A Back-to-School Mocktail For Kids

Over the past month, kids have been going back to school all over the country. Whether they're going back in person, online or a combination of both, this year certainly presents challenges like we've never seen before.

The use of technology, the uncertainty in the world, and the constant changes to routines can make it particularly hard for kids to focus on their schoolwork. Add stressed-out parents and teachers to the equation and it's a recipe for discomfort all around.

My parent friends have been looking for healthy ways they can support their kids (and themselves) during this crazy time, and, of course, my first recommendation is to turn to our incredible herbal allies.

One of my favorite things about WishGarden is that they offer a fantastic selection of safe, effective remedies for kids, and there are a few that are great for helping to ease that back-to-school transition. One of my favorites is Attention Ally Focus Friend for Kids, which kids can take to help them improve focus and calm nervous energy. This is essential for navigating the school day with balance and ease.

Attention Ally for Kids is a brilliant formulation that addresses the unique reasons that kids can have trouble focusing (which is quite different than for adults). For children, an inability to sit still or pay attention is typically related to overactivity in the nervous system. This can be a result of worry, or the simple fact that kids sometimes have way too much energy to sit still. These factors all contribute to the often difficult task of sitting in a classroom or in front of a computer for long periods of time.

Herbs in Attention Ally:

Milky Oats tops: Considered one of our most gentle yet effective tonics for the nervous system. The milky substance inside fresh oats has powerful chemical compounds that can help calm frazzled nerves in the moment.

Gotu Kola aerials: Considered the best brain tonic herb in the world. Gotu Kola is native to Sri Lanka and is traditionally taken as a daily adaptogenic tea. Gotu Kola is fantastic for nourishing and protecting brain health.

Passionflower aerials: Typically considered a sleep herb, Passionflower doesn't necessarily have a sedative effect. It is, however, a nervine that has a particularly good ability to help quiet an overactive mind. Think about slowing down the "hamster wheel" so you can focus on what's important in the moment.

Skullcap aerials: Skullcap is another gentle nervine that is effective at helping to calm nervous tension. Skullcap can help quickly bring feelings of calm to an over stimulated body.

Nettles leaf: One of our most nutrient dense plants, Nettles are a great source of essential minerals and anti-oxidants to nourish the body. This dose of herbal nutrition can be just what a kid needs for a boost of brain power

Cinnamon bark: One of our favorite culinary spices, Cinnamon also has incredibly powerful health benefits. It can help calm nervous tension, boost brain activity and support blood sugar balance.

Adding Attention Ally Focus Friend (formerly named Genius Juice Jr.) to your kid's school day can be a powerful tool in helping improve their focus and stamina. Since it can sometimes be difficult to get kids to take herbal tinctures, I created a simple and delicious mocktail that'll be both a fun activity for your kids and the "spoonful of sugar that helps..."

Mini-Genius Mocktail

(makes 1 serving)

Instructions & Ingredients

1. Fill a Mason jar halfway with ice
2. Add 4oz of organic, unfiltered apple juice
3. Add 2oz of sparkling water
4. Add two droppers full of Attention Ally Focus Friend
5. Garnish with blueberries, mint and healthier gummy bears like these or these ☺
6. Or get creative with your kids and let them choose their garnish.

Attention Ally Focus Friend has a mild taste and will work well in many different types of juice. If your kids don't like apple juice, try it out with another favorite juice, kombucha or in a smoothie. And remember, always consult a medical doctor before starting your child on a new herbal supplement.

Jamie McKeown has a BA in Film & Communications from the University of Michigan. She has studied holistic nutrition and natural healing for over 15 years and recently completed an herbalism certification at Green Wisdom Herbal Studies in Long Beach, CA. She is a holistic health coach and the Los Angeles Sales Rep & Educator for WishGarden.

For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or sell any product.