ParentsKids

Young Fans Invited to Explore Global Flavors at Syracuse Women’s Basketball Finale

Children aged 12 and under are set for an extraordinary journey into international cuisine during the final home game of the Syracuse University women’s basketball team on March 2. This event, known as the All-Star Food Fest, offers young attendees a unique opportunity to sample dishes from around the world while interacting with student-athletes who have selected these culinary delights. The collaboration between Kalamata’s Kitchen, Syracuse University’s Falk College, Campus Catering, and Athletics aims to foster cultural awareness and curiosity among children through food. Participants will receive a VIP pass and a passport to explore different countries' cuisines and learn about their significance.

A Culinary Passport to the World

The All-Star Food Fest promises an immersive experience where young fans can embark on a gastronomic adventure. Held before the game against Boston College, this event invites children to engage with global flavors and cultures. Each participant will receive a special passport that guides them through various stations representing eight countries. Through tasting and learning, kids will gain insight into the backgrounds of the student-athletes and the foods they cherish.

At each station, children will encounter dishes like sausage rolls from Australia, bangers and mash from Ireland, rasta pasta from Jamaica, käsespätzle from Germany, egg empanadas from Uruguay, chicken empanadas from Puerto Rico, poutine from Canada, and jollof from Liberia. These selections reflect the diverse origins of the athletes, offering a firsthand taste of their heritage. By participating in this activity, kids not only enjoy delicious food but also develop a deeper appreciation for different cultures and traditions.

Building Bonds Through Food and Interaction

The event serves as a bridge connecting young fans with the university's student-athletes. Children will have the chance to meet and greet these athletes, creating memorable moments that go beyond the game itself. Additionally, the first 50 participants will meet Sarah Thomas, the author of Kalamata’s Kitchen books, and receive a signed copy of her work. This interaction encourages a love for reading and exploration, reinforcing the educational aspect of the event.

Kalamata’s Kitchen, an initiative dedicated to introducing families to the world through food adventures, plays a pivotal role in organizing this event. It emphasizes the importance of using food as a tool for learning and bonding. For parents, it provides a valuable opportunity to introduce their children to new experiences and broaden their horizons. The All-Star Food Fest exemplifies how sports and culture can come together to create an enriching experience for everyone involved, fostering both curiosity and community spirit.

Long-Term Immunological Benefits of Peanut Oral Immunotherapy in Children

Years after the groundbreaking IMPACT study, researchers have discovered that children who received peanut oral immunotherapy exhibit distinct allergen-specific antibody profiles compared to those who were given a placebo. The findings, presented at the 2025 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology (AAAAI) annual meeting, suggest that early intervention with this therapy can lead to lasting immunological changes that correlate with clinical outcomes. The follow-up research involved analyzing plasma antibody concentrations for various antibodies in participants five to seven years post-treatment.

Sustained Immune Response After Early Intervention

Children treated with peanut oral immunotherapy maintained significantly lower levels of peanut-specific IgE and Ara h 2 specific IgE compared to those who received a placebo. This indicates a long-lasting impact on the immune system, suggesting that early exposure to peanuts through controlled therapy may help mitigate allergic reactions over time. Additionally, these children showed higher ratios of protective IgG4 to IgE, signaling a shift towards immune tolerance.

The detailed analysis revealed that children who underwent peanut oral immunotherapy had markedly different antibody profiles even years after the initial treatment. Specifically, their median concentrations of peanut-specific IgE were notably lower (3.6 kUA/L vs 18.7 kUA/L), as were their Ara h 2 specific IgE levels (1.0 kUA/L vs 7.0 kUA/L). Furthermore, they exhibited greater ratios of peanut IgG4 to IgE and Arah2 IgG4 to IgE, indicating a favorable immune response. These results underscore the potential for early intervention to induce long-term immunological benefits, particularly in young children.

Impact on Remission and Ongoing Tolerance

Children who achieved remission following peanut oral immunotherapy displayed the lowest levels of peanut-specific IgE and Arah2 IgE, along with the highest IgG4 to IgE ratios. This suggests that achieving remission is associated with a stronger shift toward immune tolerance, which could offer significant protection against future allergic reactions. Conversely, non-responders maintained high levels of peanut-specific IgE, indicating persistent allergy.

The study also examined the effects of ongoing peanut consumption on antibody levels. Children who continued eating peanuts had higher levels of protective IgG4 and lower levels of IgE, suggesting that sustained exposure may play a crucial role in maintaining tolerance. These findings highlight the importance of both early intervention and continued exposure in managing peanut allergies. Overall, the research provides compelling evidence that peanut oral immunotherapy not only offers immediate benefits but also has the potential to provide long-lasting protection against peanut allergies.

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Lenexa Parks & Recreation: Cultivating Fun and Development in Youth Sports

In Johnson County, Lenexa Parks & Recreation is setting a new standard for youth sports programs. These initiatives prioritize fun, skill development, and community engagement over intense competition. By focusing on the fundamentals of various sports in a supportive atmosphere, the program ensures that children can enjoy learning while gaining confidence and making friends. Unlike many other leagues, Lenexa’s approach simplifies scheduling by combining practice and play into one day, making it easier for busy families to participate. This innovative format not only promotes physical activity but also fosters essential life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and problem-solving. The ultimate goal is to cultivate a lifelong love for sports and movement.

The philosophy behind Lenexa’s youth sports programs emphasizes creating an enjoyable and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. Rather than pushing for elite performance, the focus is on gradual progress and personal growth. Children are encouraged to explore different sports and develop their coordination and confidence at their own pace. For younger participants, these activities serve as valuable preparation for kindergarten, helping them build social and motor skills through structured play. The Learn to Play Sports series, designed for kids aged 2.5 to 6 years old, exemplifies this approach by offering a variety of engaging activities that promote both physical and cognitive development.

Moreover, the program’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that all children have the opportunity to participate and grow. Coaches play a crucial role in fostering this positive environment, providing guidance and support to help each child reach their potential. Participants and parents alike have praised the program for its well-organized structure, reasonable pricing, and emphasis on fun and skill-building. One parent noted how the experience transformed their child’s attitude towards team sports, instilling a newfound passion and confidence. Another appreciated the balance between fundamental instruction and age-appropriate games, which significantly boosted their child’s interest in basketball.

Ultimately, Lenexa Parks & Recreation’s youth sports programs offer more than just athletic training. They provide a nurturing platform for children to develop important life skills, build friendships, and foster a sense of belonging within their community. Whether a child is just starting out or looking to refine their abilities, these programs create a supportive space for exploration and growth. Through a balanced blend of fun, learning, and community involvement, Lenexa is redefining what youth sports can be, ensuring that every participant has the chance to thrive both on and off the field.

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