Summer 2013 - Mycccc.org

http://www.childcarelounge.com/activity/wood-working.phpWoodworking. Just the mere wordstrikes fear in the heart of many of themost competent of caregivers, andconjures up images of a child approachingus, crying, with a bleedingfinger, or a child hitting another in thehead with a hammer.Children can be taught to utilize the woodworking areaappropriately and learn to respect tools – just as in anyother area in the classroom. For children ages 4 years andolder, the benefits and the learning associated with thisactivity far outweigh the potential for problems, if implementedand supervised correctly…Start slowly! Implementing woodworking in your classroomdoes not mean starting out with a full set of Craftsmantools and powersaw. Start simple - a piece of sandpaperand wood; or Styrofoam, golf tees and a small rubbermallet. From there, you can introduce a piece of woodwith several screws started and a screwdriver. Introduceone tool and one skill at a time.Incorporate a learning unit on trees, wood, and uses forwood. Have children explore wood – note the grain, thesmell, the textures, the weight, differences in types, etc.Teach the children how to use real tools correctly. Coverthe rules for the Woodworking Area, and make it clearthat if children choose not to follow the safety rules theywill need to leave that area and play somewhere else.Safety is always first and foremost! This concept can betaught, as can a healthy respect for toolsLearn and teach the children the correct names of all ofthe tools. Trace the outline of the tools on the pegboardfor children to put the tools back when they are finishedwith them. Goggles should always be worn. (Hard hats andconstruction aprons can also be used.)Place your workbench in a highly visible area, but awayfrom traffic paths. You may also want to locate the workbenchaway from the block area so that wooden blocksare not used as wood scraps.If, at some point you incorporate a saw, have a vise permanentlyattached to the workbench to hold the wood inplace when sawing.The best types of wood to use are soft woods – whitepine, cedar, fir, and redwood. Lumber companies, cabinetmakers,karate schools, and hardware stores, if asked,often will donate scraps of wood.Use nails with large heads (roofer nails). Do not have nailsthat are longer than the wood, to prevent a nail stickingout of the bottom of a "creation".You can start the nails for children. You can also place acomb between the nail head and the child’s fingers as abarrier to prevent injury.Safety is paramount!!! The Woodworking Area must bewell supervised at all times!Woodworking Benefits & Skill-buildingEye-hand coordination, Dexterity/fine motor, Problemsolving,Role-playing, Creative thinking, ImaginationIndependence/self esteem, Stress reliever (pounding),Matching/classification, Sorting, Comparing/measuringTextures and properties, Conceptualization, CooperationRespect for tools and materials, Increased awareness andunderstanding of the world aroundthem, Language developmentOther IdeasHammer nails into a ceiling tilesLet children paint their projectsStart nails in a tree logRemember –Safety First!Attach bolts to a piece of wood – have children match thecorresponding nutsAdd Styrofoam craft shapes to go with the next upcomingholidayHammer golf tees into a styrofoamNail milkcaps or bottlecaps onto wood (good for wheels)Hammer bubble wrapMake “geoboards” (adding rubberbands)Have children write their initial or draw a picture on apiece of wood, then hammer nails to form that shapeTake apart a broken appliance. Cut off the cord(s) for safety.Take the woodworking bench outside in the summer.Have an area to display finished products (or "works inprogress")For Variety, Add: rug scraps, pre-cut craft wood shapesDowels, metal juice can lids, tongue depressors, leatherscraps , fabric/yarn, glue, doorknobs, markers/chalk/pencil, blueprint paperI am learning! When I am at the workbench, I feel verygrown up! I feel trusted. I am learning how to createsomething I have visualized in my head. When I work witha friend I have to cooperate and explain my ideas andplans. I am working on my fine motor skills and eye-handcoordination. I have to use math skills, such as shape, size,contrast, comparing, spatial relationships and problemsolving.I also get to be creative and use my imagination!7 Developmental Stages of Children’s Woodworking:Cited in Adams and Taylor, 1982Acquaintance with tools and woodSimple skill attemptsSimple constructionRefinementFunctional constructionDecorative combinationsEmergence of craft

We’re looking for thestars of our2014 Child Care CouncilCalendar.How about the childrenin your Program?It’s calendar time! The Child Care Council is again creatingcalendars featuring children from local child care programsto distribute to child care programs & human serviceagencies in the tri-county area.Here’s how the children in your program can be stars: Only NYS regulated child care programs in Herkimer,Madison & Oneida counties can participate. You must submit digital photos only—via email orCD—of the children in your program now through FridayOctober 25. Each program may submit no more than 10 photos. Each photo must be submitted with a Photo SubmissionForm and a Photo Release (visitwww.mycccc.org).Here are some tips from our judges: Avoid photos that are too far away, those with lots ofpeople, or those with busy backgrounds We need photos of all seasons—so dig out those shotsof last winter and fall! Sorry, no print photos will be accepted as scanned orcopied prints produce low-quality copies Questions? Call Mariann at 223-7850 x 236 ormj284@cornell.edu.Submission Deadline—Friday, October 25th“Imagination is more important thanknowledge.Knowledge is limited.Imagination encircles the world”— Albert Einstein33 Ways to Stay Creativetaken from ExchangeEveryDaywww.exchangeeveryday@ccie.comGood Magazine recently posted this "Awesome 33 Ways to Stay Creative" List:1. Make lists2. Carry a notebook everywhere3. Try free writing4. Get away from the computer5. Be otherworldly6. Quit beating yourself up7. Take breaks8. Sing in the shower9. Drink coffee/tea10. Know your roots11. Listen to new music12. Be open13. Surround yourself with creative people14. Get feedback15. Collaborate16. Don't give up17. Practice, practice, practice18. Allow yourself to make mistakes19. Go somewhere new20. Watch foreign films21. Count your blessings22. Get lots of rest23. Take risks24. Break the rules25. Do more of what makes you happy26. Don't force it27. Read a page of the dictionary28. Create a framework29. Stop trying to be perfect30. Got an idea? Write it down31. Clean your workspace32. Have fun33. Finish something

BOOKS THAT STRETCH CHILDREN’S THINKINGTaken from http://families.naeyc.orgYoung children learn to think in new ways when they imagine, guess, describe, and wonder. Trythese books to engage your child’s curiosity and to inspire her to see different views of the world.(Note: Many of these books are available in Spanish, and can be purchased as a hardcover, paperback, or board book.)Round Like a Ball, by LisaCampbell Ernst. 2008.The book begins with a familiarguessing game: "I’m thinking ofsomething that’s round like aball.” Each page offers a newclue. The paper cutout shape ineach illustration is a visual hintto the answer. What’s roundlike a ball? It’s the Earth! Although this book introducesmany facts about Planet Earth, you can also use it tospark a conversation about color, shape, and size.Available in English. Can be purchased as a hardcover andpaperback.Not a Box (2006) and Nota Stick (2007), by AntoinettePortis.These books feature simpleline drawings that will sparkyour child’s imagination.When asked, “Why are yousitting on that box?” a rabbitreplies, “It’s not a box,” thendemonstrates that it’s aracecar, a mountain, and a robot. In Not a Stick, a pigimagines his stick becoming a sword, a horse, and more.These books will inspire your child to consider manydifferent ways to imagine and pretend.Available in English and Spanish. Can be purchased as ahardcover, paperback, and board book.Just How Long Can aLong String Be?! byKeith Baker. 2009.In this story, a bird andan ant discuss all theuses for a piece of simplewhite string. The examplesare imaginativeand each contains asense of purpose or fun, such as “[hanging] a picture on awall” and “[helping] the sweet pea vines grow tall.” Asthe string winds its way from page to page, the book impartsa feeling of connectedness among all things in theworld, and will encourage your child to think about themany uses of simple things.Available in English. Can be purchased as a hardcover andpaperback.Duck! Rabbit! by AmyKrouse Rosenthal and TomLichtenheld. 2009.In this funny book, two unseencharacters disagree onwhat kind of animal standsbefore them. Is the creature aduck with a bill? A rabbit withtall ears? The answer is that itall depends on how you look at things. This clever bookreveals that sometimes there really is more than oneright answer.Available in English and Spanish. Can be purchased as ahardcover and paperback.CONSTRUCTION PAPER CHALKBOARDMaterials: black construction paper, white glue, paint brush, cardboard, chalk, rag or old sockCut out black construction paper into any shape you want (animal, square, rectangle, etc).Glue construction paper onto cardboard. Let dry. Trim cardboard to fit shape. Completely paint theconstruction paper with white glue. Let dry thoroughly. Add decorations to your shape, such aseyes and nose for animals or decorate the borders. Write or draw with chalk and erase with rag.

Online LearningOpportunitiesAt the Child Care Council, we acknowledgethe challenges to completing the required30 hours of training while still maintaining high qualityinformation. To make things easier, we are bringingtraining to your computer.All sessions are held 5:30—9:00 pm. To register, sendan email to Nicole at njd63@cornell.edu. A link willbe emailed to you once payment is received. The costfor each session is $20; receive 3.5 hours of trainingcredit. Certificates will be awarded through email atthe close of the training.Oh Behave! (Part 1) - Wednesday, June 5. Who hastime to teach children, when all you do is discipline?In this session, we will talk about what to say and howto say it so children are more likely to do what youwant. We will also talk about teaching children towork through conflicts on their own. Topics 1 & 3.Oh Behave! (Part 2) - Wednesday, June 12. This sessionis a continuation of the previous one. This sessionwill focus on using consequences for children’sactions. You will learn the different types of consequencesand how to use them effectively to teach theright behaviors for children. Topics 1 & 3.Learning Beyond Circle Time—Wednesday, June 19.There is so much learning that goes on while childrenare playing. You will learn how to set up “interest areas”like blocks, dramatic play, art and science so childrencan learn the way they learn best...through play.Topics 1&3.Continuing Educationfor Child Care ProvidersThe field of Early Childhood Education haschanged significantly over the last severalyears. With things like QUALITYStarsNY, it is evident thatmore people are seeing the importance of those first fiveyears. Standards are being raised, and continuing youreducation is one way of staying ahead of the game. Thereare many options available to gain knowledge and skillsthat will assist you in providing the highest quality for thechildren in your care.Paying for itEIP scholarships fund non-credit bearing training, collegetuition and mandatory college fees, training and assessmentfees associated with certain credential or certificateprograms. All courses taken as part of an early childhood orrelated degree program are eligible for scholarship.Www.ecetp.pdp.albany.edu Financial Aid is also availablethrough most colleges and universities. visit www.ed.govWhere.Child Care Council of Cornell Cooperative Extension offersCDA (Child Development Associate) and SACC (School AgeChild Care) Credentials www.mycccc.org.Empire State College offers Associates and Bachelors degreesin Early Childhood, online www.esc.edu.Utica College offers Bachelors degrees in Early Childhoodwww.utica.edu.Mohawk Valley Community College offers an Associatesdegree in Human Services www.mvcc.edu.Herkimer County Community College offers an Associatesdegree in Early Childhood in-class and onlinewww.herkimer.edu.Cazenovia College offers Bachelors degree in Inclusive EarlyChildhood Education www.cazenovia.eduAFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE ACT—HEALTH INSURANCE MARKETPLACEA message from the HHS Secretary, Kathleen SebellusHealthCare.gov is being re-launched to include new information about the Marketplace, where familiesand small businesses will be able to easily compare and purchase high-quality health insurance plansstarting October 1, 2013, with coverage beginning January 1, 2014.Help get the word out about the Marketplace and HealthCare.gov to your family members, your neighbors and yournetworks. Tell them it’s not too soon to check out the site for tips and things they can do now to prepare for enrollmentin October. And, to make sure to sign up for emails or text message updates, so they don’t miss a thing when it’stime to enroll.When key parts of the health care law take effect, individuals will be able to go to HealthCare.gov to buy insurancefrom qualified private health plans and check if they are eligible for financial assistance all in one place, with a singleapplication. Many people will be eligible for a new kind of tax credit to help pay their premium costs. If a state is runningits own Marketplace, HealthCare.gov will direct people to the right place.

http://www.kidsdiscovernature.com/2009/08/10-reasons-why-kids-should-play-outside.htmlPizza GardenThis garden is even shaped like a pizza. Inyour garden area, mark off a circle byputting a stake upright in the ground.Attach a 3 and a half foot piece of stringto the stake. Keeping the string tight, walk around in acircle and mark the ground to show the garden's border.Divide the circle into six equal wedges.In your pizza garden plan to grow three vegetables andthree herbs. In one wedge plant 2 or 3 oregano plants.Oregano is a perennial herb that gives pizza the characteristictaste and wonderful smell. It may be usedfresh or dried.Parsley is a biennial herb that reseeds itself. Plant 2 or3 plants in its wedge.Basil is an annual herb and you can plant 2 to 3 plantsin its wedge.Onions can be planted from seeds or sets. Select red,white or yellow for your garden. You can plant up to 30onion sets in your garden.Plant 1 or 2 pepper plants in your garden. Plant anygreen, sweet, bell type of pepper. If you like hot, spicypizza, plan to also grow a hot pepper variety.The final wedge will be planted with one tomato plant.A paste tomato variety, such as Roma, is recommendedfor your pizza garden. Roma has small, oblong tomatoeswith a thick meaty flesh.

http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/outdoor/right_bike.html#In the market for a new bike?When selecting bikes for kids, here are somethings to consider.Bike Basics Make sure to focus on a child's age, maturitylevel, and the riding environment. Before making any purchase,be sure that the child is in the age range recommendedfor the cycling gear.Once you've brought the bike home:Never carry a child younger than 1 year old on a bike, even ina child seat — a baby doesn't have the neck strength to weara helmet or safely sit up in a seat.Don't ride a bike with a child in a front pack or backpack.When biking with your child, stick to areas you know are safe,like bike paths, parks, and streets with little or no traffic.Avoiding riding in bad weather.Everyone in your family should wear a helmet while riding.Make sure that helmets fit properly, and that any harnessesand belts are fastened securely. A lightweight or styrofoaminfant helmet approved by the CPSC should be worn by a child12 months to 4 years.Trailers A trailer is one of the safest ways to take a youngchild for a bike ride, according to the American Academy ofPediatrics (AAP). Hitched to the back of the adult bicycle, atrailer is a low, mesh-covered seat that's supported by twowheels for stability. The trailer's sturdy frame provides protectionfrom accidents, and the child is riding far enough behindthe rear wheel of the adult bike that the spokes are out ofreach of little fingers. Trailers also sit fairly low to the ground,so if the adult bike falls over, the child in the trailer won'ttumble very far. Remember: Only adult cyclists should towyoung children.Look for a trailer with a shoulder harness and lap belt to secureyour child. The hitch that attaches to the adult bikeshould have a flexible joint that allows the trailer to stay uprightif your bike falls. Make sure the trailer has reflectors, andattach a tall bright warning flag to the trailer for increasedvisibility.Caution: The trailer is wider than the adult bike, so one ofthe trailer's wheels could slip off the road's edge if you're notcareful. Also, the trailer could overturn after hitting a bump, ifone wheel rides a curb, or if your bicycle turns sharply.Child Seats A child seat fastens above the rear wheel ofthe adult bike. While the AAP considers trailers to be the safest,if a parent uses a child safety seat, these precautions canhelp reduce the risks of injury:Look for a seat with a back high enough to support the child'sneck and spoke guards that prevent the child's feet fromtouching the rear wheel and getting caught in it. Seats shouldhave a lap belt with a childproof buckle and a shoulder harness.Caution: The added weight of carrying a child in a child seatcompromises the adult rider's ability to balance and handlethe bike. It also increases the amount of time the adult needsto press on the brakes to stop the bike.Trailer-Cycles When a child outgrows a trailer or childseat but is too young to start riding independently, a trailercycleis a good option. A trailer-cycle looks like a small bicyclewith no front wheel. It has a single wheel and attaches to theseat post of the adult bicycle. (When attached, it looks like abicycle built for two!)Trailer-cycles have working pedals, and some are equippedwith gears so kids can practice starting, stopping, and balancingwhile watching the adult rider.Caution: If your child turns or pedals erratically, you'll havedifficulty maneuvering your bicycle.Biking Independently Because kids mature at differentrates, there's no magic age to introduce a child to a "big-kid"bike. In general, most 6-year-olds have the motor skills theyneed to mount and balance a bicycle on their own, even if it'swith training wheels. The first thing to look for when buying abike for a child is the right fit, so take your child with youwhen you shop. A bike is the right size when your child can siton the seat with feet flat on the ground, with the handlebarsno higher than the shoulders. The salesperson at the storeshould be able to help make sure the bike fits properly.Other Considerations Don't buy a bike that's too big,assuming that your child will grow into it. An oversized bicycleis dangerous and could lead to injury. Bikes for younger kids(about age 7 or younger) should have coaster (or foot) brakes,not hand brakes. Bikes for kids older than 7 should have footand hand brakes. That way, kids can get used to using handbrakes before graduating to the bigger bikes that only havehand brakes. If you're buying training wheels, be sure theycan be adjusted as riding skills improve.And make adjustments when your child outgrows a bike.When a bike is too small, kids have to stand up on the pedals,and can't balance as well or get in a position to ride it safely.Having a bike that's safe — and a good fit — helps kids developa love of bicycling that can last for life!FarmFest 2013 -June 7th, 4:30 pm to 9 pm—Rain or ShineBrabant Farms—6166 Happy Valley Rd. VeronaLearn about agriculture and enjoy educationalbooths, displays and exhibits,pony rides, hay rides, farm tours, haymaze face painting, and so much more!Chicken BBQ, hotdogs & burgerswww.cceoneida.com 736-3394

Spot Splatter Splash Thursday June 6,6:30-8:30 pm Oneida County Farm & HomeCenter, Oriskany. Children’s art is all about the process…not the end product. We’ll spend some timelearning why it is so important for children to focus onthe process not the product. After that you’ll have timeto do some creative processing yourself as you exploremany options of art projects that are open-ended. Thefun doesn’t stop here! You will receive free on-sightassistance, supplies and mateials! Cost is $15 for 2.0training hours in topics 1&3. Call Tammy at 223-7850ext 222 to register by May 31.ABC’s & Play-doughTeaching children through playMonday June 17, 6:30pm-8:00pmIlion Library, IlionChildren learn by exploring, re-inventing, takingapart and putting together. In other words, theylearn through play. We will talk about games, activitiesand toys that children will love playing while also learningthe basics of ABCs and 123s. Save the paper and theink, throw the worksheets away because this is all abouthands-on learning and fun! Cost is $15. 1.5 hours topics1 & 3, appropriate for anyone with children (Parents,providers, teachers, etc.)Call Nicole at 223-7850 x231 to register by 6/10/13For your2014“FRIEND OF CHILDREN”Visit www.mycccc.orgto submit anomination form on-line.Family-Style DiningWhat is it, and how do I do it?Wednesday July 24 6:00pm-7:30pmCanastota Library Family-style dining is an excellentway of teaching children manners, social skills, andsmall muscle control while also teaching nutrition andhealthy eating habits. Join us for one of these sessionsto learn how to make meal-time pleasant for you andthe children. Cost is $15.1.5 hours topics 1 & 2,appropriate for anyone who dines with young children.Call Nicole at 223-7850 x231 to register by 7/17/13Parent-Provider RelationshipsKeeping communication lines openSaturday July 6, 9:00am-10:30amFarm & Home Center, OriskanyAll relationships take work. The relationshipbetween child care providers and families is no different.This time will be spent with discussions of a varietyof situations that come up between providers andparents. We will also have suggestions for getting off toa good start with new families and repairing the relationshipwhen there is a breakdown. Cost is $15. 1.5hours topics 3 & 4, appropriate for anyone working withparents or providers (Parents, providers, teachers, etc.).Call Nicole at 223-7850 x231 to register by 7/1/13Insect activity peaks in July & AugustVisit theParker F. ScriptureBotanical GardensButterfly HouseandIndoor Bee HiveCornell Cooperative Extension Oneida County121 Second St. Oriskany, N.Y. 13424 736-3394CORNELL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF HUMAN ECOLOGYDEPARTMENT OF Policy Analysis and ManagementPARENTING IN CONTEXT: Games and Children's Brains: What Is the Latest Research?by Rachel Dunifon and Lydia GillVideo games are used by teens of all ages, genders, andsocioeconomic backgrounds. A total of 97% of teensbetween the ages of 12-17 years old play computer,web, portable, or console games (Lenhart et al., 2008).Fifty percent of these teens said they played videogames "yesterday." Research suggests both positive andnegative aspects of playing video games. Though theimplications of video game use is a relatively new areafor research, this brief describes the most recent findings.To read more on this visit www.mycccc.org.

FOOD DYES AND DIFFICULT KIDSPulse PULSEPOINTPRESS.COM JAN 2012Those blue drinks, red popsicles and multicoloredcereals could be triggering tempertantrums, learning difficulties, sleep disordersand a host of physical complaints suchas asthma, headaches, hives and ear infections.This year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration took thefirst steps in determining if these petroleum-based additivesare playing a part in the increase in ADHD and otherbehavior and learning problems. The agency acknowledgedthat some children are sensitive to these chemicals,and they have changed their Web site to reflect this.The American Academy of Pediatrics and the AmericanAcademy of Family Physicians now list food additives aspotential triggers for conditions like ADHD.This all comes as good news for the Feingold Associationof the US, the nonprofit support group that shows parentshow to address a wide range of problems by continuing toenjoy their favorite foods, but in versions that are free ofthe worst of the additives. More information is availableat www.ADHDdiet.orgThe research showing that food dyes are harmful to allchildren prompted the European Union to require warninglabels on most foods that contain the dyes. As a result,multinational food companies are now coloring the food inEurope with natural ingredients like grape juice, strawberriesand turmeric. In the U.S., however, these same companiescontinue to use the cheaper petroleum-based dyes.Richard Carlton, MD, a New York psychiatrist who specializesin helping children with behavior and learning problems,agrees that it makes sense to replace the chemicallytreatedfoods with their natural counterparts before resortingto stimulant drugs, with all their potential sideeffects. He also urges strongly that the pre-natal vitaminswomen take should be free of artificial colors (which candamage fetal development).Many years ago, Ben Feingold, MD, discovered that someof the additives found in food can trigger disturbed behaviorin sensitive children, and that as more and more ofthese additives are being used, the number of affectedchildren increases. During the past 50 years the amount ofdye consumed in the Untied States has increased by 500percent.Now, after numerous supportive medical studies and 35years of success, the Feingold Association is seeing a growingawareness that eating chemicals made from petroleumis harmful for everyone.EARLY RECOGNITIONSCREENINGMelissa Roys, Neighborhood Center Behavioral Health ClinicYour Child’s emotional health can affect how preparedthey will be for school, their ability tomake and keep friends, connect with family andtheir ability to bounce back when faced withlife’s setbacks. Checking on your emotionalhealth is important, just as important as havingtheir vision and hearing tested or a yearly physicalexam with a family doctor.Sometimes it is hard to know if your child’s emotionaldevelopment is on track. To help you withthis, Early Recognition is making available a simplelist of questions that either the parent and/orthe child (depending on the age) can complete.This list of questions, or screening, will belooked at by a professional who will let you knowif a more detailed assessment of your child is recommended.A screening is important, becausethe earlier that you know that your child has anemotional health need, the sooner you can takeaction. We know from experience and sciencethat children can recover quickly from emotionalchallenges, particularly when they are identifiedearly.For more information contact: Melissa Roys atthe Neighborhood Center Inc., Behavioral HealthClinic; 628 Mary St., Utica NY 13501 (315) 272-2712 MelissaR@Neighborhoodctr.orgHelping Children Cope With TragedyIn the aftermath of tragedies, parents are oftenfaced with questions from their children and maynot know the best way to handle them. TheOffice of Children and Family Services has manyresources available to help. Visit: http://www.ocfs.state.ny.us/main/view_article.asp?ID=328Do You Have A ChildWith Nutritional Needs?Check out these quick and easy recipesfor families with all kinds of nutritional needs- from tasty meals and snacks for everyday livingto scrumptious recipes geared toward lactoseintolerance, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, and vegetarianism.Visit http://kidshealth.org/parent/recipes/index.html#cat20582

Marketing Your Child CareDoesn’t Have toBe ExpensiveTaken from http://www.all-things-child-care.com/marketing-your-child-care.htmlLet’s start with the basics:The 4 P’s of MarketingProduct: What are the features and benefits ofyour child care program? Remember, featuresdescribe what your program offers, while benefitstell clients how the program will help themand their children.Price: Have you set your rates at a price that willcover your expenses without going over whatparents can afford? Are there any programs orsubsidies you can access to help cover the cost ofproviding quality care?Place: Do you know the demographics of theneighborhood? How many other licensed familychild care providers, centers or license exemptproviders are there in your neighborhood? Whatservices do they offer and at what price? Howaccessible are you? Are you near a freeway ormain transit route? What public transportationlines are you on or near?Promotion: What marketing strategies are goingto be most effective for you, and how can youimplement a marketing strategy on a budget."Why should I bring my child to your familychild care program?""What does your program offerthat others don't?"These are the two key questions parents thinkabout in their search for a child care provider.Your ability to answer these questions willhave a lot to do with whether your programwill be successful in the future.When a Parent Leaves Owing Money:Small Claims Court or Collection Agency?Taken from Tom Copeland’s “Taking Care of Business”A parent, Barbara Riegel, leaves your family child care program owingyou money. Should you take her to court or hire a collectionagency to go after your money?If Barbara owes you money for days that you provided child care,your chances of winning in small claims court is very high (probably90%). The only circumstances where a judge might rule against youis if Barbara's child was injured while in your care, or if you weregrossly negligent in your treatment of the child.If Barbara owes you money for failing to give you a two-week noticeupon leaving, your chances of winningin court are more problematic. Legally,you should win since she violatedyour contract. Unfortunately, somejudges will listen to a parent complainabout the care her child received, andnot enforce the contract. Your bestdefense in court is to tell the judge: 1)Barbara never complained about carebefore she left; 2) Barbara nevermade a complaint to licensing; or 3) licensing said the complaintwas unfounded.Some providers will go to court, not because of the money but becauseof the principle that the parent should not get away withbreaking the contract. Going to court takes time and a little moneyfor the court filing fee. There is no guarantee that you will win. Evenif you do win, you may have to pursue Barbara further if she refusesto pay after receiving the court judgment.Instead of going to court, you could hire a collections agency to contactthe parent on your behalf in an attempt to collect the moneyowed you. Such agencies can write letters and call Barbara. If theyare successful they will keep a percentage of the amount collected.This fee can vary, but it could be as high as 30%. To find out thenames of collection agencies in your area, Google “collections agencyin [name of your town].”There is no right or wrong about which path to choose: court orcollections agency. Before making your decision your first stepshould be to write a letter to the parent demanding that the moneyyou are owed be paid by a specific deadline. Tell Barbara if thedeadline is not met you will go to court or hire a collections agency.Such letters sometimes do work. If not, you can make a decisionwhether or not to proceed against the parent.

***Visit http://mycccc.org/professionaldevelopment.htmfor complete training information and/or to download a registration form***Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat2 3 4 5 Conscious Discipline-Learning Experience.5:30pm to 9 pm; $35.Open to all, 3.5 hrs trngcredit. Farm & Home CntrOh Behave! (I)5:30-9:00.$20, topics 1,3. On-lineTrng9 10FRIENDS OFCHILDRENAWARDSDINNER16 17 ABC’s &Play-dough6:30pm-8:00pmIlion Library. $15.Call 2237850-231to register23 24 25CACFP Trng6:30pm to8:30pm, OCFarm & HomeCenterJune 2013CALL 223-7850 to registerInformational Sessions for Prospective Family Child Care Providers. These sessions familiarizethose interested in becoming a NYS certified family/group family child care provider with the applicationprocess, NYS regulations and services available to assist in start-up and beyond! Presentedby Child Care Council staff. Fee: FREE, pre-registration is required by calling 223-785011 12 Informational Session4pm-6pm Little FallsLibraryConscious DisciplinePart II 5:30pm to 9 pm;$35. Open to all, 3.5 hrstrng credit. Farm & HomeCntrOh Behave (II) 5:30-9:00, $20, topics 1,3. OnlineTrng18 19 Learning BeyondCircle Time, 5:30pm to9:00 pm; $20. On-lineTrngInformational Session4pm-6pm NY Mills Library26 CDA Semester IReview. 5:30pm to 9 pm;$35. Open to all, 3.5 hrstrng credit. Farm & HomeCntr6 Spot SplatterSplash—6:30-8:30; $15,topics 1&3. OCFarm & HomeCntr13InformationalSession 3pm-5pm HamiltonLibrary20Seed NWeedGarden ClubFlower Show,OC Farm &Home Center7FARMFEST1 **MAT Class8am-5pm, TBDMadison Cnty814 15 **MATClass IndependentStudy—9am-1pm,TBD Madison CntyWho Wants to bea Millionaire!9:30am-11:00 amCanastota Library$15. To register 223-7850 ext 23121Seed NWeedGardenClub FlowerShow, OCFarm & Home27 28 2922 Herb &Flower Fest,9am to 3:30pm,OC Farm & HomeCenter**This course is a mandatory component of gaining NYS certification to administer medications to the children in your program. Theindependent study MAT course tuition is $80. MAT Fee: $120, non-refundable. For more information or to register for MAT classes,contact Arlene at 223-7850 x 227.(Funding is available through NYS to cover $100 of the fee. For information on funding, contact SUNYat 800-295-9616 or www.tsg.suny.edu)FOR ALL TRAININGS: Refunds or credits will not be given to cancellations or no-shows unless approved by Child Care Council staff (72hours in advance of workshop). Make money orders/cashier’s check payable to CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION.

July 2013CALL 223-7850 to register***Visit http://mycccc.org/professionaldevelopment.htmfor complete training information and/or to download a registration form***Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat1 2 3 4 5 6 Parent ProviderRelationships9 am-10:30am. Farm & HomeCenter, Oriskany$15 Call 223-7850x231 to register7 8 9 10 11 12 13 **MATClass 8am-5pm,OC Farm & HomeCtr14 15 16 **MATClass (IS)—9am-1pm, OCFarm & HomeCntrInfo Session4pm-6pm IlionPublic Library17 InformationalSession 4pm—6pmSherrill Library18 19 2021 22 23 *Health& Safety Trng10:30am to4:30pm,OC Farm &Home Center28 29 30 3124 *Health &Safety Trng10:30am to 4:30pm,OC Farm & HomeCenterFamily Style-dining6 pm-7:30pm, CanastotaLibrary. $15 Call 223-7850ext23125*Health &Safety Trng10:30am to4:30pm,OC Farm &Home Center26 27 Intro toPCAN—FreeTrng 9:30 am—3:30 pm Farm &Home Ctr> Pre-registration is required for all Child Care Council-sponsored professionaldevelopment workshops.> Refunds/credits will not be given to no-shows.> Scholarship funding to participate in training may be available throughthe Educational Incentive Program (EIP). For more information, on scholarshipfunding visit www.tsg.suny.edu. You may also contact EIP ateip@tsg.suny.edu or 800-295-9616.*Health & Safety Competency Training for Family/Group Family Child Care Providers This training fulfills the mandatory15 hour Health & Safety training requirement necessary to become a NYS regulated family or group family child care provider. Presentedby a NYS certified Health & Safety trainer. Fee: $260 reimbursable through SUNY Health & Safety Rebate upon registration.Payment must be received via money order or bank cashier's check.FOR ALL TRAININGS: Refunds or credits will not be given to cancellations or no-shows unless approved by Child Care Council staff(72 hours in advance of workshop). Make money orders/cashier’s check payable to CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION.

August 2013CALL 223-7850 to register***Visit http://mycccc.org/professionaldevelopment.htmfor complete training information and/or to download a registration form***Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat1 2 34 5 6 PCAN-DirectorTrng—RelationshipBased & Reflective Org.9 am—12 pm, Farm &Home Ctr7 8 9 1011 12 13Informational Session4pm-6pm BasloeLibrary, Herkimer14 15 CACFPTraining 6:30pm-8:30 pm, OC Farm& Home Center16 1718 19 20 PCAN- DirectorTrng -SupportingStaff in Their workwith Parents 8:30am—3:00 pm, Farm &Home Ctr21InformationalSession 4pm to6pm at the NewHartford Library22 23 2425 26 27 28 ABC’s &Play-dough6:00pm-7:30pmCanastota Library.$15. Call 2237850-231 to register29 30 31Informational Sessions for Prospective Family Child Care Providers. These sessions familiarize those interested in becoming aNYS certified family/group family child care provider with the application process, NYS regulations and services available to assist instart-up and beyond! Presented by Child Care Council staff.Fee: FREE, pre-registration is required by calling 223-7850.FOR ALL TRAININGS: Refunds or credits will not be given to cancellations or no-shows unless approved by Child Care Council staff(72 hours in advance of workshop). Make money orders/cashier’s check payable to CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION.

STANDARD 1.4.4.2: CONTINUINGEDUCATION FOR SMALL FAMILY CHILDCARE HOME CAREGIVERS/TEACHERSSmall family child care home caregivers/teachers shouldhave at least thirty clock-hours per year of continuing educationin areas determined by self-assessment and, wherepossible, by a performance review of a skilled mentor orpoor reviewer.RATIONALE: In addition to low child: staff ratio, group size,age mix of children, and continuity of caregiver/teacher, thetraining/education of caregivers/teachers is a specific indicatorof child care quality. Most skilled roles require trainingrelated to the functions and responsibilities the role requires.Caregivers/teachers who engage in on-going trainingare more likely to decrease morbidity and mortality intheir setting and are better able to prevent, recognize, andcorrect health and safety problems.Children may come to child care with identified specialhealth care needs or may develop them awhile attendingchild care, so staff must be trained in recognizing healthproblems as well as implementing care plans for previouslyidentified needsBecause of the nature of their caregiving/teaching tasks,caregivers/teachers must attain multifaceted knowledgeand skills. Child health and employee health are integral toany education/training curriculum and program managementplan. Planning and evaluation of training should bebased on performance of the caregiver/teacher. Provisionof workshops and courses on all facets of a small familychild care business may be difficult to access and may leadto caregivers/teachers enrolling in training opportunities incurriculum related areas only. Too often, caregivers/teachers make training choices based on what they like tolearn about (their “wants”) and not the areas in which theirperformance should be improved (their “needs”).Small family child care home caregivers/teachers often workalone and are solely responsible for the health and safety ofsmall numbers of children in care. Peer review is part of theprocess for accreditation of family child care and can be valuablein assisting the caregiver/teacher in the identificationof areas of need for training. Self-evaluation may not identifytraining needs or focus on areas in which the caregiver/teacher is particularly interested and may be skilled already.Any time you sincerely want to make achange, the first thing you must do is toraise your standards.-Anthony RobbinsPreventing Child Abuse andNeglect Trainings (PCAN)Please register at least one week prior to thesession (to confirm attendance) by contacting Tammy at223-7850 ext 222 or Arlene at 223-7850 ext 227.July 27 - Attend a FREE Introduction of 8 units of thePCAN curriculum. You will learn how to make a differencein the lives of very young children and their parentsby developing effective relationships and understandingthe impact of abuse and neglect. Everyone benefits whenparents and professionals see each other as allies in caringfor children. The purpose of this workshop is to introduceyou to the entire curriculum. We will then discuss offeringthe entire curriculum, which is 30 hours or more and includesall required topic areas, 1, 3, 4, 6 & 8. 9:30am—3:30 pm at the OC Farm & Home Center, Oriskany. Pleasebring your own lunch, snacks and beverages. A refrigeratorand microwave are available for your convenience.August 6 - Unit 9: Director Training– Relationship-Based and Reflective Organizations (topic area 3)8:30 am 11:30 am at the OC Farm & Home Center,Oriskany. (Fee: $15)This unit provides Directors with the tools needed to beginbuilding an organization characterized by collaborativerelationships where staff can be given the opportunity tolearn from one another, families and working relationships.You will learn through defining concepts, applyingstrategies, and practice using reflective and relationshipbased supervisory techniques.August 20 - Unit 10: Director Training– Supporting Staff inTheir Work With Parents (topic areas 3,4,6,8)8:30 am 11:30 am at the OC Farm & Home Center,Oriskany. (Fee: $15)Center Directors have important roles in the prevention ofabuse and neglect among the families they serve. Thisunit provides Directors and Supportive Staff with the opportunityto learn and practice relationship based approacheson exploring how to respond when staff membershave concerns about suspected abuse or neglect.Save The Date!SATURDAYOCTOBER 5, 2013FALL CONFERENCEChild Care Council of Cooperative ExtensionOneida County Farm & Home Centermore info to follow on www.mycccc.org

The Child Care Council promotes and supports quality child care and services related to the education and well-being of children.The Child Care Chatterbox is a quarterly resource and informational newsletter published by the Child Care Counciland is made possible with funding from the NYS Office of Children & Family Services.Child Care Council Staff:Lorraine Kinney-Kitchen, Director, lmk23@cornell.edu (223-7850 x223)Tammy Ablang, Referral/Provider Services Specialist, taa24@cornell.edu (223-7850 x222)Arlene Brouillette, Infant/Toddler Specialist, aab36@cornell.edu (223-7850 x227)Lori Bunce, Oneida County Enhanced Referral Specialist, lab99@cornell.edu (731-3426)Beverley Burton, CACFP Monitor Assistant, bjb255@cornell.edu (223-7850 x229)Nicole Dillon, Early Childhood Educator, njd63@cornell.edu (223-7850 x231)Christine Dutcher, Legally Exempt Clerical Examiner, cad227@cornell.edu (266-6161)Donna M. Gatto, Financial Supervisor, dmg23@cornell.edu (223-7850 x224)Joan Gorton, Intensive Technical Assistance Educator, jhg274@cornell.edu (223-7850 x232)Mariann Joslin, Administrative Assistant, mj284@cornell.edu (223-7850 x236)Lori North, Legally Exempt Coordinator, Oneida County, lrn22@cornell.edu (798-5811)Ellen Olson, Herkimer County CCR&R Coordinator, elp32@cornell.edu (867-1555)Michael Perkett, Legally Exempt Home Examiner, map345@cornell.edu (798-5811)Amanda Samsel, Legally Exempt Program Assistant, als354@cornell.edu (798-5024)Richelle Singer, CACFP Coordinator, rfs35@cornell.edu (223-7850 x226)Jodie E. Southwick, Enhanced Referral Specialist, Madison County, jen8@cornell.edu (361-1890)Main Office:121 Second StreetOriskany, NY 13424315-223-7850 ~ 888-814-KIDSFax 315-223-7855Main Office Hours:Monday—Friday8:30 a.m.—4:30 p.m.Satellite Offices:Herkimer Co. DSS,Herkimer ph. 315-867-1555Fax 315-867-1528Madison Co. DSS,Wampsville ph. 315-361-1890Fax 315-366-3039The Child Care Council is a program of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County.Cornell Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities.Please contact the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County office if you have any special needs.Oneida Co. DSSUtica ph. 315-731-3426Fax 315-266-6188Visit us on the web:mycccc.orgNONPROFIT ORGU.S. Postage PaidOriskany, NY 13424Permit No. 68121 Second StreetOriskany, NY 13424www.mycccc.orgTHINK GREEN! If you would like to receive this publication via email, contactmj284@cornell.edu with your name, address, and email address with your request to go GREEN!If you no longer want to receive this publication, please use the same contact information.