Deaths prompt CPSC, FDA warning on infant sleep positioners

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today warned consumers to stop using infant sleep positioners. Over the past 13 years, CPSC and the FDA have received 12 reports of infants between the ages of 1 month and 4 four months who died when they suffocated in sleep positioners or became trapped and suffocated between a sleep positioner and the side of a crib or bassinet.

Most of the infants suffocated after rolling from a side to stomach position. In addition to the reported deaths, CPSC has received dozens of reports of infants who were placed on their backs or sides in sleep positioners, only to be found later in potentially hazardous positions within or next to the sleep positioners.

“The deaths and dangerous situations resulting from the use of infant sleep positioners are a serious concern to CPSC,” said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. “We urge parents and caregivers to take our warning seriously and stop using these sleep positioners, so that children can have a safer sleep.”

The two main types of infant sleep positioners are flat mats with side bolsters or inclined (wedge) mats with side bolsters.


Both types of sleep positioners typically claim to help keep infants on their backs and reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The FDA has never cleared an infant sleep positioner to prevent or reduce the risk of SIDS. In addition, CPSC and the FDA are unaware of any scientific studies demonstrating that infant positioners prevent SIDS or are proven to prevent suffocation or other life-threatening harm.

“To date, there is no scientifically sound evidence that infant sleep positioners prevent SIDS,” said Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner and a pediatrician. “We want to make sure parents, health care professionals, and childcare providers understand the potential risk of suffocation and stop using infant sleep positioners.”

Sleep positioners also typically claim to do one or all of the following: aid in food digestion to ease colic or the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); and prevent flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly). In light of the new safety data, FDA believes any benefit from using these devices to ease GERD or prevent plagiocephaly is outweighed by the risk of suffocation.

CPSC and the FDA are warning parents and child care providers to:

STOP using sleep positioners. Using a positioner to hold an infant on his or her back or side for sleep is dangerous and unnecessary.
NEVER put pillows, infant sleep positioners, comforters, or quilts under a baby or in a crib.
ALWAYS place an infant on his or her back at night and during nap time. To reduce the risk of SIDS, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends placing infants to sleep on their backs and not their sides.
The American Academy of Pediatrics does not support the use of any sleep positioner to prevent SIDS.

Manufacturers of infant sleep positioners with medical claims that have not been reviewed by the FDA should stop marketing those products until they submit, and the FDA clears, appropriate premarket review submissions, including necessary safety and effectiveness data.

FDA has informed manufacturers of cleared devices of the agency's serious concern and has requested that they submit clinical data showing the benefits of their products outweigh the risk of suffocation or other serious harm.

Prompt reporting of adverse events can help the FDA and CPSC identify and better understand the risks associated with infant sleep positioners. If you have had a problem with an infant sleep positioner, the agencies encourage you to file a report through FDA’s MedWatch program, at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/HowToReport/default.htm

CPSC is interested in receiving incident or injury reports related to these products. Please visit https://www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/incident.aspx to file a report.

For more information:

CPSC: Consumer Blog http://www.cpsc.gov/onsafety/2010/09/sleep-positioners-a-suffocation-risk/

FDA: Infant Sleep Positioners Pose Suffocation Risk (Consumer article) http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm227575.htm

FDA: Infant Positioner Initial Communication http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/AlertsandNotices/ucm227301.htm

FDA: Letter to Manufacturers Concerning Medical Claims About Infant Sleep Positioners http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/ucm227302.htm

FDA: Letter to Manufacturers of 510(k)-cleared Infant Positioners http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ResourcesforYou/Industry/ucm227303.htm

NIH: Back to Sleep Campaign http://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/safe_sleep_gen.cfm

NIH: Preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Suffocation www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/Sudden_Infant_Death_Syndrome.cfm

AAP: Policy Statement on SIDS http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/pediatrics;116/5/1245

State of Indiana Gives Parents More Ways to Locate and Recognize High Quality Child Care

Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Mindy Bennett at Child Care Answers
Phone: 317-636-5727 x 224
Date/Time: September 28, 2010

Paths to QUALITY™, Indiana’s voluntary quality rating and improvement system for child care programs will launch a sign campaign on October 5th designed to provide families with a new tool for recognizing high quality child care.

Child Care Answers will be hosting a Press Conference, with ten other simultaneous press conferences throughout the state on October 5th, 2010 at 10:00 am EST. The local press conference will be held at United Way of Central Indiana Conference Room D: 3901 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis IN 46208. Exciting news will be announced by Mindy Bennett, Director of Programs and Carrie Ryland owner and operator of Better Beginnings.

Mindy Bennett of Child Care Answers states, “The signs and banners will be revealed at eligible child care programs as part of a single-day, statewide effort. We recognize how essential high quality child care is to our community. Research shows that high quality early learning experiences prepare children for future success in school, work and life. Paths to QUALITY™ is a free resource for families to use when choosing child care. The signs will immediately identify providers enrolled in Paths to QUALITY™ that provide high quality child care.”

According to Melanie Brizzi, Child Care Administrator for the Indiana Bureau of Child Care, “Over 1,900 child care programs have demonstrated their commitment to quality child care by participating in Paths to QUALITY™. The signs are a great way to recognize the efforts of programs rated at Levels 2, 3, or 4 and to tell others that these child care programs are working to give children the rich environments they deserve.”

Learn more about Paths to QUALITY™ and other child care resources in our community by contacting Child Care Answers at 317-631-4643 or www.childcareanswers.com.

To access a free, online search for a Paths to QUALITY ™ child care program, visit childcareindiana.org.
-End-

Additional Safe Sleep Class

We have added an additional Safe Sleep class in Indianapolis for Wednesday October 13th from 6pm-8:30pm. Contact Rae at (317) 636-5727 ext. 248.

Smithsonian

Smithsonian Free Day
Be the first to like this Add to My Trip Share on your social networks
09/25/2010 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM through 09/25/2010 at 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Conner Prairie
13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers, IN 46038 view on map
Event phone: 800-966-1836
Event web site: www.connerprairie.org

Conner Prairie, Indiana's only Smithsonian Affiliate, is participating in Smithsonian Museum Day, an annual event hosted by Smithsonian in which participating museums across the country open their doors for free to anyone presenting a Museum Day ticket. Visit www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday for a coupon for free general admission to Conner Prairie for Smithsonian Museum Day 2010. Offer only valid with coupon on Saturday, Sept. 25.

Weekend Tailgate Recipe

First-Down Chicken Wings











Another Tailgate staple that no party should go without!
Ingredients


• 4 Lbs chicken wings approximately 24 - 30
• Marinade
• 1 Cup apple cider
• 2 tbs white wine vinegar
• 2 tbs olive oil
• 2 tbs Worcestershire
• 2 tbs hot chili powder
• 1 Tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 Tsp Tabasco
• Tsp salt
• Ground pepper to taste
Directions
• Combine marinade ingredients together and mix very well in a large bowl. In an extra large Ziploc baggy, place chicken wings and add marinade over top.
• Be sure to coat all chicken wings and marinate in refrigerator for 4 hours or overnight before grilling.

Office Closed

Child Care Answers office will be closed on Friday October 8th all day. The office will resume normal business hours on Monday October 11th.

Sexual Violence Prevention Summit

September 24, 2010
8:00am - 12:30pm
Guilford Township Community Center
1500 South Center Street
Plainfield, IN 46168

On September 24th, 2010 the SVTF will host
its second annual Sexual Violence
Prevention Summit from 8:00am - 12:30pm
at the Guilford Township Community
Center in Plainfield. The summit will
feature a variety of speakers on the theme of
working together to prevent sexual violence.
The event is completely free and open to
both professionals and the general public.

Summit Agenda
8:00am: Complimentary Breakfast and Registration
8:25am: Opening Remarks
8:30am - 9:45am: Female Perpetrators
Karen A Duncan, M.A.
9:45am - 10:00am: Break
10:00am - 11:15am: Engaging Men in Prevention Work
Rus Ervin Funk, MSW
11:15am - 11:30am: Break
11:30am - 12:30pm: Teen Dating Violence Prevention
Karen A Duncan, M.A.

For Registration information contact Jenni Hill at:
jhill@co.hendricks.in.us or call (317) 745-9372.

Roadmap to Special Education: Laws and Process

About Special Kids (ASK) is the place for families and professionals in Indiana to go to “ASK” questions about children with special needs and to access information and resources about a variety of topics such as health insurance, special education, community resources and medical homes. ASK is the connection to family support in the state of Indiana and we are committed to helping families access the resources and support they need to ensure the success of their children.

One opportunity that we provide to both families and professionals are trainings to inform and educate them, and to serve as a system of support and reference. We strive to provide each parent and professional with a positive training experience that will provide them with the tools necessary to navigate through the Special Education and Health Insurance systems.

On September 22nd, we have a training, Roadmap to Special Education: Laws and Process, scheduled in Greenwood. For more information and to register for the training visit the website.

This training, combining the Article 7 and IEP training, is an all day training that offers basic information about special education laws and regulations for Indiana children ages 3-21. In addition, this training provides information on how to prepare for a case conference and write an IEP. This training is a great opportunity for family members and professionals who advocate for children with a disability or serious chronic illness.

Toy Recall

Giant Starbuilders and Giant Stars Building Sets Recalled by Edushape Due to Choking Hazard

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product: Giant Starbuilder and Giant Stars building sets

Units: About 13,500

Distributor: Edushape Ltd., of Deer Park, N.Y.

Hazard: Plastic knobs can break from the center of the star, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: CPSC and Edushape have received three reports of knobs breaking off from the center of the star. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves all Giant Starbuilders and Giant Stars building sets. The giant stars measure 5-inches in diameter and are made of opaque plastic. Each star has six knobs protruding from a ring-shaped center. The Giant Starbuilder set contains red, green, yellow and blue stars. The Giant Star building set contains red, green, yellow, blue, orange and pink stars.

Sold at: Small retail stores nationwide and online at Target.com, Toys R Us.com, Amazon.com and CSN through Walmart Marketplace from January 2007 through May 2010 for between $25 and $35.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled star blocks away from children and contact Edushape for a replacement set or credit towards another Edushape product of equal or lesser value.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Edushape at (800) 404-4744 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s website at www.edushape.com

CCA Training Opportunities!!

The summer is quickly coming to an end; however we have some “hot” training that you and/or your staff will enjoy…share the information with those that might benefit! Visit the training page on our website to check out the trainings and register!

Free Admission to Conner Prairie

Guests receive free admission for Smithsonian Magazine’s sixth annual Museum Day

FISHERS, Ind. (Sept. 9, 2010) – On Saturday, Sept. 25 Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, Indiana’s only Smithsonian Affiliate, will participate in Smithsonian magazine’s sixth annual Museum Day. Conner Prairie will join participating museums and cultural institutions nationwide to open its doors free of charge to all visitors who download the Museum Day Ticket from Smithsonian.com.

Museum Day 2010 is poised to be the largest to date, outdoing last year’s record-breaking event. Over 300,000 museum-goers and 1,300 venues in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico participated in Museum Day 2009. Last year, two million visitors logged on to www.smithsonian.com/museumday to learn more about the program.

“We are delighted to offer the readers and fans of Smithsonian magazine a chance to experience the park through our ongoing partnership with the Smithsonian Institution,” said Ellen M. Rosenthal, president & CEO of Conner Prairie. “We strive to be an outstanding member of the community and to support the Smithsonian Institution’s mission to increase and diffuse the knowledge of science, history and the arts.”

The Museum Day Ticket is available to download at www.smithsonian.com/museumday. Visitors who present the official pass will gain free admission for two people to Conner Prairie on Sat., Sept. 25. One ticket is permitted per household, per email address. Listings and links to participating museums’ and sponsors’ sites can be found at www.smithsonian.com/museumday.

Labor Day Nacho Salsa

Nacho Salsa Dip


“This zesty dip is great for any get-together and allows me to spend more time with my guests,” says Sally Hull of Homestead, Florida. “I always have requests to bring it when my husband and I attend parties.”
28 ServingsPrep: 15 min. Cook: 3 hours
Ingredients
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/3 cup chopped onion
• 2 pounds VELVEETA Pasteurized Prepared Cheese Product, cubed
• 1 jar (16 ounces) chunky salsa
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Tortilla chips or cubed French bread
Directions
• In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat
• is no longer pink; drain well.
•
• Transfer to a greased 3-qt. slow cooker; stir in the cheese, salsa
• and garlic powder. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours. Stir; serve
• with tortilla chips or cubed bread. Yield: 7 cups.
•

HAVE A GREAT LABOR DAY FROM THE CHILD CARE ANSWERS STAFF

Facts fro Features - Labor Day Weekend 2010
Published 09/02/2010 - 9:51 p.m. CST

The first observance of Labor Day is believed to have been a parade of 10,000 workers on Sept. 5, 1882, in New York City, organized by Peter J. McGuire, a Carpenters and Joiners Union secretary. By 1893, more than half the states were observing a “Labor Day” on one day or another, and Congress passed a bill to establish a federal holiday in 1894. President Grover Cleveland signed the bill soon afterward, designating the first Monday in September as Labor Day.

CEU's~

Each Issue of Healthy Childcare® Can Provide One Training Clock Hour FREE!

If you need CDA credit hours or childcare licensing hours, read an issue of Healthy Childcare® and complete the companion Study Guide to earn one clock hour. Clock hours are free to subscribers.

Click here to get started!

Colts Style Pep Rally to Kick Off United Way Campaign

Come to Monument Circle during lunch time Sept. 10 for free festivities, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

INDIANAPOLIS ….August 30, 2010 – What do you get when you combine a Colts-style pep rally with a community volunteer fair and the kickoff of United Way’s annual campaign?

Organizers of the new Colts Go Blue for United Way Day hope the answer is record-breaking giving and volunteering to help those who need it most in Central Indiana. That’s the goal of the free public event scheduled for Fri., Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monument Circle in Indianapolis.

United Way of Central Indiana will announce its 2010 fundraising goal, recognize strong early campaigns at local companies and reveal special Colts prizes as incentives to spur giving.

Up to 100 local nonprofits will provide information about area needs and enlist volunteers to help improve the community. It’s part of United Way’s focus on engaging people to LIVE UNITED by making it easy for them to GIVE, ADVOCATE and VOLUNTEER.

Live music by Dave and Rae, $5 box lunches from O’Charley’s, free Indianapolis Colts schedule posters, the chance to see Colts Cheerleaders and the Vince Lombardi and AFC Championship trophies are on the schedule. A special performance by Broad Ripple High School students is also planned.

For more than 35 years, the NFL and United Way have been working together to strengthen communities. This rally celebrates the long partnership and invites the whole community to get involved to make it a winning season for both the Indianapolis Colts and United Way.

Zup's BBQ for Kids!

Friday, August 27, 2010
11:00 AM to 1:30 PM

4th Annual Zup's BBQ for Kids--Benefiting Children's Bureau, Inc.

Join the Indianapolis Colts, Tom Zupancic and the Exchange Club of Speedway
a BBQ on the Circle! For just $10...enjoy an authentic BBQ lunch from one of several local restaurants, listen to great music, visit with Colts Cheerleaders, tour the Colts Museum and watch your favorite celebrities rush to each the most ribs!

Proceeds benefit Children's Bureau. For more information contact Dave Mayer at 317.781.2456.

Location:
Monument Circle, Downtown Indianapolis

Kid's Health Day

Kid's Health Day is designed to inform parents about health and education resources in the community that encourage the long-term health and wellness of children. Sponsored by Lakeshore Chiropractic: A Creating Wellness Center and LearningRx Brain Training and Learning Center, the day will provide activities for children including a bounce house and craft projects, free dyslexia screenings, and nervous system scans. Additional exhibitors include Art with a Heart, Edible Arrangements, Fire Safety demonstrations with the Lawrence Fire Department, and Healthy Snacking by Sam's Club. Kid's Health Day will be held August 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Kroger Plaza at 79th and Fall Creek. For updated information on the speakers, visit http://www.indyevents.net/.

The first 100 kids will receive a special gift.

Kroger Plaza. 79th and Fall Creek, Indianapolis.

Free Back to School Immunization Clinic Saturday

Warren Central High School to Host Next
Back to School Immunization Clinic

The Marion County Health Department’s next free back to school immunization clinic will be held from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 21 at Warren Central High School, 9500 East 16th Street.

Those attending the clinic should enter through Door 1, located on the north side of the school.
Parents and guardians should bring their child’s shot record with them to the clinic.

Spanish Orientation

Registrase en los talleres de Orientación y podría convertirse en una PROVEEDORA DE CUIDADO INFANTIL. Los talleres son GRATIS y en Español. ¡Registrase hoy para los siguientes talleres!

Orientación 1- Jueves 09 de septiembre-6:00pm-8:00pm
Orientación 2- 13 de septiembre-5:00pm-8:30pm
Seguridad al Dormir- Llame para más información
Talleres en: Edificio de English Foundation
615 N. Alabama Street, Suite 300
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Para más información, comuníquele con Amy Torres al: (317) 636-5727 Ext. 237 (en español)
Correo electrónico: amyt@childcareanswers.com

Helpful Back To School Tips

Re-establish Bedtime and Meal Routines
Start having meals at a regular time again at least a week before school starts.

Turn off the TV
Encourage your child to play quiet games, work puzzles and flash cards, color or read. This will ease them back into the learning process.

Designate an Area for Homework
If your child is younger, a special area of the family room or kitchen ensures that you will be readily available to supervise and answer questions.

Freeze a few easy dinners
A few ready-to-eat meals will help eliminate some of the stress that comes with the first week or two or school.

Visit a new school with your child
Help them find their classroom, meet the teacher, navigate the halls and become comfortable with their environment. Be sure to call the school first to make sure the teacher will be available and the visit is appropriate.

Pick the perfect backpack
Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back. Heavier items should be placed closest to the backpack's center, and the total weight should never exceed 10 to 20 percent of your child's body weight.

Point out the positives
Remind your child that she'll see old friends and make new ones. Give your child a few strategies to manage a difficult situation on their own, while encouraging him/her to report any problems to you or a teacher. Be sure to attempt to maintain open lines of communication with the school to handle such situations.

Healthy After School Snack

Monkey Bars
This recipe serves: 12

Preparation time: 15 mins
Cooking time: 1 hours
Ingredients
• vegetable cooking spray
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened apple juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 ripe banana
• 1/4 cup dried currants
Cooking Instructions
1. Heat the oven to 350°F. Spray an 8-inch baking pan with vegetable cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until creamy. can add the oats, cinnamon and flour and mix well.
3. Make it a . In a small bowl, combine the apple juice, vanilla extract and 1/2 cup of warm water. Add this to the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Stir in the banana and currants. can help spread the dough into the prepared pan.
4. Bake until the top is golden, about 1 hour.
5. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into 12 squares and serve. These bars can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutrition Facts
• Serving Size:1 bar
• Amount Per Serving
• Calories78
• Protein2 g
• Total Carbohydrate15 g
• Dietary Fiber2 g
• Soluble Fiber0 g
• Sugar6 g
• Total Fat1 g
• Saturated Fat0 g
• Percent Calories from Fat16 %
• Percent Calories from Protein10 %
• Percent Calories from Carbohydrate74 %
WWW.FOODFIT.COM

Ed policies ignore science on how/when kids learn

Our education system starts at age 5, pays little attention to children’s development and achievement until third grade, and is strewn with remedial programs to get older children back on track.

Meanwhile, studies keep pouring forth that highlight the importance of children’s earliest years – birth to age 8 – in developing the mental capacity that enables life-long learning.

In short, our education policies don’t align with the latest science on how and when children learn. American public education is out of whack.

Read more………..

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/answer-sheet/guest-bloggers/how-ed-policies-ignore-science.html

Summer Changes Everything

It’s Never too Early to Plan for Summer!

Attend the National Summer Learning Association’s Summer Changes EverythingTM Conference!

Summer Changes EverythingTM, the only national conference focused entirely on summer, will be held at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown, November 9-10. If you work with children, operate or make decisions about summer programs, or are involved in youth education, you can’t afford to miss this conference. With 60 workshops on topics from STEM learning to social media outreach, we’re presenting the latest information regarding youth and summer learning.

This year, we are thrilled to welcome an exciting lineup of guest speakers, exhibitors, and panelists, including neurologist, author, researcher, and middle-school teacher Dr. Judy Willis. Tarik Glenn, retired Indianapolis Colt and co-founder of D.R.E.A.M Alive, Inc., will share how his experiences both on and off the field have helped him to build and maintain a successful youth program. Other presenters include social media guru Beth Kanter, policy experts, and NSLA staffers. Don’t miss out on what promises to be the best summer learning conference yet!

Learn how to build, strengthen, and expand summer programs at the Summer Changes EverythingTM conference:

·Connect and network with colleagues, including summer program providers, educators, school administrators, researchers and policymakers.

·Choose the option of participating in one of two relevant, in-depth pre-conference institutes on November 8, on program planning or summer learning advocacy.

·Choose from 60 workshops in three exciting areas: Knowledge and Strategies for Summer Program Managers; Policy and Funding for Systems Building; and Innovative Instructional Approaches.

Learn more and register now at our conference homepage. Or, contact our Conference Manager, Ryan Rebarchick, via e-mail or phone: 410 856 1370 ext 203.

P.S. On August 16, we are hosting an Indy Happy Hour at the Barcelona Tapas Restaurant, for those who run summer programs in the city and surrounding areas. You are invited. Check out event details at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=130882550287960. Also check out www.iyi.org/fundraising-grants/development-grants.aspx to receive scholarships to attend conference. All this info is in the Indy-specific e-bulletin.

Office Closed

Child Care Answers office will be closed all day on Friday August 6th. The office will reopen Monday August 9th at 8am.

Eating Light & Healthy

Recipe: Spinach with Garlic Chips
Prep Time: 5 Minutes Cook Time: 5 Minutes Difficulty: Easy Servings: 4

Ingredients
• 5 cloves Garlic, Peeled And Sliced Very Thin
• 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 2 packages (6 Oz Each Package) Baby Spinach
• ½ teaspoons Kosher Salt
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Preparation Instructions

Pour olive oil into a large skillet and add garlic slices. Turn on stove to medium -low heat and allow garlic and oil to heat together. Watch the garlic and stir to turn as it begins to bubble. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon as soon as it turns golden brown; do not allow to burn. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Pour off half the oil into a container and set aside. Add one bag of spinach to the skillet. Immediately begin turning gently with a spoon. Spinach will immediately begin wilting. Cook and stir only for one minute, adding salt and pepper to taste. Remove spinach to a plate. Add remaining oil (the oil you poured from the pan) and add remaining spinach. Repeat cooking process.
Serve spinach immediately (it should still be slightly al dente/crisp) with the garlic chips sprinkled over the top. Divine!

The Binky Fairy and Other Lies Parents Tell Kids

What little white lies have you told your child? An interesting article about pacifiers and children.


The Binky Fairy and Other Lies Parents Tell Kids

It's Fair Time Again

One of my favorite memories of summertime as a child was attending the county fairs. For a child it is a great way to learn about farming and different animals. Not only do the county and state fairs have animals but they also have a variety of projects completed by the 4H kids. Of course for me nothing says fair like the fair food. What a great way for your child to try out some new foods. For more information on dates for the county fair in your area check out this website http://www.countyfairgrounds.net/indiana/indiana.php .

Hamilton East Public Library

Over the weekend at a back to school event I found some great resources the Hamilton East Public Library offers for young children. The library offers a great variety of early reading resources including bags wit pre-selected books, computer programs, and story times. All of the youth services offered are free. Reservations are required call 770-3215 (Noblesville) or 579-0304 (Fishers) You can also visit the website to view offerings and register at http://www.hepl.lib.in.us .

Riverview Kid’s Day at the Noblesville Farmer’s Market

Join the Noblesville Farmer’s Market and Riverview Hospital for a fun-filled day featuring kid friendly activities.

Saturday, July 31 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Noblesville Farmer’s Market, just east of Riverview Hospital, 395 Westfield Road, Noblesville.

Kid’s Day activities include:

• The Radio Disney Fun Patrol

• Teddy Bear Clinic with our Riverview Medical Group
pediatricians. (bring your favorite teddy bear, doll or toy)

• Drive in car seat safety checks performed by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department

• Riverview Rehab & Fitness (BMI and blood pressure screening fun kids fitness activities)

• Asthma education

• Riverview Maternity Center

• Health and Wellness information

Back to School

Getting Ready for Back to School
Send them to school with a smile !
By Kit Bennett


It's not just our children that feel the stress of a new school year approaching, but the entire household. Kid's concerns may be focused around new friends, riding the bus or if the new teacher will be as nice as last year's. Parents dread the onset of morning mayhem, carpool schedules, PTA meetings and homework help.?
The "lazy days" of summer are coming to an end. However, with a few activities, planning and preparation, the entire family can approach the school year stress free and smiling!

A few days before school begins. Wrap up summer vacation with a
family night. Fire up the barbeque, dive into a watermelon and have
a water balloon fight.?When you are all dry and the dishes are done...
sit down for a summer memory time. Gather vacation photos, postcards, maps...any item that strikes your fancy.? It may be a piece of driftwood saved from the beach trip, or a rock from the family hike.

Terri Michaels from Maryland came up with an easy scrap book solution.
She didn't have the "time or patience to create a wonderfully decorated book"....instead her family spruces up a box for each vacation or family trip. Using contact paper, glue stickers, crayons etc. Everyone participates providing the perfect time to reflect on the events of the summer.?

Try to get your school shopping done a week beforehand, saving that last day for relaxing. Younger students will need?all of their supplies labeled. Don't wait for the last minute,?label them as you make the purchases.?

Many schools allow you to visit the classroom on the day of registration. It's a perfect time to select a desk, drop off supplies and meet the new teacher.?

Back to School Immunization Clinics Announced

For Immediate Release
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Contact: John T. Althardt, 221-2316

New Immunization Requirements for School-Aged Children Lead to Additional Immunization Clinics

More than 60,000 Marion County school-aged children could be affected by new Indiana State Department of Health immunization requirements.

The Marion County Health Department and the Indianapolis Immunization Coalition have scheduled a series of immunization clinics to ensure all children have their required shots.

The new requirements apply to students entering preschool, Kindergarten and those in grades 6-12.

Students ages 3 through 5, attending a preschool located within a school building must have 2 appropriately documented varicella vaccines, separated by at least 3 months, or physician documentation of disease history, or laboratory evidence of immunity.

Those entering Kindergarten must now have 2 appropriately documented varicella vaccines, separated by at least 3 months, or physician documentation of disease history, or laboratory evidence of immunity.

In terms of chicken pox, children entering preschool, Kindergarten and 1st grades, must present a signed statement by a health care provider, including date of disease.

Students in grades 6 – 12 must have appropriate documentation of the following vaccinations: Tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap); meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4); 2 varicella vaccinations appropriately spaced per Centers for Disease and Control guidelines, or documentation of disease history, or laboratory evidence of immunity.

For those children entering grades 2-12, documentation from a parent indicating when their child has had chicken pox is sufficient. The written statement should include date of disease, a parent’s signature and date of signature. (Example: If a parent cannot recall exact dates, something as simple as stating that disease occurred in the spring of 2000 is acceptable.)

Health Department and Immunization Coalition Offer
Back to School Immunization Clinics

The Marion County Health Department and the Indianapolis Immunization Coalition will offer Back to School immunization clinics beginning July 31.
Clinic information includes:

· Saturday, July 31 Back to School Family Day
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Marion County Health Department, 3838 North Rural
Free

· Thursday, August 5 Indianapolis Immunization Coalition Clinic
4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Indianapolis Children’s Museum
Free

· Saturday, August 7 Marion County Health Department Clinic
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Washington Township Administration Building Main Conference Center
8550 Woodfield Crossing Blvd
Free

· August 9-12
Marion County Health Department Back to School Immunization Week
Marion County Health Department District Health Offices
A $10 administrative fee will be charged at these clinics

South District Health Office
505 National Avenue
8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Northeast District Health Office
6042 East 21st Street
8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Northwest District Health Office / Pecar Health Center
6940 North Michigan Road
8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

· Saturday, August 21 Marion County Health Department Clinic
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Warrior Dome, campus of Warren Central High School
(East 21st Street entrance)
Free

Parents and guardians are asked to bring shot records for their children when coming to any of the immunization clinics.

#

John Althardt is PR Coordinator / Health and Hospital Corporation for Marion County Health Department.

6th ANNUAL INDY KIDS TRIATHLON

The 6th Annual Indy Kids Triathlon is a kids-only event that combines swimming, biking and running in an exciting format to promote fun, physical activity and self-confidence. Participants will receive a 2010 Indy Kids Triathlon T-shirt, commemorative medal and goodie bag. This is not a timed event - Every Kid is a Winner! Be sure to bring proper equipment: swim clothes, swim cap, towel, bicycle, safety gear, helmet and shoes for running.

WHEN :
Saturday, Aug. 7 9 a.m.

WHERE
Sahm Park, 6801 E. 91st Street

WHO
Kids ages 5 - 8 will participate in the short course
(25-yard swim, 1.5-mile bike, .5-mile walk/run)
and ages 11 - 15 will participate in the long course
(50-yard swim, 3-mile bike, 1-mile walk/run)
and ages 9 - 10 have an option of the short or long course.

To Register,

Call 327-PARK, or online at PlayIndy

U.S. to Ban Drop-Side Cribs in Infant Safety Overhaul

July 14 (Bloomberg) -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, citing 153 deaths in the past four years, voted to ban drop-side cribs in the agency’s first across-the-board overhaul of regulations for infant beds in almost three decades.

“We’ve seen a number of tragedies because we had such a weak crib standard,” CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum said today as the agency voted 5-0 to approve a notice of proposed rulemaking. The agency was following a mandate from Congress, she said.

A spate of company recalls involving more than 9 million drop-side cribs over five years led the government to warn parents in May to stop using the products because of suffocation and strangling risks. The new rules would ban the sale of new and used drop-side cribs and prohibit their use in hotels, day- care centers and other commercial facilities.

“The proposed rule is a very strong standard that will address all aspects of crib construction and provide an effective margin of safety,” Commissioner Nancy Nord, the CPSC’s senior Republican, said in a statement. “I do have a concern, however, about the effective date and that the retroactive nature of the” rule may have consequences.

“We certainly do not want to create a situation where people stop using cribs and place their babies to sleep in unsafe environments,” Nord said.

Pottery Barn Recall

Regulators will review public comments before making the rules final by the end of the year, Tenenbaum said. The agency last approved a comprehensive crib standard in 1982, she said.

Drop-side cribs have been popular because one side can be raised or lowered on tracks, providing parents with easier access to the bed. Infants can suffocate or be strangled when the hardware fails and a side detaches, creating a gap.

Other crib hazards involve added soft bedding, insufficient mattress support and broken slats. The agency has documented 153 crib deaths since Nov. 1, 2007, including 65 suffocations.

Williams-Sonoma Inc.’s Pottery Barn Kids business today recalled 82,000 of the cribs for hardware than can break. The CPSC said it received 36 reports that the cribs’ drop-sides malfunctioned or detached, resulting in seven minor injuries. The cribs were sold from January 1999 through March 2010.

LaJobi Inc., owned by Kid Brands Inc.; Bexco Enterprises Inc.’s Million Dollar Baby unit; Jardine Enterprise Ltd.; Simmons Juvenile Products, and Child Craft Industries Inc. recalled drop-side cribs in June.

The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, which has started a crib-safety initiative, is offering consumer information on its website. There’s a list of manufacturers and downloadable guides to safe sleep on the site, the CPSC said.

--Editors: Romaine Bostick, James Langford.

To contact the reporter on this story: Jeff Plungis in Washington at jplungis@bloomberg.net.

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Larry Liebert at lliebert@bloomberg.net

Free Back to School Physicals

Raphael Health Center is offering free back to school physicals on July 15th and 16th. Physicals include vaccines, school/sports exams, heart ultrasounds, lead, anemia and blood sugar screening, obesity screening, and sports mouth guards. The center is located at 401 East 34th Street Indianapolis 46205. If you are in need of a physical please call them to schedule an appointment at (317) 926-1507.

Love Your Child's Care Childcare, LLC Presents Ms. Bobbie live in Concert

Looking for something fun to do with your little ones?

Love your Child's Care Childcare's would like to invite you to attend their

Back To School Celebration feturing the well known children's artist Ms. Bobbie Lancaster.

When: August 14th from 1 to 4 pm with the concert starting promptly at 2 pm

Where: 2220 Sloan Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46203

Cost: Free Will Donation

Please bring a blanket or lawn chair so that you can enjoy the children's concert.

Indianapolis Symphony Band to perform on Northeastside

By Gretchen Becker

A Northeastside park will host a concert Saturday featuring music with Indiana connections.
The Indianapolis Symphonic Band will perform an "Indiana Highlights" concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the sledding hill at Fort Harrison State Park, 5830 N. Post Road, said Jeff Cummings, park spokesman.

The concert will feature music from Hoosier composers such as Cole Porter, born in Peru; Bloomington native Hoagy Carmichael; and Paul Dresser, who was born in Terre Haute.
Professional and amateur musicians from central Indiana are in the Indianapolis Symphonic Band, which has performed more than 50 years.

Concertgoers should bring blankets or chairs and may bring food and drinks. Dogs are also welcome.

The concert is free. Park entry fee is $5 for in-state cars and $7 for out of state cars.
The rain location is the adjacent Ivy Tech auditorium.
For more information, call the park at (317) 591-0122 or visit the band's website at http://www.indyband.org/ .

Indiana Black Expo Celebrating its 40th Anniversary

July 16-Indiana Black Expo History Exhibit: Celebrating Our Heritage: This year Indiana Black Expo Inc. will be celebrating its 40th anniversary. Come be a part of it all as IBE presents “Celebrating Our Heritage” July 16-18 in the Cultural Arts Pavilion located in the Wabash Ballroom of the Indiana Convention Center. This historical exhibit is an interactive experience which highlights organization leaders past and present as well as year round events and programs. “Celebrating Our Heritage” is presented as a part of IBE’s annual Summer Celebration being held the week of July 11-18. For more information on IBE’s Summer Celebration and a list of events visit http://indianablackexpo.com.

FAMILY FUN CONCERT SERIES

Boogy with boys of Trout Fishing in America at Eagle Creek Park

This four-time Grammy nominee duo has been writing, recording and performing together for three decades. Their material ranges from introspective folk and country-tinged songs, to wildly energetic rock tunes. Their willingness to be silly in one song then tender in the next is why Trout Fishing in America is so unique!

WHO
Trout Fishing in America

WHEN
Saturday, July 10
10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

WHERE
On the Point at Eagle Creek Park Marina
7840 W. 56th St.

TICKET PRICES
$6 General Admission (includes park entry fee)
Free ages two and under

To purchase tickets, call 1-800-838-3006

State Fair Kid's Day

Monday August 16th is Kid's Day at the Indiana State Fair Farm Bureau building from 10am - 3pm. Activities for the day include a hula hoop contest, meet and greet with the Indiana State Fair Queen, puppet show, and discount tickets for the midway. For more information on the day's activities go to http://www.indianastatefair.com/ .

Please rember that as of July 1st Child Care Answers has a NO Cash policy. We do accept Money Orders, Checks, Discover Card, Visa Card and MasterCard.

World of Families: Second Saturdays Bilingual Storytime

Families are invited for an interactive bilingual storytime celebrating the languages and cultures of the world through art, crafts, music, dance and games. It's presented in partnership with IN-NELL, Indiana-Network for Early Language Learning.

This program, to be held in the Learning Curve Theater, will be presented in Arabic and English.

Date: Saturday, Jul. 10, 2010
Time: 2:00 pm
Location: Central Library
Location Group: Central
Age Level: Families

Questions about this event? Please contact:
Central Library
275-4100

Ice Cream Social on the Circle

INDIANAPOLIS – Join the American Dairy Association of Indiana and its Hoosier Dairy Farm Families as they “Scream for Ice Cream” at the 21st annual Ice Cream Social on the Circle!

Delicious chocolate, strawberry, caramel, and butterscotch sundaes are on the menu on Friday, July 9, from 11 am to 2 pm, on the northwest quadrant of Monument Circle in Downtown Indianapolis.

For just $3, ice cream lovers can indulge their taste buds with enormous sundaes made from delicious Edy’s Slow Churned Light Ice Cream drizzled with a variety of Smuckers syrups, sprinkled with an array of toppings and crowned with a gigantic dollop of whipped cream.

All monies raised through the sale of sundaes will benefit Marlin Jackson’s Fight For Life Foundation. The organization impacts the lives of underprivileged youth by focusing on programming in the areas of education and wellness. The Foundation is dedicated to enlightening children on how to overcome the peer pressures of poverty by encouraging positive behaviors in an effort to reach their dreams and goals. Last year, sales of more than 2700 sundaes in three hours raised in excess of $8600 for Jackson’s foundation.

Always a crowd favorite - Celebrity Scoopers! Over 30 local celebrity scoopers will help prepare sundaes from six serving tents positioned around the northwest quadrant of the Circle.

Among Celebrity Scoopers scheduled to participate are:

Marlin Jackson, Philadelphia Eagles
Jim O’Brien, Fox 59
Zuri Hall, The Face of MyNDY-TV
Hink, Butler Bulldogs mascot
Dave Russell, Brownfield Ag Network
Ray Cortopassi, Fox 59
Pamela Altmeyer,
CEO, Gleaners Food Bank
Bill Remeika, Fox 59
Boomer, Indiana Pacers mascot
Scott Jones, Fox 59
Melvin Bullitt, Indianapolis Colts
Bridget Sloan, USA Gymnastics Olympian
Antoine Bethea, Indianapolis Colts
Paul Poteet, Indiana’s Weatherman Ashley Adamson, WISH-TV
Anne Marie Tiernon, WTHR-TV
Angela Cain, WTHR-TV
Stewart Goodwin, Executive Director, Indiana War Memorials
Deborah Smith, Girl Scouts of Central Indiana
1st Sgt. Dave Bursten, Indiana State Police
Sherman Burdette, Fox 59
Chief Paul Ciesielski, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
Jolene Ketzenberger, Indianapolis Star
Sgt. Anthony Emery, Indiana State Police

Other attractions scheduled include face-painters, the Indiana Pacers interactive Fan Van, and Molly the Cow and her calf from Purdue University Dairy Sciences (yes – real, live cows!!).

Mascots from the Indianapolis area will make appearances throughout the day. Guests will enjoy meeting Maxwell from Indianapolis Animal Care & Control, the Indianapolis Indians’ Rowdie, CoCo from Caribbean Cove, Hink The Bulldog from Butler University, and of course the beloved Buttercup from the American Dairy Association. Personalities from Entercom Indianapolis radio stations WZPL 99.5 FM, My107.9 FM, and WXNT/News-Talk 1430 AM will also be on site to entertain the crowds.

For more information about the Ice Cream Social on the Circle,
call the American Dairy Association at 317/842.7955

2009
The American Dairy Association celebrated its 20th annual Ice Cream Social on the Circle on Friday, July 10, 2009 from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. More than 20 celebrity scoopers helped scoop cold, delicious vanilla ice cream to guests with topping choices such as whipped cream, Oreo Cookie crumbles, a variety of syrups and sprinkles. A record-setting 2,750 sundaes were sold at $3 each. Every dollar collected through the sale of ice cream sundaes and merchandise benefitted Marlin Jackson’s Fight for Life Foundation. The American Dairy Association was able to raise $8,620 for Marlin's foundation.

EXCITING NEWS!

We have launched a new version of our website today! The new version is more sleek and adopts the Web 2.0 design attributes! Come on over to www.childcareanswers.com and let me know what you think!

Child Care Answers Office Closed

Child Care Answers will be closed on Monday July 5th to observe the holiday weekend. The office will reopen on Tuesday July 6th at 8am. We wish all of you a happy and safe 4th of July.

Indiana Black Expo Children and Youth Activities

Indiana Black Expo, Inc (IBE) will be celebrating its 40th anniversary Summer Celebration in the month of July. Several events are planned downtown for children and youth!

• Monday, July 12 Children's Day 10:00am - 3:00pm Indiana Convention Center Halls A&B
  
• Tuesday, July 13 & Wednesday, July 14 Youth Entrepreneur Seminar "YES CEO Camp" Indiana Convention Center Rooms 107&108. Learn what it takes to be a business owner during this free camp.


• Thursday, July 15 & Friday, July 16 10:30 am Children's Day at the Circus The UniverSoul Circus presents their all new show called, 'WE PLAY TOO....Much" at Lafayette Square Mall. A part of Summer Celebration, the UniverSoul Circus, celebrates sixteen years of phenomenal growth, commitment to excellence, and spectacular showmanship. For more information go to http://www.universoulcircus.com/ . Tickets are $12.00 per person and must be purchased at the IBE box office or by calling (317) 923-3002


• Friday-Sunday July, 16-18 Kids' World admission FREE with the purchase of a general admission ticket inside the Indiana Convention Center. There will be live entertainment, arts & crafts, games, computer, the "Storytelling Corner" presented by Freetown Village along with presentations by Storyteller Sondra E. Hayes.

For more information visit IBE's website at http://www.indianablackexpo.com/ or call (317) 925-2702

Red, White, and Blue Fruit Salad

Ingredients
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
3 cups fresh blueberries
1 quart fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
3 medium apples, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, and mint. Add all of the fruit and toss to combine. Let the fruit salad set for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serves about 8

How to Teach Poison Preventions Programs for Children

• Do you teach injury prevention programs for preschool/elementary school children?

• Are you looking for a new injury prevention topic?

• Would you like to promote poison safety in your own community?

If you answered “yes” - the Indiana Poison Center can help you teach poison safety.

Who? Anyone who teaches injury prevention programs for preschool and/or
elementary school children.

How long? 3 hours.

How much? The workshop is FREE

Where? 1812 N. Capitol, Wile Hall, 3rd Floor, Room W310, Methodist Hospital,
Indianapolis

When? Wednesday, July 7th from 12pm - 3pm

What? Training provides poison prevention background for the instructor,
activity ideas and materials to teach children poison safety and a way
to get the poison safety message home to parents and other adults.

To register contact:
Barbara Cole
(317) 962-9248
bcole@clarian.org

Registration is limited to 20
per session

Child Care Answers out in the community

Photos from community fairs attended by Child Care Answers staff this past week. Kennette Farthing represented CCA at the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department North District Community Day at Broad Ripple Park June 24, 2010. We also had a booth with a bubble table at the Radio Disney Family Fun Day on July 26th, 2010. It was a great day to get out and talk to families about the services we offer.

Daytime Playtime

Gymnastics Unlimited is now offering an exclusive playtime for our "little ones" not yet in school.

Children ages 18 months to 5 years old may come and have their very own time in the gym to run, bounce, jump and play.

We'll have our bounce house inflated and plenty of toys to play with like Balls, Jump ropes, Hoola-Hoops and more!

Wednesday Afternoon 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Friday Morning 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Saturday Afternoon 1:00-3:00 p.m. on the second Saturday of the month.
Saturday, July 10th: 1:00-3:00 p.m.

No registration is required. You may bring your child or children any time during the designated days and hours and stay as long or as little as you like!

COST IS ONLY $5 PER CHILD!
EACH ADDITIONAL SIBLING IS ONLY $3!
Also, NO CHILD OVER THE AGE OF 5 will be allowed in the gym during the regular Daytime Playtime hours. Sorry, no exceptions! We encourage those older than 5 years old to attend our Open Gyms on Friday Nights!

There will be No Daytime Playtime on the following dates:
Wednesday, June 30th - No Daytime Playtime due to Team Camp


Home School Open Gym
Tuesday, June 15th

Tuesday, July 6th

Tuesday, July 20th

Homeschool Open Gyms are on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month from 2:00-4:00pm. These open gyms are specifically designed for homeschooled children ages 1-13. (All children under the age of 5 must be accompanied by a guardian during the entire 2 hour open gym.

The cost is $5 for the first child and $3 for each additional sibling.

Gymnastics Unlimited 460 Rawles Ct Indianapolis, IN 46229 (317) 897-4648 voice

Texas Firm Recalls Three Varieties of "SpaghettiOs" With Meatballs That May Be Underprocessed

Recall Release CLASS I RECALL
FSIS-RC-035-2010 HEALTH RISK: HIGH


Congressional and Public Affairs
(202) 720-9113
Atiya Khan

WASHINGTON, June 17, 2010 - Campbell Soup Supply Company, LLC, a Paris, Texas, establishment is recalling approximately 15,000,000 pounds of "SpaghettiOs with Meatballs" canned products due to possible under-processing, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The following products are subject to recall: [View Labels]
14.75-ounce cans of "SpaghettiOs" with Meatballs, bearing the identifying product code "U5" on the bottom of the can.
14.75-ounce cans of "SpaghettiOs" A to Z with Meatballs, bearing the identifying product code "4N" on the bottom of the can.
14.75-ounce cans of "SpaghettiOs" Fun Shapes with Meatballs (Cars), bearing the identifying product code "KS" on the bottom of the can.

The products subject to recall bear the establishment number "EST 4K," as well as a "Use By" date between June 2010 and December 2011 ink-jetted on the bottom of each can. These products were manufactured between December 2008 and June 2010 and distributed to retail establishments nationwide. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on FSIS' website at http://www.fsis.usda.gov/FSIS_Recalls/
Open_Federal_Cases/index.asp.

The problem was discovered through a routine warehouse inspection by the company and its subsequent investigation. FSIS has received no reports of illnesses from consumption of these products.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers.

Consumer questions regarding the recall should be directed to Campbell's Hotline at (866) 495-3774; media inquiries should be directed to the company's Director of Corporate Communications, Anthony Sanzio at (856) 968-4390.

Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.

Radio Disney Family Fun Day

Come join Child Care Answers at Radio Disney Family Fun Day at the Park this Saturday.

Family Fun Day at the Park

White River State Park is the place to BE on Saturday June 26th!! There will be tons of activities, entertainment, games, music, food, and fun from 12 to 4 p.m. Admission is free as well as most on site activities.

Join Radio Disney as well as all of the White River State Park attraction from the Indianapolis Zoo, the NCAA, the State Museum, IMAX, and the Indians for tons of fun activities. Connor Prairie, the Children's Museum, Newport Aquarium, Shepherd Community Center and many, many more will also be on site.

At 3 p.m. Radio Disney's national Next Big Thing, Jasmine Sagginario will be performing on the Fifth Third Bank main stage at the Celebration Amphitheatre. Throughout the day there will also be performances by the Praise Pandemic Steel Pan Orchestra, Indianapolis Children's Choir, Tony Hoard & Rockin' Rory, and YoYo Master: Noel Kunz, and much more!

Join Radio Disney at White River State Park for a day of fun!

Increase Funding for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG)!

The National Association of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies and MomsRising.org are teaming up with parents to fight for increased funding for the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). Increasing the funding by $1.6 billion would help keep kids safe in child care and increase the quality and affordability of child care nationwide.

You can make a difference and help 1.6 million families nationwide! Sign the petition by clicking here to support high quality, affordable, and safe child care.

The law allocating child care funds to the states, CCDBG, has not been seriously looked at in about 20 years. There are parts of the law that should be strengthened to ensure that child care in every state is safe and promotes children's healthy development. Click here to send an email to your Member of Congress to urge them to strengthen CCDBG.

Learn more about making sure children are safe in child care and support background checks for anyone who cares for children by clicking here.

Sincerely,


The Child Care Aware Parent Network Team

National Association of Child Care

Resource & Referral Agencies

July and August Make and Take Sessions

All classes are held at Day Nursery Lilly
3522 N. Central Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46204


Upcoming Workshop Sessions:

July 17th-
Reusable Science Charts

August 7th-
Reusable Cooking Chart

August 21st–
Lacing Cards

Only $5.00 per class—must register and pay 72 hours in advance of the training

To Register by credit or debit card
Contact Lenore Friedly
317- 926-3401, ext. 312
www.childcareanswers.com

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY FROM THE CHILD CARE ANSWERS STAFF

Father's and Mom's who have the task of being both parents...We hope that on this Father's Day, Sunday June 20th you will have a wonderful day!

65 Childcare Ministries to get boost

Star report
Posted: June 15, 2010

Childcare ministry providers in Indianapolis, along with a few in surrounding counties, have been selected to receive help from the state as part of a federal stimulus grant, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration announced today.

FSSA and the United Way of Central Indiana will help the 65 locations improve their quality and prepare about 1,100 children to succeed in school, said a news release.

A spokesman for the FSSA could not immediately say when the ministries would be participating in the program. The ministries will get help to be part of Paths to Quality, a free, voluntary rating and improvement system designed to help parents choose a care facility for their children.
"Child care ministries are not required to meet the same regulations as licensed centers and homes," said Melanie Brizzi, FSSA childcare administrator, in the release. "As a result, they often struggle with quality, as well as with financial challenges. Our Paths to Quality program will provide supports needed to help curb the dropout crisis affecting the children served in these learning environments."

Central Indiana has more than 200 unlicensed registered childcare ministries with the capacity to serve more than 15,000 children, the release said. Many of these ministries, particularly in urban areas, serve low-income working families.

In October 2009, FSSA awarded the United Way a $1 million federal stimulus grant for the program as a part of its education priority.

Here are the ministries and their sponsoring agencies to be helped, according to FSSA and the United Way:

A Little Angel's Child Care Inc., Member of the Body of Christ, Indianapolis; Alpha Kids, Grace Chapel Christian Church, Indianapolis; Bethany Daycare, Bethany Lutheran Church, Indianapolis; Bethesda Temple, Bethesda Temple Apostolic Church, Indianapolis; Bismillah Childcare Ministry and Learning Academy, The Nation of Islam Mohammad Mosque 74, Indianapolis; Bridge of Hope Child Care Ministry, Bridge of Hope Ministry, Indianapolis; Bright Kids Developmental School and Ministry, Compassionate Angels Childcare and Ministry, Indianapolis; Charity Child Care Ministry, Charity Church Ministry, Indianapolis; Christ Church Child Care Ministry, Christ Church Apostolic, Indianapolis; Christ Temple Christian Academy, Christ Temple Apostolic Faith Assembly, Indianapolis; Crosslight Christian Daycare, Cicero Christian Church, Cicero; Dover Angels Daycare Ministry, Dover Christian Church, Lebanon; Excellence In Christ Child Care Ministry, Greater St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church, Indianapolis; Fairview Early Childhood Program, Fairview Presbyterian Church, Indianapolis; Fervent Care Child Care and Christian Academy, Fervent Prayer Church, Indianapolis; God's Kids Early Learning Ministry, East 91st Christian Church, Indianapolis; God's Shining Light, Mooresville Church of God, Mooresville; Guardian Angel Childcare, New Birth Ministries, Indianapolis; Hasten Hebrew Academy Early Childhood Ministry, The Hebrew Hastings Academy, Indianapolis; Heaven Sent Daycare Ministry Inc., Heaven Sent Daycare Ministry Inc., Speedway; Horizon Christian Preschool and Childcare Central, Horizon Christian Fellowship Central Church, Indianapolis; In God's Arms Child Care Ministry, Emmaus Lutheran Church, Indianapolis; In His Arms Child Care Ministry, Cornerstone Family Life Center, Indianapolis; International Kidz, New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, Indianapolis; Jesus Fellowship Kidz Ministry, Jesus Fellowship, Indianapolis; Jewel Childcare Preschool, Eastern Star Church, Indianapolis; Kids at Geist, Geist Community Church, McCordsville; Kids Kastle, Trinity Wesleyan, Fishers; Lil' Saints Daycare Ministry, New Light Missionary Baptist Church, Indianapolis; Little Sprinkles from Heaven, Fountain of Truth Christian Church, Indianapolis; Lynhurst Baptist Church Preschool Ministry, Lynhurst Baptist Church, Indianapolis; Messiah Cares Child Development Center, Messiah Baptist Church, Indianapolis; Mini Blessings Childcare Ministry, Gethsemane Apostolic Church, Indianapolis; Montessori Garden Academy, Montessori Garden Academy, Indianapolis; Mount Helm Child Care Ministry, Mount Helm Missionary Baptist Church, Indianapolis; New Beginnings, New Beginnings, Indianapolis; New Generation Child Care Ministry, New Beginnings Ministry, Indianapolis; New Generation Training Academy, Living Word Fellowship, Indianapolis; Noah's Ark Christian Child Care/Preschool, Zionsville Presbyterian Church, Zionsville; Open Door Church Child Care, Open Door Church of Deliverance, Indianapolis; Our Place Child Care Ministry, Lawrence United Methodist Church, Lawrence; Perfected Childcare Ministry, Perfected Word Fellowship, Indianapolis; Precious Playmates Daycare Ministry, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Martinsville; Rays of Sunshine Child Care, Bethany Missionary Baptist, Indianapolis; Rhema Child Care Ministry, New Life Worship Center, Indianapolis; Rosie's Tiny Tot's Ministry, Rosie's Tiny Tots Ministry Inc., Indianapolis; Scribbles a Ministry of Pittsboro Christian Church, Pittsboro Christian Church, Pittsboro; Second Baptist Child Care Ministry, Second Baptist Church, Indianapolis; Shalom Daycare Ministry, Roberts Park United Methodist Church, Indianapolis; Shiloh Daycare Ministry, Shiloh Member Baptist Church, Indianapolis; Sonshine Kids Daycare Ministry, First United Methodist Church, Martinsville; St. Andrew & St. Rita Catholic Academy, Central Catholic Church, Indianapolis; Stepping Stones, Fountain of Truth Christian Church, Indianapolis; The Early Learning Academy at Chapel Hill Christian School, Hope Baptist Church, Indianapolis; Tiny Blessings Childcare Ministry, Cornerstone Hope Church, Indianapolis; Trinity Wesleyan Child Care, Trinity Wesleyan, Indianapolis; Unlocking Minds Childcare Ministry, True Tried Missionary Baptist, Indianapolis; Visions Child Care, Provisions, Indianapolis; and Welcome Place Child Care, Southport Presbyterian Church, Indianapolis.

To view the story on the Indianapolis Star's webpage click on the following link.
IndyStar.com Communities The Indianapolis Star

Hoosier Child Care Quality Expansion Project

The Hoosier Child Care Quality Expansion Project (HCCQEP) is underway and we are looking for more providers to join this voluntary program. If you are a Legally License Exempt Home Provider and would like help in working towards fulfilling the licensing standards, this is for you. We are looking to enroll 60 Legally Licensed Exempt Home Providers throughout the state that are already eligible to accept CCDF voucher dollars and want to improve their programs.

If you are accepted into HCCQEP you will work one-on-one with a Quality Expansion Specialist to enhance the quality of your program and help you reach the licensing standards.Your mentor will also provide professional development training for the director and staff.Furthermore, the Specialist will also work with the local Child Care Resource and Referral agencies in your area to provide additional resources.

As a bonus for participating in this project you will receive an introductory resource kit valued at $75, a Foundations resource kit valued at $300 of toys, games, books, etc, and $100 worth of child care and administrative books for completing the business management trainings. Additionally, non-cash awards may be available to assist programs in meeting their goals.

For more details of the project join us on either Monday, June 28 at the Pike Library or June 24 at the Lawrence Library.


Hoosier Child Care Quality Expansion Project
Informational Meetings:

East side:
Date: June 24, 2010
Time: 7:30 PM
Where: Lawrence Branch Library
7898 N. Hague Road
Indianapolis, IN 46256

West side:
Date: June 28, 2010
Time: 7:30 PM
Where: Pike Branch Library
6525 Zionsville Road
Indianapolis, IN 46268



To RSVP please call (317) 979-0297 or email ajaggers@iaccrr.org

Back to School Family Day 2010

Saturday July 31 9a.m. - 1p.m.


Marion County Health Department


3838 North Rural Street (parking lot)

• Entertainment


• School Supplies (child must be present)


• Health Screenings


• Health Information


• Immunizations


• Sports Physicals (fee and ID required)


• Birth Certificates

For more information call: 221-2464 Bilingual: 221-2039

Resource Library

Child Care Answers Resource Library is open for business!

The library contains books, classroom kits, and resource materials that can assist
teachers in their day to day work with young children.
Classroom Kits have been resupplied and organized for use in your home, center
or ministry. The kits contain everything you need to create fabulous learning
centers, expanded lesson plans, AND help meeting “Foundation” standards.
Membership is very reasonable, with perks like FREE use of the die cut machine,
low cost laminating, and “resource” dollars. Just for joining you receive $5
resource dollars to purchase paper, copies, laminating, and more. Annual
membership fee for Family Child Care Providers, Parents and Individuals is only
$20.00. For Centers, Ministries and School Age sites membership is $30.00
yearly.

For example, borrow the classroom kit “You Are What You Eat” and find fun,
creative ways to talk/learn about nutrition in age appropriate ways. 3-D Puzzles,
pans, cookbooks, chef dress-ups and more will delight the children in your
classroom. There are kits in every category too, Math, Science, Social Studies,
Multi-Cultural.

Child Care Answers Resource Library is Located at
Day Nursery-Ruth A. Lilly Center, 3522 N. Central Avenue

Hours of operation: Monday -Thursday: 12:00- 5:30 pm,
1st & 3rd Saturdays: 9:00 am-12:30 pm

Questions... Contact Lenore at lenoref@childcareanswers.com,
317 926-3401 ext. 312

Fun & Simple Father's Day Recipe

Root Beer Pulled Pork
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Nutrition Facts
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• Amount Per Serving
• Calories 356
• Total Fat (g) 10
• Saturated Fat (g) 3
• Cholesterol (mg) 59
• Sodium (mg) 786
• Carbohydrate (g) 44
• Fiber (g) 1
• Protein (g) 22
• Vitamin A (DV%) 4
• Vitamin C (DV%) 9
• Calcium (DV%) 4
• Iron (DV%) 13
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Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Ingredients
• 1 2-1/2- to 3-pound pork sirloin roast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 2 medium onions, cut into thin wedges
• 1 cup root beer*
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups root beer (two 12-ounce cans or bottles)*
• 1 cup bottled chili sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon root beer concentrate (optional)
• Several dashes bottled hot pepper sauce (optional)
• 8 to 10 hamburger buns, split (and toasted, if desired)
• Lettuce leaves (optional)
• Tomato slices (optional)
Directions
1. Trim fat from meat. If necessary, cut roast to fit into a 3-1/2- to 5-quart crockery cooker. Sprinkle meat with the salt and pepper. In a large skillet brown meat on all sides in hot oil. Drain off fat. Transfer meat to cooker. Add onions, the 1 cup root beer, and garlic.
2. Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 8 to 10 hours or on high-heat setting for 4 to 5 hours.
3. Meanwhile, for sauce, in a medium saucepan combine the 3 cups of root beer and the chili sauce. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Boil gently, uncovered, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes or until mixture is reduced to 2 cups. Add root beer concentrate and bottled hot pepper sauce, if desired.
4. Transfer roast to a cutting board or serving platter. Using a slotted spoon, remove onions from cooking juices and place on serving platter. Discard juices. Using 2 forks, pull meat apart into shreds. To serve, line buns with lettuce leaves and tomato slices, if desired. Add meat and onions; spoon on sauce. Makes 8 to 10 servings.
*Note: Do not substitute with diet root beer.

Paths to Quality Signs

Last week Child Care Answers staff met to learn about the great marketing plan put together for Paths to Quality. Starting in August level 2, 3, and 4 PTQ providers will be receiving signs to advertise their participation in PTQ. If you are a level 2, 3 or 4 look for your mentor/advisor to contact you soon to see what type of sign you would like to have to display. This will be a great way for providers to show their accomplishments and parents to know at a glance the quality of care a provider is offering.