Turning Point children's programs offer children and families affected by a serious illness, such as cancer, the opportunity to
develop positive coping strategies through unique, skill-based, developmentally appropriate experiences. Programs are conducted
through workshops, camps, and six-week groups at NO COST to the families. Please call or visit our website for more information.
The mission of Turning Point is to enhance the lives of individuals, families and friends living with cancer and other serious
or chronic illness through innovative education and support services that complement medical care. Turning Point's programs for
parents and children are designed specifically to help the entire family live well with the stress and change brought about by
a family member's serious or chronic illness. Many families experience emotional, social and physical distress when a loved one
is diagnosed with a serious or chronic illness. Children are especially vulnerable as their routines and sense of their world
are turned upside down. In most cases, children are very aware when stress and change impact a family. Honest, accurate, and
age-appropriate communication will be your best guides as you discuss your health with children. Creating an ongoing dialogue and
a safe outlet for their emotions can assist your child's ability to cope and grow through difficult times.
The following suggestions may help children cope with illness in the family:
Tell your child the truth. When they are included, children have the best chance to cope and regain a sense of stability. Tell them the name of your disease and your best understanding of what may happen.
Let children know what you are doing to treat your illness and what the potential side effects are.
Be sure that your child knows the seriousness of your illness. Children often imagine the worst and not talking about the possibility of death can cause a great deal of fear and anxiety.
Make sure that your child knows that they did nothing to cause your illness and that they cannot "catch" your illness.
Encourage children to ask questions.
Find and use extra support from extended family, neighbors and friends.
Remind your child that all feelings are OK and that it is important to express them.
Help your child find appropriate ways to express anger.
Try to keep family routines as normal as possible.
Reassure your child that they will be cared for no matter what.
Express your own emotions in front of your child. It models for them that it is ok to feel different things.
Keep your child's school and teacher informed of what is going on in the family.
Let your child know it is not their job to make you feel better.
Reassure children that it is still ok to have fun.
Look for changes in behavior, like sleep or eating disturbances or developmental trouble. These can be important warning signs that your child needs help.
Turning Point Programs for Children and Parents:
Step by Step: (4-6 year olds) & Fork in the Road: (7-12 year olds). In a group setting, your child uses fun, age-appropriate
activities in music, art, and play to learn how to communicate feelings about an adult family member's illness.
Crossroads: (13-18 year olds) In a supportive group setting, teens create a video that expresses what it is like to have an adult
family member facing illness.
My Time: A relaxing support program for parents that is held concurrently while the children are in session.
Teen Transitions Project: Helping teens with a serious or chronic illness navigate life's many transitions - from typical adolescent
issues to changing health care providers.
Camp Courage: a 3 day camp, held in conjunction with Children Mercy Hospital, for children ages 6-14 diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease.
Camp Compass: a nature based day camp for children with a sibling diagnosed with a serious illness.
Camp Horizons: (4-12) COMING SOON! A day camp for children whose families reside in Eastern Jackson County and who have an adult family
member with a serious illness.
Call Turning Point at 913-383-8700 to enroll your child, receive more information, or schedule a tour!
Turning Point
8900 State Line Road, Suite 240
Shawnee Mission, KS 66206
913-383-8700 www.turningpointkc.org
Tips for Successful Sleepovers this School Year! New Friends Add Excitement to Sleepovers
For many kids, meeting new friends is one of the most exciting parts of heading back to school each fall. A new
school year provides plenty of opportunities for children to expand their social circles, and weekend sleepovers
are common ways to build new friendships. Despite their popularity, sleepovers can be challenging for both children
and parents. Common jitters that accompany sleepovers such as missing Mom and Dad or being afraid of the dark are often
made worse when children are anxious to impress their new friends. For parents, hosting sleepovers can be an overwhelming
experience, especially when the guests are spending the night at their homes for the first time.
"There's no doubt that sleepovers are a rite of passage for kids, but that doesn't mean they're always easy,"
says child development expert Penny Warner, author of Slumber Parties - 25 Fun-Filled Party Themes. "With the right
amount of planning and preparation, sleepovers can be great fun for kids and stress-free for parents." Warner says
it's never too early to plan for your child's next sleepover, and she offers the following tips to help moms prepare their
kids to enjoy sleepovers with new friends.
Make sure your child is ready to attend.
Consider factors such as whether your child sleeps through the night, handles the bedtime routine on his or her
own, and shows signs of independence.
Prepare your child for the sleepover.
Pack his or her overnight bag with the essentials (toothbrush, sleeping bag, etc.) & a few familiar items,
such as your child's favorite pillow or stuffed animal, that will make him or her feel at home, even while at
someone else's house.
Ease your child's fear of the dark.
Pack a nightlight or flashlight in his or her overnight bag to prevent your child from waking up scared in an
unfamiliar home.
Reduce your child's chance of an embarrassing moment.
Sleepovers have plenty of potential not only for fun but also for embarrassment. For example, if your child
experiences bedwetting, let him or her know that it's not his or her fault and that he or she is not alone -
literally millions of kids go through the same thing. Pack his or her overnight bag together and include
GoodNites® disposable underpants. They have underwear-like prints and aren't visible under pajamas, which
will give your child the confidence to have fun during the evening and to fall asleep with assurance that a
dry morning awaits.
Parents who will be hosting a sleepover also have their work cut out for them. Warner has been helping parents
plan sleepovers for more than 15 years and has plenty of ideas in the sleeping bag.
Encourage your child to invite old friends along with the new. Having pals from the previous school year present
will help your child feel more comfortable around his or her new friends.
Develop a list of rules with your child to ensure the sleepover goes smoothly. This is especially helpful for
your child's new friends who aren't yet familiar with your house rules.
Welcome the guests. Be sure the children feel comfortable in your home, and let them know they can talk to you
in private if they feel homesick, experience bedwetting, or have trouble falling asleep.
Connect with the parents. Talk with the parents of your child's guests so that you are aware of any dietary
restrictions, bedtime routines or other issues. This is also a good time to exchange contact information in case
of an emergency and to discuss special rules, such as no PG-13 movies.
Plan plenty of activities. Keeping the kids entertained throughout the night is crucial - if they're busy and
having fun, they'll be less likely to miss their parents and own bed.
Create a sleeping space. Set up a comfortable sleeping area for the slumber party - try arranging the sleeping
bags in a starburst shape with heads at the center and feet at the outer edge.
Let the kids stay up late at night. They can always catch up on sleep the following day, and half the fun of
sleepovers is seeing who can stay up the latest.
Visit goodnites.com for more sleepover tips, advice and information.
At goodnites.com parents can connect with doctors and other parents at the GoodNites® Good Morning ClubTM.
Courtesy of ARA Content EDITOR'S NOTE:
The survey cited in this article was conducted in March 2005 by Impulse Research for GoodNites®
Brand in order to assess sleepover patterns among kids in the U.S. A total of 1,766 women with children were
recruited for this survey. Of those, 1,215 women had children age 4 to 14.
The 90 percent who have participated in sleepovers were the focus of the survey. The overall sampling error
for this survey is plus or minus 3 percent at the 95 percent level of confidence.
Mission Possible: Back to School Shopping Survival Guide
The troops are ready to be loaded in the van - but you're missing the cargo. Back-to-school shopping for
your kids' supplies can seem like survival of the fittest after a summer filled with barbecues and family
vacations.
This year, parents' missions to fill their children's backpacks begin with one common goal -- organization.
According to a recent Office Depot survey conducted by Harris Interactive of more than 500 parents, more than
one-third (35 percent) of parents said they'd choose keep them organized glue for their child as the No. 1
super-powered supply.
While this super glue isn't available just yet, Maria Bailey, Office Depot's family organization expert, an
award-winning author, bluesuitmom.com founder and working mother of four kids, has tips to help parents get
their kids in gear this school year.
"Parents can start the school year off on the right foot by getting their kids and home ready for the
back-to-school season," says Bailey. "It's as simple as following a few survival tips to make sure
your child is ready with the right tools to make the grade."
Basic Tips to Guide Parents Through the Back-to-School Shopping Season:
Prepare the Supplies: Before sending your troops off to class, make sure they're fully loaded with this year's
best supplies, such as Elmer's Fun No Run Glue (under $1) or Liquid Graphite Pencils (under $3). Survival Tip:
Buy in bulk to save on items like construction paper, poster board, markers and glue. Not only will these
supplies fill backpacks, but five percent of your qualified supply purchases at Office Depot will be donated
to the school of your choice.
Balance Your Act: Back-to-school time also means it is time to start balancing busy schedules. Make sure your
child can be productive while on-the-go by creating a mobile workstation. Grab the Lap Desk by Smart Lap and
fill it with travel-sized supplies. Now, home-work can be done in the baseball stands or in the car. Tip: If
space, not time, is your obstacle, try the Easy Fold Desk ($60).
Secure the Home Base: Office Depot's survey of more than 500 parents also revealed that the two most popular
study areas at home are the kitchen and bedroom - with or without a desk. Stock up on Eldon Shelf Savers Bin
Organizers ($13) to store and organize those extra supplies.
Tech-Savvy Skills: An overwhelming majority of parents, 93 percent, indicated that their child needs at least
some technology to be successful in school. If you're investing in tech tools, help protect and organize these
products with items such as the Extreme Sling Cross Over Backpack ($20) or Nike Zipper Binders ($15). The
multiple compartments in each are perfect for carrying the latest gadgets from hand-held organizers to graphic
calculators to cell phones. In addition, use a portable thumb drive such as the Memorex 1GB USB 2.0 Thumb Drive
to store data, files, photos and more and retrieve from any computer -- no more floppies!
Re-evaluate the Field: Each school year is filled with quizzes, group projects and assignments. Have the latest
software on hand to alleviate late night homework stresses. Microsoft Student is a new addition to MS Office that
includes such features as: Encarta, Graphic Calculator, Essay Organization, Foreign Language Functions and more.
This software offers everything the serious student needs to stay ahead of the curve at school, from state-of-the-art
research resources to helpful organization tools.
For your back to school needs, visit www.school.com
Courtesy of ARA Content
Who ever said physical activity is all work and no play?
In fact, it can be just the opposite! There is no need to think of strenuous workouts that are painful and boring. Instead,
imagine doing fun physical activities you enjoy and look forward to. Now imagine getting your children involved. Not only do
adults need to become physically active, children do too! Recent studies indicate that an estimated 15 percent of children and
adolescents ages 6-19 are considered overweight.1 So how can we reverse this trend and get our children moving? Make
it fun! Find an activity that interests your child and dive right in. Whether it is riding bikes, hiking or roller-skating, your
children will love spending time with you and will learn that physical activity can be a fun family event. The National
Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) issued physical activity guidelines for elementary school-aged children
(Corbin et al., 1998.) that recommend the following:
Elementary school-aged children should accumulate at least 30 to 60 minutes of age-appropriate and developmentally
appropriate physical activity from a variety of activities on all, or most, days of the week.
An accumulation of more than 60 minutes, and up to several hours per day, of age-appropriate and developmentally
appropriate activity is encouraged.
Some of the child's activity each day should be in periods lasting 10 to 15 minutes or more and include moderate
to vigorous activity. This activity will typically be intermittent in nature, involving alternating moderate to
vigorous activity with brief periods of rest and recovery.
It is clear from the statistics above we need to get our children moving. Children should not have extended periods of
inactivity.2 If our children adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes physical activity when they are young they
are less likely to become sedentary adults. So how do we encourage our children to get moving? Make it Fun! Get involved
with physical activity for enjoyment and watch the health benefits follow!
1 1999-2000 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, (NHANES) 2 Promoting Better Health for Young People Through Physical Activity and Sports: A Report to the President
From the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Education.
Turn over a new leaf... HEALTHFUL HABITS TO LOSE WEIGHT THIS FALL
The cooler weather of the fall season is more than just a great time to enjoy being outdoors before
cold weather sets in. For many of the 65 percent of overweight Americans, the changing season is an
opportunity to establish good eating habits and increase physical activity before the stresses and
temptations of the holidays arrive.
Being overweight is about more than how you wear the latest fall fashions; it's about being healthy,
which is why the American Council for Fitness and Nutrition (ACFN) is encouraging Americans to regard
the seasonal shift as an opportunity to embrace new habits for a lifetime of wellbeing.
Obesity is driven by complex economic, cultural, social and genetic factors. Just as there is no single
cause of obesity, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. However, bringing your weight under control can begin
with a single, yet important step -- matching your food intake with your physical activity level. This is
known as energy balance. "Those who achieve energy balance by burning off the calories they consume are
more likely to maintain a healthy weight throughout the busy fall and winter holiday seasons," says Susan
Finn, Ph.D., R.D., chair of ACFN.
Of course, even when we have good intentions to watch what we eat and stay active, real life can get in
the way. Demanding schedules mean meals on the run, not around the table. Environmental or emotional
triggers like stress or boredom can lead to overeating. Then we find refuge in front of the TV or computer
rather than taking a walk or enjoying another calorie burning activity.
ACFN offers the following pointers to help Americans embrace the opportunity for better health this fall.
Relish the colors of the season. Ravishing red, vivid orange and dazzling yellow don't just belong on the
trees -- they belong on your plate. Apples, carrots, broccoli, cabbage and kale are often freshest in the
fall. Eating five helpings of fruits or vegetables each day is a great way to keep calories, fat and
cholesterol low while reaping great nutritional benefits.
The air is brisk, are you? Most Americans don't move enough. Let the brisk air of fall motivate you to
incorporate a walk into your daily routine. Walking for ten minutes will burn calories and get your
muscles moving. Even better, walk briskly for 30 minutes to burn around 100 calories.
School's in session and it's time for a multiple choice quiz. Today we have more and more options for
healthful foods. Many food companies offer convenient portion sizes with specific calorie counts for
both snacks and meals. Look for and choose healthy, tasty versions of your favorites -- many now have
reduced calories, sugar and types of fat.
Don't wait for the last leaf to drop -- start raking now! Yard and housework are great ways to stay
active. Raking leaves for half an hour can burn 150 calories. Spend 15 minutes washing those windows for
a better view of the changing foliage and you'll burn about 50 calories.
Savor the unmistakable harbinger of fall, the smell of . . . grilling. The tradition of burning leaves
in fall is highly discouraged for health and safety reasons, but now an even better aroma -- grilled
foods -- can punctuate the crisp seasonal air. Grilling is a delicious and healthy way to prepare meats,
fish and veggies, so don't put your grill into storage just yet!
"We all shift our routines in some manner when the seasons change -- the beginning of school, cooler weather
and even new pastimes like watching fall sports affect our daily lives," continued Finn. "Seize this
opportunity to turn over a new leaf and shed unhealthy habits -- and pounds -- this fall."
Courtesy Of ARA Content
HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES TO HALLOWEEN CANDY
When the ghosts and goblins, super heroes and villains come knocking on your door this Halloween, do them
a favor. Instead of dropping a candy bar or two into their trick-or-treat bag, fill it up with healthy
alternatives. With childhood obesity on the rise in the United States, a bag full of candy bars -- with
their empty calories -- is the last thing the neighborhood kids need.
"Nutrition and Halloween aren't two words that are normally seen together, but it is possible to
promote healthy eating habits during the Halloween season," says Lisa Katic, the nutrition advisor
for the Snack Food Association. She recommends parents make sure their kids have a nutritious meal before
heading out the door to go trick-or-treating so they won't be tempted to fill up on candy; and instead of
handing out candy bars, that you set a good example for the neighborhood by giving away nutritious snacks.
Among the Halloween alternatives gaining in popularity these days, granola bars, cheese and cracker packs,
sugar free gum, and packets of instant hot chocolate, carrots and pretzels. "You really can't go wrong
setting a precedent in the neighborhood as the home that hands out the treats that are good for you,"
says Katic. Among the healthy treats you'll find on the market this Halloween, specially decorated bags of
Snyder's of Hanover mini pretzels. Each orange bag, featuring a picture of an intricately carved jack-o'-lantern,
contains 36 half-ounce bags of mini pretzels. Each serving contains just 50 calories and has no fat or sugar.
"As far as calories are concerned, they compare favorably to other typical Halloween treats," says Bob Gould
of Snyder's of Hanover. The average candy bar contains about 95 calories, 5 g of fat and 10 g of sugar. Here are some
other alternatives to Halloween Candy:
Sports or trading cards. If you have a little more money in your Halloween treat budget, you might consider buying
some sports cards or another popular trading card for children. Those with large budgets can probably afford to leave
an entire pack in every child's bag, but you could also give out individual cards.
School supplies or stickers. Kids are always misplacing their pencils, erasers and crayons, so these are holiday treats
they will really appreciate. Stickers are also popular among youngsters in school. They can use them to dress up their
notebooks or lockers.
You can find special Halloween packaged bags of Snyder's of Hanover minis at stores across the country from now through
Halloween. For more information about the health benefits of pretzels, log on to
www.snydersofhanover.com.
Courtesy Of ARA Content
Connecting with Conscience... Quietly
"Tommy! Turn off that TV! Haven't I told you a hundred times to ask me before you turn it on?"
You're right. You probably have told him a hundred times maybe more. But your words are ignored: they
simply haven't yet connected with his conscience.
Helping kids respond to their conscience is a daunting task. In fact, it's so difficult that many parents
and educators more-or-less give up.
Classroom cheating is on the rise; school-based crime is up 22% in the last ten years.* In a culture with
few absolutes and abundant examples of misbehavior, is it any wonder that our children would be slow to
connect with their conscience?
While the development of conscience is a many-sided exercise,* we have discovered a great tool for the
nurturing of conscience that is mostly overlooked in current literature. We call it Quiet Correction.
Instead of repeating corrective language over and over, you help the child make the needed change with
few or no words at all. For example, instead of telling Tommy to turn off the TV again, you quietly
help him do it. He needs to do it - even with your help - in order to drive the point home. Again,
instead of reminding your kids to play quietly because Grandma is sleeping, you silently bring the noisy
offender(s) to play quietly near you for a few minutes all without words. Instead of telling your child
again to go to bed, you quietly take him by the hand and lead him to his bed.
What is the connection with conscience?
First, the child is motivated to use his own brain to figure out what you are wanting. Now he
will understand that you actually meant what you said!
Next, the child learns by doing. Since Quiet Correction almost always involves helping the
child do something, Quiet Correction can make a more lasting impression than a barrage of
corrective words.
Finally, and most importantly, Quiet Correction helps develop a child's sensitivity. Most
children start life as very sensitive people. However, we tend to desensitize them with
scolding and other "noisy" corrections. In contrast, this approach helps them
develop quiet responsiveness to their conscience.
Summer camp is a tradition that goes back generations. But the camp facilities available for children
today offer much more than you might expect! Experienced instructors guide each group through Challenges
designed to build trust, foster creativity, support leadership development, enhance communication skills,
and just have fun! While group safety is always paramount, participants are encouraged to step outside
their comfort zone and be open to new challenges. Children of all backgrounds have an opportunity to come
together for a week of outdoor fun and learning. In a non-competitive setting boys and girls, ages 8 - 17,
discover the best in summer camping and have an opportunity to learn about nature, themselves and each
other in an environment that promotes: respect for self, others and the environment. They can enjoy
everything from swimming to astronomy to nature studies. Most camps are centered around a natural
environment including wooded trails, lakes, and groomed meadows. The kids stay in modern cabins, and have
access to educational resources, a dining hall, outdoor classrooms, indoor meeting rooms, swimming pool,
sports fields, campfire and picnic areas. This setting and the experiences that are offered are priceless
tools for your child. Their self-confidence is enhanced with the accomplishments and camaraderie. No matter
where you are from, childhood summer camp always offers the wonderful opportunity for a life long memory
and experience!
Submitted by: Jose
Wildwood Outdoor Education Center
Kid's Salons are all the Rave!
Getting a haircut may seem like a simple task for most of us, but for little ones it can often be challenge.
The sitting still, waiting, and itchy hair droppings can make the most cooperative tike squirm and whine.
Today's parents have to suffer no more! Kid's Salons offer unlimited opportunities for fun and entertainment
while getting that necessary haircut. The stylists are trained to accommodate those customers who can't reach
a light switch with professional expertise. Patience and smiles are key! The child can play video games or watch
a movie of their choice all while they get that adorable new cut Mom has chosen. Not only are haircuts available,
but your little princess can even get a manicure and pedicure fit for a queen. The environment at these salons is
always bright and happy geared to stimulate the creativity and imagination of all who enter the wonderland of
bright colors and smiling characters. Retail merchandise abounds in most, offering everything from hair accessories
to hard to find quality toys for boys and girls. Birthday parties are also available for ages 3 and up.
Character parties, Dress Up parties, Stage Show parties, Fashion Show parties and on and on! The entire birthday
group can get their nails done for a real "big girl" memory! Some even offer video taping services for
the big event. The entire salon is set up to make the simple task of hair care more fun for Moms and Kids!
Submitted by Paula Thurman
Shear Madness
Get Up and Move to music... What a great way to start the new year!
Early exposure to music increases children's brain development. Research shows that music helps build
children's self-confidence, enhances complex reasoning and focuses listening skills. Early music
instruction produces cognitive benefits in the area of spatial-temporal reasoning.
Studies have shown that young children who have developed rhythm skills perform better academically in
their early school years. Children who take music lessons have better verbal memory skills than others
and may find it easier to learn in school.
Children seem to be naturally drawn to music right from the start. Fostering this inborn love of music
can begin as early as infancy. Parental involvement is an important factor in early music training and
can greatly improve the experience.
Early childhood music programs such as Kindermusik focus on fostering a love of music, rhythm, and
self-expression. Early musical experiences can help children develop their singing voice, build steady
beat competency, develop listening skills, and give expression to their feelings. These valuable skills
will benefit children when they begin formal music lessons.
So when should children begin piano lessons?
Around the ages of 7 or 8 years children typically begin piano lessons. By this age children are more
ready to sit still and concentrate and their hands are big enough to reach the keys. By age 8 children
usually have developed the ability to do abstract reasoning which is needed for staff note reading.
Children will learn much more than just music in playing the piano. They will achieve valuable skills
such as self-discipline, mental concentration, a sense of timing, the ability to hold up under stress,
memory skills and many others that will benefit them throughout their lives. Give your child the gift
that last a lifetime...Music!
Article submitted by:
Denise Revo - Kindermusik
Lee's Summit, MO See our ad
FETAL BONDING
I know simply from my 25 years experience in obstetric sonography that each time you see your baby with
ultrasound it becomes certain. But I decided to do a little research to see what was published.
Christa Luminare-Rosen, PhD, author of Parenting Begins Before Conception: A Guide to Preparing Body, Mind,
and Spirit for You and Your Future Child, says research demonstrates that babies in the womb have the
emotional and intuitive capabilities to sense their parents' love. "Prenates can see, hear, feel,
remember, taste and think before birth. Babies can recognize music they've heard in the womb after they're
born." In the prenatal bonding classes Luminare-Rosen holds, she asks the participants to
"visualize your child, talk to your baby, and feel the baby ".
Bonding, says Marilee Harling, RN, prenatal program manager at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles,
is how babies-before and after birth-learn what the world is all about. "It's also part of their
personality development. When there's a healthy attachment between baby and parent the baby comes to
believe that the world is a safe place. This is the beginning of the establishment of trust. Fathers
tend to begin bonding later than mothers, for obvious reasons. But they can help the process along by
attending doctor's visits and their sonography appointments."
"One of the best ways you can bond with your baby", says Thomas Ivester, MD, clinical instructor
in maternal-fetal medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, "is having
an ultrasound." "Bonding during pregnancy gives a mom a better sense of responsibility in caring
for herself, and be extension the baby. When you can actually see the baby that increases the feeling that
the baby actually exists. Recent advances in technology have made sonography even more valuable tool. For
most of the last 25 years, ultrasound images were available only in two dimensions. In recent years, 3/D
ultrasound has been developed. In the second trimester you can actually see the baby's chubby cheeks, see
him sucking, yawning, and turning over. It's fantastic!"
Dr. Pretorius, University of California San Diego, noted of 3/D ultrasound that "When we reassure,
we're not only reassuring Mom, we're reassuring Dad, any extended family, and the physicians if he's
worried about something he saw or has in the family history." She also noted, "For parents in
whom an anomaly has been identified, the opportunity to see it for themselves can be a source of comfort.
"
Preparing for and bonding with you baby now begins with the first, "Congratulations you are pregnant"
from your doctor. Take advantage of this time with your baby and enjoy it!
Story by:
Jeanette Burlbaw BS RDMS
Prenatal Imaging Centers, LLC - see our ad page
Will Rogers once said: "The best thing for the inside of a man is the outside of a horse."
This truism has stood strong for both genders, and all ages, but in recent years, especially for kids! An
overexposure to television media and computers often interferes with a child's absorption of life-strengthening
values. The interaction between a child and a horse naturally instills trust, responsibility, patience and
respect, plus a variety of physical skills. Equestrian activities offered for children have reached an all time
high in the U.S. Camps, riding lessons, showing, recreational riding, vaulting, preschool pony-ship programs and
many forms of horse therapy for the physically and mentally challenged are increasingly popular. With the
increased adaptation of instructor certification programs such as American Association for Horsemanship Safety
(AAHS), North American Riding for the Handicap Association (NARHA) and Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA),
equine related safety standards are decreasing the risks associated with riding. These groups are also opening
new horizons in helping kids achieve their goals as they learn to ride and care for a horse. Many stables offer
youth riding programs, and the Yellow Pages is a fine place to start looking. Considerations for selecting the
right place for your child to learn to ride may be as follows:
Certified Instructors
An enforced helmet policy
Clean facility
Healthy horses
Well structured program(s)
A facility accredited with a certification program, or their own Standard Operating Procedures (don't hesitate to ask to see them)
Note: An indoor arena helps lessons continue rain or shine.
Riding a horse is a unique partnership. Two truly be come one as mutual trust, respect and patience blend
with balance, sensitivity and timing to create an unforgettable experience for kids!
Submitted by Cindy Strahm
Misty Rivers Equestrian Center
21400 E. Eureka Rd * Independence, MO
816-220-2332 * www.mistyrivereq.com
Halloween Safety Tips!
Trick-or-Treaters
Walk, never run
Shoes should fit (even if they don't go with your costume)
Stay on sidewalks
(If no sidewalk) walk on the left side of the road, and always facing traffic.
Carry a flashlight
Obey traffic signals
Don't stray to unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Be polite and don't walk through yards or driveways.
Wear a watch that is able to be read in the dark.
Costumes should not drag on the ground.
Remove masks while walking between houses.
Only carry flexible props, nothing sharp.
Wear reflective markings on your clothes.
Only go to houses whose lights are on.
Don't go near unfamliar animals.
Parents
Have your child eat dinner before going trick-or-treating.
Young children should be accompanied by an adult.
Make sure your children wear a watch if they go out alone, and that they know what time they should be home.
If you buy a costume, look for one made of flame-retardant material.
Always know where they will be going.
Although tampering is rare, tell children to bring the candy home to be inspected before consuming anything.
Carefully go over any candy and make sure you discard anything that looks suspicious.
Homeowners
Clear your yard of items that can trip or injure children.
Keep all pets indoors.
Rather than using real candles, use battery powered jack-o-lanterns.
If candles are used, make sure your jack-o-lanterns are well away from the area where trick or treaters will be walking.
Make sure any yard decorations are not in danger of being too close to candles.
Healthy food alternatives for trick-or-treaters include packages of low-fat crackers with cheese or peanut butter filling,
single-serve boxes of cereal, packaged fruit rolls, mini boxes of raisins and single-serve packets of low-fat popcorn that
can be microwaved later.
Have you given up on getting your kids to eat anything except McNuggets?
At least they're eating SOMETHING....right? Our BOTTOM LINE - we want them to love nutritious food.
For little ones a cool summer idea is to use a colorful ice cube tray as a plate.
Fill the "cubes" with:
Veggies - baby carrots, celery, broccoli florets with "dip" - Ranch dressing, or their
favorite
Fruit - grapes, banana, apples or other favorites with "dip" - fruity yogurt or peanut
butter with yogurt
Cheese Cubes
Home made chicken with favorite bottled sauce, Pretzels, whole grain crackers, other favorites.
Elementary age kids like to make their own pizzas. Use small Boboli crusts or pitas (mini or full size)
topped with a squeeze of pizza sauce, a variety of toppings ready to use in fridge, then place in toaster oven
(this is a good time to discuss using a kitchen timer) or microwave to melt cheese.
Some topper ideas:
Shredded deli rotisserie chicken, reduced fat pepperoni, chopped ham, Italian turkey sausage (cook a batch and use for several days)
Shredded Cheeses - Italian mix, mozzarella, cheddar, Jack, etc.
Chopped vegetables - bell peppers, onion, mushrooms, zucchini, even pineapple
Wraps are a trendy meal delivery method for older kids. They can be as creative as they choose and practice ethnic food choices.
Protein sources - shredded deli rotisserie chicken, cooked shrimp, cooked turkey sausage, leftover beef, pork, chicken or fish (make
extras just for this purpose), cheeses, deli meats, tuna salad, chicken salad, egg salad, ham salad, refried beans, black beans,
hummus, even peanut butter.
Sauces - teriyaki sauce, gourmayo (new squeeze variety in several flavors), reduced fat mayo, salsa, salsa mixed with lowfat sour
cream, reduced fat spreadable cream cheeses, sandwich spread, etc.
Vegetables - matchstick broccoli, shredded romaine, grated carrots, sprouts, thin strips of bell pepper, chopped tomatoes, grated
zucchini, etc.
Wraps - whole wheat tortillas, regular flour tortillas, corn tortillas, flavored (and colored) tortillas, large leaves of leaf lettuce
washed and dried (stack in zip bag on paper towel).
Asian Wrap - a spinach tortilla spread on wasabi gourmayo, with shredded chicken, matchstick broccoli, a couple strips of bell pepper,
maybe a little shredded carrot. Roll it up and wrap in foil.
SW Wrap - a sun-dried tomato tortilla spread with a little chipotle gourmayo, top with shredded chicken, a few black beans,
bell pepper, some grated zucchini or tomato, some jack cheese.
Use your imagination and engage children in the preparation of meals. You'll help them make better choices and eat for nutrition
as well as flavor, texture and eye appeal.
Exercise is such a vital tool in the development of children. With the abundance of video games and
cartoons it is sometimes difficult to kick the kids out of the house to pursue activities that challenge
their bodies instead of their fingers. A great activity for kids is Rock Climbing. I realize that seems
a little extreme, but climbing is an ideal activity for children. Climbing provides many underlying
benefits that help in physical and mental development, but the best part is: kids think it's fun!
Climbing helps build coordination, flexibility, muscle strength,endurance, self-esteem, and self-confidence.
If you think about it, kids are built to climb. I am sure that some of you reading this right now have a difficult
time keeping your kids from climbing up the kitchen cabinets and the refrigerator. Kids' low strength to weight ratio
combined with small hands and feet make climbing come quite easily. As a climbing instructor, I focus on teaching
adults to climb using their minds and proper technique. For children it just comes naturally. I find that younger
children pick up on climbing much faster than most adults. I have witnessed a wide spectrum of climbers starting at
age 2 to age 80. Anyone who has the desire to climb can do it if you just try.
The final problem is, "where do we go?" Being that we are in a vertically challenged city without beautiful
mountains surrounding us, we have to be creative. The best place is through an indoor climbing facility. In almost
every major city one can find a climbing gym that offers climbing for all ages. Many offer programs geared towards
children such as birthday parties and camps.
Next time you are looking for some activity to challenge your child mentally and physically, think about climbing.
Your kids will have so much fun that they won't even realize they are exercising!
Article submitted by:
Chris Fairbank
IBEX Climbing Gym
ibex@comcast.net http://www.climbibex.com
DEVELOPING A SECURE ATTACHMENT WITH YOUR CHILD:
I typically help adoptive families with attachment issues in newly adopted children. However, I have found that
developing a securely attached child is something all parents seek to do if they want healthy, happy, well adjusted
children. So what does a securely attached child look like? Well, they are independent, yet trust that their parents
will take care of their needs such as a scraped knee. They will maintain eye contact and will talk to mom and dad
about their feelings in an age appropriate manner. While all children have their own little personalities, attached
children will more likely grow up with a healthy sense of empathy and responsibility for self and others.
Holding time or snuggle time is a vital part of attachment. I was often teased that my child would learn to walk
faster if I set her down she still learned to walk even though I carried her quite a bit. Playing games that require
eye contact, singing, dancing close, finger games with young children, sitting the child on your lap and just talking
quietly, sleeping with your child will all enhance secure attachment.
So what if my child does not securely attach? Well, children who do not attach to their parents or caregivers will go
to strangers for comfort, may have difficulty expressing emotions, sometimes lack empathy for others, and seek to
control parents, friends, and teachers in order to feel in control of their world. Children who experience multiple
caregivers such as those in orphanages or in multiple foster care placements have demonstrated these symptoms most
vividly. Of course, children who never see the inside of an orphanage or foster home can become disengaged when they
do not feel connected to a primary caregiver.
The best ways to enhance attachment is plenty of eye contact, lots of holding, talking to your baby while you are
nursing or feeding, and of course, meeting your child's needs without fear that you are spoiling your baby. Babies
cannot be spoiled by too much holding, contrary to the beliefs of the past. They develop vital neural connections that
will benefit them for the rest of their lives.
Why is it important to develop a theme for a child's birthday party or special event?
Using a "THEME" adds a more festive touch to your party and creates a truly memorable experience
for your child and your guests. A theme helps focus attention on a specific topic or area of interest and
will provide a way of connecting other elements, which pulls the entire event together. Developing a theme
will keep your party organized and will show your guests that you took extra care to make this event
special. When you consider planning around a theme incorporate the theme into all areas of planning -
invitations, name tags, food, cake, favors, decorations, and entertainment. Doing so will help you maintain
your focus, build anticipation, create lasting memories, and reinforce the overall effect you want to achieve.
Choosing a Theme:
There are many sources from which to draw when choosing a theme. The theme should center around an interest of the
guest of honor. Brainstorm ideas for the theme with your child and let them have input in the selection and the party
planning. You may want to set certain criteria for what will be included in the party plan. Work within your set
perimeters including cost, number of guests, timeframe, games, and location to design and organize your event.
An easy way to choose a theme is to first shop for the paper goods, plates, napkins, or tablecover. Build a theme
around the picture on the plates, tablecover, or napkins. It isn't necessary to have all the paper goods be from the
theme pattern you have selected. You may want to choose to add solid color coordinating items and decorations. A good
idea is to use at least two solid colors to coordinate with your themed items. You benefit by having more options to
work with and you add a creative flair to the occasion.
To choose a theme you may want to incorporate ideas related to a favorite book, movie, cartoon character, hobby,
special event, sport, song, poem, favorite childhood memory or other topics. If a child has a special hobby or
collection, you could use these items in decorating; as a centerpiece, wall hanging, or special display. Perhaps a
friend or family member as a unique collection and would like to share their items for an evening or a day. The
possibilities are endless. Remember to keep it simple, aim at having a great time, and don't stress over the small
stuff.. More party tips to come!
Kathy Ragan-Masters, a Kansas City, North graphic artist and mother of two, was rocking her youngest daughter, Korinne,
to sleep one night a couple of years ago when an idea came to her. "My daughter loved to look at pictures of our
family," Ragan- Masters said, "And I thought how nice it would be if I had a way to hang photos on the side of
her crib to comfort her and help her get to sleep."
She shared the idea with her friend Brenda Maynard, a talented seamstress.Maynard, also a Kansas City, North mother of
two, agreed to partner with Ragan-Masters to create some prototypes of the product she envisioned. Each was "test
marketed" by two-year-old Korinne, who was delighted with the concept.
"Every night she would point to each picture and talk about it and then lay down for sleep," Ragan-Masters said.
Scientific studies support Ragan-Masters discovery. "Several studies have shown the importance of visual stimulation
on a baby's growth and development," she said. And, the value of the photo panel grows exponentially with the child.
"Korinne grew out of her crib, but she still loved her HangUps," Ragan-Masters said. The solution was an easy
one. Simply hang the photo panel on the wall in the toddler's room. Now, four-year-old Korinne enjoys talking about the
pictures of her. It's a great way to build conversation skills. "Korinne even counts the 'twinkle stars' at top,
" Ragan-Masters said. And, her six-year-old big sister, Kala, asked for her own "Hang Ups," too."She
likes to fill hers with photos of friends and her latest accomplishments all by herself", Ragan-Masters said.
Maynard saw another group that could appreciate some "HangUps." She realized how much her grandmother would have
appreciated one when she was in a nursing home. The product fits nicely on the front of a walker, so she could have taken
her family photos along with her wherever she went.
"In fact," Ragan-Masters said, "we've had several customers order them for relatives that have Alzheimer's
to help them remember family and friends."
At the suggestion of one pleased customer, a panel has been added to the back of the product for seniors with walkers to
use as a tote. Ragan-Master's said there has been positive feedback about the photo panel being made of cloth with no glass
to break and possibly injure children or older adults.
"We offer nine colors to blend with any decor, too," she said. "We've had so much fun creating it,
"Ragan-Masters said. "Now," she said smiling, "we want everyone to have HangUps."
Some stores have already signed up. Recently, some local Hy-Vee grocery stores started carrying the unique photo panels.
For more information about "Family HangUps", visit the Web site
www.familyhangups.com, write to P.O.Box 902026, Kansas City, Mo.
64190, or call (816) 746-6705.
Missouri's MO$T Program Offers Higher Education Savings Help
One of the most important - and costly - expenses you will face is funding the cost of higher education.
If the current national trend continues, you will see higher education-related costs rise significantly in
the coming years. For example, new parents looking ahead 18 years can expect the average cost of a four-year
college education in the U.S. to triple - to more than $100,000 at public universities and more than $200,000
at private colleges.
Rising costs have made it increasingly difficult for parents to save sufficiently. Consequently, their children
are shouldering more of the burden by taking out larger student loans.
To help reverse this trend, a number of states across the country have introduced higher education savings programs
that offer attractive tax advantages.
Key features of MO$T
Tax-Advantage Earnings
Anyone - a parent, grandparent, relative or friend - can open an account for a beneficiary (eventual student).
You can even open an account for yourself. Missouri taxpayers can deduct up to $8,000 in contributions annually
from their Missouri adjusted gross income. In addition, all earnings on contributions are exempt from Missouri
state taxes and Federal Income Taxes* if used for the qualified higher education expenses of the designated
beneficiary. These tax advantages can translate into significant additional savings.
Eligible Expenses
Money in a MO$T account can be used to pay for qualified higher education expenses at any eligible college,
university, vocational/technical school, or other postsecondary institution in Missouri or anywhere else in the
country. Qualified expenses include tuition, fees, certain room and board, books, supplies, and equipment required
for college enrollment or attendance.
Professional Management
MO$T offers three investment options:
* The Managed Allocation Option is the core investment strategy for the MO$T Program.
* For a steady, predictable return, with low risk, contributions can be invested in the Guaranteed Option.
* The 100% Equity Option provides a blend of domestic and international stock mutual funds which, depending on
performance, may produce above-average returns over the long term. This option may be appropriate for those who
can tolerate greater risk and volatility for at least a portion of their college investment in exchange for
potentially higher returns over time.
Call toll free for more detailed information about MO$T:
1-888-414-MOST
(1-888-414-6678)
Or visit www.missourimost.org
* The law allowing federal tax-free qualified withdrawals is set to expire on December 31, 2010. Congress may or
may not extend the law beyond this date.
Involve your child in preparing for the new baby
Materials:
You will need drawing paper, markers or crayons, laminating paper, yarn, and a hole punch.
Activity:
Invite your child to make a mobile for their new baby sister or brother. Divide the paper into four boxes
and have them draw a picture for the baby in each box. Cut out the pictures and laminate them. Punch a hole
at the top and use the yarn to tie the pictures to the baby's swing or above the crib. This project is
appropriate for children 18 months and older, because even colorful scribbles will b interesting to the
infant.
Discussion:
Talk to your child about the many things they will be able to teach the baby, and how their new role as a
big sister or brother is important and special. Praise them for the ways they are caring for or helping
prepare for the new baby.
Benefits:
Infants begin to focus on objects close to them and start to develop their motor skills by reaching for
colorful things within their view. Mobiles can be frequently alternated to provide a stimulating
environment for your new born. Your older child will begin to identify themselves as a helper and feel
valuable in their new rile as a big brother or sister. They will have a sense of accomplishment and pride
in having created something to be used by their new baby sister or brother.
Laura Aube is a Nationally Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist. She
uses art to give children a way to express and cope with difficult feelings. She provided support to
children and their parents around a variety of issues. She has three years experience working with children
with behavior disorders in a treatment center, and seven years experience working with grieving children
and their families through hospice. She is currently in private practice in Cass County Missouri. She can
be reached at 816-589-0644 for further information about her services.
Kids Don't Come With Instructions
In 1998, The Children's Place (TCP), a local non-profit who's mission is to help eliminate
child abuse and neglect through prevention and treatment services for young children and families, expanded
their services to create the Parenting Support Services Program (PSS). The goals and activities of this program
focus on the education of parents and professionals in the importance of nurturing and preventing harm to children.
In their 25 years of experience TCP has learned that kids don't come with instructions and that many parents may find
themselves in need of guidance, support and information. This need can come at any given point in their child's development,
regardless of income level, race, religion etc. The help available at TCP covers both a wide range of issues and ages.
Examples of the types of assistance available through the PSS program include: ensuring a first time parent gets started
on the right foot with Parents as Teachers visits, teaching parents successful ways to deal with their difficult school-age
children through Love and Logic parenting classes, and providing one-on-one support for a parent struggling with the
behaviors of a child diagnosed with a disability or delay. In the last five years the services provided have grown to
include: In-home services to parents and caregivers, In-home services specifically for Grandparents and other
"Skipped-Generation" caregivers to meet their individual needs when taking on parenting roles, Parenting Classes
provided throughout the community covering a wide range of topics, and Foster Care/Adoption Services (including pre and
post placement trainings, assessments, and post adoption case management), and starting in February 2003 the brand new
PLAY at Home Program.
This exciting new service is designed to reach families who are staying at home with their children. The goal is to help
children, not enrolled in childcare, to enter Kindergarten ready to learn. The Parents Learning About Youngsters (PLAY) at
Home will incorporate monthly home visits with monthly lunch and learn meetings to assist parents in better understanding
their child's development and how to promote early learning and brain development. Families will be able to earn vouchers
by attending the home visits and meetings and can use these vouchers to purchase developmentally appropriate toys and books.
In, addition The Children's Place will house a lending library containing toys, books, children's videos, and parenting
resources.
The PLAY program is available to any parent with a child under the age of three years who is not attending childcare on a
full-time basis. Parents must meet income guidelines (185% of poverty) and cannot work more than twenty hours a week. The
service is available to families in Clay, Platte, Cass, or Jackson Counties. This program is funded through a grant from
the Missouri Division of Family Services.
For more information or to enroll please contact
The Children's Place (816) 363-1898.
Prevention is the Key
By Dr. Cobb, Pediatric Dental Specialist of Olathe, Kansas.
One of the saddest situations we see in a pediatric dental practice is baby bottle tooth decay, also known as
nursing caries.
In these cases, the child is usually in severe pain by the age of 2 to 3 years old. The child's front teeth are
badly broken down due to the extensive decay.
Caused by prolonged bottle feeding and nursing, nursing caries can be prevented. If you choose to nurse or bottle
feed past your child's first birthday, we recommend that you consult your child's dentist and keep follow-up
appointments every 3 months until you are finished nursing or bottle feeding.
Begin brushing your baby's teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts. Until then, use a damp washcloth to wipe the
gums clean.
Once you are brushing your baby's teeth, use a minimal amount of toothpaste until your child can rinse his or her
mouth and expectorate without accidental swallowing. Use an American Dental Association approved toothpaste, such as
CrestTM, ColgateTM or AIMTM.
Be sure your child is using a soft-bristle toothbrush. They are effective in removing plaque and will be less likely
to cause tooth and gum abrasion.
We recommend your child see a dentist at age 1 and keep regular appointments every 6 months. This initial visit is
your opportunity to gather important information about your child's oral health.
One of the easiest ways to prevent tooth decay as your child gets older is to minimize or eliminate your child's
intake of soft drinks. Among frequent consumers, regular soft drinks promote tooth decay as they bathe the teeth
with sugar-water for long periods of time.
Prevention is the key to healthy teeth, so remember:
1) Brush in the morning, after every meal and before bed
2) Have your child visit a dentist on a regular basis
3) And to prevent injury, your child should wear a protective mouth piece when participating in contact sports
Give your child a good beginning...
with Kindermusik, an age appropriate music and movement program that encourages early learning and creativity in young
children. Singing, dancing, playing with instruments and creative play all come together in a 45 minute to 1 hour class
that you attend with your child. With Kindermusik, your child will be having fun with his/her peers while learning
valuable skills to help them excel in life! Plus, what better way could there be to spend time with your child! Join
other parents who have made the right choice for their children ages birth to seven years.
Village - Newborn-20 mos - Learn how musical activities stimulate cognitive growth. Observe and celebrate your baby's
development with a Village of other parents and children. Lullabies, songs, rhymes, bounces, clapping, tickles.
Our Time - 1-1/2-3 yrs - Experience the joy of music making together. It's Our Time for parent and child bonding.
Singing, dancing, rocking, wiggles & giggles.
Imagine That! - 3-5 yrs - Musical exploration and movement tailored for the emerging creativity and imagination of the
preschooler.
Young Child - 5-7 yrs - Singing, dancing, instruments, music composition and fun! The perfect foundation for all future
music study and enjoyment.
Denise Revo, owner of Kindermusik with Denise Revo in Lees Summit, MO, is an experienced and dedicated teacher with a
great love for children, music and teaching. She has a degree in Piano Pedagogy and is a Licensed Kindermusik Educator.
Denise maintains a music studio in her home where she has enjoyed teaching private piano lessons and group theory
classes for the past 25 years.
Is There a Way to Ease the Heartache of Finding Childcare?
If your child has the chicken pox and can't go to school or day care, what do you do?
If you're one of the lucky ones who has a retired family member living nearby who is willing to care for your children
at your request, just because they love them, we envy you!
The rest of us are stuck in a void in the childcare industry where finding affordable part-time, in-home or temporary
care for a sick child is nothing short of frustrating.
One of the best options available for in-home care (be it full- or part-time, temporary or permanent) is a nanny
service such as TLC Caregivers and A Mother's Touch, Inc. with these kinds of services you'll get peace of mind
knowing the person caring for your child(ren) has been rigorously screened - but that peace of mind may not fit into
your budget. Extensive background checks to ensure the safety of your children are costly and it can take 2 to 6 weeks
to find a long-term, full- or part-time nanny. And because nannies are professional caregivers with their own families
to support, you'll be hard-pressed to find one for less than $10 an hour. But of course, once you've established a
relationship with your nanny, you and your children will always have someone you can count on. That's priceless.
For a parent working outside of the home who is earning a blue-collar wage, finding affordable temporary in-home care
for a child too sick to go to center-based care or school, yet not sick enough to need mommy there all day, is very
difficult. A day or even a week or more off the job is most likely the costly resolution, especially for those without
vacation or family leave. Unfortunately, we were unable to find an existing program to answer these parents needs,
though we did brainstorm and wonder if perhaps a college-based program for students studying child development could
offer part-time, in-home and temporary sick-child care to middle income families with college credits as an incentive
to offer lower-cost care.
Parents with well children have many options available. In Kansas parents (and employers interested in saving money by
providing their employees with reliable childcare services) can contact a referral service like Day Care Connection,
a local not-for-profit, or visit kaccraa.org to locate a referral service near them.
In Missouri there are several referral agencies. For help finding the one nearest you, contact Child Care Aware
1-800-424-2246.
In our personal search, we found thorough and helpful information through Heart of America Family Services. Within a
day of our inquiry, we received in the mail a free, complete packet of information including listings of local in-home
child care services, child care centers, information on how to choose a care provider and over a dozen referrals of
part-time, family-home care providers located near us.
H.A.F.S also staffs an inclusion specialist who helps parent finding childcare for children with special needs.
Family-home care was the choice for our budget and we were fortunate to find a neighbor who cares for our children, and
her own children, in her home. This was a convenient and comforting solution for us.
Most important is providing children with safe and loving care. Making that kind of care affordable, flexible and
accessible to every family is the next challenge for the child care industry.
If you know of a solution or would like to address this issue, visit us on the web: www.kckidsdirectory.com
Kaleidoscope is a magical place where children can be creative and feel good about their own special
ideas.
Kaleidoscope has been sharing the gift of creativity for more than 33 years to millions of children and their
families. Kaleidoscope's sessions are FREE as a public service provided by Hallmark
Free tickets are available for all Saturday sessions beginning at 11:30 a.m. in the Kaleidoscope lobby. All tickets
are distributed on a first come basis and are given only to children ages 5-12. Children must have had their 5th
birthday to participate. Children must be accompanied by an adult before and after each session. Limited reservations
available to 6 or more children. For information call 816-274-8300.
Kaleidoscope's Family Creation Celebrations for children of all ages!
Saturday Mornings, 9:30 until 11:00 a.m. No reservations needed.
Free!
We asked Dr. Scott Dattel of Kansas City Pediatrics to help us answer a few questions about the flu shot for kids:
Q: Should kids get a flu shot?
A: Yes. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, children especially those at high risk of having
been exposed to serious cases of influenza should get the flu vaccine. These would include:
children who have required regular medical follow-ups or hospitalization during the previous year
kids who have themselves, or are exposed to family members who have long-term health problems with: heart, lung or
kidney disease, asthma, metabolic disease such as diabetes, anemia and other blood disorders
anyone whose immune system is weakened due to HIV/AIDS or other diseases that affect the immune system or long-term
treatment with drugs such as steroids and cancer x-rays or drugs
children 6 months to 18 years of age on long-term aspirin treatment.
students and other persons in institutional settings such as college dormitories and children 6 months and up in
group day-care settings.
Q: How old does my child have to be to receive the flu shot?
A: Over 6 months of age.
Q: Where can we go to receive the flu shot?
A: Go to your pediatrician or county health department.
Q: When should we get the flu shot?
A: The "influenza season" in the U.S. is from November through April so the best time to get influenza
vaccine is during October and November. But getting the vaccine after November can still provide protection.
Q: Will my child need more than one flu shot?
A: Children 9 years and older need only one shot. Children less than 9 years old need two shots, given one month
apart the first time they get vaccinated against influenza. A new shot is needed again each year.
Q: Who should not get the flu shot?
A: Anyone with a serious allergic reaction to eggs, or to a previous dose of influenza vaccine, anyone younger than
6 months of age.
Q: How can I learn more about getting the flu shot for our family?
A: Ask your doctor or nurse. They can give you the vaccine package insert and other sources of information. Also visit
the National Immunization Program's Website at
http://www.cdc.gov/nip
Tips for avoiding the flu:
1). Wash you hands often throughout the day and especially before you eat.
2). Don't share drinks.
3). Vaccinate your family and if your child is younger than 6 months and in group care ask your care provider to get
vaccinated.
Stay well!
Lets Make Hot Chocolate!
Combine all 4 dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Stir until blended. Divide equally into mason jars.
Hand print label and let kids help decorate labels and lids with directions below.Pour 6 oz. hot water
over 1/4 cup of mix. Add a baggie of marshmallows, cinnamon sticks or peppermint sticks and you've got an
inexpensive sweet gift sure to warm everyone's hearts
