hyper-competitiveness.

Soccer Shots, a national program founded in the late 1990s by two former professional soccer players, has created quality programs that let children simply have fun. Certified coaches and a research-backed curriculum turn wobbly first steps into confident play and life lessons that last.

Soccer Shots now includes more than 340 franchises across the U.S. and Canada, with more than 600,000 children participating annually. Soccer Shots’ success goes beyond playing the game itself. The program inspires children to lead active, healthy lives, boosts their confidence, and teaches important life skills of leadership, teamwork, and respect.

"We believe every child deserves a place to play, grow, and belong," says Justin Bredeman, CEO of Soccer Shots. "The program has come a long way in 20 years, and we're incredibly proud to shape the future generation of strong, confident kids who can carry these foundational lessons with them into adulthood.”

Each Soccer Shots program is designed for children ranging from 18 months to 8 years old, with a developmentally appropriate curriculum that includes building positive character traits and real-world skills in communication, collaboration, resilience, and inclusion.

Soccer Shots' core principle is to use soccer to positively impact youth both on and off the field. Through partnerships with organizations like the U.S. Soccer Foundation and Nike, the program continues to reach communities and share the impact of play across the country and the world.

Soccer Shots marks its 20th anniversary franchising in 2025 with a "20 Years of Smiles" theme that demonstrates program’s long-term impact and continued commitment to making soccer accessible, inclusive, and impactful for children of all abilities and backgrounds. Special anniversary events include Free Fun Days on Saturday, July 26, and Sunday, July 27, where families across North America are invited to experience the joy of Soccer Shots firsthand, at no cost. In addition, Soccer Shots is hosting food donation drives to give back to communities across the country through participation with local food banks.

At a time when our kids need connection and support more than ever, programs that champion inclusion, confidence, and joy aren't just valuable, they're essential. Soccer Shots is ready to score and help kids experience what’s possible. Visit birthday.soccershots.com to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - Marine Toys for Tots has been delivering joy and comfort to children in need during the holiday season for 77 years. While the core of their mission is their Holiday Campaign, the Program recognizes that needs exist beyond seasonal boundaries.  That is why Toys for Tots has evolved to provide continuous support to disadvantaged children whenever they need it most.

“Your Help, Their Hope” is a powerful reminder that together, with the ongoing generosity of supporters across the Nation, we can be a source of hope for children in need throughout the year.   

“Toys for Tots’ year-round programs are a testament to our unwavering commitment that no child is ever forgotten,” said LtGen Jim Laster, President & CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.  “‘Your Help, Their Hope’ is more than a tagline – it’s the promise that fuels our mission every day,” he emphasized.

Toys for Tots’ flagship Holiday Program continues to deliver the magic of the holiday season by distributing toys, books, and games to disadvantaged children nationwide at Christmastime. The Holiday Program also supports the Toys for Tots Native American Program which provides holiday magic to Native American children living on remote Reservations where no local campaign exists.

Toys for Tots knows that families and children face adversity year-round—whether enduring personal hardships, recovering from community-wide natural disasters, or navigating systemic challenges that persist over time. The impact of their continuous support demonstrates Toys for Tots' dedication to addressing the unique challenges faced by children in vulnerable circumstances by reminding them they are not forgotten, regardless of the season:

• The Toys for Tots Literacy Program provides books and educational resources to children in low-income communities, empowering them with the tools they need to learn, grow, and succeed—in the classroom and beyond.
• Once critical necessities have been delivered, the Toys for Tots Disaster Response and Recovery Program provides emotional relief and comfort in the form of toys, books, and other gifts, to children whose families have lost everything in the wake of natural disasters—turning despair into hope.
• The Toys for Tots Foster Care Program provides essential resources to support children navigating the complexities of the Foster Care System, reducing anxiety while bringing stability, comfort, and a sense of belonging to their lives.

 “That is the power of our comprehensive programs and the impact of our supporters,” added LtGen Laster.  “We can support millions more children each year, delivering hope to those who so desperately need a reason to believe in a brighter future.”

With the continued generosity of supporters, Marine Toys for Tots can remind children that they are not forgotten no matter the time of year—providing hope, comfort, and joy whenever they are needed most.

To learn more about their year-round programs, or to donate and help deliver hope at Christmastime and beyond, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - Child care remains a top priority—and a significant financial investment—for many families. Fortunately, several financial assistance programs are available around the country to reduce the burden of child care tuition for parents while ensuring children have access to a high-quality early learning environment. These programs, available through military, state, federal, employer, and other channels provide essential support for families in need of affordable child care options.

1. Government Programs

The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), available at both the state and federal levels, helps eligible families with child care costs. This program provides grants to states, which then administer their own child care assistance programs, offering child care tuition subsidies and other financial support based on income and family size. This isn’t limited to just early childhood but can also apply to school-aged children in before- and after-school programs. Since all state laws differ, these processes can vary by state, county, and/or community. Parents should research subsidies available in their city, county and state to learn more about eligibility requirements. Some providers, like KinderCare, or their school-age program Champions, have subsidy specialists that can help families navigate this process.

The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit helps working families offset child care costs through a federal tax credit. Eligible families can claim a percentage of their child care expenses based on income and spending. Families should consult a tax professional to learn more about claiming this credit and determine their eligibility.

The Department of Defense offers subsidies to reduce child care costs for military families whose children attend accredited child care centers. Military families can visit the military child care website or contact their local family support center for more information about eligibility and application procedures. Some providers, like KinderCare, work with national partners such as Child Care Aware of America (CCAoA) to make this process easy for families so they can find support when they need it most and ensure continuity of care for their children as they move around the country.

Additionally, free public prekindergarten programs, funded by state or local governments, focus on preparing children for kindergarten by promoting literacy, math, and socialization skills in an early childhood setting, either in local schools or in community-based child care centers. Parents can contact their local school district or early childhood education agency for enrollment details and eligibility requirements. Some community providers, like KinderCare act as a host location for these programs.

2. Employer and School-Sponsored Benefits

Increasingly, employers are working with child care providers like KinderCare to incorporate child care benefits, such as on-site care, tuition discounts, backup care days and priority access to local child care centers, into their compensation packages, as reliable child care is essential for effective job performance. According to recent data, employer-subsidized child care remains a top desired benefit for parents returning to the office. Parents should check with their employer’s HR department to find out if they offer child care benefits and inquire about the process to utilize them. 

3. Local and Provider-Specific Programs

Some child care providers offer special discounts, including refer-a-friend programs, where parents can earn savings or bonuses by referring others to the provider.

Additionally, many centers offer sibling discounts, providing a reduced rate for families enrolling multiple children. These discounts can help reduce overall child care costs. Families should inquire with their providers about available options.

How to Apply and Get More Information

Families interested in child care assistance should research available programs in their area, review eligibility requirements, and gather necessary documentation, such as income verification or proof of employment. Local child care resources and referral agencies can offer valuable guidance in navigating these programs, as can child care providers.

No matter the location, every family should have access to excellent care for their children. Quality should not be compromised by cost. Parents are encouraged to do their own research and reach out for help to see what options they may have for child care tuition support.

(NewsUSA) - March is National Reading Month, and the Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program is committed to expanding access to books and educational resources for children living in low-income communities. Our initiative, “March into Reading” reflects our Program’s dedication to fostering literacy among underserved youth.

Toys for Tots’ mission extends beyond the holiday season, and our Literacy Program is one of our programs that enables us to be a year-round force for good, providing disadvantaged children with direct access to books and educational resources that enhance their ability to read and communicate effectively.

According to The Nation’s Report Card (NAEP), 37% of fourth graders read below the basic reading level due to a lack of educational materials. With 1 in 4 children in America growing up without learning how to read, the need for accessible books is more critical than ever. The Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program works to combat this illiteracy crisis by distributing books and educational resources to children in underserved communities and Title I funded schools, helping them develop creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for reading.

"By getting books into the hands of struggling students, we are helping children become their best selves," said LtGen Jim Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. "Our goal is to dramatically change the landscape for economically disadvantaged children and provide the essential tools to ensure their future success."

Last year, Marine Forces Reserve, GySgt Bacchus, and author Will Baggett, visited Hynes Charter School, a Title I funded school in the New Orleans metro area, to conduct a reading event promoting the Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program. They shared the fundamental value of literacy with first- and second-graders, emphasizing the importance of getting educational books and materials into the hands of all children, regardless of their circumstances.

"The Marine Toys for Tots Literacy Program not only brings the joy of reading to these children, but it also serves as a vital instrument in breaking the cycle of poverty and highlighting the importance of literacy," said LtGen Laster.

The Toys for Tots Literacy Program believes that reading is a basic, essential skill that can transform lives and open doors to a more fulfilling future. Since its inception in 2008, the Toys for Tots Literacy Program has distributed over 60 million books to disadvantaged children including nearly 2 million books to Title I funded schools, and in 2024 alone, distributed nearly 3 million books.

During National Reading Month, Toys for Tots is working to ensure every child experiences the power of literacy, and the sense of hope, optimism, and excitement that it generates.

For more information or to donate, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - While February is recognized as National Random Acts of Kindness month, at Marine Toys for Tots, we believe kindness knows no boundaries—nor does it follow a calendar. Kindness is intentional, and our year-round mission embodies this philosophy through our “Not So Random Acts of Kindness” initiative—a mission that enables us to deliver optimism and joy to children in need throughout the year and achieve record-breaking milestones.

Thanks to generous and intentional donors across the Nation, Toys for Tots is able to respond to the needs of children whose lives have been upended by natural disasters, in addition to providing year-round support for disadvantaged children. In 2024, Marine Toys for Tots delivered more than 30 million toys, books, and games to nearly 13 million children in need!

“I am deeply humbled by the incredible generosity of our supporters,” said LtGen James Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Every donation and every act of kindness strengthens our mission and allows us to reach more disadvantaged children, year after year. Together, we are truly making a difference,” he said.

As we step into a new year, our resolve has never been stronger. The Marine Toys for Tots Program remains committed to supporting those in need throughout the year, because we know that needs don’t follow a seasonal timeline. Whether assistance is needed during the holiday season or after crises such as Hurricane Helene or the California wildfires, Toys for Tots stands ready to help families and children who are facing unimaginable challenges and adversity.

Girls and boys who had lost their homes, their belongings, and their sense of security as a result of last year’s natural disasters received a glimmer of hope at Toys for Tots’ emergency distribution event in Hendersonville, North Carolina. In total, over 10,000 toys, books, and games made their way into the hands of 2,600 families.  

Just like the support we provided to the families whose lives were turned upside down in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene, we will provide comfort and assistance to children and families in the communities surrounding Los Angeles.

“Los Angeles is where Toys for Tots began 78 years ago, and in response to the wildfires that ravaged our Program's birthplace, we are assembling and preparing to distribute emotional relief packages through our Disaster Recovery and Response Initiative,” LtGen Laster said.

On February 8^th, our partner, the Sydney Paige Foundation, organized a distribution event in Pasadena, California, for the children and families who have lost everything in the fires. During this event, 5,000 toys, books, and other gifts – provided by Toys for Tots – were distributed to 2,800 families.

“The tragic fires in Los Angeles have put countless families in crisis, disrupting their lives and destroying homes. While our hearts ache for those affected, our dedication to assisting those in need remains steadfast,” stated LtGen Laster.

The Program is also providing additional emotional relief packages to our partner, Tackle Hunger, who will distribute the gifts to children and families during another distribution event on February 16^th with the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank.

The gifts provided by Toys for Tots offer vital comfort and care to children impacted by these disasters, providing them with hope and a sense of normalcy during their most challenging times.

To learn how you can donate or get involved, visit www.toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - As parents, we all want to ensure that our toddlers are getting the nutrients they need to grow strong and stay healthy, especially during cold and flu season. While the importance of a robust immune system is well understood, getting little ones to actually eat immune-boosting foods can sometimes feel like a battle. The good news? There are plenty of delicious and toddler-friendly options that support a healthy immune system without the tantrums at mealtime!

While some of these foods are naturally appealing to toddlers, others may require a little creativity. Nutrition experts from KinderCare have provided some tips to make sure your little one is getting their immune-boosting nutrients:

1. Blend into Smoothies: Smoothies are a fantastic way to pack in immune-boosting ingredients. You can blend a variety of fruits and vegetables, like spinach, kale, avocado, Greek yogurt (probiotics), chia seeds, berries (rich in vitamin C), orange or lemon juice (vitamin C), and a handful of oats or almond butter for extra nutrients without them even noticing. Pro Tip: Start with milder-tasting fruits (like bananas or mangoes) and add spinach or kale in small amounts
2. Make it Fun: Use cookie cutters to shape sweet potatoes, avocados, or eggs into fun shapes. The visual appeal can make mealtime more exciting. You can use muffin tins or ice cube trays to help with different shapes and textures, allowing for hand-held and bite-sized snacks.
3. Get Them Involved: Toddlers love to feel like they’re helping in the kitchen. They can help wash the fruits and veggies, stir in ingredients like honey or tear and break tortillas or pita bread for chips. Let them "decorate" their yogurt with fruit or assemble their own veggie wraps.
4. Sneak Veggies in Sauces and Dips: Puree spinach, carrots, or zucchini into pasta sauces, soups, or smoothies to sneak in extra vitamins. Kids love dipping! Create a veggie dip they can enjoy with crackers or sliced veggies. Pro Tip: You can even sneak in a bit of turmeric (anti-inflammatory) or garlic (immune boosting).

By introducing these nutrient-packed foods early and making them fun and flavorful, parents can set their toddlers on a path to a healthier immune system and stronger overall health.

Whether it's a tasty smoothie or a comforting bowl of chicken soup, there's no need to compromise on flavor when it comes to boosting immunity. For more nutrition information or recipes, visit KinderCare.com.

(NewsUSA) - Thanks to the unwavering generosity of the American public, National Corporate Partners, businesses and organizations, 874 Chapter Coordinators, and tens of thousands of dedicated volunteers, Toys for Tots reached new heights in 2024 – providing toys, books, and other gifts to over 12 million children in need!

“The dedication and generosity we witnessed from our donors last year was nothing short of extraordinary,” said LtGen Laster, CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Every donation, large or small, made a significant impact, brightening the lives of children in need. We are deeply inspired by the continued spirit of kindness that fuels our mission, and we are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support we received,” he said.

With the collective support of communities nationwide, the Toys for Tots Program spreads joy and hope to those who need it most and ensures that millions of disadvantaged children are provided with comfort and emotional relief during challenging times.

While the heart of Toys for Tots is the Holiday Campaign, the Program’s efforts extend far beyond Christmastime. “Our mission to deliver hope to children in need is a year-round endeavor, and we continue to strive to be a beacon of optimism and light,” LtGen Laster said.

As 2025 begins, Toys for Tots renews its mission to turn good intentions into meaningful action. "It's a fresh chapter to reaffirm our purpose, set new goals, and unite to make a difference for the children in our great Nation,” LtGen Laster emphasizes.

“Our donors' generosity ignites hope, sparks imagination, and creates lasting memories,” he added. Every donation and toy distributed brings us closer to a world where every child receives emotional support when needed—and every child is reminded that they are not forgotten.

As part of our year-round force for good, we stand ready to assist those in the wake of natural disasters, like the children of families who were so tragically affected by the devastating California wildfires. After the basic necessities are provided, Toys for Tots will be ready to deliver hope and comfort to children in communities surrounding Los Angeles through emotional relief packages. 

Together, we can be an even stronger force for good and make the world a brighter place—one toy, one book, one smile, and one heart at a time.

To learn more about Toys for Tots or to make a donation, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - As the holiday season approaches, the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is dedicated to ensuring that children in need have gifts to open on Christmas morning. This year’s campaign is especially critical, as many families across the Nation continue to face economic challenges and distress.

“The holidays should be a time of joy, but for many families, they are filled with uncertainty and difficult financial decisions,” said LtGen James B. Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Every day we hear from parents who, despite their best efforts, can’t afford to provide gifts for their children. With your help, we can make sure every child receives the toys to treasure, and the gift of hope this Christmastime.”

The impact of the Toys for Tots Program is exemplified by stories like that of Heidi, a single mother of three, who faced the tough decision of prioritizing essential bills over holiday gifts. After praying for a sign, she was surprised when volunteers from Toys for Tots arrived at her door, bringing a bike, a tricycle, and crafts for her children.

In the years since that turning point, Heidi has moved forward in life, eventually donating to her local Toys for Tots chapter and later becoming its Coordinator. “I know firsthand how life-changing these toys can be, letting a child know they are not forgotten” she reflected.

The Toys for Tots Program relies on the generosity of individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to fulfill its mission of providing joy to disadvantaged children. Each unwrapped toy collected is more than just a gift; it symbolizes hope and community support for children and families experiencing hardship.

In 2023, Toys for Tots distributed over 25 million toys, books, and other gifts to more than 10 million disadvantaged children. Our goal is to break that record this holiday season and ensure that at least 11 million underprivileged children can celebrate the magic of Christmas with hope and happiness.

LtGen Laster expresses gratitude for the support of communities across the country: “We are thankful for all who contribute to this mission and assist us in reaching children before Christmas Day. Every contribution positively impacts a child's life.”

For more information about the Marine Toys for Tots Program and its ongoing mission, please visit www.toysfortots.org.

(NewsUSA) - As the holiday season approaches, people around the world unite in a Global Day of Giving—Giving Tuesday—on December 3^rd to support the charitable causes they respect and admire. For the Marine Toys for Tots Program, this day is Giving TOYSday, and we want to ensure that every child across our Nation will have at least one gift to open on Christmas morning.

With the generosity of the American public, the Program has faithfully delivered 677 million toys, books, and other gifts to 301 million deserving children since its inception in 1947. We still need your help to deliver the same Christmas magic to even more disadvantaged families—who continue to face financial challenges due to inflation, joblessness, and other hardships. Sadly, the idea of providing their children with Christmas gifts is a distant hope rather than a reality.

“We are asking for support from the American public now more than ever,” said Lieutenant General Jim Laster, President & CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.

“We encourage our dedicated supporters to make a donation to the Marine Toys for Tots Program in honor of Giving TOYSday,” LtGen Laster said.  “When you give to Toys for Tots, you provide hope for a brighter future through the gift of a new toy, book, or game to children who might otherwise go without on Christmas morning. Together, we can restore optimism and deliver Christmas miracles to children whose families are struggling financially.”

Giving TOYSday also serves as a reminder that generosity is not limited to material possession alone. Your kindness helps instill empathy, compassion, and responsibility in children and future generations, shaping them into more caring and socially conscious individuals.

Make this holiday season brighter for children in need! Visit toysfortots.org to donate on Giving TOYSday and spread hope, joy, and the magic of the season to those who need it most.