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Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

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CONNECTION IS PUBLISHED BY CHILD CARE SOLUTIONS (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org LOOK INSIDE: Director Declarations......................................page 2 Get to Know Our Staff .....................................page 3 Members & New Providers...............................page 4 Membership Form...........................................page 5 Mark Your Calendars.......................................page 6 Fund Raising..................................................page 7 Food For Thought...........................................page 8 Regulatory Matters.........................................page 9 Tales From The Crib......................................page 10 Take Action..................................................page 11 Do you want to be a contributing writer to Connection? Do you have a question that you would like to “Ask the Nurse” or “Ask the Nutritionist”? Email Patrice Robinson, [email protected]. W inter is upon us...What does this mean for our routines, health, mood, attitude? Person- ally, I find it much harder to stay motivated to be physically active and tend to eat a little more “comfort food” than I really should. I get a little lazier and my pants get a little tighter. But I re- member fondly the days of bundling up and heading outside to make snow forts, build snow men and create the perfect snow angel. Noth- ing was better than, “the best comfort food of all,” a cup of hot cocoa after all of that fun. As adults we can instill those same fond memories in the children we care for. When my son was younger we took a walk at Beaver Lake Nature Center after a fresh, heavy snowfall. At one point on our walk we stopped and watched the sun stream through the icicles and snow hanging from the tree branches. Without prompting my son looked at me and said “that it was like a magical storybook.” That is one of his and my favorite memories. So simple, yet so absolutely wonderful. So I have made a resolution to treat the winter in Upstate New York with a sunnier, more magical outlook. Instead of taking that long winter nap, I will take a walk with my kids to catch snowflakes on our tongues. Instead of grumbling about driving in snow I will slow down and appreciate the beauty and stillness of freshly fallen snow. And when it really is TOO COLD to go outside we will read a book or play a game together. This is my winter vow. What will yours be? Can you build the worlds biggest snowman? Can you make the cool- est snow fort? Can you create a new indoor activity that will spark imagination and fun? Can you collect coats, hats & mittens for those less fortunate? Let us know what you come up with. Maybe we can share your ideas with the other child care providers of snowy Upstate New York. Happy Winter Everyone & Stay Warm! Patrice Robinson Marketing & Development Director CONNECTION December 2012-February 2013 Quarterly Newsletter Dec-Feb 13.indd 1 12/5/2012 5:58:01 PM
Transcript
Page 1: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

LOOK INSIDE:

Director Declarations......................................page 2

Get to Know Our Staff.....................................page 3

Members & New Providers...............................page 4

Membership Form...........................................page 5

Mark Your Calendars.......................................page 6

Fund Raising..................................................page 7

Food For Thought...........................................page 8

Regulatory Matters.........................................page 9

Tales From The Crib......................................page 10

Take Action..................................................page 11

Do you want to be a contributing writer to Connection? Do you have a

question that you would like to “Ask the Nurse” or “Ask the Nutritionist”?

Email Patrice Robinson, [email protected].

Winter is upon us...What does this mean for our routines, health, mood, attitude? Person-ally, I find it much harder to stay motivated to be physically active and tend to eat a little more “comfort food” than I really should. I get a little lazier and my pants get a little tighter. But I re-

member fondly the days of bundling up and heading outside to make snow forts, build snow men and create the perfect snow angel. Noth-ing was better than, “the best comfort food of all,” a cup of hot cocoa after all of that fun.

As adults we can instill those same fond memories in the children we care for. When my son was younger we took a walk at Beaver Lake Nature Center after a fresh, heavy snowfall. At one point on our walk we stopped and watched the sun stream through the icicles and snow hanging from the tree branches. Without prompting my son looked at me and said “that it was like a magical storybook.” That is one of his and my favorite memories. So simple, yet so absolutely wonderful. So I have made a resolution to treat the winter in Upstate New York with a sunnier, more magical outlook. Instead of taking that long winter nap, I will take a walk with my kids to catch snowflakes on our tongues. Instead of grumbling about driving in snow I will slow down and appreciate the beauty and stillness of freshly fallen snow. And when it really is TOO COLD to go outside we will read a book or play a game together. This is my winter vow. What will yours be?

Can you build the worlds biggest snowman? Can you make the cool-est snow fort? Can you create a new indoor activity that will spark imagination and fun? Can you collect coats, hats & mittens for those less fortunate? Let us know what you come up with. Maybe we can share your ideas with the other child care providers of snowy Upstate New York.

Happy Winter Everyone & Stay Warm!

Patrice RobinsonMarketing & Development Director

CONNECTIONDecember 2012-February 2013

Quarterly Newsletter

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Page 2: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

Director DeclarationsDecember 2012--February 2013...Page 2

Our New Year’s Resolution: To Support NY’s Early Education Programs

Soon it will be time to make New Year’s resolutions for 2013. We’d like to add a resolution to Governor Cuomo’s list: “I will use my power and influence to make high quality early educa-tion programs available to NY’s young children”.

Back in August, the New NY Education Reform Commission vis-ited Syracuse, for one of 11 meetings held around the state to gather input from experts and advocates. Child Care Solutions was part of that discussion and our message then is the same today: Kids who start behind, stay behind.

Soon the Commission will make final recommendations to Governor Cuomo on improving the state’s struggling education system. We join Winning Beginning NY and early childhood supporters around the state in asking the Commission to include the following recommendation to Governor Cuomo: Ensure access to high-quality Pre-K and child care for every NY family.

Brain research has come a long way in recent years. Today, we know the first years are the most crucial learning period in a child’s life. Indeed, 75% of brain development and 85% of intellect, personality and social skills develop before a child starts Kindergarten. At every level of education, New York State is putting systems in place to measure outcomes and improve learning. It is time that these same rigorous standards also apply to early childhood programs - including both Pre-K and child care.

That is why ensuring access and quality of early childhood education must include the expansion of QUALITYstarsNY, the state’s five-star rating program for early childhood programs. Just increasing access to programs isn’t enough – they must be of high-quality. The benefits last a lifetime: Increased school readiness, better health outcomes, decreased teen pregnancy, and increased rates of high school graduation and college completion.

These benefits aren’t limited to the child and family. They extend to communities, reducing the need for costly remedial educa-tion and social programs. And it doesn’t stop there. For every $1 invested in early education, there is a $1.86 return in money spent in that community – making high-quality Pre-K and child care programs a sound local economic investment as well.

Given the economic climate, we know the Commission and the Governor face tough choices in every area of education. There are countless needs in reforming our struggling schools – with very little funding. But to make reform efforts successful, New York State should recognize (as many other states and countries already do) that our education system starts at birth.

Next year can be the year that we begin to ensure access and quality of Pre-K and child care for every New York State family with young children. It’s a winning strategy that will help children and families, strengthen schools, boost the economy and make sure the Empire State remains competitive for decades to come. Governor, will it be on your list of resolutions for 2013?

Peggy LiuzziExecutive Director

CONNECTION

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Page 3: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

Get to Know our staffDecember 2012--February 2013...Page 3

Nora Rudewicz Data SpecialistStart Date: November 12, 2012Before Child Care Solutions: Prior to joining the Child Care Solutions team, I was working in New York City, at a non-profit for education (National School Climate Center) focusing on improving school climate and bully prevention for K-12 schools nationwide. Education: Bachelors of Arts, Communi-cations from SUNY OswegoFavorite Childrens Book: “Oh the Places You’ll Go” by Dr. SeussFavorite Movie: SerendipityHobbies & Interests: Outside of work, I enjoy reading (anything and everything) & running & traveling. I also love spending time with my two nieces and family.

Goodbyes Are Never Easy

Child Care Solutions is sad to say goodbye to two valuable staff members.

Gretchen Kinnell

After 23 years at Child Care Solutions, Gretchen Kinnell is retiring in February to spend more time with her family – husband Chris and their four children and seven grandchildren. She will be much missed. We plan, however, to bring Gretchen back to Child Care Solutions for conferences and special training events in the future, so we’ll still be able to enjoy her wisdom, humor and wonderful personal stories.

As a Professional Development Specialist and as our Training Director, Gretchen touched the lives of many parents, child care center staff and providers. She is a gifted early childhood teacher, as many know who participated in her workshops and classes. A quote from Scott Hayden perfectly describes Gretchen and her work at Child Care Solutions. “Teachers have three loves: love of learning, love of learners, and the love of bringing the first two loves together.” Thank you, Gretchen, for sharing your love of learning and learners with us all these years.

Child Care Solutions will host an Open House at our Syracuse office on Thursday, February 7th from 5:00 – 7:00 pm to give the child care community a chance to wish Gretchen happiness as she begins a new chapter in her life. Light refreshments will be served. You may RSVP at [email protected] or at 446-1220 ext. 0. We will also be renaming our First Teachers Scholarship the Gretchen Kinnell Scholarship. In lieu of gifts for Gretchen we would ask that you contribute to this scholarship fund so child care providers will continue to be affected by her legacy. For more information on donating to the scholarship, please call Patrice Robinson at 315-446-1220 ext. 354.

Cissy Casion-Lizzi

Cissy is leaving Child Care Solutions after 5 years as our Finance Director. Cissy’s plan for the future include more time with her treasured family and friends. In true Cissy style, she stayed on board through our last audit and to ensure that her replacement will have a smooth transition. We will miss Cissy’s professionalism and attention to accounting detail - something that we often take for granted.

Cissy has gained the respect of her fellow co-workers, board members, and our outside audit firm, all who have worked very closely with her. She has taken her role very seriously and has left our team with a firm understanding of proper accounting practices.

Thank you for your dedication and hard work Cissy and best of luck in your new endeavors.

CONNECTION

We Support The United WayChild Care Solutions Staff stepped up to the plate this year and supported our an-nual United Way Fundraising Campaign. Staff who participated in this year’s cam-paign were eligible to win some great gifts donated by the following merchants:

Sunshine’s Coffee Shop Denny’s Rise and Shine Diner Jreck Subs Barbagallo’s Express Mart Price Chopper Joeseph Anthony & Co. Pizza Hut Bruegger’s Bagels

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO HELPED MAKE THIS YEARS CAMPAIGN GREAT!

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Page 4: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

welcome Professional members & newly reGistereD December 2012--February 2013...Page 4

Email us: [email protected] Locations: 6724 Thompson Rd. Syracuse, NY 34 Wright Ave. Auburn, NY

Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/ChildCareSolutions

Follow our early care & learning blogwww.childcaresolutionscny.wordpress.com/

Follow us on Twitter@CCSCNY

Get LinkedIN With Other Central New York Child Care ProvidersJoin Central New York Child Care Professionals on LinkedIN

Child Care Solutions has created the LinkedIN Group, Central New York Child Care Professionals on LinkedIN. This on-line group provides an opportunity for child care providers to engage with each other directly, start groups, exchange ideas, ask questions, and share resources. Child Care Solutions will administer the group but it is an open forum for providers to connect. If you don’t have a LinkedIN account they are easy to create and valuable to use. Call Patrice Robinson @ 315-446-1220 ext. 354 with any questions.

Connect With Child Care Solutions

NEW/RENEWED INDIVIDUAL PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPSShelly AllenLinda BarnesGwendolyn Basilio-CapriaVirginia Baunee-WebsterMercedes BloodworthDarcy BuzaKimberly CampagnolaTracy CarrTina CherchioTanya DayFelicia DeJesusKatherine DiCosimoBelinda GlassLazara GomezGail GzikKaren HammLaura HarringtonCatherine HathawayMarlene HavenCarole HaynesNancy HeslerJanet HulbertCaroline JamisonMelinda KnutsonKatherine LandersDanielle LeeTheresa LombardTiara LoveNancy Lundy

Heather MahunikKathleen McMahanTerri MisitaHelen MonicaHeidi MyersBonnie OotPam PastellaKim Payne-PriceTammy Pettit-DavidOssie Jan ReeseJoy ReesterDebra RosenbergerSandra RossDorothy RussellJean Ryan PrestonGeorgina Smart-TryonLaura SmithLeah Steves-WhitneyDebbie StewartJanice StreetBrenda TerrellAnnette ThomasCarmela TorzonTommasa Wise

NEW/RENEWED ORGANIZATION PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

After School HerosAtonement Day Care CenterBenchmark Family Services

Blessed Sacrament SchoolCayuga Community College Pre-School Child Care CenterCayuga-Onondaga BOCES Day Care CenterCelebration Childrens CenterCreative EnvironmentDiscovery Day CareHead Start - Oswego County Opportunities Inc.Honey Tree Infant CenterJCC Early Childhood Development ProgramJordan Elbridge Country KidsKings Kids Christian Child CareLittle Lukes Day Care - BaldwinsvilleLittle Lukes Day Care - East SyracuseLittle Lukes Day Care - FultonLittle Lukes Day Care - OswegoLittle Lukes Day Care - PulaskiLuther Memorial Nursery SchoolMontessori School of the FingerlakesMother’s Day Out - Eastern Hill Bible ChurchNoah’s Ark Pre-SchoolOneida Indian Nation Early Learning CenterOpportunities for Chenango Inc. Head StartPave The Way Day CareRadisson Nursery SchoolSt Joseph’s Pre SchoolSt. Elizabeth Ann Seton Pre SchoolThe Children Center @ Morrisville State College Together We GrowUCC Nursery SchoolWorld Of Wonder Child CareYMCA of Greater Syracuse - Baldwinsville

CONNECTION

Pardeep Kaur Cherlynn Green Joy Vogt Adorrieanett Sutton Evette Pope Arabia Shavazz Charlene Cardner Denise Ward Cheryl Graves-WrightSarah Speno (Cayuga County) Denise Freed (Cayuga County) Heather Mahunik (Cayuga County)

Child Care Solutions would like to welcome these newly registered child care providers to theCentral New York child care community.

CENTERS/AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS

FAMILY/GROUP FAMILY PROVIDERS

Yoga at the

Jewish

Community

Center

Jovan

Dunlap &

Family. Registered

Family ProviderMuddy SneakersPave The Way DaycareCayuga Seneca Community Action – S. Cayuga YMCA – Manlius YMCA – McKinley-Brighton YMCA - Elden Road Elementary YMCA – Levy K-8

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Page 5: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

Professional membershiPDecember 2012--February 2013 ... Page 5

Child Care SolutionsProfessional Membership

Member Registration FormYes I would like a membership!

New Member Renewal

Name

Name of Program/Organization

Street Address

City

State

Zip Code

Phone Number

E-Mail

Select Your Membership LevelIndividuals & Family Child Care

$25 Individual

$25 Family Child Care Home

$40 Group Family Child Care Home (provider & up to 3 assistants)

Child Care Center or Organization

$55 per location Small Child Care/Early Education Program with 5 or fewer staff

$100 per location Child Care/Early Education Program with more than 5 staff

$100 per location Non Profit CommunityOrganization

Submit

Child Care Solutions will be introducing a new giving society later this year. This society will allow individuals, businesses and organiza-tions to financially support the important work we do for the parents, providers & children of our community. This will be separate from professional membership.

We would like to thank Denise Androvette, Lora Lee Buchta, Marsha Kernan, Helen Moore, & Susan Smith who recently donated generously to Child Care Solutions.

Sign up or renew your professional membership today. Membership entitles you to reduced rates on our workshops and conferences.

Ways to become a member

(1) By MailComplete the member regis-tration form and make check payable to Child Care Solutions

Mail to:Child Care Solutions6724 Thompson Rd.Syracuse, NY 13211

(2) By WebRegister & pay online at www.childcaresolutionscny.org

(3) By PhoneCall Child Care Solutions 315-446-1220 or toll free

CONNECTION

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Page 6: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

marK your calenDarsDecember 2012--February 2013...Page 6

Child Care Directors’ MeetingsAll Child Care Center, Head Start and School-Age Child Care Administrators are welcome to attend. No registration is necessary.

Day: 1st Tuesday of each month from Time: 9:30 – 11 amDates:February 5th – SyracuseMarch 5th – AuburnApril 2nd – SyracuseMay 7th – Auburn

Get On Board The E-TrainChild Care Solutions Introduces Webinar TrainingMore and more child care providers tell us that they like the convenience of taking training courses from their own homes. Such training saves time and travel ex-pense -- important consid-erations for busy, stressed lives. Since 2006 Child Care Solutions has offered distance learning courses through email, and they have been very popular. Last fall we began offering our own webinars which we call “e-train” (electronic training) courses.

Our e-train courses are webinars that students participate in from their own computer at a specific time and date. In these webinars, you hear the Child Care Solutions’ instructor and see their information as power point slides right on your screen. You’re able to interact with the instructors and others in the webinar through activities, live discussions and written chat messages. We have chosen to start with one-hour webinars on topics that can be covered in an hour. We keep the classes small so everyone can participate; these webinars are definitely not just “talking screens.” As with all Child Care Solutions’ training, the webinars contain high quality information and many practical suggestions.

If you are wondering whether this format may work for you, here’s a checklist that can help. To take an e-train webinar, you need:

• an email account to get the information;• a computer with internet access;• a phone if your computer does not have built in microphone and speakers • a space that is quiet enough for you to hear and participate in the webinar.

If you’re ready to try one, check out the webinars in the January – June issue of The Navigator, our training flyer. You’ll find them in the “on-line learning solutions” section. Give one a try; this is training that counts in every way. One of our upcoming “E-Train Webinars” will be held on February 5th. It is “Reading Aloud Ala Mem Fox” presented by Gretchen Kinnell . Look for more details & webinars in our January training catalong “The Navi-gator.” IT’S TIME TO GET ON BOARD THE E-TRAIN!

SAEYC Spring Institute Brunch IS included. More details will be forwarded when they become available.

Date: March 2, 2013 Time: 8:30am-1:00pmPrice: $25 for SAEYC members; $15 for students & $40 for non-members.

We will be CLOSED 9:00AM - 11:00AM

For Staff Meetings

• January 21

• February 18

We will be CLOSED 1:00PM - 4:30PM

For Holiday Party

• December 17

We will be CLOSED

• December 24, 25, 31

• January 1 New Year’s Day

• January 21 Martin Luther King Day

• February 18 Presidents’ Day

Office Closings

Child Care Solutions Open House Come visit our Syracuse office and wish Gretchen Kinnell happiness as she begins a new chapter in her life.

Light refreshments will be served. Location: 6724 Thompson Rd. Syracuse, NYDate: Thursday, February 7th Time: 5:00 – 7:00 pm RSVP: 446-1220

CONNECTION

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Page 7: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

funD DeveloPmentDecember 2012--February 2013...Page 7

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

Book Choices For WinterPoppleton in Winter by Cynthia Rylant, Mark Teague (Illustrator)

A three chapter winter book starring Poppleton the Pig. In one chapter he deals with fallen icicles. The second he makes a bust of his friend’s head. The last chapter he enjoys a surprise birthday party. Appealing water-color illustrations accompany the text.

The Five Dog Night by Eileen Christelow

Elderly Ezra is bugged by his neighbor Betty who visits him often. Betty brings Ezra a blanket in winter fearing he may be cold. He has no use for it because the colder it gets, the more dogs he takes to bed with him. Ezra doesn’t see Betty again until spring, when he decides to bake her some cookies and bring them to her. He is surprised to find that she has gotten some dogs of her own to stay warm. Watercolor illustrations help in tell-ing the story.

Our Trivia Night Fundraiser Raised Some Fun & Some Funds

Child Care Solutions hosted 120 trivia fans for an evening of fun & games on October 25th at the Empire Room at the NYS Fairgrounds. Great prizes from Anheuser Busch, Destiny USA, Target & Wegmans were awarded to the lucky winners during the evening. The proceeds from the evening will go directly back into our training program so we can continue to offer high quality, low cost training to the child care providers of Central New York.

The team from Pathfinder Bank took home the Titans of Trivia trophy this year, but they had some tough competition with teams from M&T, First Niagara, Syracuse University & more. If you didn’t get to join us this year, keep your eyes posted for next years event.

We would like to thank the following companies, organizations & individuals for their support of Trivia Night at The Fair:

SPONSORSAmericuBCG The Bell GroupBeth PastelBond Schoeneck & KingBousquet & HolsteinClear Channel MediaDannible & McKeeDr. TelukFidelis CareFirley, Moran, Freer & Eassa, PCFirst Niagara BankFrank PanzettaGreg HinmanIgnite Restaurant GroupJohn Sweeney Real EstateKBMLynn AmesM&TNational GridOlivaPathfinders BankRob & Denise SchoeneckSyracuse University

Testone Discenza MarshallTim RakeWegmans

SILENT AUCTION/PRIZE DONORSAnheuser-Busch CarrabbasChina PavillionColemansDarwinDestiny USADoubleTreeDunk n BrightEastern Security ServicesEmpire BreweryEvas European SweetsFairfield InnFrankie’s Picolo BistroGifts from the HeartHerb PhilipsonsHiawatha FastenersIchiban Jefferson Clinton HotelKellys Restaurant

Kirby’s Middle Ages BreweryMohegan ManorThe MostNibsysParis NailsPatrick’s Cleaners of Westvale Pizza Man PubPJ Pub & GrillRileysRosamond Gifford ZooStarbucks Rt. 57Syracuse StageTarget Rt. 11Target Rt. 31Terrells Potato ChipsThe Blarney StoneThe Brooklyn PickleTJ SheehansToshibaTwin TreesValvolineWalMart Rt. 31Wegmans Western Lights Wegmans Rt. 11 Cicero

CONNECTION

Thanks to generous donations from M&T Bank & the Literacy Coalition we were able to start our Bottom-less Book Bag for Better Behavior program for child care providers in Onondaga & Cayuga Counties. This program combines classroom training with one on one mentoring. Participants receive new bags of materials with activities to do with children in their care. The books help children learn about their feelings and how to respond appropriately when they are upset. Look for more information on the Bottomless Book Bag pro-gram in our January training catalog “The Navigator.”

FUND DEVELOPMENT IN ACTION

Trivia Volunteers Katie Grabowski & Brett Delola The Candy Bar at Trivia Night at the Fair. YUM!

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Page 8: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

fooD for thouGhtDecember 2012--February 2013...Page 8

Ask The Nutritionist

Strong CommunitiesBuild Strong ChildrenSusan DeCarlo, Infant/Toddler Specialist

Your program is the first early learning a child is exposed to. It should prepare them for future education and establish behav-ioral patterns that are expected of them as they grow older. The most important behavior for a child to learn is how to function in a community.

If a child feels as though they’re part of a community, important lessons will be established including cooperation, communica-tion, getting along with others and sharing. This early learning will provide children with lifelong lessons that will allow them to thrive later in school, at work and into adulthood.

So how do you first get started building a community in your program? Turns out it’s extremely simple, yet easy to avoid because the task can seem very daunting. Don’t be intimidated though, simply use some of these basic ideas to start building a sense of community:

•Group Activities-encourage children to work together, building block and roads and sharing and taking turns•Group Pretend Play-in dramatic play have children pretend to make pizza and serve to several other children—take it outside!•Singing Songs Together- children love to sing!!!•Reading Books- choose books that involve all the children, include multicultural books too•Animals- animals in the classroom build a sense of caring to the classroom community

Creating a sense of community is integral for all early learning. Before entering your program, children are establishing this life lesson in belonging to a family, but at your program they will soon be learning new ways to communicate and learn. Establish-ing a good sense of community in your program is very impor-tant when learning lessons that need to be used throughout early childhood and then future adult life.

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

CONNECTION

Bananas are healthy & inexpensive. Do you have any easy recipes that kids can help make?

Bananas are one of the most inexpensive and nutrient packed fruits. They are an excellent source of vitamin B-6 and a good source of fiber, potassium and vitamin C. Bananas are ripe when they have a rich yellow color and a few brown specks. They can be stored at room tempera-ture for about a week. You can freeze overripe bananas for smoothies, breads, muffins & pancakes.

Below is a recipe we found on the Chiquita Website ( http://www.chiquitabananas.com/Banana-Recipes/Banana-Sam-mies-recipe.aspx. ). This is a simple snack that children can easily help make. There are only 3 ingredients and some freezer time. Give the Banana Sammies a try.

Banana SammiesIngredients:1 whole Banana1/3 cup Peanut butter2 whole Graham Crackers1 sheet Plastic Wrap

Instructions:Mash the banana and peanut butter together in a small bowl with a spoon. Put a spoonful of the mixture onto half a graham cracker and top it with the other half to make a sandwich. Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for 1 hour before eating. Nutrition Information Per Serving:Calories 100; Total Fat 6 g (Sat 1 g, Trans 0 g, Poly 2 g, Mono 3 g);

Cholesterol 0 mg; Sodium 90 mg; Potassium 130 mg; Total Car-

bohydrates 11 g; Dietary Fiber 1 g; Total Sugars 5 g; Protein 3 g.

Percent Daily Value: Vitamin A 0%; Vitamin B6 6%; Vitamin C 2%;

Vitamin D 0%; Calcium 0%; Iron 2%.

Pat Kuhl is our Nutritionist. She is available to answer your questions regarding children’s diet & nutrition. Email questions to: [email protected]

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Page 9: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

reGulatory mattersDecember 2012--February 2013...Page 9

Training Documentation Reviewed At Mid-Point InspectionsBeth Henderson, Director of Registration

“Mid-point inspections” are now required two years prior to the expiration date of your four-year registration or license. If you develop a system to organize and track training records for yourself and your employees the in-spection will go much smoother and quicker for all. Be-low is an example of some of the documentation Registrar staff will review during the inspection.

Compile a list of the training completed by yourself, the provider/director and any of your employees. The list should include the name of the person who completed the training, the date(s) of the training, type of training, agency/presenter, hours of training, and the regulatory training categories covered during the training. See OCFS form 4880 “Individual Training Tracking Form” on the web site www.ocfs.state.ny.us or create your own similar form. Maintain on file for the program the supporting documen-tation to verify completion of training. This may include:

• Training certificates,• Attendance sign-in/out sheets for the training with

signatures and printed names,• Copies of agendas or outlines with the presenter’s

signature or some other verification that you com-pleted the training,

• Certification cards that indicate date training completed,

• College transcripts with course outline and/or description information,

• A copy of the credentials or certificates.

Ask The Nurse

What is the flu?Influenza (the flu) is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs caused by influenza viruses. There are many different influenza viruses that are constantly changing. They cause illness, hospital stays and deaths in the United States each year. The flu can be very dangerous for children. Each year about 20,000 children younger than 5 years old are hospitalized from flu complications, like pneumonia.

What are the symptoms of the flu?Symptoms of the flu can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and sometimes vom-iting and diarrhea. Some people with the flu will not have a fever.

What are some of the ways I can protect against the flu?In addition to getting vaccinated, take – and encourage your child to take – everyday steps that can help prevent the spread of germs.This includes:• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Throw the tissue in the

trash after you use it.• Stay away from people who are sick.• Wash hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not

available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this

way.• If someone in the household is sick, try to keep the sick person in

a separate room from others in the household, if possible.• Keep surfaces like bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom,

kitchen counters and toys for children clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the prod-uct label.

• Throw tissues and other disposable items used by sick persons in your household in the trash.

Melody Scanlon is an RN and our Health Care Consultant. She is available to answer your questions. Email questions to: [email protected]

Can my child go to school, day care or camp if he or she is sick?No. Your child should stay home to rest and to avoid giv-ing the flu to other children or caregivers.

When can my child go back to school after having the flu?Keep your child home from school, day care or camp for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone. (Fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)A fever is defined as 100°F (37.8°C) or higher.

For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/flu or www.flu.gov or call

800-CDC-INFO

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Page 10: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

Depression and Child CareWhy Does it Happen?Susan DeCarlo, Infant/Toddler Specialist

I happened upon a discussion site on the internet, where like-minded early childhood workers can talk over sensitive issues with confidentiality. One of the issues that came up was the rate of depressive episodes amongst the members of this group; to the amazement of everyone, it was discovered that over half of the group’s members grapple with depression on a fairly regular basis.

Did you know that 11 percent of personal care workers—which includes child care, reported depression lasting two weeks or longer? During such episodes there is loss of interest and pleasure, and at least four other symptoms appear—including problems with sleep, eating, concentration, energy and self-image. With such a high rate of depression we have to ask ourselves why. Is it the job that is causing the depression? Child care is a demanding, underpaid, often frustrating profession. For many child care workers there is a lack of social interaction with other adults and lack of control of daily schedules. A typical day can include feeding, bathing, and caring for others who are “often incapable of expressing gratitude or appreciation…because they are too young or they just aren’t in the habit of it,” says Christopher Willard, clinical psychologist at Tufts University and author of Child’s Mind. Are these the reasons that depression is so prevalent in the field?

Maybe it is not the job though? Perhaps the depression rates are so high because of the personality types that choose child care as a profession. Are people who are drawn to child care more sensitive and emotianally tuned in? Are they nurturers who are so tuned in to taking care of others that they often fail to take care of themselves?

Is it gender? Women are more likely to report suffering from depression. We know this is a female dominated field. Is this the reason depression rates are so high in child care?

What do you think? Is it the job or other factors? Send your thoughts to Sue DeCarlo (contact information below.) Maybe we can get a lively discussion going on this very serious topic? In the meantime if you are suffering from or think you might be suffering from depression please seek the medical advice of your doctor.

Contact Sue DeCarlo:Infant/ Toddler SpecialistChild Care [email protected] 446-1220 Ext. 335

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

tales from the cribDecember 2012--February 2013...Page 10

We Need Parents Who Can Tell Their Child Care Story!Planning for Child Care Aware® of America’s National Policy Symposium in the spring has begun. Child Care Aware of Amer-ica will again offer their Parents @ Symposium program, for a fifth year of organizing and training parents as advocacy leaders for affordable, quality child care!

Parents @ Symposium is all about parents sharing their personal stories on Capitol Hill to help Members of Congress understand why child care policies need to be strengthened so all families have access to affordable, safe child care that promotes the healthy development of children.

While the symposium seems far away (April 10-13, 2013, in Washington, D.C.), we need to start working with parents who would potentially be good candidates for this program! If you are or know any parents who would be good candidates for this symposium please contact Peggy Liuzzi, @ 315-446-1220. For those of you who may not be familiar with the Parents@ Symposium program, this is a partnership between Child Care Aware® of America, Child Care Resource and Referral agen-cies and parents who come together for one common goal: to strengthen the quality of child care nationwide.

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Page 11: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

ConneCtion is published by Child Care solutions (315) 446-1220 www.childcaresolutionscny.org

taKe action December 2012--February 2013...Page 11

Keep Kids In ActionMake Ribbon Rings

Children love to dance. Why not make it even more fun by adding some ribbon rings?Ribbon Rings are easy, fun and inexpensive to make. Purchase small embroider rings or use canning jar rims. Securely tie ribbon lengths between 12”-24” of varied colors around the rings. Voila children now have a new prop to add to their dance repe-toire.

Toddlers will become aware of how they are moving their arms and bodies to make the ribbons float in different directions. This wil help de-velop gross motor skills and coordination.

Use their new props to:• Talk about the different

colors of ribbon. • Practice moving up &

down, side to side.• Move the ribbons to the

beat.• Pretend & use your

imagination.

It's Time to Strengthen Child CareParents Magazine is joining with Child Care Aware of America to Promote Affordable, High Quality Child Care!

Child Care Aware of America is partnering with Parents Magazine to urge Congress to focus on the child care crisis. The federal law that allocates funds to states for child care is the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). It has very few rules to provide reasonable quality standards, and has not been updated since it was first passed in 1996. You can help make a difference by urging your Members of Congress to reauthorize and strengthen the law. This should be a bipartisan issue: As Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) told the Senate Subcommittee on Children and Families earlier this year, “It is absolutely crucial that we make a national commitment that safe and quality child care is available everywhere.”

You can contact your senators at:http://www.senate.gov/

You can contact your representatives at:http://www.house.gov/

You can use the below letter when you write to congress to urge them to promote affordable, high quality child care.

Dear________________:

I am writing to urge you to reauthorize and strengthen the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), which allocates funds to states for child care and sets the framework for state child care laws. Too many families have difficulty finding and affording quality child care today. With nearly 11 million children under age 5 in child care each week, the quality of care that child care providers offer could not be more important - not only to promote school readiness, but to keep children safe. State laws vary greatly, and most states get a failing grade, according to a recent report by Child Care Aware of America. CCDBG has not been updated since 1996, and the law needs to insist on minimum protections for children. All child care providers should have a comprehensive background check - which is currently required in only eight states - so that no one with a history of violent crimes will be caring for children. Providers should have 40 hours of initial training in child development and basic health and safety practices, such as CPR, and 24 hours per year of ongoing training. Child care pro-grams should be inspected at least once a year, and results should be posted online so parents can be informed consumers. Child care centers and at-home providers should be licensed and states should implement quality rating systems like QualityStarsNY so that parents can better understand the quality of child care settings as they select care for their children. Parents need child care in order to work, and our economy depends on working parents. It’s time to reauthorize CCDBG to ensure that children are properly cared for and there is account-ability for the use of taxpayer dollars. I hope I can count on your support for this crucial issue.

Sincerely,

Your Name

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Page 12: Connections Newsletter, December 2012-February 2013

Executive DirectorPeggy Liuzzi ext. 310

Assistant DirectorShannon Gillen ext. 307

Finance Director Mike Ransom ext. 304

Director Professional DevelopmentPatricia Beck ext. 309

Marketing/Development DirectorPatrice Robinson ext. 354

Systems AdministratorPam Borreggine ext. 306

Data SpecialistNora Rudewicz ext. 311

Senior Administrative AssistantLinda Mocciaro ext. 315

Administrative TeamKay Brown ext. 345 (Accounting Asst)Suzanne Goodell ext. 401 (Registrar Asst)Sara Pastore ext. 301 (Admin Asst)

Senior Professional Development SpecialistGretchen Kinnell ext. 308

Professional Development CoordinatorPatti Sofranko ext. 312

Health Care ConsultantMelody Scanlon ext. 332

Professional Development SpecialistsKatie Howell ext. 326Tonia Thornton ext. 347

Infant/Toddler Region III CoordinatorSusan DeCarlo ext. 335

NutritionistPat Kuhl ext. 314

Health and Safety CoordinatorRose Walsh ext. 319

Parent Services CoordinatorAimee Fletcher ext. 313

Parent Services SpecialistsAna Sojo ext. 353Amie Coffin ext. 320

Director of Provider ServicesMichelle Wolstenholme ext. 346

Provider Services SpecialistsTracey Hare ext. 348Alexis Hyde ext. 333Ashley Lenhart ext. 349Laura Maloney ext. 305Diane Thomas ext. 323

Registration DirectorBeth Henderson ext. 416

Registration CoordinatorSiobane Hall ext. 414

RegistrarsSue Benjamin ext. 412Joe Bernazzani ext. 411Faith Gilliam ext. 405Laura King ext. 432Selena LaPoint-Dice ext. 430Casey Miner ext. 436Becky Oliver ext. 434Linda Russell Shepherd ext. 438

Child Care Solutions6724 Thompson RoadSyracuse, NY 13211

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDSyracuse, NY

Permit No. 1027

Our MissionChild Care Solutions promotes early learning, healthy devel-opment and high quality care for all children through educa-tion, advocacy and support for families and early childhood professionals.

Our Locations & Business Hours

syracuse 6724 Thompson Road Syracuse, NY 13211

hours M-F 8:30 am-4:30 pm auburn 34 Wright Ave. Auburn, NY 13021

hours T-F 8:30 am-4:00 pm

Our Phones & Contact Information

main Phone (315) 446-1220fax (315) 446-2010reGistrars office (315) 701-2707fax (315) 701-1254toll free (888) 729-7290

websitewww.childcaresolutionscny.org

e-mail [email protected]

Current resident or:

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