Larner College of Medicine

Domains of Wellness

Caregivers shape habits that impact physical, emotional, and mental health—nutrition, sleep, physical activity, screen use, problem-solving, and trust. This is a big responsibility with little guidance. Research shows family health habits and caregiver well-being directly influence brain growth in children. 

Our Clinicians offer support to help you nurture and strengthen your child's developing brain. Click on the handouts below for more information about building healthy family habits.

Family walking hand and hand with their kids

Physical Activity

Physical Activity boosts brain growth, improves academic and social skills, and helps children with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
Child enthusiastically eating a sandwich

Healthy Eating

Research shows a connection between the belly and the brain - a balanced diet leads to a happier and healthier mind! Anxiety and depression decrease, memory and emotional regulation improve. If we improve what we eat, the brain will follow!
Building at night

Healthy Sleep

Quality sleep boosts learning, memory, mood, behavior, and physical health—making it essential for overall well-being.
Adult and Child outdoors smiling

Supportive Parenting

Supportive Parenting helps create strong, respectful family bonds. Effective communication improves relationships and helps everyone manage emotions.
People smiling and playing a game with a young child

Screen Use

Kids and families are using devices frequently in school and at home. It is important to work together to think about the risks and benefits of screen time. Research shows that caregivers can model healthy digital habits.
Kid playing the bagpipes

Arts and Creativity

Creative expression enhances brain functions related to coordination, spatial skills, emotions, and impulse control. This includes music, dance, singing, acting, painting, drawing, writing, and other creative activities.
Person with closed eyes meditating

Mindfulness

Practices like mindfulness, meditation, yoga, prayer and spirituality, tai chi and other martial arts enhance physical and emotional health. These activities can boost focus, reduce anxiety and pain, and improve memory.

Nature & Climate Change

child running to a person in a cow costume

Vermont Child Psychiatry Access Program (VTCPAP) for Families

VCCYF, in partnership with the Vermont Child Health Improvement Program, offers free phone and email consultations for healthcare providers through the Vermont Consultation and Psychiatry Access Program. Providers can get help with assessment, diagnosis, medication, and wellness for children.

Vermont Consultation and Psychiatry Access

Additional Resources