Welcome to the CKF/SB6 Newsletter

June 2016

 

Never Ever Leave a Child or
Pet Alone in a Vehicle 

Hot cars are dangerous places for children and pets. Even on days that may seem relatively mild, it takes only minutes for the inside of a vehicle to reach extreme temperatures.
 
Children are especially sensitive to heat exposure. When exposed to heat, a child's body temperature rises much faster than an adult in the same conditions putting them at risk of heat-related illness which can result in seizures, unconsciousness, organ failure, and even death.
 
Cars heat up fast!  When the outside temperature is 34°C (93°F), temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to 52°C (125°F) within 20 minutes. Leaving the car windows slightly open will not keep the inside of the vehicle at a safe temperature.
 
Always look before you leave. Children are sometimes left in cars completely by accident. This can happen when caregivers are distracted, tired, or when there is a change from daily routine. Here are few things that can help make sure no one gets left behind:   
  • Make a habit of checking that all occupants (people and pets) are out of the vehicle before locking and leaving.
  • Lock your vehicle using your key, rather than a remote. Use the time it takes to lock with a key to look inside and make sure no one is left behind.
  • Put your child's bags and other items in the front seat. With a child's belongings in plain sight, it is much easier to remember that he/she is in the car with you.
  • If you have several kids and/or pets in the car, do a head count before you close the door to make sure everyone is out when you reach your destination. 
Help prevent these tragedies. One Decision is a powerful film that aims to prevent child injuries or death from vehicular heat stroke. The film is a re-enactment and no one was harmed during the making of the film. Share this film with others to help raise awareness about this important issue.

Single Parent Employment Initiative
If you are a single parent receiving income or disability assistance, you may be eligible for training and support to secure a long-term job through the Single Parent Employment Initiative. Find out if you qualify.

First Nations Educational Resources  
First Nations Film creates and distributes award-winning television documentary films for, by and about Indigenous people - Sharing Our Stories! For school, libraries, teachers and organizations. 

How Much Sleep Does A Child Really Need?
Sleep is very important to your child's health and well-being. In fact, good sleep habits start from birth.Children who do not get enough sleep may have trouble getting through the day. At night, they may find it hard to settle.Every child is different. Some sleep a lot and others much less. This chart is a general guide to the amount of sleep children need over a 24-hour period, including nighttime sleep and daytime naps.

Newborns (birth to 2 months)
16-18 hours a day (3 to 4 hours at a time)
Babies (2 months to 6 months)
14-16 hours
Older babies (6 months to 1 year)
14 hours
Toddlers (1 to 3 years)
10-13 hours
Preschoolers (3 to 5 years)
10-12 hours
School aged children (5-10 years) 
10-12 hours
And adults? . . . as much as we can get ;) 

Much more information and tips for healthy sleep habits.



Questions, input, topic ideas?
Connect with us!
Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter  Like us on Facebook
CFK Events!

Help Calm an Anxious Child

Finding the right things to say when a child is worried can be challenging.  It's not easy to connect without making the fears worse, while at the same time offering support and encouragement.


Try one of these phrases the next time your child is feeling worried:

Fine Motor Skills and Hand Strength
 
Kids who struggle with hand strength may have difficulty with grasping a pencil, learning to use scissors, and managing clothing fasteners. They are also likely to struggle with handwriting and other classroom skills.



Check out these fun ideas for getting those little hands and fingers into shape!

Check Early, 
Check Often

The ASQ Regional Project


Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) provides a quick check on your child's development.