6 years ago
Friday, June 18, 2010
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!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
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
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
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
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
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
Monday, June 14, 2010
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
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Fun & Simple Father's Day Recipe
Root Beer Pulled Pork
________________________________________
Nutrition Facts
________________________________________
• 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
________________________________________
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.
________________________________________
Nutrition Facts
________________________________________
• 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
________________________________________
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.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
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.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
How to teach poison prevention 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?
• 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 12-3 p.m.
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.
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 12-3 p.m.
To register contact:
Barbara Cole
(317) 962-9248
bcole@clarian.org
Registration is limited to 20
per session
Barbara Cole
(317) 962-9248
bcole@clarian.org
Registration is limited to 20
per session
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Colts Fan Open House
On Saturday, June 5, the Indianapolis Colts will host a FREE mini-camp and fan open house at Lucas Oil Stadium from 10 a.m. to approximately 4 p.m. The fan open house portion of the day will be from 10 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at which time the field will be cleared for the full-squad practice. Practice is scheduled to start at 2:15 p.m. and finish at 4 p.m.
The fan open house will have activities on the field including:
Colts inflatables
Photo opportunities
Participation in youth football combine drills
Open area for fans to play football on the field
Other activities in the fan open house portion of the day include:
Cheerleader runway show near the Lucas Oil Plaza stage at 11:30 a.m.
Live music on the Lucas Oil Plaza stage
Colts garage sale located in the Northeast corner of the stadium
Picture opportunities with the Colts Vince Lombardi and Lamar Hunt Trophies (fans must bring their own camera)
Cheerleader autographs
Appearance by Blue, the official Colts mascot
Concession stands open
Colts Pro Shop will be open throughout the duration of the event
Opportunity for fans to win one of eleven footballs autographed by current Colts players
Free cholesterol screenings by CardioChek, while supplies last
A free Colts poster will be handed out, while supplies last, as fans exit the stadium
Colts Mini-Camp and Fan Open House at Lucas Oil Stadium
June 5
10 a.m. to approximately 4 p.m.
Lucas Oil Stadium
500 S Capitol Ave
Indianapolis, IN 46225
*Admission is FREE
*FREE Parking in Tire Barn South Lot
Event Timeline
10:00 a.m.
All Lucas Oil Stadium gates open
On field fan experience with inflatables open
Live music on Lucas Oil Plaza stage
Colts garage sale open in the Northeast corner of stadium
Colts sponsor booths open
11:30 a.m.
Cheerleader runway show on Lucas Oil Plaza stage
1:15 p.m.
Field cleared for practice
2:15 p.m.
Full squad practice starts
4:00 p.m.
Practice over
Poster give-a-way while supplies last
Downtown Indy Festivals
Looking for something to do downtown during the month of June? Check out Indianapolis Downtown's website for a listing of all the festivals going on downtown. Child Care Answers will have a booth at the June 12th PBS Let's meet in the park. So come out and support us!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Staff Motivation Retreat
Tired of workplace negativity, drama and GOSSIP?
* Are staff motivation issues draining your time and energy?
* Do you wish your staff would just implement solutions that work?
* Are you exhausted perhaps even feeling resentful because your staff fails to make changes no matter how many times or how many ways you ask?
* Do you ever feel stuck due to your staff's lack of unity?
You are invited to attend The Staff Motivation Retreat coming to Indianapolis on June 26th. Julie Bartkus created this program specifically for directors and owners in the child care industry. Invest one day with Julie and discover a step-by-step plan of action to help you manage, motivate and retain great staff - - and rejuvenate yourself in the process.
For more information, please visit http://www.staffmotivationretreat.com or call Julie at 1.800.211.5671. There are some wonderful bonuses you'll receive for registering today.
* Are staff motivation issues draining your time and energy?
* Do you wish your staff would just implement solutions that work?
* Are you exhausted perhaps even feeling resentful because your staff fails to make changes no matter how many times or how many ways you ask?
* Do you ever feel stuck due to your staff's lack of unity?
You are invited to attend The Staff Motivation Retreat coming to Indianapolis on June 26th. Julie Bartkus created this program specifically for directors and owners in the child care industry. Invest one day with Julie and discover a step-by-step plan of action to help you manage, motivate and retain great staff - - and rejuvenate yourself in the process.
For more information, please visit http://www.staffmotivationretreat.com or call Julie at 1.800.211.5671. There are some wonderful bonuses you'll receive for registering today.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Office Hours
Child Care Answers office will be closed all day on Wednesday June 2nd and will not open until 1pm on Thursday June 3rd.
Swim lessons for toddlers get doctor's approval
Swim lessons for toddlers get doctors' approval
Posted 5/24/2010 8:58 AM ET
By Carla K. Johnson, AP Medical Writer
CHICAGO — The nation's largest pediatricians group is relaxing its stance against swimming lessons for children younger than 4.
In the past, the American Academy of Pediatrics has said swim classes might give toddlers and parents a false sense of security. Now the group says it's fine to enroll children as young as 1.
A few small studies suggest toddlers may be less likely to drown if they've had swim lessons. The doctors aren't recommending lessons for every young child. Some parents may feel their little ones aren't ready and that's OK.
Parents should choose classes that emphasize water safety and require a parent or other adult to be in the water with the child, said Connie Harvey who heads aquatics development for the American Red Cross and wasn't involved in the doctors' policy update.
Classes should have at least one instructor for every 10 students, she said.
The updated policy, released online Monday by the journal Pediatrics, also recommends fences around all pools, even popular inflatable ones. Kids can drown by leaning over the soft sides and falling in.
And the group warns that children can drown when their hair or hands get sucked into the drains of pools or spas without drain covers or proper filter-pump equipment.
The rate of childhood drowning deaths has declined in recent years. About 1,100 U.S. children drowned in 2006.
Parents know they should be vigilant while children swim, but trouble can occur in an instant of inattention, said Dr. Jeffrey Weiss of Phoenix Children's Hospital and lead author of the policy.
"It's not a lack of supervision, it's a lapse of supervision," Weiss said.
___
Online:
http://www.aap.org/
http://www.redcross.org
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Posted 5/24/2010 8:58 AM ET
By Carla K. Johnson, AP Medical Writer
CHICAGO — The nation's largest pediatricians group is relaxing its stance against swimming lessons for children younger than 4.
In the past, the American Academy of Pediatrics has said swim classes might give toddlers and parents a false sense of security. Now the group says it's fine to enroll children as young as 1.
A few small studies suggest toddlers may be less likely to drown if they've had swim lessons. The doctors aren't recommending lessons for every young child. Some parents may feel their little ones aren't ready and that's OK.
Parents should choose classes that emphasize water safety and require a parent or other adult to be in the water with the child, said Connie Harvey who heads aquatics development for the American Red Cross and wasn't involved in the doctors' policy update.
Classes should have at least one instructor for every 10 students, she said.
The updated policy, released online Monday by the journal Pediatrics, also recommends fences around all pools, even popular inflatable ones. Kids can drown by leaning over the soft sides and falling in.
And the group warns that children can drown when their hair or hands get sucked into the drains of pools or spas without drain covers or proper filter-pump equipment.
The rate of childhood drowning deaths has declined in recent years. About 1,100 U.S. children drowned in 2006.
Parents know they should be vigilant while children swim, but trouble can occur in an instant of inattention, said Dr. Jeffrey Weiss of Phoenix Children's Hospital and lead author of the policy.
"It's not a lack of supervision, it's a lapse of supervision," Weiss said.
___
Online:
http://www.aap.org/
http://www.redcross.org
Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Friday, May 21, 2010
2010-2011 Ball State University Early Childhood Conference
Are you looking for early childhood professional development opportunities
next year?
We are offering a series of six workshops, throughout the year,
in both Indianapolis and Muncie.
Workshops will be held in Indianapolis,
at Castleton United Methodist Nursery School,
on 9/25, 10/16, 10/30, 3/19, 4/2, and 4/30.
The same series will also be presented in Muncie,
at the BSU Scheidler Apts. Community Room
on 9/18, 10/2, 10/23, 3/26, 4/16, and 5/14.
All workshops are from 9:00-1:00.
(no lunch break)
SAVE THE DATES IN YOUR AREA!
You may register for single workshops for $25 each,
or you may pay only $125 to attend all six workshops
and get the last one FREE.
Emergent Literacy
Music and Movement
Culturally Responsive Teaching
Addressing Children’s Behaviors
Family Engagement
Nutrition, Obesity, and Physical Activity
CEUs and CRUs are available.
Check our website for additional details
www.bsu.edu/elementaryeducation
or email Dr. Lynn Staley at lstaley@bsu.edu.
Registration will begin in July.
Co-sponsored by the East Central Chapter of the
Indiana Association for the Education of Young Children
next year?
We are offering a series of six workshops, throughout the year,
in both Indianapolis and Muncie.
Workshops will be held in Indianapolis,
at Castleton United Methodist Nursery School,
on 9/25, 10/16, 10/30, 3/19, 4/2, and 4/30.
The same series will also be presented in Muncie,
at the BSU Scheidler Apts. Community Room
on 9/18, 10/2, 10/23, 3/26, 4/16, and 5/14.
All workshops are from 9:00-1:00.
(no lunch break)
SAVE THE DATES IN YOUR AREA!
You may register for single workshops for $25 each,
or you may pay only $125 to attend all six workshops
and get the last one FREE.
Emergent Literacy
Music and Movement
Culturally Responsive Teaching
Addressing Children’s Behaviors
Family Engagement
Nutrition, Obesity, and Physical Activity
CEUs and CRUs are available.
Check our website for additional details
www.bsu.edu/elementaryeducation
or email Dr. Lynn Staley at lstaley@bsu.edu.
Registration will begin in July.
Co-sponsored by the East Central Chapter of the
Indiana Association for the Education of Young Children
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Summer Reading Program for Child Care Providers
JOIN THE IMCPL SUMMER READING PROGRAM – Reading books = Brain
Food!
Food!
Preschool teachers, you’re invited to join us for the Library’s 91st FREE Summer
Reading Program - Read to Feed! Check out this program & great “reads” from June 7
– July 31, 2010
PRESCHOOL/DAY CARE PARTICIPATION MADE EASY!
As a preschool teacher, you play an invaluable role in a child’s first steps to learning how
to read. Reading aloud and talking to children enriches their imagination & vocabulary
in critical ways. Registering your class in the summer reading program is an easy way to
build the love of reading.
Registration:
Beginning in early June, visit your local Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library
branch or Bookmobile to sign up your class and yourself. Each teacher who will be
reading aloud to children needs to register individually. As a thank-you gift for
registering and reading aloud to your class, you will receive a White Castle coupon.
Beginning in early June, visit your local Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library
branch or Bookmobile to sign up your class and yourself. Each teacher who will be
reading aloud to children needs to register individually. As a thank-you gift for
registering and reading aloud to your class, you will receive a White Castle coupon.
Point Card:
Upon registration you will receive one Group Point Card for your entire class.
Bring the point card every time you return books to the Library or Bookmobile for your
class to receive reading points.
Upon registration you will receive one Group Point Card for your entire class.
Bring the point card every time you return books to the Library or Bookmobile for your
class to receive reading points.
Earn Prizes!
Your class can accumulate up to 400 points. All children in a class will earn the same
prize at the same time. Three prizes will be available for the children at the following
point levels:
1 Playtime Dough………….. 100 points
1 Glitter ball ………… 200 points
1 Paperback Book for each child……..…300 points
1 Classroom Book ………………………400 points*
*At 400 points, the teacher chooses a Children’s Paperback Book, for classroom use.
(Limit one per class.)
SCHOOL-AGE SUMMER CAMPS
Summer campers who read independently may participate as well by filling out
individual registration forms and earning up to 600 points to spend on prizes. Summer
Camp leaders may join the program and earn points for reading aloud to the campers in
their care. Camp leaders who are 18 years or older may only earn points for reading
aloud to children.
Summer campers who read independently may participate as well by filling out
individual registration forms and earning up to 600 points to spend on prizes. Summer
Camp leaders may join the program and earn points for reading aloud to the campers in
their care. Camp leaders who are 18 years or older may only earn points for reading
aloud to children.
Remember these Important Summer Reading Dates:
First day to receive reading points – Monday, June 7, 2010
Last day to receive reading points – Saturday, July 31, 2010
For more information call or visit your local IMCPL Branch or call 275-4099.
Bike Safety Event
Clarian Health and local health groups partner to host Emergency Medicine Bike Safety Fair at The Children’s Museum. Free event will offer bike giveaway, free helmets and bike safety tips for children
WHAT:
Free fair promoting bike safety
DATE:
Saturday, May 22
TIME:
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
LOCATION:
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
3000 N. Meridian St.
Indianapolis, IN 46208
COST:
No cost
DETAILS:
INDIANAPOLIS—On Saturday, May 22, Clarian Health and the Indiana University School of Medicine’s Department of Emergency Medicine will join several local health and community organizations in hosting the Emergency Medicine Bike Safety Fair taking place at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
This free, three-hour event will feature bike giveaways, free bike helmets (while supplies last), a bike safety course, an obstacle course, crash prevention demonstrations, and stations for helmet-fitting, helmet decorating and traffic signaling/safety instruction.
Each station will be staffed by emergency medicine faculty, residents, and medical students from the Indiana University School of Medicine.
“The Emergency Medicine Bike Safety Fair is a community-wide effort to educate children on the safest ways to enjoy their bikes in the hope of reducing the number of bicycle-related injuries,” says Dr. Jennifer Walthall, one of the event organizers and an emergency medicine physician with the IU School of Medicine’s Department of Emergency Medicine. In stressing the need for more public education about bike safety, Walthall notes that only a few of the nearly 200 children that participated in last year’s event claimed to have bike helmets at home.
“We hope that this effort will help keep the children of Indianapolis safe and happy while riding their bikes this summer,” says Dr. Walthall.
Statistics show that using a bicycle helmet can greatly reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury. According to the Center for Disease Control, head injury is the leading cause of death in bicycle crashes. National statistics also show that use of bicycle helmets can eliminate 65 to 88 percent of bicycle-related brain injuries and 65 percent of serious injuries to the upper and middle regions of the face.
The Emergency Medicine Bike Safety Fair is being sponsored by Clarian Health, The Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Emergency Medicine, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine, Emergency Medicine Student Interest Group (EMSIG) and Marion County Emergency Medical Services.
BIKE SAFETY TIPS:
Always wear a helmet when riding your bicycle.
Parents should wear helmets, too!
Make sure your bicycle isn’t too big for you—your feet should be able to touch the ground when you stop.
Ride in the daylight.
Concentrate on riding—don’t wear earphones or try to talk on a phone.
Don’t ride your bike on a busy road.
WHAT:
Free fair promoting bike safety
DATE:
Saturday, May 22
TIME:
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
LOCATION:
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
3000 N. Meridian St.
Indianapolis, IN 46208
COST:
No cost
DETAILS:
INDIANAPOLIS—On Saturday, May 22, Clarian Health and the Indiana University School of Medicine’s Department of Emergency Medicine will join several local health and community organizations in hosting the Emergency Medicine Bike Safety Fair taking place at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
This free, three-hour event will feature bike giveaways, free bike helmets (while supplies last), a bike safety course, an obstacle course, crash prevention demonstrations, and stations for helmet-fitting, helmet decorating and traffic signaling/safety instruction.
Each station will be staffed by emergency medicine faculty, residents, and medical students from the Indiana University School of Medicine.
“The Emergency Medicine Bike Safety Fair is a community-wide effort to educate children on the safest ways to enjoy their bikes in the hope of reducing the number of bicycle-related injuries,” says Dr. Jennifer Walthall, one of the event organizers and an emergency medicine physician with the IU School of Medicine’s Department of Emergency Medicine. In stressing the need for more public education about bike safety, Walthall notes that only a few of the nearly 200 children that participated in last year’s event claimed to have bike helmets at home.
“We hope that this effort will help keep the children of Indianapolis safe and happy while riding their bikes this summer,” says Dr. Walthall.
Statistics show that using a bicycle helmet can greatly reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury. According to the Center for Disease Control, head injury is the leading cause of death in bicycle crashes. National statistics also show that use of bicycle helmets can eliminate 65 to 88 percent of bicycle-related brain injuries and 65 percent of serious injuries to the upper and middle regions of the face.
The Emergency Medicine Bike Safety Fair is being sponsored by Clarian Health, The Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Emergency Medicine, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine, Emergency Medicine Student Interest Group (EMSIG) and Marion County Emergency Medical Services.
BIKE SAFETY TIPS:
Always wear a helmet when riding your bicycle.
Parents should wear helmets, too!
Make sure your bicycle isn’t too big for you—your feet should be able to touch the ground when you stop.
Ride in the daylight.
Concentrate on riding—don’t wear earphones or try to talk on a phone.
Don’t ride your bike on a busy road.
Voluntary Certification Program
Child Care Answers staff had a very interesting lunch on Monday in which our wonderful ministry mentors helped us all understand the process in which ministries go through the Voluntary Certification Program (VCP). For a ministry the first step in Paths to Quality is to meet the VCP standards. You can access more information about VCP by clicking on the link. For some great pictures of staff learning about the process check out Child Care Answers facebook page!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Hamilton County Community Development Block Grant
Attention Hamilton County Residents You May Qualify For This Grant
The US Office of Housing and Community Development(HUD). Based upon the Consolidated Plan priorities strengthening of the community's living environment, and the promotion of community services that increase opportunities for economic self- sufficiency.
Nature of Program
The HUD funds can bee used to carry out a wide range of community development activities directed toward revitalizing neighborhoods, economic development, and providing improved community facilities and services.
For More Information
If you would like additional information on the Hamilton County Community Development Block Grant Program please contact:
Mark McConaghy, CDBG Coordinator
Noblesville Housing Authority
322 Kings lane
Noblesville, IN 46060
317-773-5220, ext. 104
Fax: 317-774-0079
Monday, May 17, 2010
Stopping Child Abuse
Stopping Child Abuse One Child at a Time
Recognizing Abuse and What to Do About It
Sheila DayMay 01, 2010
The statistics are overwhelming. More than 20,000 Indiana children are abused or neglected every year. That breaks down to about 1,700 a month, or 56 kids a day. Translated another way: In every Indiana classroom, there are potentially three children who are suffering from abuse. Every day, children—maybe even someone in your child's classroom—are suffering abuse at the hands of another.
Many wonder how they can possibly make a difference against such a formidable enemy? My answer: The same way I can, the same way we all can. One child at a time.
Whether you work directly with children, or simply come into contact with them as your kids make friends and get involved, one of the best things every adult can do is to learn the key signs of child abuse and possible situations which may trigger such behavior.
Signs of trouble
First of all, child abuse is a broad term that can include several areas, including physical, sexual or emotional/verbal abuse, as well as medical neglect. For each of these, there may be different warning signals. Below are some of the most common physical and behavioral signs to indicate that something may not be right—that a child may need help.
Physical indicators of abuse:
* Unexplained bumps or lumps
* Burns by cigarettes
* Dental/oral injuries
* Unexplained bruises (in various stages of healing)
* Unexplained fractures, lacerations or abrasions
* Evidence of delayed or inappropriate treatment for injuries
Behavioral/social indicators of abuse:
* Withdrawn, self-destructive, aggressive behaviors
* Fear of being at home
* Complaints of soreness; uncomfortable movement
* Bizarre explanation of injuries
* Apprehension of adult contact
* Developmental lags
* School absenteeism
You may also be alerted to a dangerous situation by the caretaker. Common characteristics in caretakers include being an extremely harsh disciplinarian; describing a child in a consistently negative manner; abusing alcohol or drugs; being overly defensive; or concealing or misleading about a child's injury.
The stress of family situations
While there are certainly cases where domestic violence or substance abuse provoke the abuse of a child, you may be surprised to know that many abusive situations arise when a family is faced with a stressful situation. Where there is a lot of stress—job loss, poverty, marital discord, divorce, little support—and the abuser lacks the knowledge and the parenting skills to cope in a healthy way, there is often a climate prime for abuse.
In addition to educating yourself about what abuse may look like and what may prompt it, you should also be aware of the steps you can take if you are concerned about a child's welfare. While we cannot change the hurt children have suffered in the past, we can change how they are affected in the present and future. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, call the 24/7 hotline at Child Protective Services: 1-800-800-5556.
Sheila Day is a licensed social worker with the Child Protection Center at Peyton Manning Children's Hospital at St.Vincent. The center provides medical evaluation services for children when abuse or neglect is suspected.
SIDEBAR
Becoming Stewards of Children
The Peyton Manning Children's Hospital at St.Vincent is now offering a child sexual abuse prevention program to the general public and, specifically, adults who interact with kids as teachers, coaches, youth leaders, etc. Called Stewards of Children, this national program educates adults on to how to recognize the signs of sexual abuse and provides practical information on how to respond appropriately.
More information? 317-338-3153
Recognizing Abuse and What to Do About It
Sheila DayMay 01, 2010
The statistics are overwhelming. More than 20,000 Indiana children are abused or neglected every year. That breaks down to about 1,700 a month, or 56 kids a day. Translated another way: In every Indiana classroom, there are potentially three children who are suffering from abuse. Every day, children—maybe even someone in your child's classroom—are suffering abuse at the hands of another.
Many wonder how they can possibly make a difference against such a formidable enemy? My answer: The same way I can, the same way we all can. One child at a time.
Whether you work directly with children, or simply come into contact with them as your kids make friends and get involved, one of the best things every adult can do is to learn the key signs of child abuse and possible situations which may trigger such behavior.
Signs of trouble
First of all, child abuse is a broad term that can include several areas, including physical, sexual or emotional/verbal abuse, as well as medical neglect. For each of these, there may be different warning signals. Below are some of the most common physical and behavioral signs to indicate that something may not be right—that a child may need help.
Physical indicators of abuse:
* Unexplained bumps or lumps
* Burns by cigarettes
* Dental/oral injuries
* Unexplained bruises (in various stages of healing)
* Unexplained fractures, lacerations or abrasions
* Evidence of delayed or inappropriate treatment for injuries
Behavioral/social indicators of abuse:
* Withdrawn, self-destructive, aggressive behaviors
* Fear of being at home
* Complaints of soreness; uncomfortable movement
* Bizarre explanation of injuries
* Apprehension of adult contact
* Developmental lags
* School absenteeism
You may also be alerted to a dangerous situation by the caretaker. Common characteristics in caretakers include being an extremely harsh disciplinarian; describing a child in a consistently negative manner; abusing alcohol or drugs; being overly defensive; or concealing or misleading about a child's injury.
The stress of family situations
While there are certainly cases where domestic violence or substance abuse provoke the abuse of a child, you may be surprised to know that many abusive situations arise when a family is faced with a stressful situation. Where there is a lot of stress—job loss, poverty, marital discord, divorce, little support—and the abuser lacks the knowledge and the parenting skills to cope in a healthy way, there is often a climate prime for abuse.
In addition to educating yourself about what abuse may look like and what may prompt it, you should also be aware of the steps you can take if you are concerned about a child's welfare. While we cannot change the hurt children have suffered in the past, we can change how they are affected in the present and future. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, call the 24/7 hotline at Child Protective Services: 1-800-800-5556.
Sheila Day is a licensed social worker with the Child Protection Center at Peyton Manning Children's Hospital at St.Vincent. The center provides medical evaluation services for children when abuse or neglect is suspected.
SIDEBAR
Becoming Stewards of Children
The Peyton Manning Children's Hospital at St.Vincent is now offering a child sexual abuse prevention program to the general public and, specifically, adults who interact with kids as teachers, coaches, youth leaders, etc. Called Stewards of Children, this national program educates adults on to how to recognize the signs of sexual abuse and provides practical information on how to respond appropriately.
More information? 317-338-3153
Thursday, May 13, 2010
New Payment Policy
Beginning July 1st 2010 Child Care Answers has a no cash policy. We will accept the following payments only:
- Check
- Money Order
- Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover)
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