Checklist for Choosing Quality Child Care Program Name Phone Number Use this form when interviewing child care facilities. Make copies of this form and take it to each interview. What to Look For √ Comments | ||
Staff look happy, involved in activities and children are well-cared for and supervised. Staff are at the child’s level to listen, talk and play with the children. Staff give individual attention to each child; warm, kind, calm and patient. | ||
Staff handle conflict among the children in a positive manner There are variety of materials such as blocks, books, puzzles, art supplies and toys for all children which are clean and available throughout the day. | ||
There is a daily schedule for children that includes: free play, nap/rest, meals, outdoor play, indoor play, structured learning activities (math, science, language, art). Children have the opportunity to make choices throughout the day There is enough room for children’s belongings, meals, quiet and active play. | ||
The current menu is posted and offers a variety of healthy choices. Outdoor play area is safe, fenced and children are supervised. Adults and children wash hands after using the bathroom, changing diapers, entering from outside play and before eating. Emergency numbers are clearly posted and evacuation routes are visible. | ||
Infant Care Considerations Are there safe sleep policies/procedures in place? Does the facility promote Breastfeeding? | √ | Comments |
Toddler Care Considerations Do the caregivers talk, describe, read aloud? Are nap times relaxed and NOT stressful? Does the program have policy on toilet learning? | √ | Comments |
Is the setting "child-proof" so that your toddler can crawl or walk safely and freely? Preschool Care Considerations Does the schedule indicate a daily routine that is flexible enough to meet the individual needs of the children? | √ | Comments |
Are there consistent limits set which help child gradually learn to make his or her own choices? | ||
What activities are available when school is not in session? (older children are never asked to look after or supervise younger children) | ||
Does the child care provider help your child follow through on projects, help with homework, and suggest interesting things to do? General Considerations | √ | Comments |
Does the cost fit with your budget? Do the hours of operation and holiday schedule accommodate your work schedule? | ||
Ask for reference of other families who have used child care provider and call them to learn about their experiences. |
Large Referral Brochure (English & Spanish) | Distributed only through the Resource Center in Referral Packets | http://bit.ly/2rZ4lG6 (English) | |||
CE-Referral Services | http://bit.ly/2rlj16l (Spanish) | ||||
Parent Texting Flier CE-Child Development | Distributed through the Resource Center in Referral Packets, and by Regional Offices to families and providers | ||||
Small Referral Brochure CE-Referral Services | Distributed through the Regional Offices to inform community partners of Resource Center services | http://bit.ly/2VtfuSW (English) | |||
(Spanish) | |||||
DCF-Sticky Notepad CE-Referral Services | Distributed through the Regional Offices to inform community partners of Resource Center Services | Looking for child care? Call for a list of licensed child care providers in your area. Llame para obtener una lista de proveedores de cuidado de niños con licencia en su área. 1-877-678-2548 FREE Service! | Not Applicable | ||
Checklist Notepad CE-Referral Services | Distributed through the Regional Offices to inform community partners of Resource Center services | Looking For ChiLd Care? Follow These Steps Call the Resource Center: 1-877-678-2548 Visit Child Care Programs & Ask Questions Check Licensed Child Care Facility Inspection Results- www.kdheks.gov/bcclr/capp.htm Choose a Child Care Program Get Involved | Not Applicable | ||
Palm Cards CE-Referral Services | Distributed through the Regional Offices to inform community partners of Resource Center services | Not Applicable | |||
Checklist for Choosing Quality Child Care (English & Spanish) | Distributed through the Resource Center and Regional Office for families and communities. | Setting is cheerful, clean and safe with equipment in good condition. Meals/Snacks include a variety of nutritional foods and beverages. | http://bit.ly/2mImW6a (English) | ||
CE-Choosing Quality Care | What daily communication do parents receive regarding feedings, diaper changes and naps? Does the child care provider interact with the children? School-Age Care Considerations Is there appropriate space for children to do their homework? | √ | Comments | http://bit.ly/2qfwPPj (Spanish) | |
Will my child be happy in this program? So I feel comfortable leaving my child in this program. | |||||
10 Questions CE-Choosing Quality Care | Distributed through the Resource Center and Regional Offices for families and communities | http://bit.ly/2rUcigx (English and Spanish) | |||
Cell Phone Card (Texting Program) CE-Child Development | Distributed through the Resource Center and Regional Offices for families and communities |
CCRR Bookmark CE-R&R Services | Distributed through the Resource Center and Regional Offices for families and communities | Not Applicable | |
Service Delivery Area Postcard CE-R&R Services | Distributed through the Resource Center and Regional Offices for families and communities | 1 REGION ONE Service Centers:
Toll free 855-750-3343 www.ks.childcareaware.org/one.html 2 REGION TWO Service Center: BROWN Toll free 800-684-3962 CHEYENNE RAWLINS DECATUR REPUBLIC WASHINGTON MARSHALL NEMAHA NORTON PHILLIPS SMITH JEWELL CLOUD ATCHISON www.ks.childcareaware.org/two.html POTTAWATOMIE JACKSON 4 CLOUD JEFFERSON SHERMAN THOMAS SHERIDAN GRAHAM ROOKS OSBORNE MITCHELL CLAY LEAVENWORTH RILEY WYANDOTTE
OTTAWA GEARY WABAUNSEE SHAWNEE Service Centers: GOVE TREGO ELLIS 1 RURSUSSESLELLL ELLSWORTH DICKINSON OSAGE SALINE MORRIS BARTON MCPHERSON MARION LYON Toll free 877-678-2548 RICERICE CHASE LINN PAWNEE CHASE COFFEY ANDERSON HODGEMAN HARVEY www.ks.childcareaware.org/three.html HARVEY ALLEN HAMILTON KEARNY FINNEY SSTTAAFFFFOORRDD 2 EDWARDS RENO WOODSON BOURBON GREENWOOD KIOWA KINGMAN WILSON NEOSHO CRAWFORD ELKELK Service Center: LABETTE MORTON STEVENS CHEROKEE Toll free 800-755-0838 www.ks.childcareaware.org/four.html The Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) Network | Not Applicable |
Important Numbers Magnet CE-Community Resource | Distributed through the Resource Center and Regional Offices for families and communities | Not Applicable | |
Facility County Map | Distributed through the Resource Center | Kansas Child Care Program Data
1 6 1 7 2 0 18 0 1 20 0 15 0 7 7 1 15 0 11 0 3 23 0 46 2 34 CHEYENNE REPUBLIC BROWN DONIPHAN RAWLINS DECATUR NORTON PHILLIPS SMITH JEWELL WASHINGTON MARSHALL NEMAHA 2 21 | |
and Regional Offices for families and | 0 18 1 37 2 14 6 2 ATCHISON 0 30 0 8 0 5 0 9 3 12 63 30 LEAVENWORTH 1 16 CLOUD 21 92 3 SHERMAN THOMAS SHERIDAN GRAHAM MITCHELL POTTAWATOMIE JACKSON 23 76 WYANDOTTE ROOKS OSBORNE 0 17 CLAY RILEY 48 JEFFERSON 37 0 0 4 289 18 0 9 1 7 6 99 OTTAWA 3 7 32 2 15 32 194 660 3 1 6 1 19 LINCOLN GEARY SHAWNEE 115 120 WALLACE LOGAN 10 129 34 WABAUNSEE DOUGLAS JOHNSON GOVE TREGO ELLIS RUSSELL 1 13 1 13 0 29 0 0 0 0 SALINE DICKINSON MORRIS 8 3 45 4 60 2 0 2 6 6 ELLSWORTH OSAGE 1 19 4 7 51 5 35 1 14 0 64 FRANKLIN MIAMI GREELEY WICHITA SCOTT LANE NESS RUSH 3 7 4 1 BARTON 22 0 15 0 | ||
CE-R&R Services | communities | 0 0 1 19 RICE CHASE COFFEY ANDERSON LINN 3 47 0 3 5 34 4 11 PAWNEE 0 8 10 HODGEMAN 0 6 79 HARVEY 0 0 8 3 23 2 18 HAMILTON KEARNY FINNEY 1 STAFFORD 12 14 EDWARDS RENO WOODSON ALLEN BOURBON 0 11 5 42 0 19 101 539 71 GREENWOOD 0 5 26 1 2 1 4 7 1 2 1 12 13 43 54 STANTON GRANT HASKELL GRAY FORD PRATT SEDGWICK BUTLER 0 1 KIOWA KINGMAN WILSON NEOSHO CRAWFORD 0 1 1 3 3 ELK LABETTE 5 7 18 0 6 0 6 0 0 0 14 35 1 5 52 2 3 28 2 6 56 3 40 MORTON STEVENS SEWARD MEADE CLARK COMANCHE BARBER HARPER SUMNER COWLEY CHAUTAUQUA MONTGOMERY CHEROKEE * Child Care Centers does not include Head Start, Preschool or School Age program data. | |
123 Let’s Get Started CE-New Provider | Distributed through Regional Offices for new providers | LET’S GET STARTED! It’s as easy as Making a decision... 1-2-3 Is family child care right for you? Starting a new business is a challenge. It takes commitment and WORK! Family child care is no exception. This brochure includes valuable information to think about as you consider if family child care is right for you. Will family child care work for me? Take the Family Child Care Self-Assessment (below) and discover what strengths, interests, and ideas you bring to the profession, as well as what challenges may be ahead. Successful providers maintain a strong commitment to their work with children. Family child care is hard work. Most providers report working an average of 55-60 hours per week. This includes either caring for children or doing things they need to do to keep their business operational (grocery shopping, record keeping, home maintenance and cleaning, etc). | |
FAMILY CHILD CARE ABSOLUTELY I’M NOT SURE SELF-ASSESSMENT I’m ready for I need to think this challenge about this or learn more I like being around children and enjoy their interests. I have the support of my family, children, and spouse. I can tolerate a certain level of noise and disorder in my home. My home can be adapted to include necessary space, toys, and equipment for children in my care. I have the available resources I will need to make my home safe for children. I feel confident in my ability to communicate effectively with parents of children in my care. After completing this I am willing to invest time and resources for my own professional self-assessment, do development, such as attending classes and networking with other you have questions? professionals. I have the skills to handle the “business side” of things or have someone Contact your local who will help me with this. Child Care Resource I have enough financial security to purchase what I will need to start my business and to support my family for several months until my business & Referral Agency is established and children are enrolled. (CCR&R). I feel I can make a commitment to offering family child care for at least two years. See Step Three for contact information. | |||
Careers in Early Childhood Education: A Kansas Guide CE-Professionalism | |||
Business Book Mark CE-Business | Distributed through Regional Offices for providers | Not Applicable | |
Child Care Business Marketing Tool | Distributed through Regional Offices for providers | First 1.Click 2.Ente 3.Ente 4.Ente 5.Ente 6.Click Ne tele the Provider Main Menu Tabs | |
HOME tab displays our contact information. | |||
UPDATE DATA tab opens to your Contact Information section displaying the data fields available you’d like. Data is organized in sections with one section open at a time. Remember to “Save”. | |||
PICTURES add up to 5 pictures to showcase your child care program to families. | |||
CE-Business | VIEW PROFILE pulls your data together for you to view and s nice marketing piece. REFERRAL COUNT shows you the number of times a family h last 3 months. COMING IN 2017! PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT view and demographic data about you and any staff. | ||
Funded by: | |||
Provider Texting Flier CE-Family Engagement | Distributed through Regional Offices for providers | CALLING all Child Care Providers! Text CCAKS to 59925 Up to 4 msg/month. Msg & data rates may apply. Information at your fingertips! Enroll today and receive texts about:
Preparedness WOW! AND MORE! Check out this NEW SERVICE! | |
www.ks.childcareaware.org 855-750-3343 | |||
Core Competencies for Early Childhood and Youth Development Professionals (English & Spanish) | Distributed through Regional Offices for providers | http://bit.ly/2rYUSyr (English) http://bit.ly/2r0sNYB (Spanish) | |
CE-Professionalism |
ABC’s for a Family- Friendly Workplace | eism and tardiness issues in the workplace, both of which affect company productivity. A Family-Friendly ce can help support employees - benefiting both the company and the worker. re a some easy ways to support families with children to encourage a family-friendly work environment. Flexible Leave Policies range leave policies by the hour rather than by the day. mbine sick and vacation time to allow parents flexibility in use of accrued leave. ow employees returning from maternity/paternity leave a gradual transition back to their regular work hedule. Build Flexible Schedules
| |
unicate Child Care Resources | ||
rent Seminars/Employee Fairs: Provide lunch-hour seminars on parenting topics, such as choosing ality child care, time management for working parents, managing challenging behaviors, and school diness. Include the local child care resource and referral agency at employee health/resource fairs to vide materials. ild Care Referrals: Distribute information on child care services from the local child care resource and erral agency. rent Resources: Provide a list of community services and websites for parents. | ||
CE-Family Engagement | 855-750-3343 | |
Beyond School Supplies | e | |
CE-School Readiness | School readiness is more than just making sure school supplies are ready to go and book bags are packed. Children begin their journey to be ready for school early! From helping children to fall asleep on their own, to holding a spoon during lunch time, to sharing toys and books; it all connects to supporting their growth (physically, emotionally and cognitively). Caregivers can use these tips to promote school readiness for children in their lives: Address everyday needs. Focus on helping children get enough sleep and eat healthy. Encourage social and emotional development. Provide words for identifying feelings and emotions - match a child’s emotion during discussions about school, such as using enthusiasm when your child is excited. Practice active listening. Engage in back and forth conversations with your child. Establish rules. Talk about expectations and explain the reasons behind them. Helping children prepare for school begins early! Reach out to your child’s new school and find out what activities they have planned that are focused on supporting new students. Emotions can run high during this transition but with a little patience the highs and lows can be balanced. | |
Bringing It Home CE-Family Engagement | Extending child care experiences at home A good way to strengthen brain connections for young children is to use knowledge about child care experiences to create and extend conversations at home. Children’s social and emotional development is enhanced when adults expand on what children experience by asking questions, using a variety of words, and naming feelings and emotions. Use these tips to connect child care experiences to home:
Be sure to schedule what a child’s day was like. This will help build and expand on ‘technology-free time’ the conversations. Since brain development and • Teach communication skills by being a good listener and allow a skill building does not stop child to practice back and forth interactions on the ride home. when children leave child care, • Encourage a child to think and give longer answers rather than you can keep the interest going questions that can be answered with a “yes” or “no,”. For example, at home by talking with your “Tomorrow you’re playing outside, what do you think you will see?” children about their day! • Pay attention to what a child is saying, talking as you would to a friend. | |
Building Brain Power-Toddlers | Building Brain Power: Toddlers By age 3, the brain is equipped Supporting brain power in children is easy! Children will show you windows to juggle multiple tasks like of opportunity through their curiosity; pay attention to signals and help them focusing & storing info. Skills to explore. start to develop more quickly and help children to control Activities that will engage Toddlers: emotions, plan ahead & learn.
photo album with plastic sleeves. Add more pictures as children learn A 3 yr old’s brain uses 2x more to label people and things around them. energy than an adult’s—it’s another cloth and have them guess which it is under. Remember, learning opportunities provided for children will help them reach By age 3, toddlers know their fullest potential. more than 1,000 words! | http://bit.ly/2qoC22I (English) http://bit.ly/2vwy4Kk (Spanish) |
CE-Toddlers | Why is supporting the developing brain so important? Think of brain development like traveling through a city. Cities are set up with roads, sidewalks, and bridges—just like a brain is set up with several different connections of brain cells. When people travel through cities they begin to see ways to make more connections from one point to another point; they often take short cuts and walk through the grass to cut to their destination quicker. The more people walk on that new path the stronger the path becomes. The developing brain works in a similar way. Repetition creates permanent pathways. | |
Contributed by Callie Peace, Executive Director, Kansas Parents As Teachers Association Source: Parents As Teachers Curriculum 2011 | ||
Celebrating Unique Temperaments | Recognizing and reflecting on your own temperament and preferences is an important activity. Perhaps you enjoy always being on the go and thrive with constant stimulation — music, lights, and movement. Now, imagine what it might be like for a child that needs calm, soothing environments! | |
CE-Social Emotional | Celebrating Unique Temperaments Recognizing each child’s unique temperament will allow you to adapt your approach to meet each child’s needs! Certain strategies might be particularly impactful with certain temperament types. Here are a few common personalities and some strategies to support children in your care: Flexible and Easy: Initiate Feisty and Active: Be flexible and Fearful and Cautious: Set up the communication about emotions. patient in your interactions. Provide environment so things are in the same Model appropriate language to opportunities for children to make place. Stick to clear and predictable help children be more aware choices. Encourage active play and routines as much as possible. Provide and understand their emotions. allow for physical movements to additional preparation and support when Remind them that their feelings expend high energy levels. Give plenty changes in environment, situations, or are recognized and important. of advanced warning of schedule people occur. Use pictures and language Encourage them to verbalize their changes and consider giving them some to remind children what will happen next. needs with others. This might be type of leadership role, such as holding Encourage and support exploration and as simple as telling a friend: “When a timer or announcing the time to increasing independence. Support cautious Erika takes your doll, you can tell change. Acknowledge their feelings and children during a new experience by her “I’m playing with it, but you can point out when they are calm to help taking them to the activity, stepping back, have a turn when I’m done.” them recognize their emotions. remaining available and moving on. Overall, refrain from judging children’s temperaments as a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ characteristics. Remember each child’s personality contributes to a group/team in your child care program. | |
Clap, Dance, and Sing CE-Child Development | ||
Cultivating Curiosity in Children CE-Child Development | Childrens’ own natural curiosity and imagination lead to valuable learning experiences. By creating an environment in which they can safely explore their interests and ideas, children develop critical thinking skills and a love of learning. The following principles can help cultivate curiosity in children: 1. Children form an understanding of themselves and their place in the world through their interactions with other children and adults. Focus on developing their social skills by encouraging children to work in groups where each child is an equal participant. 2. Encourage children to use their words as they discuss their experiences. Listen with respect, and recognize that their questions and observations provide an opportunity for learning and discovery. 3. Children are inspired by the environment around them. Provide natural lighting, ample space to learn in and materials that encourage curiosity and creativity. An adult’s role is to mentor and guide children, listen to their thoughts and ideas, find what interests them and then provide them with opportunities to explore these interests further. Projects aren’t planned; they emerge based on a child’s interests. Encourage experimentation and celebrate both successes and failures, helping children to embrace trying again. Let them create from their imagination and learn from the process! Excerpted from Cultivating Curiosity in Children, by Kelly Harlow and Cornelia Stevens, Kansas Child, Summer 2017 www.ks.childcareaware.org 855-750-3343 | |
Emergency Preparedness Tips (English & Spanish) CE-Emergency Preparedness | EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS TIPS Keeping Children Safe CREATE AN EMERGENCY SURVIVAL KIT UTILITY OUTAGES What should be in your kit... • Post shut-off information and utility contacts in a
FIRES ILLNESS OUTBREAKS notified and communicate the plan with them. facility-information/ for additional information. SEVERE WEATHER FOOD SAFETY home weather tip sheets or coloring pages that support • Check out agriculture.ks.gov/faqs/food-safety-faq for the book’s message. additional information. POISONING ACTIVE SHOOTER/INTRUDER www.ks.childcareaware.org 855-750-3343 Emergency Preparedness Tips Flyer.indd 1 5/25/17 11:43 AM | http://bit.ly/2uv78MN (English) http://bit.ly/2NuyDMo (Spanish) |
Emergency Preparedness- Written Plan CE-Emergency Preparedness | Emergency Preparedness Tips for Child Care Creating a Written Emergency Plan THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE CREATING A WRITTEN PLAN
CREATING YOUR EMERGENCY PLAN
PRACTICING YOUR PLAN UPDATING YOUR PLAN (WHEN?) Th ngs You Can Do TODAY! Post emergency numbers Teach older children how to call 9-1-1 Make sure staff know how and when to shut off all utilities Stock emergency supplies and a disaster supplies kit Take First-Aid and CPR classes 1508 East Iron, Salina, KS 67402 www.ks.childcareaware.org toll free (855) 750-3343 |
Emotions (English and Spanish)
CE-Social Emotional
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Engaging Minds (English & Spanish)
CE-School Age Family
Emotions It is important to set up environments so that children can work on self-regulating skills. Young children may have trouble expressing their thoughts and feelings until they learn about emotions and strategies to handle them. Some strategies to help children include: Breathing deeply and purposefully can help block the body’s response to stress. Children and concentrating on their breathing. To help Breathing. may struggle with the idea of slowing down children learn to breathe deep have them blow bubbles or a pinwheel when stressed. | |
Music. | Listening to music can calm children allowing them time to gather their thoughts and slow down. Provide them with soothing music, headphones and a quiet spot. |
Sometimes children need to be alone to begin calming down. Provide a rocking chair where they can rock to soothe themselves or a quiet corner with a bean bag chair. | Alone area. |
Creative outlet. | Giving children a way to express how they are feeling beyond using words can be a great way to calm a situation. Provide children with a quiet area to draw a picture about whatever is bothering them. |
Once children have calmed down and are ready to rejoin the group, take time to talk about the emotional moments. Connect the strategy they used to a real-life situation. For example, “if you were at the park today and got upset at Sally what things could you try to help you calm down?” This conversation can help children learn to identify their feelings and learn to cope with emotions in other settings. |
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT
Together is the KEY!
When children see positive interactions
Getting involved in the child care environment is important for building between their families and caregivers —
http://bit.ly/2tWCJVl (English)
http://bit.ly/2DNzip3 (Spanish)
http://bit.ly/2qTERfL (English)
http://bit.ly/2y7BNC3 (Spanish)
Bringing it home
Engagement
positive relationships and a foundation for quality.
Strengthen Communication
Child Care Provider: Create a newsletter or bulletin board with
information to help parents stay in the loop.
Parent: Ask about the day’s events and your child’s involvement.
Host Events & Activities
Child Care Provider: Create a welcoming environment by making
displays about families or showing a craft project completed.
Parent: Attend events and engage with all of the children.
Encourage Volunteering
Child Care Provider: Visit about special skills or family traditions.
Parent: Assist in activities - reading to the children, gardening, cooking, etc.
Keep It Up
Child Care Provider: Seek parent feedback about your program.
Parent: Participate in community events.
they feel proud, important, loved and safe!
Father involvement = positive outcomes for children!
Every person in a child’s life has
(English)
It takes just a little time to get started. Contact us for more ideas and the opportunity to shape his/her
(English and
information.
Sources: Better Kid Care: Secrets of How to Get Parents Involved; Child Care Aware: Family Involvement.
education and development.
855-750-3343
CLAP, DANCE, AND SING! Music and Movement with Young Children |
Music and movement experiences support the formation of important brain connections that are being established from birth to age 3. Incorporate music and movement throughout the day with all ages of children in a variety of ways: having musical instruments available during play, specific music time designed around the schedule of activities, singing with children, or playing music during daily transitions from one activity to another. HERE ARE A COUPLE OF ACTIVITY SUGGESTIONS: Adapt and Sing Songs Where Is Baby? Sing to the tune of “Where Is Thumbkin?”, Where is (insert the baby’s name)?, Where is (insert the baby’s name)?, Here I am; here I am. (Gently pat the baby on the belly as you say the words.), How are you today, (baby’s name)?, Very well, I thank you. Clap your hands, clap your hands. (Help the baby to clap his hands). Make Your Own Musical Instruments Drum Parade Using containers such as empty oatmeal boxes, make a drum for each child. Children can pat the drums with their hands or use a small wooden spoon as a drumstick. Play music with a brisk beat and parade around the room or enjoy the freedom of the outdoors where the drummers can drum and stamp their feet to make loud, boisterous rhythms. For Infants and Toddlers Make a shaker from an empty water bottle and put dry beans inside (make sure the cap is securely attached). For Preschoolers Make a shaker by stapling two paper plates together. Fill with dry beans, buttons, seeds, or anything that makes noise. Use pots and pans as instruments and let children create their own music. Use props to help facilitate movement to music such as: balls, scarves, ribbons, or a parachute. Contributed by Amy Cochran, Child Care Aware® Region Four, Early Care & Education Specialist |
www.ks.childcareaware.org 855-750-3343 |
Spanish)
CE-Family
Engagement
Family Style Dining
Effectively Engaging Families Flyer.indd 1 5/25/17 11:41 AM
family style dining
Children establish eating habits as early as age 2! Build healthy eating habits
early by serving meals family style.
Check out these ideas to support learning activities during mealtimes!
Practice fine and gross motor skills (help children to):
Set the table with plates, silverware, and cups.
Wipe up spills with a paper towel or sponge.
Use thumb and index finger to pick up finger foods.
Pass a bowl of food or pitcher of milk from one person to another.
Engage in small talk...
Listen while others are talking.
Name and discuss food groups—“These peas are in the vegetable group.”
Discuss likes and dislikes—“Rachel, what is your favorite fruit?”
Help children to gain independence by allowing them to:
Decide (and serve themselves) on how much they will eat.
Pour drinks.
Try new foods.
Take time to build math skills...
Count—“How many apple slices are left on the plate?”
Make and name geometric figures—“Fold the square napkin in half ”.
Create and understand fractions while cutting a whole sandwich in quarters.
Measure liquids—“The pitcher has enough milk to fill six cups.”
“At first I was nervous because I wasn’t sure how the children would do (having never practiced these skills before), but with a little
coaching from a Specialist we tried it and it went much smoother than I thought it would! The children enjoyed learning a new
skill.”
~Walleta Bergsten, Family Child Care Provider, Clay Center, KS
(Spanish)
Staff
Involved
Involving families in the child
quality. It takes just a little
commitment to each or any
involved in your program!
Strengthen
Communication:
Provide a recap of the day’s
events or notes about the
child
Create a newsletter or a
bulletin board with information
to help parents stay in the
Host conferences with parents
loop
Source: www.naeyc.org/tyc/article/turn-mealtime-into-learning-time
CE-Family
Engagement
855-750-3343
Free Child Care
www.ks.childcareaware.org Toll Free (855) 750-3343
Up
Child’s Name
Time
Facility Name:
Classroom Name:
CHILD SIGN-OUT ROSTER
Getting Parents
care environment is important
for building positive relationships
and a foundation for child care
of these areas to get parents
Host Events & Activities
Create a welcoming
displays about families or
showing a craft project
completed
Host special events including
open house nights, music
programs, or parties for holidays
Build in opportunities for male
role models to get involved
environment by making
The Goodness Jar
Referral Tear sheet
CE-Referral
FOCUS ON GOOD
ORAL HEALTH HABITS
LEARN MORE
Is My Child at Risk for Cavities?
Try out this simple quiz to see if your
child is at risk for getting cavities.
A “yes” answer to any of these questions
can put your child at greater risk for
cavities.
Y N
OFFER WATER
The Benefits of Water
Water washes out leftover food,
residue and cavity-causing bacteria READ A BOOK TO A CHILD
Service
that wears away enamel. Water cleans
Has your child ever had a cavity? the mouth with every sip.
Children’s Book Review
Has a daily caregiver or someone • Reserve drinks such as juice and soda Books can help families and early
who lives in the same house as for an occasional treat.
childhood educators teach children to
the child had a cavity in the past • Tap water, containing fluoride, protects care for their teeth. The Tooth Book,
two years?
teeth from cavities*.
by Dr. Seuss, is a Bright and Early
Does your child share
board book. The rhyming verses are
Carry a refillable water bottle for easy
fun for adults and beginning readers
toothbrushes with other family access and add healthy fruit, such to read aloud and serve as a delightful
members?
as lemons and berries, to water for
flavoring.
introduction to a focus
on teeth. This book is
Does your child go to bed with a • To prevent dehydration, it is best to
bottle containing any liquid other not only drink water throughout each
so fun - read it every
day until the children
than water?
day, but also eat raw vegetables and
have it memorized!
Does your child regularly use a fruits, which are also valuable sources
sippy cup containing any liquid of water.
Contributed by Alice
Eberhart-Wright, Family
other than water?
Does your child snack regularly
Tap water is free, readily available and
sugar-free.
and Early Childhood
Specialist.
on foods containing sugar and * Go to www.fluoridekansas.org to find out if
Focus on Good
Oral Health (English & Spanish) CE-Health
Getting Parents Involved
CE-Family Engagement
Go File Documents Providers
CE-Safety
Go File Documents Family
CE-Safety
white flour?
What change can you make to lower the risk of your child getting cavities?
A “yes’” answer to any of these questions will help protect your child from cavities.
Y N
Does your child drink water daily that contains fluoride*?
Are your child’s teeth brushed by an adult before bedtime?
Does the toothpaste you use for your child contain fluoride?
Has your child been seen by a dental professional?
What change can you make to protect your child from cavities?
your public water supply has fluoride.
855-750-3343
(English)
http://bit.ly/2zgGDxx (Spanish)
Picked Picked Up by Whom Destination Initial Parent/Guardian Signature
Not Applicable
http://www. ks.childcareaware. org/for-child-care- early-education-staff/ toolkits/
The Goodness Jar
CE-Family Engagement
Create more fun in your
life, develop positive relationships and begin to see new possibilities.
Life can be stressful. Many of us feel like there isn’t enough time and too much to do. Rushing, worrying, and feeling frazzled are all too commonplace. These feelings and types of negative energy impact our
families, our workplaces and our spirits.
The good news is that we can learn to make new choices in how we respond. We can create more fun in our lives, develop positive relationships and begin to see new possibilities. Here’s a great tool to get started:
Create a Goodness Jar - The idea behind a Goodness Jar is simple. As you notice beautiful moments,
write them down and put them in a Goodness Jar. You can find a Goodness Jar anywhere - from a consignment shop, in your home or at the store.
Place the jar in an accessible spot like the kitchen table – include a pen and scrapbook paper close by so you can write down all the beautiful moments that happen during your day.
It will be a wonderful opportunity to read them periodically or celebrate at the end of the year. This can be done for your team at work in the break room, in your classroom, or with your child care children/families. Focus on beautiful moments and then treasure them.
By Erin Ramsey, Author and Inspirational Speaker: www.erinramsey.com
Great Outdoors
CE-Physical Activity
Growth Mindset (English and
Growth Mindset in Young Children Using Purposeful Praise
We all praise special moments - from grow their intelligence and skill their first step, first words, putting Children with a growth mindset on their own coats, to writing their THRIVE during a challenge, pers names. But, did you know the way through obstacles, and recogniz
in which you praise a child and mistakes are part of the overall
http://bit.ly/2KLIxLe (English)
The Power of Yet (English and Spanish)
CE-Child Development
Preschool
The Power of
“I can’t do it!” is a phrase we have all heard before (and sometimes it comes from our own mouth)!
One word can help shift our mindset from fixed to growth. The power of YET. As we all know, children grow and learn at their
own uniquepace. Whena child becomes
frustrated and resorts to the dreaded phrase “I CAN’T” remind them of the process of learning. “You can’t do this yet but keep trying!” or “Maybe you are not able to now but let me show you a different way.” Or “Don’t give up, I like the way you continue to try.”
YouTube
Sesame Street characters Zoe and Elmo discover the Power of Yet. https:// youtu.be/46UhAtPyXw4
Activity Idea
Tightrope Walking: Walking on an
imaginary “tightrope” made out of masking tape can help a child build concentration, confidence, and coordination. http://www. pbs.org/parents/daniel/tightrope-walking/
PRESCHOOL
The Stepping Stone to
School Readiness
Choosing a preschool can be a daunting task.
Every skill takes time to learn. Frustration can
YET
easily derail progress and cause a child to stop trying. Let children work
through a difficult task resisting the urge to jump in and fix it for them. Allowing
for mistakes and encouraging a child to continue to try are all part of building
self-confidence and resilience. Look at mistakes as an opportunity
to ‘exercise our brains” and learn rather than fail. Changing our language and recognizing
mistakes are an essential part of the learning process that will help not only children’s mindset
but also our own.
Read Aloud
Giraffes Can’t Dance
by Giles Andreae
With light-footed
rhymes and high-stepping illustrations,
teaching-content/giraffes-cant-dance-lesson-plan/
COMMON TYPES OF PRESCHOOL
PROGRAMS IN KANSAS (alphabetized)
Faith-Based Programs
There are many different types of faith-based
preschool programs, often housed in churches or religious centers. These programs focus primarily on the development of a strong moral foundation. The faith-based approach utilizes experiences from the
child’s own life to relate to religious concepts.
http://bit.ly/2znVgiT (English)
http://bit.ly/2RDCdsA (Spanish)
acknowledge their mistakes can learning process. Our language c
actually help GROW their brain? directly affect the way children n
Experts agree that attending a high-quality preschool Head Start Programs
program prepares children for kindergarten. Figuring The Head Start program provides comprehensive
only see themselves but also vie
Offering process praise and world around them.
accepting mistakes are both vital
in helping to create a growth We can all make a difference by
out the type of preschool that best fits your child is
the first step.
With so many different preschool options available,
call the program and ask about staffing, curriculum,
education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement
services to low-income children and their families.
The overall philosophy of the Head Start program is to
bring about a greater degree of social competence in
children of low-income families.
GET
EMPOWERED!
Z
Access the low-cost practical steps
and healthier purchasing policies that
have already been adopted in thousands
of child care facilities across the nation.
Download the free checklist offered by
Eco-Healthy Child Care® (EHCC)
at www.cehn.org/ehcc to get started
on making healthier choices
right away.
mindset in a child.
shifting our own mindset to a gr
mindset. Use purposeful process
admission policy, and fees. Find out if the preschool
TRANSITIONS
has an open house, then plan a visit to get to know
Montessori Programs
This play-based approach emphasizes nature,
Spanish)
CE-Social
Instead of this:
A
DEVELOP POLICIES
Have a process for reporting anything out of the • Use repetition (practice), rhymes, games, books &
ordinary to local law enforcement.
Never share information about a child with anyone • Invite emergency professionals to visit your facilit except his/her parents & inform staff to do the same. OR conduct a field trip and visit their facility.
Conduct background checks for all staff and volunteers.
Be aware of adults near your facility whom you do not • Assign a staff member to answer the door or mon
Wow! You made a
tall tower of blocks.
You are so smart.
You did it!
A growth mindset is simply a belief praise while celebrating mistake
GET CHILDREN INVOLVED
provide simple instructions.
Ask children to describe what they did during a dr and how they felt during the drill.
Establish a relationship with local law enforcement. • Keep in mind children need to learn how to:
that with purposeful language and These simple changes can help
effort we can actually help a child children grow and thrive.
What exactly is process praise?
Say this:
I like how you kept
building even when
it fell. Tell me about
your tower.
I like how you really
tried hard on that.
I like how you didn't give
up learning how to write
your name. Now let's
look at your last name.
Readiness
the staff.
(mouthwash, hand sanitizer, Nicotine Gum/Patches
perfume, cologne)
Garage Chemicals
laundry detergent pods) • Alcoholic Beverages
Health & Beauty Products • Cigarettes, Liquid Nicotine, and
counter, vitamins) and windshield washer fluid)
Household Cleaners • Lawn Products
Laundry Products (including • Bug and Pest Control Products
or in large quantities.
Medicine (prescription, over-the- • Car Products (including antifreeze
may seem harmless, but can be poisonous to children if used in the wrong way,
These products should be locked up, out of reach and sight of children. Some
LOCK PRODUCTS UP
Parental Mental Illness
Parental Addiction
Chronic Neglect
Physical or Emotional Abuse
Frightening Injury
Death of a Loved One
Natural Disasters
Learning a New Skill
Taking a Test
Receiving an Immunization
Meeting a New Caregiver
For more information check out - www.kidsks.org
We know that one caring adult can help a child heal from past abuse. Being a buffer for a child can calm an overactive stress response system, lowering amounts of stress hormones present in their bodies. Providing a Safe, Stable, and Nurturing environment will help your children’s brain develop better too!
Supply predictable schedules and routines
Educate parents of best parenting practices and good role modeling
Teach children to identify their emotions and reactions to upsetting situations so they can learn and practice appropriate responses
Provide nonpunitive, solution-focused discipline
Focus on resilience; discuss strategies for overcoming obstacles, praise effort, and allow them to practice decision-making skills
USING THE ACES RESEARCH TO
REDUCE THE EFFECTS OF TRAUMA
40x
60%
POSITIVE
TOLERABLE
TOXIC
HOW TO HELP
TIPS TO BEGIN
Preschool is an important stepping stone; it builds a
foundation that children need for success in school.
creativity, and hands-on learning with gentle guidance
provided by the teachers. Children are encouraged to
be independent and to engage in tasks that relate to
real life.
Play-Based Programs
Play-based preschools are typically the most popular.
The philosophy behind this type of preschool is
that young children learn best through play-based
activities. Most play-based programs offer structured
activities, as well as non-structured play times.
Teachers help to facilitate learning through play and
interaction with other children.
Reggio Emilia Programs
This approach encourages exploration and focuses on
the importance of community and self-expression.
With this approach children are guided by an open-
ended and child-led approach. They learn through
art projects and activities that reflect their ideas and
interests.
School District Based Programs
School district based preschool programs enhance
a child’s social, emotional, and physical growth and
learning through meaningful learning experiences
that are aligned to the Kansas Early Learning
Standards. Teachers and caregivers use evidence-based
curriculum that includes play. Teachers work closely
with families and use variety of teaching strategies to
best meet the needs of each child in the classroom.
Emotional
Praise the process instead on focusing on praising the person only.
(Spanish)
CE-Preschool
TALK throughout the day about what your are doing, seeing and experiencing.
READ signs, books, labels, and posters—exposing children to new words and phrases.
PLAY can include items like a wooden spoon/pot; it doesn’t require expensive toys or games.
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Healthier
Environments
Promoting Healthier Environments
Did you know that there is a
difference in sanitizing and
disinfecting when cleaning?
Sanitizing products reduce germs
to a safe level and disinfecting
products destroys most germs.
Safer cleaning products are not only
less-toxic and environmentally safe, but
they also often cost the same or less
Bleach is often used to sanitize Hydrogen peroxide is a safer compared to conventional cleaners.
and disinfect because it is a alternative. It will not leave a
familiar product however, this harmful residue or introduce To incorporate safer cleaners in your child
option can cause irritation to irritating fumes into the air. care facility, check out Caring for Our Children
Preschool Skill-
Building (English
(English)
CE-Safety
the lungs and skin if not
used properly.
Edition 3, chapter 3: Health Promotion and
Protection 3.3.0.1: Routine Cleaning,
Sanitizing, and Disinfecting.
For additional information about using hydrogen
peroxide and other safe cleaning products Green Seal
and EcoLogo are non-profit companies that research
and certify products that are biodegradable and
environmentally friendly. Visit www.greenseal.org
and/or www.ecologo.org to verify whether the products
you use are safe, healthy and effective. Additionally,
the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
created Safer Choice. This label verifies that the
product ingredients have been thoroughly reviewed by
eats
Healthy from to
the EPA review. Visit https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice.
and Spanish)
CE-Preschool
Preschool/Kindergarten
(Spanish)
Healthy Eats from
Want to eat healthier but need new ideas? From A to Z, we’ve provided a whole
alphabet of delicious, healthy recipes that are easy to prepare and require few
ingredients. Many can be made with children’s help. Enjoy!
Apple-licious personal parfaits: Core and dice a small apple, then toss with ½ tsp. of
cinnamon. Place apple in a small, clear dish. Top with 2 T. low-fat vanilla yogurt and
granola sprinkles.
Broccoli florets with cottage cheese dip: Mix a cup of low-fat cottage cheese with half of
a packet of Ranch dip mix.
Cheesy toast: Cut low-fat cheese slices into fun shapes using cookie cutters. Put
cheese on a slice of whole wheat bread and broil until cheese is slightly melted and
bread begins to brown.
Preschool/
Helping children transition to preschool or kindergarten can be exciting. Simple steps can be taken to help make
the transition a successful one. Preparing your child can be a fun family activity that will not only benefit your child
academically but also prepare a great
learning foundation for their future.
Teach Independence
Encourage your child to become
A-Z
Dried fruit trail mix: In a large zip bag, place 2 cups of Wheat Chex cereal and a half-
cup each of dried diced fruit, raisins, cranberries and peanuts. Shake to mix. Nuts are a
superfood!
Easy English muffin pizzas: Split a whole wheat english muffin in half and spread both
Kindergarten
Create Routines
Summer schedules can be busy; by
creating a bedtime and wake-up
time you can help your child know
independent with basic self-
care skills. These skills will
build self-confidence making
the transition to kindergarten
a little smoother. This includes:
sides with pizza sauce. Top with thin strips of string cheese. Bake until cheese is melted
and bubbly.
what to expect as they approach going to school. • Hand washing • Nose
This will also ensure they get enough sleep to be • Opening simple snacks wiping
Fruit salsa with cinnamon tortilla chips: Cut whole wheat flour tortillas into triangles
and sprinkle with a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Bake for 10 minutes or until crunchy. While chips are baking, mix a small can of crushed pineapple with diced fruit such as kiwi, mango and strawberries. Use chips to scoop the fruit salsa.
Great green palm tree: Create a palm tree using one cinnamon graham cracker stick (trunk), 4 green apple slices (palm fronds), 3 green grapes (coconuts) and alphabet cereal.
Hummus dip with assorted raw veggies: Drain a can of chickpeas, reserving liquid.
Transitions
ready to learn!
READ READ
Zipping a backpack • Covering mouth when
Simple clothing fasteners coughing/sneezing and zippers
CE-Nutrition
Healthy Moves from A-Z
CE-Physical Activity
Intruder Awareness (English &
Put chickpeas into blender with 1 T. olive oil and blend on low speed, gradually adding
reserved bean liquid until desired consistency is achieved. Season to taste with garlic powder and salt.
Ice-pops: Pour 100% fruit juice into popsicle molds. Add crushed pineapple or diced strawberries for color.
Juicy Jello jigglers: Mix 2 ½ cups of juice (fruit and veggie blends work well) with 2 large packets of strawberry Jell-O. Pour into a pan and chill until set.
Kiwi kabobs: Peel kiwi and cut into chunks. Thread kiwi chunks onto long toothpicks or skewers, alternating with cubes of Colby-Jack cheese.
Lettuce wraps: Fill large leaves of iceberg lettuce with a slice of low-fat turkey breast and a sprinkling of shredded cheddar cheese. Eat like a soft taco!
Mighty milk: In a blender, mix 2 cups of skim milk with 8 ice cubes, Whole Grain Food
2 bananas and 4 T. orange juice concentrate. Cover and blend until Super Food
smooth.
Healthy from to
Use these simple prompts to inspire daily physical activity in young children. Challenge children to come up with additional moves related to the letters of the alphabet.
Ask children to come up with different ways to make an ARCH with their body.
Practice BALANCE skills with a balance beam or stepping stones.
CRAWL through tunnels. Old sheets and moving boxes make great, portable tunnels.
DART through a homemade obstacle course. Great fun for inside or outside play!
EXPLORE the great outdoors. Look for wildlife. Chase after butterflies and fireflies.
Feel the rush of the wind as you FLAP your arms like they are wings.
Challenge children to GALLOP forwards and backwards, in different pathways and at different speeds.
Read Who Hops? by Katie Davis, then let children HOP or move like the animals in the book.
INFANTS need tummy time to strengthen muscles, improve balance and learn coordination.
Place a series of “lily pad” hula hoops on the ground and encourage children to JUMP from one lily pad to the next.
KICK balls of various sizes.
Learn to be limber with a game of LIMBO!
MARCH to the beat using homemade instruments or some John Phillips Sousa tunes.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS TIPS
Intruder Awareness and Program Safety
http://bit.ly/2rUTC0j (English)
CE-School
Readiness
Protecting Children from Poison
CE-Safety
Reading with Dad (English &
READ Get Organized
Set aside time to read with your child. Make this a Teach your child organization skills such as cleaning
fun family activity - read as a family or set a schedule their room and putting away toys. This will help with to take turns reading. Check with your local library transitions during the school day. Create a space for about summer programs that include story times. puzzles, toys, and books using plastic bins from a local This is a great opportunity for your child to learn to dollar store. This will give your child an opportunity listen to a story, ask questions, and explore other to learn how to return classroom materials to their books that might peak their interest. Consider setting designated location. It will also encourage them to
a family goal for the number of books read with a complete a task with little prompting. fun celebration once the goal is met. This can be as
simple as a trip to the local park or perhaps a special family dinner. Visit https://www.aft.org/sites/default/ files/wysiwyg/t2k_booklist.pdf for a list of teacher recommended books to prepare for kindergarten.
Protecting Children from POISONS!
Children are curious, and as they develop, they often learn by touching, grabbing and tasting things. While it’s important to encourage kids to explore and discover new things, when it comes to potential poisons, we want to keep them safe. Here are a few tips to show you how!
POISON PREVENTION AT HOME
Always keep medicine, household chemicals and cleaning products in their original, labeled containers. Never use emptied beverage or food containers, which could lead to children thinking the substance is a food or beverage.
Keep purses, diaper bags, work/travel bags up & out of reach of small children.
Read medicine and product labels before each use and follow directions exactly.
Never call medicine “candy” or make a game out of taking medicine.
Teach children to ask an adult before tasting anything.
Avoid taking medicine in front of children. They like to imitate adults and may follow your example.
Safely dispose of expired or unneeded medicines.
Save the Poison Help number, 1-800-222-1222, in your phone as a contact and post
it in clear view for all caregivers and family members to see.
Poison centers offer free, confidential medical advice available 24/7. If you think someone has been poisoned, call right away. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
POISON CENTERS ARE HERE TO HELP
Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home.
(English)
http://bit.ly/2DKgdUT (Spanish)
http://bit.ly/2QEAw9E (English)
Spanish)
Communicate plans/policies with families.
CONDUCT PRACTICE DRILLS
Walk in line — Understand when to get he
Keep quiet — Tell an adult about a
Follow directions threatening situation
Spanish)
Conduct frequent drills allowing staff and children to GET TO KNOW YOUR FAMILIES
practice responding positively and effectively. • Interact with child care families and establish
Give children and parents advance warning about drills relationships.
and what to expect. • Ask questions about things that seem out of the
Stay calm and act quickly—children are more likely to ordinary.
do the same. Know what calms or frightens individual • Make sure adults picking up children are authorize children – they will react differently when stressed.
CE-Emergency
Preparedness Kids and Nature
CE-Health
BE ALERT OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS
recognize.
FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCTS
If something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t - TAKE ACTION!
Take notice of unusual visits or phone calls.
MONITOR ACCESS TO YOUR FACILITY
the building’s entrance(s) at all times.
Install buzzers or bells that sound when doors ope
Create a mandatory sign-in procedure for everyon (parents, visitors, staff, etc.).
(Spanish) http://bit.ly/2RGUkhg
CE-Family
Engagement
Reducing the Effects of Trauma
CE-Social Emotional
In 1998, the CDC and Kaiser Permanente, published a study that showed a link between 10 types of
adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and lifelong health. Subsequent research found that high levels of stress (toxic stress) during childhood change how the brain and body develop. While some stress is necessary for children to learn new skills and coping strategies, exposure to prolonged stress can adversely affect brain development and cause the body to release harmful levels of stress hormones.
Brief increases in heart Serious temporary stress Prolonged activation of stress rate, mild elevations in responses, buffered by response systems in absence stress hormone levels. supportive relationships. of protective relationships.
BECOMING A PROTECTIVE FACTOR THE HEALING PROCESS
“Every child who winds up doing well has had at
least one stable and committed relationship with a supportive adult.”
Center on the Developing Child, Harvard, 2015
lemonadeforlife.com
ABCs of Safe Sleep
Sleep Alone on their Back Clutter-free Crib
SAFE SLEEP 101
(Spanish) http://bit.ly/2pkUICb
Let Them Play
CE-Child
LET THEM PLAY!
Play should be fun, engaging and challenging. By helping children take part in different types of play on their own, and with others, and by providing a well-resourced play environment inside and out, caregivers can greatly enrich the learning opportunities that play provides.
Pretend play - writing menus and taking orders...
...DEVELOPS CREATIVITY, IMAGINATION, LITERACY AND MATH, SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL SKILLS, AND PROBLEM-SOLVING ABILITIES.
Playing with nesting or stacking toys and large blocks...
...DEVELOPS FINE MOTOR SKILLS.
(Fine Motor—small movements that support skills such as self-care and pencil holding).
Playing dress-up ...
...DEVELOPS CREATIVITY, IMAGINATION, SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL SKILLS, AND PROBLEM-SOLVING ABILITIES.
Playing with puzzles and building toys...
...DEVELOPS COORDINATION.
Safe Sleep
(English & Spanish)
Reduce the Risk of SIDS!
Pregnant women and caregivers should:
Receive regular prenatal care
Maintain a smoke-free environment
Avoid alcohol and illicit drug use
Follow breastfeeding recommendations
KNOW THE SIDS* FACTS…
#1 Cause of Child Deaths 1-12 Months
3,500 Total Deaths Each Year in the U.S.
Greater Risk of SIDS for Babies Who Sleep in Adult Bed
Lower Risk of SIDS for Babies Who Receive Breastmilk
Easy Tips to Follow!
Make sure the crib meets safety standards
Avoid putting baby in warm rooms or overheating
Use a pacifier without cords or clips
Supervise awake tummy time
Follow immunization recommendations
THINK S.N.O.R.E.S. FOR KEEPING A SLEEPING BABY SAFE!
S—Smoke-free environment N—No blankets or loose bedding O—On their back to sleep R—Room sharing, not bed sharing
E—Empty crib, free of toys & other soft bedding
S—Surface of mattress is firm
(English)
Development
My Plate Bookmark
CE-Nutrition Play in the Mud
Playing any type of game...
...DEVELOPS LANGUAGE SKILLS AND TEACHES CHILDREN HOW TO GET ALONG WITH OTHERS.
Music and movement activities...
...DEVELOPS FINE AND LARGE MOTOR SKILLS.
(Fine Motor—small movements that support skills such as self-care and pencil holding. Large Motor—bigger movements that support muscle development).
855-750-3343
1-855-750-3343
Flip to the back for a lunch and dinner meal plan to help you make a healthy choices every day!
Not Applicable
CE-Infants
Small Steps Create Long- Lasting Change CE-
Professionalism Talk, Read, Play
*Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID)
FOLLOWING SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES SAVES LIVES!
Small Steps Create Long-Lasting Change
Experts tell us it takes 21 days to form a new habit; small steps done consistently over long periods of time result in permanent change. Keep in mind that change is a process, not an event; results will come over a period of time!
Tips for Taking Care of Yourself:
1. Add one fruit or vegetable to your personal menu. Try something new once a month!
2. Park at the end of the row furthest from the store; this adds extra steps to your day.
3. Drink 8 oz more of water than you normally do. Water helps your body’s immune system as well as boosting alertness.
4. Go to bed 15 minutes earlier. Sleep is when your body recovers from the stress of the day. Lack of sleep can cause illness and irritability.
5. Take one hour per week to do what you love to do! Explore a hobby, recreational sport or get together with a friend.
6. Take 15 minutes every day to rest your mind and body. Closing your eyes and allowing your body and mind to relax increases energy levels and eases stress.
Tips for Taking Care of Your Child Care Business:
1. Add 15 more minutes for outdoor time. Fresh air is healthy for the children and adults!
2. Try one new food each week with the children. Think color, texture and nutrition!
3. Use one new transition technique each month. Finger plays, songs with motion and storytelling can help make transitions smooth by creating less wait time.
4. Rotate one-quarter of your toys once a month. Children’s brains seek novelty; toy rotation is an inexpensive way to keep things exciting!
5. Attend a professional development event! Local, state and national training events rejuvenate, inspire and give support to your ideas and your business.
6. Set aside at least 20 minutes a day to get your business paperwork in order. Staying on top of food program, licensing and tax forms reduces stress and increases productivity and time with your family.
Stay positive, seek advice from a knowledgeable coworker, friend, fellow child care provider, etc. Support to begin your journey and meet your goals takes patience, perseverance, planning, and most of all it takes the willingness to try!
Sherron French, Child Care Aware® of Kansas, Kansas Child, Summer 2015
855-750-3343
Talk, Read, Play
Be a language-builder, a knowledge-maker, and a fun-creator!
“The more that you read, the more things you will know.
The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
~Dr. Seuss~
(Spanish) http://bit.ly/2MODKGe
CE-Child
Development
CE-Child
Development
Talk Read Play
...with your child every day!
Find a pledge card at www.ks.childcareaware.org. Fill it out and hang it on your refrigerator, parent resource board, office door—anywhere others can see it and help to hold you accountable!
For more information, visit www.TalkReadPlayKC.org.
Special thanks to the Children’s Campus of Kansas City
for use of content.
Tips for Choosing a Car Seat (English & Spanish) CE-Safety | Choosing a Car Seat Road injuries are Car seats are not one-size- Use the “Inch” test and the Consult a certified child the leading cause of fits-all. The “BEST” car seat “Pinch” test. When installed passenger safety technician unintentional deaths to is the seat that: and locked into the vehicle, (CPST). To locate an children in the United 1) fits your child a car seat should not move inspection station near you States. Correctly used car 2) fits in your vehicle more than an inch when you visit kansascarseatcheck. seats can reduce the risk tug the base where the seat org. of death by as much as 3) that you will use belt goes through it. Read 71%! correctly every single time. your car seat and vehicle Every car seat has an owner’s manuals for the best expiration date—usually Car seats are for providing Before you buy, visit information. around six years. Find the safety on the go. When ultimatecarseatguide.org to label and double check to you arrive home, the child help you select the right type Harnesses should be snug on make sure your seat is still should be moved to a safe of seat for your child’s age your child where you cannot safe. place to sleep or play. and development. pinch any loose webbing at the shoulders, and the Discard an expired seat— Remember! Send in the Only use a second-hand car harness clip should be remove the harnesses, car seat registration card seat if you know the seat positioned across the chest padding and foam. Write or register online with the has not been in a crash and at armpit level. “Expired” or “Unsafe to car seat manufacturer. all labels are present and use” in permanent marker You will receive alerts if readable. During the hot summer on it. Placing a whole car the seat is recalled. months set up a reminder seat in the trash may entice system with caregivers others to take and use the so that children are not seat, believing it is safe. accidentally left in hot cars. For manufacturer recalls, check safercar.gov. For more information visit safekidskansas.org. ks.childcareaware.org 855-750-3343 | http://bit.ly/2qnrbpv (English) http://bit.ly/2KE0Mlx (Spanish) |
Watch Me Grow Chart CE-Child Development | ||
What Type of Child Care Do You Prefer for Your Family? CE-Choosing Quality Care | What Type of Child Care Do You Prefer for Your Family? START Do you HERE pr Do you e NO prefer all efer a mor children to structured be of similar RELAXED drop off/pick ages or varied VARIED up process? ages? AGES Do you prefer a facility that is more structured or YES more relaxed? SIMILAR AGES STRUCTURED Family and group child care homes often have less structured drop off/pick up practices, due to the smaller Do you number of children. NO prefer your Do you MORE Do you prefer to child to be prefer a set FLEXIBILITY be able to call transported? schedule and text to get r or do you e updates during YES equire mor NO the day? flexibility? Some family and group SET YES trchild care homes o Teachers in child care ansport children t SCHEDULE centers are often not and from school. Make allowed to have mobile sure to ask potential phones. If updates are child care providers if important to you, make they transport. sure to ask about their Do you prefer mobile phone policies. a program Do you prefer to teach NO there to be from a set more than one curriculum? adult present? Family and group child care YES homes usually do not have a curriculum, though some do. YES NO Often, preschools have a more structured curriculum than child care centers. Based on your responses, you Based on your responses, you would most likely prefer a... would most likely prefer a... CHILD CARE CENTER GROUP CHILD CARE HOME FAMILY CHILD CARE HOME Most centers separate the children into classrooms Most group child care homes have two adults Family child care homes have one adult who by ages. Depending on the number of adults in who care for as many as twelve children at one cares for as many as ten children at a time, each classroom, there can be as many as 32 time, depending on the ages of the children, depending on the ages of the children, which children in a classroom. Typically hours of operation which can vary from infant to school age. It is can vary from infant to school age. Some are set and are less flexible with scheduling. Drop more common for group child care homes to family child care homes transport in order to off & pick up times are often more structured, due transport, since there is more than one adult. drop off/pick up school age children. These to the large number of children in the facility. It is These facilities are often less structured during facilities are often less structured during drop not uncommon for parents to drop their children off drop off/pick up times, and allow for more off/pick up, and allow for more flexibility in with one teacher and pick up from another. flexibility in days & times care. days & times care. What Type of Child Care Do You Prefer for Your Family?.indd 1 7/3/18 10:11 AM | |
Why Tummy Time? CE-Infants | Why Tummy Time? HELP BABIES BUILD THE MUSCLES AND STRENGTH NEEDED FOR SITTING UP, ROLLING OVER, CRAWLING AND WALKING. Make tummy time fun by sitting on the floor and encouraging baby to play. Begin tummy time by placing the baby belly- down across your lap for a few minutes at a time. Transition baby to the floor by rolling up a small blanket and placing it under the chest and upper arms for added support. When baby is comfortable with this position spread out a blanket in an open area and place age-appropriate toys within reach. Keep it interesting by lying down and making eye contact, 855-750-3343 smiling and talking with baby. www.ks.childcareaware.org For younger babies start out with three to five minutes of tummy time, two to three times per day. As the baby gets used to tummy time extend the periods of time to help increase their strength. As baby learns to make their body do new things, baby will feel a sense of accomplishment that will give him the confidence to try new skills. Allowing a baby to spend time on their stomach helps to prevent the development of flat spots on the back of the head. The best time for tummy time is right after a nap or a diaper change when baby is alert and relaxed. | http://bit.ly/2lSWRDw (English) http://bit.ly/2LZWbZm (Spanish) |
Child Care Aware of Kansas News | July/August/September 2018 Child Care Aware® NEWS Our resource center makes finding quality child care programs quick and easy for 4 parents and families. 1 For child care providers and REGION ONE • Toll free 3 early learning staff, professional development opportunities and 855-750-3343 resources are available. Service Centers: Salina, Hays, 2 For local communities, supply and Colby SERVICE DELIVERY AREAS and demand data paints the picture about child care. Four Child Care Resource and Referral REGION TWO • Toll free Agencies (CCR&Rs), located across These are just a few of our many 800-684-3962 Kansas, provide services to all 105 services - for more details about counties. Together, we offer many all of the work we do, please Service Center: Wichita services for families, child care contact your local CCR&R. providers and community members. REGION THREE • Toll free 877-678-2548 Service Centers: Topeka, Play it Cool in the Summer and Lawrence Summer is a time for fun! Barbeques, swimming, camping and other outdoor activities are a REGION FOUR • Toll free great way to spend time with family and friends. A few tips can help keep children safe and 800-755-0838 keep the fun times going! Service Center: Kansas City • Watch for heat exhaustion - Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramping and confusion. If these occur, stop the activity, have the child lie down in a cool place and drink fluids. Seek medical care if symptoms do not stop or if the child’s body temperature is 103° or higher.
30 or higher that has both UVA and UVB protection for babies and children 6 months and older. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours, or every hour and a half if swimming (even with waterproof formulas). Infants younger than 6 months should stay in the shade. If these come into contact with skin, there is a window of about 10 minutes to wash g away the rash-causing oil with soap and water. If a rash develops, talk with the child’s pediatrician about using topical hydrocortisone and oral antihistamines to help soothe the itch. Child Care Aware® of Kansas Toll free 1-855-750-3343 For these and more summer safety tips, check out these resources: https://www.parents.com/baby/safety/outdoor/10-rules-for-summer-safety/ www.ks.childcareaware.org https://www.parenting.com/gallery/summer-safety-tips?page=4 Follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, YOUTUBE and Offices Closed PINTEREST! Wednesday, July 4, 2018 (Holiday) Monday, Sept. 3, 2018 (Holiday) 1 | |
Early Childhood Wellness Newsletter CE-Nutrition | April 2018 National Garden Month Spring Planting Creating a Container Garden Guide We all know that “April showers bring May will determine the size of the container flowers,” but did you know that April is used. Deep rooted vegetables require recognized as National Garden Month? As deep pots. the weather shifts, now is the perfect time • Make sure your pot has adequate April to consider how you can create a garden. drainage. Holes should be ½ inch Beet What a great excuse to get outside and get across. Line the base of the pot with Broccoli your hands dirty! newspaper to prevent soil loss. Brussels Sprout Cabbage
Guide to Container Gardening allow free drainage. Cauliflower Even the smallest area can boast a crop • Line hanging baskets with sphagnum Cilantro of vegetables or a garden of flowers in moss for water retention. Keep baskets Collards containers. Planter boxes, wooden barrels, away from afternoon sun. Kale hanging baskets and large flowerpots are • If you choose clay pots, remember that Lettuce just some of the containers that can be clay is porous, and water is lost from Mustard used. Consider the following guidelines the sides of the container. Plants in clay Onion when choosing your container: pots should be monitored closely for Parsley loss of moisture. Peas, Snap Potato
narrow openings. fertilizer will be washed out of the Spinach UV sunlight and terracotta pots dry will require more frequent fertilizing than out rapidly. Glazed ceramic pots are heavier mixes. It’s a good idea to use a May excellent choices, but require diluted liquid fertilizer with every other Beans several drainage holes. watering. Liquid fish emulsion or liquid (Bush and Pole) resistant and sure that they Cantaloupe can be used contain a Okra Peas, Southern without staining complete, Peppers or painting. balanced Pumpkin One advantage of solution Summer Squash wooden containers is that includes Sunflower that they can be built trace elements. Sweet Potato to sizes and shapes Tomato that suit the location. Watermelon root area and dry out very quickly. The Read more: Guide to Container Gardening | Garden size and number of plants to be grown Guides - https://www.gardenguides.com/685-guide- |
Kansas Child | ||
Family Focus | FAMILY FOCUS Brainy Benefits of Emotion, Affection and Relationships It is critical for children to know that they are surrounded by people that accept them, want to assist them in being successful, and celebrate their accomplishments. The three pillars of love - emotion, affection and relationships - create a climate for both children and adults to learn. TEXT Get info at your fingertips By focusing on developing strong relationships with infants and toddlers, text — KSKIDS to 59925 you can help them develop the skills that will have lifelong benefits. Relationships take time and work to build, but the benefits are rewarding for all! Being sensitive to children’s needs shows them that they are valued. Practicing sensitivity will help them see how sympathy, empathy and proximity help in developing stronger relationships. By being aware of an infant’s reactions, you create an understanding of different emotions and the understanding in turn allows you to form an appropriate strategy to soothe and support them. Children’s exploration is important for their discovery, learning and problem-solving skills. Simply by being present and engaged, you will assist in their exploration and their excitement will increase, making their CALL experiences even more powerful. To receive a Child Care List 855-750-3343 Using loving language helps create communication with children that builds their brains and helps them learn. The benefits begin even before infancy and will continue on. Loving language is thoughtful, uses sensitive words, and celebrates their successes. Children need support to be successful! They need you to show them how important they are. Show them that you are SEARCH there for them, Resources online at whenever www.ks.childcareaware.org they need help. Enjoy their successes, celebrate, have fun and love them! To stay up-to-date: |
Community Information Sheets CE-Community Resources | ||
CCAKS Annual Reports CE-Professionalism | ||
2015 County Workforce Study CE-Economic | ||
Who Cares for Kansas Children CE-Economic | ||
Supply Demand Report 2017 CE-Economic |
Supply Demand County Sheets 2017 CE-Economic | Saline County Extent Desired Capacity Meets Potential Demand 2017 Child Care Supply Demand County Profile 55% Number of Children In many Kansas communities, families Number of Children Under Age 6 Receiving Children with All Parents searching for child care find that the number Under Age 6 DCF1 Child Care Subsidy in the Workforce of available openings for their young children 4,755 228 71% can be few and far between. When a parent has a choice to select a quality program that is best for their children, everyone in the community benefits. For the full Child Care Supply Demand Report, Unique Services Offered by Child Care Providers visit our website! NON-TRADITIONAL CARE Care Available in the Evenings 7 Child Care Aware® of Kansas is the network Care Available Overnight 1 of four Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agencies that serve all 105 counties Care Available on Weekends 3 in Kansas. Daily, we provide information, Part-time Care Available 95 support and resources to child care providers, families, and communities. Special Needs Care Available 90 Child Care Resource and Referral Agency: Infant Toddler Care Available 146 Child Care Aware® of Kansas FACILITY/PROVIDER INFORMATION 1508 E. Iron Salina, KS 67401 Number of Providers in Field for 5 or More Years 120 Number of Providers That Speak a Language Other 1 Than English Child Care Facilities in the County Number of Providers Accepting DCF1 Child Care Subsidy 79 TYPES OF LICENSED CHILD CARE 1 DCF stands for the Kansas Department for Children and Families. Licensed Day Care Home 125 Group Day Care Home 17 Child Care Center 11 Preschool 6 CAPACITY OF CHILD CARE PROGRAMS Licensed Capacity 2,177 Number of Children a Facility is Willing to Accept 1,829 (Desired Capacity) Extent Desired Capacity Meets Potential Demand 55% Child Care Aware® of Kansas collects self-reported data on families, children, and child care providers. While the licensing data provided is comprehensive, it cannot be considered complete. There is likely a delay leading to some closed facilities being included and some newly opened facilities being excluded. | |
Supply Demand Report 2018 CE-Economic | ||
Supply Demand Action Plan 2018 CE-Economic | ||
Workforce Study 2018 CE-Economic |
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50 Profitable Strategies CE-Business |
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