watch me grow 2009-2010 calendar

Watch meGrowHealthy, Happy and Strong!

A CALENDAR for MICHIGAN FAMILIES

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09-10_WMG_COVERS 11/18/08 2:56 PM

Newborn ScreeningSaves Lives!

Michigan law requires the screening of all

newborn infants for rare but serious disorders

which can be treated if identified early.

REMEMBER . . .

Newborn screening detects certain treatable medical disorders.

Confirm with birthing staff that your newborn infant has

received a newborn screening test.

To learn more about newborn screening and genetic disorders,

visit the Michigan Department of Community Health website

at www.michigan.gov/newbornscreening or

www.migeneticsconnection.org.

m Early diagnosis, treatment or other interventions can prevent

irreversible disabilities and even death.

m Your birthing hospital staff or midwife will collect a screening

specimen ideally between 24 and 36 hours of age for testing.

m Check with your pediatric health care provider about your baby’s

newborn screening results.

For more information contact the Michigan Newborn

Screening Program toll-free at 1-866-673-9939 or e-mail us at

[email protected].

09-10_WMG_COVERS 11/18/08 2:56 PM

Creating Your Family Health HistoryWhat is a family health history?

A family health history is a collection of information about diseases that

run in your family, along with eating habits, activities, and environments

which your family members share.

How do I obtain family health history information? Talk to your family members! Use family events like holidays or

birthday celebrations as an opportunity to gather information. Collect

information on yourself, your parents, your brothers and sisters, your

children and other extended family members such as aunts/uncles

and grandparents.

What should I ask?Learn basic information such as: date of birth/death, ethnicity or race,

and cause of death. Find out about any health conditions in your

relatives as well as the age which symptoms started. Be sure to ask

about a history of birth defects, cancer, mental health disorders,

developmental delays, heart disease, and pregnancy complications

including miscarriage, stillbirth and infertility.

What do I do with my family health history information?• Create a family health history tree — a drawing of your relatives

and their health history.

• Share the information with your relatives.

• Share the information with your health care provider and find

out more about the diseases in your family and what you can do

to prevent them.

How can MAGC help?

The mission of the Michigan Association of Genetic Counselors

(MAGC) is to champion quality genetic counseling services in

the State of Michigan. Genetic counselors are specially trained

to provide information and support to families who are affected

by a genetic condition, or the possibility of one.

For more information about family health

history and other genetic resources, visit

www.magcinc.org, www.geneticalliance.org

or www.hhs.gov/familyhistory.

2009_WMG_CALENDAR 11/18/08 11:40 AM Page 1

Getting Fit for Pregnancy . . .

For more information on birth defects and possible risk factors, contact:

. . . is a great way to take control of your health to improve the odds of a healthy

pregnancy for you and your baby. Plus, take these steps — before and during

pregnancy — to better health for mother and baby:

) Eat a variety of foods with plenty ofvegetables, fruits and fortified grainproducts.

) Take a vitamin with 400 mcg (0.4 mg)folic acid every day—it helps toprevent some kinds of birth defects.

) Have a medical check-up before you get pregnant. Discuss healthproblems and healthy changes youcan make to get fit for pregnancy.

) Ask your doctor about the safety ofyour medicines or supplements inpregnancy.

) Find out if tests (like x-rays) andprocedures are safe during pregnancy.

) Talk to your doctor if you have a child or other family member with abirth defect, genetic disorder or developmental disability.

) Wash hands often, especially whencaring for young children. It’s the bestway to reduce the spread of infection.

) Practice safer sex/use condoms toprotect against sexually transmitteddiseases (STD).

) Live smoke-, alcohol- and drug-free.

) Avoid using hot tubs and saunas whenpregnant or planning pregnancy.

) Eat fully cooked meat. If you eat GreatLakes fish, follow the Michigan FishAdvisory. Call 1-800-648-6942 or visitwww.michigan.gov/mdch-toxic.

) Don’t handle cat litter. Avoid rats,mice and other rodents—they mayspread infections that can harmunborn babies.

) Avoid toxic substances and chemicalsat home and work.

March of Dimes Pregnancy andNewborn Health Education Center

E-mail: [email protected]

Visit: www.marchofdimes.com

Michigan Birth Defects ProgramCall: 1-866-852-1247 (toll-free)


Visit: www.MIGeneticsConnection.org

National Center on Birth Defectsand Developmental Disabilities

Call: 1-800-232-4636 (toll-free)

Visit: www.cdc.gov/ncbddd

Organization of TeratologyInformation Specialists

Call: 1-866-626-6847 (toll-free)

Visit: www.otispregnancy.org

) Get prenatal care early and keep every appointment!


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February

NEW YEAR’S DAY

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.DAY

2009Januarysunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday

January is Birth Defects Prevention Month!

Folic Acid AwarenessWeek

Washing handsprevents colds.

Let your child reada story to you.

Share a funny storywith your kids!

Have you had yourfurnace checked thiswinter?

Folic Acid — EveryWoman, Every Day!


February is Responsible FatherhoodAwareness Month!

Responsible Fathers are Men Who:w Put their children’s interest before their own.

wServe as role models to their children (leading by example).

w Separate other relationship issues from their relationships with their children.

wPlay an active role in their child’s emotional and academic development.

Nurturing Men — Thriving Children — Healthy Families

Proud Fathers-Proud Parentswww.michigan.gov/dhs

Hey Dad! What do you want your relationship with your child to look like 20

years from now? What are you doing right now to achieve that relationship?

Be the Best Dad You Can Be — Be Interested, Be Involved!

Governor Jennifer Granholm has declared February as Responsible Fatherhood Awareness Month in order to provide an opportunity for Michigancitizens to learn more about how fathers impact the lives of their children. Fathers who actively participate in the lives of their children

diminish the risk of childhood poverty, mental illness, juvenile delinquency, early sexual activity, teen pregnancies, substance abuse and failure to complete high school, among many other things.


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March

sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday

2009February

ST. VALENTINE’S DAY

GROUNDHOG DAY

PRESIDENTS’ DAY

ASH WEDNESDAY

"Fatherlessness is the most

harmful demographic trend of

this generation. It is the

leading cause of declining child

well-being in our society."

—David Blankenhorn

National ChildPassenger SafetyWeek

Medicine should betaken as directed.Ask your doctor.

Healthy breakfastsare a great way tostart your day!

Turn space heatersoff when you leavea room.

Ask your child tohelp you plan a funfamily activity.

Read to your babyand young childdaily.

February is DentalHealth Month


Lead Poisoning Is Preventable!

Find out the age of your home. If it was built before

1978, ask someone from the health department about

special cleaning tips.

Ask your babysitter/daycare provider if their facility is

“leadsafe.”

If anyone in the home has a job or hobby involving

lead, find out about “take-home” lead.

When you (or anyone else) is doing maintenance or

renovation in your home, require the use of “leadsafe

work practices.”

If you are pregnant (or planning a pregnancy), talk to

your health care provider about your present (and

past) environmental lead exposures.

Tell your health care provider that your child must be tested for leadpoisoning if 1) your insurance is Medicaid/MIChild or 2) you live in oneof Michigan’s 14 target communities (Battle Creek, Benton Harbor,Dearborn, Detroit, Flint, Grand Rapids, Hamtramck, Highland Park, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Muskegon/Muskegon Heights, Pontiac, and Saginaw).

For further information see www.michigan.gov/leadsafe or contact:

■ Childhood Lead PoisoningPrevention Program517-335-8885 or 888-322-4453To learn more about lead poisoning prevention, bloodlead testing, sources and management of hazards, aspeaker for your group, and to get the name of a leadprogram contact at a local health department.

■ Lead Hazard Remediation Program866-691-LEAD (866-691-5321)To find professionals to help identify and control leadpaint hazards and to learn how to remodel and repaintolder homes safely.

■ Your county health department’sChildhood Lead PoisoningPrevention Program


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April


2009March

FIRST DAY OF SPRING

PURIM BEGINS

ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Use dental floss toclean between teeth.

Add chopped appleor sliced banana topancakes.

Celebrate yourfamily. Create afamily tree!

National PoisonPrevention Week

Re-read a favoritestory.

Turn clocks aheadand check smokedetector batteries.

For information about the Childhood Lead

Poisoning Prevention Program, call

(517) 335-8885 or (888) 322-4453.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIMEBEGINS

March is Save Your VisionMonth: Vision USA


Early Years Are Learning Years™ . . .

Make Them Count!

Children’s early years are the foundation for growth

and development. Children are constantly

developing and learning. What they are learning

depends on their physical health, social-emotional

health, relationships, and daily interactions and

experiences. The 2009 Month of the Young Child®

Focus Weeks highlight children’s development.

MOYC® 2009 Focus Weeks

April 1–11 Physical Development

April 12–18 Social-Emotional Development

April 19–25 Cognitive Development

April 26–30 Language and Literacy

Help celebrate the Month of the Young Child®

For information: (517) 336-9700 or (800) 336-6424


Web site: www.MiAEYC.org

Month of the Young Child and MOYC are registered service marks of theMichigan Association for the Education of Young Children.

April is the Month of the Young Child®


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May


2009April

April is Month of the Young Child® and Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Call MiAEYC, (517) 336-9700 or (800) 336-6424, forinformation on Month of the Young Child.

Call Children’s Trust Fund, (517) 373-4320, for information on Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Call MiAEYC, (517) 336-9700 or (800) 336-6424, for

more information on Month of the Young Child®.

Bend and stretch andreach for the sky!Exercise daily with yourchild.

Recognize and showappreciation for yourchild’s efforts andaccomplishments.

National InfantImmunization week

Read aloud to yourchild everyday. It isessential for languagedevelopment and forpreparing your child tosucceed as a reader.

Stage a home firedrill this month.

Encourage childrenover age 2 to drinkwater. The brain needsto be properly hydratedto be alert.

PASSOVER

EASTER SUNDAY

PALM SUNDAY

EARTH DAY

GOOD FRIDAY


Supplemental Nutrition AssistanceYour first thought when you wake up and your last one

before you fall asleep is your family.

Their health and future mean everything to you.

The Food Stamp Program cares, too. That is why they

offer FREE nutrition education for you and your family.

You already know that healthy eating is important for the

entire family. And you know the Food Stamp Program

provides help with food if times get tough.

Michigan State University Extension nutrition education

can also help you:

eCook easy, quick and tasty meals that your whole

family will love.

eGet your kids to eat more fruits and vegetables and

like them.

eStretch your food dollars.

eGet your family to be more physically active and

have fun.

Contact your local MSU

Extension Office to learn more!This program is partially funded by USDA's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program by way of the Michigan Department of Human Services andthe Michigan Nutrition Network at Michigan State University Extension. MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity provider and employer.Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity,religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. The Supplemental NutritionAssistance Program can help provide a healthy diet and nutrition assistance to people with low income. To find out more, contact your local DHSoffice, check online at http://www.mfia.state.mi.us/mars/index.asp or call 1-800-481-4989 for the Food and Nutrition Helpline.


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June


2009May

MOTHER’S DAY

MEMORIAL DAY

CINCO DE MAYO

31

Schedule an eyeexam.

Iron-rich foods: leanmeat, eggs, beans,greens and cereals.

Go to the library.

Make sure everyonegives Mom a hugtoday!

Run cold water forseveral minutes beforedrinking or cookingwith it.

Hugs and smiles are encouraging!


What Head Start offers you and your child:

� A preschool program for children of income-eligible

families and families of special needs children, at no cost

� Nutritious snacks and meals

� A learning environment sensitive to children’s individual

and group needs

� Activities fostering cognitive, emotional, social and physical

development

� Inclusion of children with disabilities

� A variety of ways for parents to volunteer and participate

in their child’s learning

� Opportunities and support for families

� Medical and dental services for children

HEAD STARTA Child and Family Development Program

� Programs designed to meet the needs of families all over Michigan:

• Migrant Head Start

• Early Head Start (for children from birth to age three and

their families)

• Native American Head Start

• Full Day, Full Year as well as Half Day

• Home Base Head Start

• Bilingual support services


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July


2009JuneFor more information about Head Start in Michigan, please call the

Michigan Head Start Association at 517-374-MHSA (6472) or toll free 1-866-320-6472,

or visit our web site at www.mhsa.ws.

FATHER’S DAY

FIRST DAY OF SUMMER

FLAG DAY

Small, round andsticky foods arechoking hazards.

Raise your child in asmoke-free world. Ifyou smoke, QUIT.

Make sureeveryone givesDad a hug today!

Put crayons andpaper out for yourchild.

Milk and fruit shakesmake nutritioussnacks!


Great Start Readiness ProgramElements of a high-quality Great Start Readiness Program classroom include:

Children who experience just one year in the Great Start Readiness Program experience significant developmental gains.

http://www.highscope.org/content.asp?contentID=225.

Play is Children’s Work.Their work:

• Is displayed (e.g.,artwork, photos of blockstructures, samples ofbeginning writing).

• Stems from the children’sinterests and ideas.

• Is prominently displayedat children’s eye level.

Adults and Children arePartners in Learning. Adults:

• Observe and listen to children.

• Encourage children to talk aboutwhat they do.

• Follow children’s lead in play.

• Use children’s words.

• Offer suggestions to extend play.

• Use a variety of teachingstrategies such as open-endedquestioning.

Outdoor Play:

• Provides children with manychoices about how they play (e.g.,climbing, pouring, jumping,sorting or pretending, playingalone or in groups).

• Provides an opportunity foradults to actively engage withchildren as they superviseoutdoor play.

Classroom Materials:

• Encourage exploration,experimentation anddiscovery.

• Appeal to multiple senses.

• Are available in a largeamount of real andmanufactured materials.

Michigan Department of Education • Early Childhood Education and Family Services • (517) 373-8483 • www.michigan.gov/ece


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August


2009July

INDEPENDENCE DAY

Eat 5 or more servings of FRUITS and

VEGETABLES every day for better health!

Protect yourchildren fromsecond-handsmoke.

Child SafetyRestraints: it’s thelaw!

Cold water cures ahot day!

Children love toplan picnics.

Talk about thethings you see andhear.


Michigan 4C Association One Call for Child Care 1-866-424-4532

Resources for Parents Seeking Child Care:Quality Assured Program

• Learn how to identify a high quality child care provider.

• Talk to a Child Care Resource and Referral Specialist to identify options for child care.

• Find a quality licensed child care provider in your area using a network of 16regional 4C offices. Many of the offices have achieved accreditation by theNational Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies.

Training and Resources for Child Care Providers:Michigan Child Care Futures

• Topics covered in trainings include Basic and Advanced Topics in Child Care,Infant and Toddler Care, Inclusive Child Care, Child Care Administration,Blood Borne Pathogens (BBP), Communicable Diseases, and more. Coursesrange from 5–16 hours.

• Individuals can use these trainings towards meeting state licensing and ChildDevelopment Associate (CDA) requirements, to obtain CEUs, and to earncollege credit for some courses.

• Training is offered throughout the State of Michigan at times and locationsconvenient to child care providers.

• Support is available for accreditation for child care centers through theNational Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and theNational Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Accreditation for child

care family and group homes.

Visit our website for more information:

http://www.mi4c.org


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September


2009August

30 31

RAMADAN BEGINS

Keep babiesunder 6 monthsout of direct sun.

Eat some rawvegetables for asnack.

Protect yoursummer fun—use sunscreen!

Write letters withyour finger insand.

Catch your childbeing good!

August is Children’s Learning

and Vision Month!


Support for Families of Children with Special Needs

Family Center for Children and Youthwith Special Health Care NeedsAll Michigan families of children with specialneeds may take part in:

ä Family Support Network of Michigan —Our parent-to-parent network offersinformation and emotional support.Parents can ask for one-to-one supportfrom a trained peer who also has a childwith special needs.

ä Heart-to-Heart Information Update — Our free monthly sheet covers CSHCS,events and resources just for families ofchildren with special needs.

ä Relatively Speaking — Children and teensthat are siblings of children with specialneeds can share their unique issues in aweekend of structured activities.

ä Conference Scholarships — We helpparents of children with special needs go toconferences related to the diagnosis,treatment or care of their children withspecial needs. Scholarships are also

available to Michigan young adult(s) betweenthe ages of 16–25 to help cover expenses toattend a conference related to their diagnosis,condition, or treatment, or a conference relatedto disability advocacy, and education.

Specialty Medical CareWe cover diagnostic tests to check for a specialhealth need.

More than 2,700 diagnoses qualify for CSHCScoverage. Eligibility is determined based oneach person’s medical report.

For children—and some adults—who qualify,CSHCS provides:

ä referral to specialty doctors.

ä coverage of office visits, prescription drugs, special equipment and more.

ä referral to services to help families care for children at home and maintain routines.

ä coverage of transportation costs to medical appointments related to an eligible diagnosis. Photo by The Center for Children with Chronic Illness and Disability, University of Minnesota

The Children’s Special Health Care Services (CSHCS) is part of the Michigan Department of Community Health.

CSHCS is for children and some adults with special health care needs, and their families.

CSHCS Family Phone Line 1-800-359-3722• Solve a CSHCS problem • Reach your local health department toll-free

• Get information and resources related to children with special needs for parents, grandparents and other relatives


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October


2009September

LABOR DAY

YOM KIPPUR

A visit to yourchild’s schooleases thetransition.

Talk about goodhealth habits withyour child.

Healthy babies sleepon their backs alonein their own cribwithout extrablankets or bedding.

Breast milk — theGold Standard.

Use describing wordswhen you talk.

National AdultImmunization Week

ROSH HASHANAH BEGINS

RAMADAN ENDS FIRST DAY OF AUTUMN

Encourage your kids to express themselves!


Your child needs vaccines at these ages:

d Birth d 12–15 months

d 2 months d 18 months

d 4 months d 4 – 6 years

d 6 months d 11–12 years

All children from 6 months through 18 years of age shouldget vaccinated against the flu every year.

Protect your baby

1. Be sure your baby gets all of her (or his) vaccineson time.

2. Get your vaccines on time, too, including fluvaccine every year.

3. Make sure that family members and other peoplewho spend time with your child have gotten theirvaccines.

Protect Your Child from Scary Diseases

For more information call your doctor, your local healthdepartment or 1-888-76-SHOTS.

For more information, go to www.vaccinateyourbaby.org.Michigan Department of Community Health

You Can Keep Your Child Healthy!


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2009October

HALLOWEEN

October is Halloween Safety Month!

COLUMBUS DAY

National FirePrevention Week

Teach your child anursery rhyme.

Prevention is well-balanced meals.

Pack a piece of fruitin everyone’s lunch.

Buckle up!

Time is the bestthing you can spendon your child.


WIC helps Women, Infants and ChildrenWIC may help if you:

� Are pregnant or breastfeeding.

� Have an infant or children

up to age 5.

� Want to improve your family’s

health with good nutrition.

The Women, Infants and Children

Program (WIC) may be able to help with

the right food and advice on nutrition,

health care and immunizations.

WIC supports every mother’s choice

to breastfeed.

WIC helps working families, too.

Call today 1-800-26-BIRTH

Michigan Department of Community Health Michigan WIC Program

www.michigan.gov/wic • www.wichealth.org

WIC is an equal opportunity program


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December


2009NovemberBabies were born to be breastfed!

VETERAN’S DAY

ELECTION DAY

THANKSGIVING DAY

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIMEENDS

Untreated earinfections can leadto hearing loss.

Keep all medicinesin their originalcontainers.

Thank yourchildren wheneverthey are beinghelpful!

Breast milk oriron-fortifiedformula isessential duringthe first year.

Put books outwhere she can getto them.

What are youthankful for?

Remember to vote!


Project Find Everyone can learn.

Helping Young People Succeed in School

Young People Develop At Different RatesSometimes, a young person can have more difficulty learningthan others do. He or she may have difficulty seeing or hearing,as well as difficulty getting along with others, or learning inschool. These are reasons for concern.

Why Is an Evaluation Important?Project Find refers individuals for a free evaluation to helpidentify specific conditions that prevent a young person from learning. The evaluation is the first step in getting thehelp he or she needs. A free evaluation is available forindividuals from birth to age 26.

Information Is ConfidentialAll information contained in the evaluation and educational program is confidential.

Who Can Help?Anyone can refer individuals, birth to age 26, for specialeducational services. It can be a parent, a foster parent, ateacher, a counselor, a friend, a relative, or the person whofinds learning difficult.

1-800-252-0052 www.ProjectFindMichigan.org

TTY: 517-668-2505service available for persons with hearingand/or speech difficulties.

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION

Kathleen N. Straus, President John C. Austin, Vice PresidentCarolyn L. Curtin, Secretary Marianne Yared McGuire, TreasurerNancy Danhof, NASBE Delegate Elizabeth W. BauerReginald M. Turner, Board Member Eileen Lappin Weiser

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Jennifer M. Granholm, GovernorMichael P. Flanagan Superintendent of Public Instruction

This project material was produced and distributed through an IDEA (2004) Mandated Activities Projectfor Project Find Michigan awarded by the Michigan Department of Education. The opinions expressedherein do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the Michigan Department of Education, StateBoard of Education or the U.S. Department of Education, and no endorsement is inferred. This documentis in the public domain and may be copied for further distribution when proper credit is given. For furtherinformation or inquiries about this project, contact the Michigan Department of Education, Office ofSpecial Education and Early Intervention Services, P.O. Box 30008, Lansing, Michigan 48909.

Project

Find

Everyone

can

learn.


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2009December

HANUKKAH BEGINS

CHRISTMAS DAYFIRST DAY OF WINTER KWANZAA BEGINS

Project Find Michigan 1-800-252-0052

www.ProjectFindMichigan.org

Fax: 517-668-0446

TTY: 517-668-2505 service available for persons withhearing and/or speech difficulties.

December is ToySafety Month

How about bakedsweet potatoes fordinner?

You are a star inyour family’s life!

Always leaveemergencyinstructions withyour babysitter.

Relax and holdyour baby closeduring feeding.

Talk about soundsthat letters make.


Parenting is for a Lifetime

The Michigan Foundation for Education LeadershipTM (MFEL) is a nonprofit organization established

in 1990 to receive, hold, invest and administer funds and to make expenditures to aid in the fulfillment of

educational needs and create new avenues for educational excellence throughout the State of Michigan.

Good parenting includes:

1. Showing kids love, concern andrespect at all times.

2. Giving kids a safe place to live and play.

3. Listening to what your kids are saying.

4. Helping your kids express all their feelings appropriately.

5. Giving your kids appropriatechoices whenever possible.

6. Having reasonable rules that are understood by all.

7. Being and responsible and teachingyour kids to be responsible.

8. Spending time together with your kids.

9. Setting an example by what you say and do.

10. Asking for help when you need it.

2010_WMG_CALENDAR 11/18/08 2:50 PM Page 26

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February

NEW YEAR’S DAY

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.DAY

2010JanuaryLoving eye contact builds trust and security.


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Nursing momsneed healthydiets.

Try a new recipefor your favoritevegetable.

Are dangerousmaterials out ofharm’s way?

Teach your childa new word.

Trade off childcare with a friend.

January is BirthDefects PreventionMonth


Are You Concerned AboutYour Child’s Development?Don’t worry. But don’t wait. Call 1-800-Early-On.Most parents wonder at times if their child is growing and developing likeother children. If you question how your child is developing, call Early On®

Michigan to find out what you can do.

Early On helps families get the help they need for their children, from birth tothree years of age. Your child may be eligible for a free evaluation. If the evaluation shows that your child needs help, we’ll connect you to the help you need, at little or no cost.

Call 1-800-Early-On (1-800-327-5966) for free information about your child’s development and Early On services, or visit us on the web at:

www.1800EarlyOn.org

1-800-Early-On (1-800-327-5966)

TTY: (517) 668-2505service available for persons with hearing and/or speech difficulties.

Does your baby seem a little too quiet?

Does she smile less thanyou think she should?

Is he having a hardtime with his crawling

or walking?


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March


2010FebruaryFor information about Early On®,

call (800) EARLY ON.

ST. VALENTINE’S DAY PRESIDENT’S DAY

PURIM BEGINS

ASH WEDNESDAY

National ChildPassenger SafetyWeek

February is DentalHealth Month

Routine dentalvisits shouldbegin at age 1.

Breastfeeding…agift of love thatlasts a lifetime.

Are youremergencynumbers postedby the phone?

Talk about a bookyou’ve just read.

Displayingchildren’s artwork promotesself-esteem.

GROUNDHOG DAY


From Polio to PrematurityThe mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by

preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. The mission is

carried out through programs of research, community services, education

and advocacy.

KNOW THE SIGNS OF PREMATURE BIRTH.

Contact the March of Dimes Pregnancy & Newborn Health Education Centerat [email protected] to answer your questions about:

• Prematurity • Labor and Delivery • Breastfeeding

• Preconception • Caring for your Baby • Newborn Screening

and other health related mother/baby topics.

If your baby is born too small or too soon — connect with other families who

have or have had baby/babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Contact SHARE – an online community for parents of premature babies at

www.shareyourstory.org.

MARCH OF DIMES MICHIGAN CHAPTER www.marchofdimes.com/michigan • E-mail: [email protected]

Help give all babies their 9 months.


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April


2010March

FIRST DAY OF SPRINGST. PATRICK’S DAYDAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME

BEGINS

PASSOVERPALM SUNDAY

Turn clocks aheadand check smokedetector batteries.

Work a puzzle withyour child.

Point out words thatrhyme.

Make regular dentalcheckups.

A varied diet makesa healthy body.

March is Save Your VisionMonth: Vision USA


Project FRESHProject FRESH provides participating Women, Infants and

Children (WIC) Program families with nutrition education, as well

as supplemental coupons to purchase Michigan-grown fresh fruits

and vegetables. Coupons are redeemed at local farmer’s markets

and farm stands.

Farm to SchoolPrograms that promote Michigan-grown and Michigan-produced

food in schools. These can include:

P School meals P Starting a school garden

P Field trips to farms P Fundraisers using Michigan food

P Cooking in the classroom

A partnership between the USDA, the WIC division of the Michigan Department

of Community Health and Michigan State University Extension.

For more information contact the C.S. Mott Group for Sustainable Food Systems

at Michigan State University, (517) 432-1612.

Make It Michigan2 great ways to increase the number of Michigan grown fruits

and vegetables that mothers and their young children eat.


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May


2010AprilAt home or at school — Make it Michigan!

EASTER SUNDAY

GOOD FRIDAY

EARTH DAY

You are your child’sbest advocate.

Talk about thethings you see andhear.

Relax and hold yourbaby close duringfeeding.

Babies were born tobe breastfed.

Don’t call medicine“candy.”

April is Month of the Young Child® and Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Call MiAEYC, (517) 336-9700 or (800) 336-6424, forinformation on Month of the Young Child.

Call Children’s Trust Fund, (517) 373-4320, for information on Child Abuse Prevention Month.


Michigan Family-to-FamilyHealth Information & Education Center

(F2FHIEC)

e Educational OpportunitiesF2FHIEC offers onsite and on-line learning opportunities, available for

families and professionals.

e Family Phone LineFamilies can call health providers, local health departments, obtain

health resources or seek and offer support to other families through

our toll-free number. Interpreters are available to assist families

who do not speak English.

e Lending LibraryBooks, videos, and informational pamphlets are available

through our library.

e WebsiteA virtual center you can visit for information, education and/or

parent-to-parent support.

Visit: www.bridges4kids.org/f2f

F2FHIEC is administered by the Family Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs, a section of the Children’s Special

Health Care Services (CSHCS) program of the Michigan Department of Community Health. It is funded by a federal grant from the Maternal

and Child Health Bureau. The Center has 31 statewide partners.

For More Information visit: www.bridges4kids.org/f2f or call 1-800-359-3722


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June


2010May

CINCO DE MAYO

MOTHER’S DAY

MEMORIAL DAY

1-800-359-3722

30 31

Make sure everyonegives Mom a hug today!

Try freezer popsmade with freshfruit and juice.

Lock up all medicines,and keep them inchild-resistantpackaging.

Sing the ABC’stogether.

Healthy snackstravel well.


MIChild

MIChild is a health insurance program. It is for uninsured childrenof Michigan’s working families. MIChild services are provided bymany HMOs and other health care plans throughout Michigan.

MIChild covers:• Regular checkups • Shots

• Emergency care • Dental care

• Pharmacy • Hospital care

• Vision and hearing • Prenatal care and delivery

• Mental health and substance abuse services

We cover other services, too. Your health plan will give you the fulllist when your coverage begins.

If your child qualifies, you pay a monthly premium of not more than$10, even if you have more than one child.

How can I get MIChild?Call 1-888-988-6300 for an application. If you need an interpreter,call 1-888-988-6300. TTY for persons with hearing disabilities: 1-888-263-5897. These calls are free.

Or, apply online at michigan.gov/MIChild.

Call 1-888-988-6300 for more information on MIChild.

MIChild Is the Health Insurance

You Need at a Price You Can Afford


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2010Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor

Janet Olszewski, Director

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July

June

FLAG DAY

FIRST DAY OF SUMMERFATHER’S DAY

Make sure everyonegives Dad a hugtoday!

Drink lots of waterwhen you arethirsty.

Practice crossingthe street with yourchild.

Point to the wordswhile reading.

Make a fruitsmoothie fordessert or snack.


MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY HEALTH

VISION SCREENING PROGRAM

Sight for Success!

� squinting

� favoring one eye

� closing one eye in brightlight

� tilting the head

� frequent rubbing of theeyes

� closing one eye to read orwatch TV

� a wandering eye when thechild is ill or tired

� preferring tasks at adistance

� light sensitive

� excessive blinking

� holding objects close tothe eyes

� droopy eyelids

� fast-moving eyes

� crossed eyesContact your eye doctor or county health department

for a vision screening today!

SIGNS OF POSSIBLE VISION PROBLEMS FOR CHILDREN

Children need good vision!

e Parents have a hard time detecting vision problems in their

children.

e Children assume that their vision is clear.

e Good vision improves learning and development.

e Amblyopia or “lazy eye” is reduced vision in one eye. Lazy eye can

also be caused by crossed eyes.

e Eye exams at an early age will aid in preventing “lazy eye.”

e Blurred vision and crossed eyes must be diagnosed and treated at

an early age to prevent loss of vision.

e Eye exams can be performed at any age by an ophthalmologist or

optometrist.

e Free vision screenings are available from vision technicians at your

local health department. Screenings take place at least once

between the ages of 3 and 5 years (preschool) and in grades 1, 3, 5,

7 and 9 (school-age).


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August


2010JulyConsider the importance of proper

health care for your children’s eyes.

INDEPENDENCE DAY

Brush teeth twicea day.


Store cleaningsupplies out ofsight and out ofreach of children.

Fruit kabobs onstraws!

How about a tripto the zoo?


Prescription for Healthy ReadersReach Out and Read®

Making books part of a healthy childhood.

Reach Out and Read (ROR) promotes early literacy by giving new

books to children and advice to parents about the importance of

reading aloud in pediatric exam rooms across the nation.

Doctors and nurses know that growing up healthy means growing

up with books. The ROR program provides the tools to help

promote children’s developmental skills and later school success.

• Have fun together with books! Children who love books learn to

read. Books can be a special time with your child.

•Make reading part of every day — at bedtime, at breakfast, in

the car, at the grocery store.

• A few minutes of reading is okay! Young children can only sit

for a few minutes for a story, but as they grow, they’ll sit longer!

• Let your child get to know the book — touch it, taste it, hold it

any which way, turn the pages!

•Make the story come alive! Use your own creativity to give voices

to the characters, act out the movements.

• Talk about the book — the story, the characters, the pictures, the

words . . . and then . . . what happens next!

About Reach Out and Read MichiganReach Out and Read Michigan (ROR Michigan) was launched in

July 2006, with a grant from the National ROR Center, to promote, support,

and expand Reach Out and Read in doctor’s offices throughout the state.

In 2009, ROR Michigan became a proud partner of the Michigan Chapter

of the American Academy of Pediatric Foundation.

To find a Reach Out and Read site in Michigan, learn more about early

literacy, start a program, or contribute please see the Reach Out and Read

Michigan Website at www.reachoutandreadmich.org.


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September


2010AugustIt’s time for kindergarten and back to school physicals. Make sure

that books are a part of your back to school routine just like

immunizations. To learn more contact your local pediatric health

care provider or visit www.reachoutandreadmich.org.

RAMADAN BEGINS

Stressed? Relaxand count to 10.

August is Children’sLearning and VisionMonth

Try a new wholegrain bread orcereal.

Practice crossingthe street withyour child.

Jump rope withyour child!

Use describingwords when youtalk.


824 North Capitol Ave • Lansing, MI 489061-800-331-7437www.tomorrowschildmi.org

Warning!Babies are dying because they are put to sleep in placesthat are not safe. Babies always need a safe sleep place.

Parents whose babies have died want other parents to know:

� Babies are not safe sleeping on a couch, pillow oranything soft.

� Babies are not safe sleeping with other children,adults or pets.

� Adult beds are not safe for babies. If you feed yourbaby in bed, put your baby back into his/her crib to sleep.

Safe Sleep Steps1 Baby sleeps by him or herself in a crib, portable crib

or bassinet.

2 Always put baby to sleep on his or her back evenwhen he can roll over.

3 Nothing in sleep area. No pillows, blankets,comforters, stuffed animals or other soft things.

4 Keep baby’s face uncovered during sleep for easybreathing. Use a sleeper instead of a blanket.

5 Don’t allow anyone to smoke anything around baby.

6 Don’t overheat the baby. Dress the baby in as muchor as little clothing as you are wearing.

7 Use a firm mattress with a tight-fitting sheet.

Make sure whoever takes care of your baby has a crib orportable crib for your baby to sleep. Talk to grandparents,babysitters, child care, neighbors and anyone who cares foryour baby about the safest way for your baby to sleep.

Baby sleeps in crib.

Nothing insleep area.

Baby sleeps on back.

Baby’s faceuncovered.

No smokingaround baby.

Do not overheat oroverdress.

Firm mattress,tight-fitting sheet.


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October


2010September

LABOR DAY

FIRST DAY OF AUTUMN

YOM KIPPUR

ROSH HASHANAH BEGINS RAMADAN ENDS

Safe play =safety helmets.

112 E. Allegan, Ste 500 • Lansing, MI 489331-800-331-7437www.tomorrowschildmi.org


Breast milk —Good Nutrition ina ConvenientDispenser

Recycle an eggcarton — create awindowsillgarden!

Are your child’simmunizationsup-to-date?

National AdultImmunization Week


That’s something to SMILE about! Why is a healthy mouth important?

Dental health is an important part of your child’s health. A child’s ability to talk, eat,

smile, and feel confident about themselves can be affected by dental health.

Starting Good DentalHabits Early

For more information or help finding a dentist, please contact:

The Michigan Oral Health Program Phone: 517-335-8879, Email [email protected].

Website: www.michigan.gov/oralhealth

Tips for a healthy mouth:

c Clean your baby’s mouth using a wet cloth to rub the gums

gently after each feeding.

c If you must send your baby to bed with a bottle, make sure

it is only filled with water.

c Avoid sharing silverware or chewing food for your baby.

Bacteria from your mouth can be harmful to theirs.

c Take your child for a dental screening by age 1.

c Help your child brush and floss his or her teeth until they

are 8 years old.

c When your child begins school, ask your dental provider

about fluoride varnish and dental sealants. These can

protect your child’s dental health.


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November


2010October

COLUMBUS DAY

HALLOWEEN

31

Take yourmultivitaminwith folic acidevery day.

Fall magic isplaying in theleaves!

Eat healthy foodand snacks.

Sing the ABC’stogether.

Don’t takemedicine infront ofchildren.

Dental health is an important part of your child’s health.

National FirePrevention Week

October is HalloweenSafety Month


Healthy KidsHealthy Kids is a program for pregnant women, babies and children under 19. Itcovers women during pregnancy and the first two months after pregnancy ends.

Babies may be eligible for up to one year after birth.

Children may be covered up to age 19.

Healthy Kids covers:� Regular checkups � Shots

� Emergency care � Dental care

� Pharmacy � Hospital care

� Vision and hearing � Prenatal care and delivery

� Mental health and substance abuse services

We cover other services, too. Your health plan will give you the full list when yourcoverage begins.

How to Apply for Healthy Kids:To apply for Healthy Kids, fill out the MIChild/Healthy Kids form.

Call: 1-888-988-6300 to have a form sent to you. For help in filling out the form,contact your local health department or your local DHS office.

When applying you must:

� Declare income, including:

Recent pay, Social Security benefits, unemployment benefits, child support received.

� Be a resident of Michigan.

� Tell us if you have medical insurance.

Call 1-888-988-6300 for more information about Healthy Kids.


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December


2010NovemberThank your children whenever

they are being helpful!

ELECTION DAY

VETERAN’S DAY

THANKSGIVING DAY

Remember to vote!

10 out of 10 babiesrecommendbreastfeeding.

Hugs and smilesare encouraging!

Use silly voiceswhile reading.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIMEENDS

What are youthankful for?

Don’t store medicines,cleaning supplies orpesticides near food.

Is it time for newtoothbrushes?


Michigan Department of Community Health

Hearing Screening Program

Developmental Milestones for Hearing

BIRTH–3 MONTHS� Startles to loud sounds.

� Quiets or smiles when spoken to.

� Seems to recognize your voice and quiets if crying.

� Increases or decreases sucking behavior in response to sound.

4–6 MONTHS� Moves eyes in direction of sounds.

� Responds to changes in tone of your voice.

� Notices toys that make sounds.

� Pays attention to music.

7 MONTHS–1 YEAR� Enjoys games like peekaboo and pat-a-cake.

� Turns and looks in direction of sounds.

� Listens when spoken to.

� Recognizes words for common items like “cup,” “shoe,” or “juice.”

� Begins to respond to requests (e.g. “Come here” or “Want more?”)

1–2 YEARS� Points to a few body parts when asked.

� Follows simple commands & understands simple questions.

� Listens to simple stories, songs and rhymes.

� Points to pictures in a book when named.

2–3 YEARS� Understands differences in meaning (“go-stop,” “in-on,” “big-little”).

� Follows two requests (“Get the book and put it on the table”).

Good hearing is essential to normal development. Undetected and untreated hearingloss can affect your child’s speech/language development, educational abilities,psychological development, and social/emotional development.

Free hearing screenings are provided by your Local Health Department through acollaborative effort with your local schools. Hearing screening takes place at least oncebetween the ages of 3 & 5 and at school during kindergarten, 2nd, and 4th grades.

If you have questions, please contact your Local Health Department or visit the Stateof Michigan Hearing Screening website at www.michigan.gov/hearingscreening.

Does your child:1. Turn up the volume of the TV excessively high?

2. Respond inappropriately to questions?

3. Not reply when you call him/her?

4. Watch others to imitate what they are doing?

5. Have articulation problems or speech/language delays?

6. Have problems academically?

7. Complain of earaches, ear pain or head noises?

8. Have difficulty understanding what people are saying?

9. Seem to speak differently than other children his or her age?


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January


2010December

CHRISTMAS DAY

HANUKKAH BEGINS

KWANZAA BEGINS

FIRST DAY OF WINTER

Do your child’s toyspass the “no chokesmall toy test”?

Foods rich in iron,calcium andvitamin C helpprotect childrenfrom leadpoisoning.

Let her askquestions whilereading together.

Two dentalcheck-ups peryear = healthyteeth!

Every child isspecial!

December is Toy Safety Month!


What Children Are Like:Birth to Age 5

Adapted by permission from “TOYS: Tools for Learning.” NAEYC Brochure #571

APPROXIMATE AGE WHAT CHILDREN ARE LIKE

Birth to 3 months Begin to smile at people, cooFollow moving person or object with eyesPrefer faces and bright colorsReach, discover hands, kick feet, lift headSuck with pleasureCry, but often are soothed when heldTurn head toward sounds

4 to 6 months Prefer parents and older siblings to other peopleRepeat actions that have interesting resultsListen intently, respond when spoken toLaugh, gurgle, imitate soundsExplore hands and feet, put objects in mouthSit when propped, roll over, scoot, bounceGrasp objects without using thumbs, bat at hanging objectsSmile often

7 to 12 months Remember simple events, form simple conceptsIdentify themselves, body parts, voices of familiar peopleUnderstand own name, other common wordsSay first meaningful wordsExplore, bang or shake objects with handsFind hidden objects, put objects in and out of containersSit aloneCreep, pull themselves up to stand, walkMay seem shy or become upset with strangers


APPROXIMATE AGE WHAT CHILDREN ARE LIKE

1 to 11⁄2 years Imitate adult actionsSpeak and understand more words and ideasEnjoy storiesExperiment with objectsWalk steadily, climb stairsAssert independence, but strongly prefer familiar peopleRecognize ownership of objectsDevelop friendships, but also play aloneAre beginning to understand what adults want them to do,

but do not yet have the ability to control themselves

11⁄2 to 2 years Solve problemsSpeak and understand even moreShow pride in accomplishments, like to help with tasksExhibit more body control, runPlay more with othersBegin pretend play

2 to 31⁄2 years Enjoy learning new skillsLearn language rapidlyAre always on the goHave some sense of dangerGain more control of hands and fingersFrustrated easilyAct more independent, but are still dependent, tooAct out familiar scenes

31⁄2 to 5 years Have a longer attention spanAct silly, boisterous, may use shocking languageTalk a lot, ask many questionsWant real adult things, keep art projectsTest physical skills and courage with cautionReveal feelings in dramatic playLike to play with friends, do not like to loseShare and take turns sometimes


Activities for Children and Their ParentsListening FunEven young babies like to play listening games.

Babies between three and nine months old are

especially interested in new sounds. Here are

some sounds your baby will enjoy listening to and

watching you make! Older babies will want to make

these sounds, and may try to copy what you do:

* Knock on a tabletop.

* Crumple up a piece of paper.

* Clap your hands together.

* Tap a spoon against a pot or pan.

Table Top Ice RinkPut some water-filled cookie sheets in the freezer.

Once they are frozen solid, spread some towels

on the kitchen table. Put the frozen pans of

water on the towels. Give your children

action figures, toy cars or toy animals to slide on

the ice. What can your child use to create little sleds

or skis? You could offer Popsicle® sticks, Legos® or

pieces of cardboard.

Easy Art ActivitiesOn days when your child says there’s

“nothing to do,” give your child a glue stick,

blunt-tip scissors, a stack of old magazines

and a blank notebook to glue pictures in.

Next, have your child tell a story about the

pictures in the new book!

SortingDoes your child like to collect stones, shells,

twigs and other treasures when you go for a

walk? When you sit down to rest, ask him or

her to think of different ways to sort and

count the treasures.

Sun and ShadowOn a sunny afternoon, play shadow games

with your children. Ask your child what her

shadow does when she runs. What does it do

when she jumps? What happens to it when

she walks into the shade?


EMERGENCY FIRE, POLICE, AMBULANCE 9 1 1POISON CONTROL

POLICE DEPARTMENT (non-emergency)

FIRE DEPARTMENT (non-emergency)

HOSPITAL OR URGENT CARE

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ELECTRIC COMPANY

WATER COMPANY

GAS COMPANY

PHONE COMPANY

INSURANCE COMPANY

LOCATION OF FUSE BOX

LOCATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHER

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Price $1.00

Play is ImportantHelp your child grow up strong andhealthy. Young children should…

1. Play and be active for at least30–60 minutes every day.Children should not sit still formore than an hour, except whensleeping.

2. Have a safe place to play, indoorsand outdoors. Let your childexplore the world around himthrough active play.

3. Practice running, jumping,climbing, kicking and throwing aball.

Be a good role model. Be active withyour child every day.

Children from ages 1 to 5 will usually:� eat if they are hungry.

� eat small amounts of food and eat more often. Growth and appetiteusually slow down after your child’s first birthday.

� learn by watching others. If you eat a variety of foods, your child ismore likely to try more foods.

� try new foods when served with a favorite food.

� stay healthier when they exercise and have active play every day.

� wash hands with help.

Mealtimes are more pleasant when you:� let the child help plan and prepare part of the meal.

� make mealtime a family time. Children like to eat with others.

� give small servings and let the child ask for more.

� serve new foods when the child is happy and rested.

� allow the child to select how much or whether or not to eat.Forcing a child to eat is not helpful.

� expect spills. Young children are often messy eaters.

� turn off the television. Children are easily distracted.

Calendar compliments of:

SaladDressing

To order more calendars, or for additional information about the calendar project, please contact:Michigan Foundation for Education Leadership — (517) 643-0266

This calendar is produced through a collaborative effort and partnership of nonprofit agencies and organizations. Find out more at: www.watchmegrowcalendar.com

� Eating and Playing for Health and Fun �

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