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Written by: Dr. Kristy Bautista, Lead Occupational Therapist School’s back in session, meaning it’s time to stock up on supplies, pack lunches, and get ready to learn. But with all this preparation something often gets overlooked: how much is that backpack weighing your kid down? National Backpack Awareness Day, coming up this September, is about ensuring our kids stay safe and comfy while lugging their books and gear around. Why Heavy Backpacks Are a Big Deal Research has shown that children who carry overloaded and improperly worn backpacks are at risk for a range of health issues. The strain of heavy bags can lead to back, neck, and shoulder pain, which may seem like minor complaints at first but can have lasting effects. Over time, these issues can contribute to poor posture, spinal misalignment, and even compromised breathing, leading to fatigue and discomfort that can affect a child's ability to focus and learn. How Occupational Therapists Can Help Occupational therapists (OTs) play a vital role in ensuring students carry their backpacks safely. They are pros at helping kids choose the right backpack, pack it the smart way, and wear it so they stay safe and pain-free. They can give you and your child personalized tips on adjusting the straps and making sure the backpack sits just right. Simple Tips to Lighten the Load To help your child avoid the pitfalls of a too-heavy backpack, keep these tips in mind: Pick the Right Backpack:  Look for one with padded straps and a comfy back. Multiple compartments are a bonus—they help spread the weight around. Pack Light:  Only pack what’s needed for the day. A good rule of thumb is that the backpack shouldn’t weigh more than 10-15% of your child’s body weight. Wear It Right:   Make sure your child wears both straps over their shoulders. The backpack should sit in the middle of their back, not hanging too low. Clean Out Weekly:  Help your child go through their backpack once a week to ditch any unneeded items. National Backpack Awareness Day is an opportunity for schools, parents, and communities to come together and promote healthy backpack habits. By raising awareness and taking proactive steps, we can help prevent the development of chronic pain and other health issues in our children, setting them up for a healthier, more comfortable future. Check out THIS VIDEO by the American Occupational Therapist Association (AOTA) on some backpack tips.

At UCP of Central Florida, we are dedicated to empowering our families with the resources and support they need to help their children thrive. We are excited to announce the launch of our new UCP Therapy Family Resource Center! This comprehensive website is designed to be your one-stop-shop for valuable information and tools related to speech/language, occupational, and physical therapy. What is the UCP Therapy Family Resource Center? The UCP Therapy Family Resource Center is an online hub filled with a wealth of resources aimed at supporting the therapy needs of our families. Whether you're looking for strategies to enhance your child's speech and language skills, ideas for occupational therapy activities at home, or guidance on physical therapy exercises, this resource center has it all. Key Features of the Resource Center Speech/Language Therapy Resources: Explore a variety of activities, tips, and strategies to support your child's communication skills. From articulation exercises to language development activities, you'll find everything you need to help your child progress. Occupational Therapy Resources: Discover engaging activities and practical tips to improve your child's fine motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living skills. Our occupational therapy resources are designed to be fun and effective, making it easy for you to incorporate them into your daily routine. Physical Therapy Resources: Access a range of exercises and activities to support your child's physical development. Whether you need guidance on improving strength, balance, or coordination, our physical therapy resources provide step-by-step instructions and helpful videos. Why We Created the Resource Center We understand the challenges that families face when navigating their child's therapy needs. Our goal with the UCP Therapy Family Resource Center is to make it easier for you to access the support and information you need, all in one convenient place. By providing these resources online, we hope to empower our families to take an active role in their child's therapy journey and achieve the best possible outcomes. How to Access the Resource Center Ready to explore the UCP Therapy Family Resource Center? It's easy! Simply click the link below to get started: 👉 UCP Therapy Family Resource Center Spread the Word We are incredibly excited about the launch of the UCP Therapy Family Resource Center and hope you find it helpful and informative. Please share this resource with other families who might benefit from it. Together, we can create a supportive community where every child has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for being a part of the UCP of Central Florida family. We look forward to supporting you on your therapy journey!

Written by: Dr. Kristy Bautista Harris Occupational therapy (OT) addresses the physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and sensory components of performance, making it a vital resource in educational settings. In schools, OT practitioners focus on enhancing students' abilities in various areas, including academics, play and leisure, social participation, self-care skills (Activities of Daily Living or ADLs), and transition/work skills. School-based OT practitioners, including Occupational Therapists (OTs) and Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTAs), play a crucial role in supporting children's development. They use meaningful activities to help students participate in essential and desired activities, promoting physical and mental health and overall well-being. UCP of Central Florida provides comprehensive occupational therapy services to both students and outside clients. Our skilled OT practitioners tailor interventions to address each child's unique needs, helping them overcome challenges and develop the skills necessary for success in academic and everyday life. Through targeted support and individualized strategies, we empower children to reach their full potential, fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational experience. By integrating occupational therapy into the school environment and offering services to the wider community, UCP of Central Florida ensures that children receive the support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom. Our commitment to promoting physical and mental health and overall well-being underscores our dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

As the first day of school approaches, the thought of what to pack for a nutritious and exciting lunch arises.  As parents, you are tasked with figuring out what will keep your child fed and focused. A balanced lunch not only supports physical health but also enhances academic performance and concentration. Here are some healthy lunchbox ideas and nutrition tips to ensure your child gets the most out of their school meals. Balance is Key When prepping to pack make sure you hit all major food groups. Aim to incorporate a mix of proteins, carbohydrates, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables in every lunchbox. Keep portion sizes appropriate for your child’s age and activity level. Too much food can result in waste and too little can leave your child hungry and distracted. Protein Power Proteins are essential for growth and maintaining muscle math. Lean proteins like grilled chicken, turkey, lean beef, tofu, or beans can be the fuel your child needs. Dairy can also add a tasty alternate source of proteins, add options like cheese sticks, yogurt, or cottage cheese for calcium. Fruits and Veggies Pack a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, apple slices, and berries are great options. Including healthy dips like hummus, guacamole, or yogurt-based dips can make vegetables more appealing. Hydration Encouraging your kids to drink water throughout the day and avoiding sugary drinks can help them stay focused throughout the day. Instead of soda or juice try water drinks like propel, Gatorade, or healthy drink mixes/enhancers. Packing a healthy lunchbox doesn't have to be a daunting task. By focusing on balance, variety, and creativity, you can provide nutritious and enjoyable meals that support your child's growth and learning. Use these tips and ideas to start the school year on a healthy note, ensuring your child is ready to tackle each day with energy and enthusiasm.

As summer ends, the idea of starting a new school year can be overwhelming for both you and your child. From searching for the right school supplies to finding the most stylish backpack, it can feel like a lot to handle. However, with some careful planning, preparing for back to school can be a smooth and enjoyable process. Here are some tips to help you and your child get ready for a successful academic year. Establishing a Routine Early Start by adjusting sleep schedules two weeks before school begins. This helps ease the transition from summer relaxation to school mode. By gradually moving bedtime earlier and waking up closer to school time, your child can adjust more easily. Review School Policies and Schedules Refresh your familiarity with your school's policies, schedules, and guidelines to prevent any unwanted surprises. Ensure you fully understand drop-off and pick-up procedures, lunch options, and extracurricular activities before the start of school. Communicate with Teachers It's beneficial to establish a positive and open relationship with your child’s teacher. Attending orientation and any planned meetings can help you stay informed about your child's progress and needs in class. Organize School Supplies and Clothes Shopping for school clothing and supplies can be a fun experience. Dedicating a day to create the most stylish outfits can enhance both your child's creativity and independence. Making a list of required items and labeling supplies can ensure that you have everything your child needs for optimal learning. Schedule Health Check-ups Before school starts, double-check that all immunizations and documents are up to date. Scheduling doctor’s appointments, vision checks, hearing tests, and any other necessary check-ups prior to the first day can eliminate any hassle. Address Anxiety and Excitement Joining a new class can be intimidating, so talk to your child about their feelings regarding the new year. Reassuring them that it is normal to feel anxious or scared can make the transition smoother. Set Goals and Expectations Discuss academic and personal goals with your child. What do they hope to accomplish this school year? What do they want to improve in? Setting realistic goals can help motivate them and provide a sense of purpose. Clearly communicating expectations regarding schoolwork can prevent confusion and further motivate them to meet these goals. Get Involved Show interest in your child’s education by participating in school events, volunteering, or joining parent groups. This can strengthen your school’s community and give you and your child more activities to do together. Back-to-school planning can set the tone for a smooth and enjoyable school year. By being ready with established routines, clear communication organized supplies, and showing support, your child can feel prepared to tackle the new year successfully

At UCP Charter Schools, our commitment lies in inspiring and empowering students, fostering their creativity and critical thinking skills, and cultivating a profound passion for learning. Our dedicated staff has created a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes excellence and success, emphasizing that education is not just about acquiring knowledge but also embracing the thrill of discovery and personal growth. From our vibrant student community, we proudly highlight three outstanding students from our Seminole Campus. Angela Meet our first Bright Spark, Angela, a remarkable fourth grader with a boundless love for learning. Her passion for education shines through in everything she does. She adores animals and dreams of someday working for the ASPCA to help injured animals. Above all, Angela treasures her family, who mean the world to her. Olivia Our second Bright Spark, Olivia, is a creative soul who loves arts and crafts. Olivia is an enthusiastic member of the UCP Kidz dance group, where she recently dazzled audiences with her performance at the UCP Gala and Breakfast. Her passion for creativity and dance makes her a shining star in our community. Mason Lastly, we have Mason, an enthusiastic student heading into fifth grade at UCP. Mason has a strong passion for sports, especially basketball, where he shines on the court. He also has a keen interest in math and science, aspiring to become the "King of Math" one day. Mason's drive and curiosity make him a standout student with a bright future ahead. These Bright Sparks embody the values and spirit of UCP Charter Schools, reminding us daily of the joy and fulfillment that come from nurturing young minds. We are incredibly proud of Angela, Olivia, and Mason and look forward to celebrating their continued successes as they grow and thrive in our community. Watch Mason's, Olivia's, and Angela's Interviews now!

At UCP Charter Schools, we are committed to sparking inspiration and empowerment in our students, encouraging them to think creatively and critically while fostering a profound appreciation for the joy of learning. Through the work of our staff, we have created a dedicated environment that cultivates excellence and success, while showing that learning is not only about gaining knowledge but also about embracing the thrill of exploration and personal growth. Within our diverse student community, we have two outstanding third graders from our Pine Hills Campus that we want to highlight. These two Bright Sparks stand out, embodying the inclusive spirit of UCP and serving as inspirations to us all. Xena Our first UCP Pine Hills Bright Spark is Xena, a diligent young lady known for her confident expression of ideas. Described as remarkably knowledgeable, Xena shows immense potential for a bright future. Teachers admire her for being a friend to everyone and a valuable asset in the classroom, where her charm knows no bounds. In her free time, Xena enjoys playing pranks with her grandpa (on her grandma), engaging in virtual adventures on ROBLOX with her sister, and caring for her pet gecko, Charlie. Xena's enthusiasm for learning and her compassionate nature make her a true joy to have in our school community, and we are excited to see all the wonderful things she will achieve in the future. Darlentz Our second Bright Spark is Darlentz, a budding researcher or scientist. Darlentz is a highly intelligent student with a deep passion for learning. He possesses a curious nature and enjoys exploring new concepts and ideas. His favorite subject is science, where he thrives on conducting experiments and uncovering new discoveries. When he is not immersed in scientific exploration, Darlentz enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He envisions a future filled with various career paths, including scientist, engineer, or banker, confident that whatever path he chooses, success awaits him. In our dynamic UCP student community, Xena and Darlentz shine brightly, showcasing the incredible potential of all our students. Through our charter schools, we remain committed to inclusive education models that empower every student to unlock their full potential. Watch Xena and Darlentz's interviews here!

At UCP Charter Schools, we are dedicated to inspiring and empowering our students, encouraging them to think creatively and critically while nurturing a deep love for learning. Our staff has built a supportive environment that fosters excellence and success, emphasizing that education is about acquiring knowledge and embracing the excitement of discovery and personal growth. From our diverse student community, we want to highlight three exceptional first graders from our Seminole Campus. Ana Marie and Julian Our first two Bright Sparks are Ana Marie and Julian, twins from our UCP Seminole Campus. Ana Marie and Julian are in first grade and have an insatiable love for learning. Ana Marie is a true bookworm with impressive reading skills, making her the best reader in the school. Julian's heart holds space for math, making him the highest-ranked mathlete on his campus. Both rockstar twins love everything about their school, especially their kindergarten teacher, Miss Stacy, who started their journey as little learners. Ana Marie and Julian are true inspirations, exemplifying what it means to be a student at UCP Seminole. Telia Telia is another UCP Seminole first-grade Bright Spark excelling in school. Telia is a kind and polite individual, described by her teachers as having a “heart of gold.” She empathizes with her peers and is always ready to extend a helping hand or offer support when needed. Telia’s remarkable kindness and compassion are evident in everything she does. Her enthusiasm for learning and compassionate nature make her a true joy to have in our school community. Her calm and bright nature will shine brightly in her future, no matter where she goes. In our dynamic UCP student community, Telia, Ana Marie, and Julian shine brightly, showcasing the incredible potential of all our students. Through our charter schools, we remain committed to inclusive education models that empower every student to unlock their full potential. Watch Telia and the twins's interviews here!

Summertime is the perfect season for relaxation and fun, where hours are filled with beachy days and endless fun instead of classes and homework. While it's a time to unwind, maintaining a structured yet flexible routine can provide a sense of stability and ensure that your children make the most of their break. Here are some tips for building a summer routine that balances fun, learning, and relaxation. Set a Consistent Wake-Up and Bedtime: Even though school is out, maintaining a regular sleep schedule is crucial. Consistent wake-up and bedtime routines help children get the rest they need and provide structure for their day. Schedule Fun Activities During the Day: Incorporate a mix of fun and educational activities into your daily routine. This could include reading time, educational games, or visits to museums and libraries. Engaging in these activities keeps children’s minds active and helps prevent the summer slide. Set Up a Daily Schedule and Follow It: A daily routine can help you and your child stay organized during the break, making the transition back to a school schedule easier. Include Chores and Responsibilities: Assigning age-appropriate chores helps teach responsibility and the importance of contributing to the household. Make a chore chart and involve your children in daily tasks like making their beds, tidying up, or helping with meal preparation. Allow for Downtime: While having a structured routine is important, it’s equally essential to allow for downtime. Ensure there’s time each day for your children to relax and unwind. This could be through quiet activities like reading, drawing, or simply enjoying some free play. Downtime helps children recharge and promotes a balanced lifestyle. Stay Flexible: While having a routine is beneficial, it’s important to stay flexible and open to spontaneous activities. Summer often brings unexpected opportunities for fun, so be willing to adjust your schedule to accommodate new adventures. Flexibility ensures that the routine remains enjoyable and stress-free. By creating a balanced summer routine, you can ensure that your children have a fun, enriching, and well-rounded break. A mix of structured activities, creative play, physical exercise, and family time will help them make the most of their summer while providing a sense of stability and predictability. Here’s to a summer filled with joy, growth, and unforgettable memories!

At UCP Charter Schools, our mission is to inspire and empower our students to think creatively and critically, fostering a deep appreciation for the joy and rewards of learning. We are dedicated to cultivating an environment that encourages our students to excel and succeed. Our focus is on showing our students that learning is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about discovering the joy of exploration and growth. Within our diverse student body, we have many outstanding individuals who have shown exceptional talent and achievement. These Bright Sparks from our diverse Healthy West Orange Campus embody the inclusive spirit of UCP and serve as inspirations to us all. Lucas Our first West Orange Bright Spark is Lucas, a 4th grader who is paving the way for all the leaders who will come after him. As the youngest safety patrol in his school, Lucas shows his love of being a leader and his desire to be in service to others. Described by his teachers as a highly accomplished and thoughtful student, Lucas fearlessly stands up for his beliefs and questions things that do not seem right to him. Having been a student at UCP since Pre-K, Lucas is truly an inspiration to our Healthy West Orange community. Viviana The studious fourth grader from our West Orange Campus taking the world by storm with her dedication and hard work is none other than our second Bright Spark Viviana. Viviana is an academic force who approaches her studies with diligence and a strong work ethic. Beyond her academic prowess, Viviana is known for her sensitivity and caring nature. She empathizes with her peers, always ready to extend a helping hand or offer support when needed. One of Viviana's notable traits is her desire for adult approval. She values the guidance and feedback of her teachers and mentors, often seeking their validation for her efforts. Viviana's unique blend of studiousness, compassion, and desire for approval truly sets her apart from the rest. Leah Leah, a first-grade student who follows in the footsteps of her big brother Lucas, is one of UCP West Oranges' youngest Bright Sparks. Described as kind and polite, Leah consistently uses manners like "please" and "thank you." She is known as a good friend, always ready to help wherever needed. Leah's kindness knows no bounds; she makes a point to sit with and assist a special friend in class each day. Academically, Leah has shown significant growth since the beginning of the year. She is mastering decoding and reading words, excelling in math, and displaying a love for working with numbers. Leah's remarkable kindness and compassion are evident, qualities that will undoubtedly support her dream of becoming a doctor when she grows up. Brynlee Our final Bright Spark is Brynlee, a young achiever whose ambition is boundless. In her interview, she shared her unique career plans, envisioning herself as a part-time construction worker, dancer, and artist. Despite her young age, Brynlee's determination, and creative spirit shine through as she sets her sights high and dreams of pursuing multiple passions simultaneously. In her free time, Brynlee enjoys exploring the world of technology through her iPad and cherishing moments spent with her baby brother. Her story is a testament to the power of imagination and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. We are excited to celebrate our student's bright sparks at UCP. Watch their full interviews HERE.

Summer is the perfect time for children to explore, learn, and have fun. As parents, we want to ensure that every child, regardless of their abilities, can participate in enriching and enjoyable activities. At UCP, we believe in fostering an inclusive environment where all children can thrive. Here are some fantastic summer activities that cater to diverse needs, ensuring that every child has a memorable and fulfilling summer. Nature Walks and Scavenger Hunts: Activities in nature can encourage kids to explore their surroundings. Create a scavenger hunt and search for items like leaves, rocks, flowers, and animal tracks. Make it a competition and see who finds the most items first. Gardening: Start a small garden together. Gardening can be therapeutic and educational, allowing children to learn about plants and responsibility. Arts & Crafts: Set up an art station with various supplies like paints, clay, and recycled materials. Encourage children to express themselves creatively while practicing their fine motor skills with activities like beading and threading to create friendship bracelets. Music and Movement Exploration: Introduce children to different instruments or music-making household items. Music can help the body and the mind work together. Dancing to music helps children build motor skills while allowing them to practice self-expression. For children and adults, music also helps strengthen memory skills. STEM Activities: Engage in simple science experiments, building projects, or coding games designed to be accessible for all children. Practice your science skills by building an at-home volcano. Library Programs: Many libraries offer summer reading programs and inclusive activities such as storytelling sessions, craft hours, and sensory-friendly events. Sensory and Water Play: Create a sensory bin with different textures, like rice, beans, or sand, for children to explore. Include tools like scoops, funnels, and containers. You can also set up a water play area with sprinklers, water tables, or a small pool. Yoga and Mindfulness: Practice simple yoga poses and mindfulness exercises together. There are many resources available that cater to children with different needs. By embracing these inclusive summer activities, we can create a season filled with joy, growth, and unforgettable memories for all children. Whether it's exploring nature, engaging in creative projects, or participating in adaptive sports, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Let's make this summer a time of adventure and learning, where every child feels valued and included. Together, we can ensure that all children thrive and make the most of their summer break.

We are excited to share the recent coverage by Channel 6 News highlighting UCP of Central Florida's remarkable achievement of receiving an $8.9 million federal charter grant! This significant funding will enable us to embark on five transformative projects over the next five years, enhancing our educational offerings and facilities to benefit our students and families. The grant will be strategically utilized for projects such as adding more technology in our classrooms, completing the ongoing expansion of our Healthy West Orange Campus, and funding the construction of our new Osceola Campus. One of our goals for this grant is to start an online charter school option in year three of our plan, catering to both students with and without disabilities who are seeking alternative educational options. This federal grant marks a significant milestone for UCP Charter Schools. With these projects, we are not only expanding our reach but also enriching the quality of education and support we offer. We are committed to building brighter futures for our students and their families, and this funding brings us one step closer to achieving our vision. Watch the Channel 6 News video recap to see how this grant will positively impact our schools and community. Together, we are creating a more inclusive, innovative, and inspiring learning environment for all!