FAMILY SUCCESS GUIDE This FAMILYSUCCESSGUIDE Is Designed to Help Busy Parents, Like You, Promote Healthy Development and Learning During Everyday Moments

I WANT

THE BEST

FOR MY

CHILD

A FAMILY SUCCESS GUIDE This FAMILYSUCCESSGUIDE is designed to help busy parents, like you, promote healthy development and learning during everyday moments.

The State of Michigan, the Michigan Department of Education, Van Buren Intermediate School District, the local non-profit community and the Great Start Van Buren Parent Coalition also want the BEST for your child.

FREE Developmental Screening

Available online at www.greatstart-vanburen.org. Click on the ASQ link.

As a parent, you want to give your child the best start in life by making sure their development is on track. You can check your The Family Links home visiting program is child ’s development today— for free! — with the trusted FREE and for all families with children screener Ages & Stages Questionnaires®. Available for children prenatal to kindergarten entry. 1 month to 5 ½ years. Family Links Home Visiting Services: What you’ll get:  Family Education: giving parents the  A snapshot of your child’s current skills and development tools they need to be their children’s  Fun and free activities to help your child play and learn “first and best teacher”.  Information about any recommended next steps  Fun parent-child learning activities.

 Evidence-based Parents as Teachers® Available to residents in the Van Buren ISD School Districts curriculum shared by certified family educators. Need a ride?  Hearing/vision/developmental screenings. Van Buren Public Transit  Community Play & Learn Groups and 610 David Walton Drive special family-friendly events. Bangor, Michigan 49013  Connections to community resources www.vbco.org/public_transit.asp and preschool services. RIDES: 269-427-7921  Child development information.

Dial-A-Ride & Flex Routes To find out more, contact VBISD Early Care & in Paw Paw & South Haven Education at 269-539-5214 or County-Wide Reservations [email protected] On Wednesdays, Seniors Age 60+ Ride FREE

“Our Business is Picking Up”

Important Numbers: Find us on Facebook Find High Quality Poison Control Van Buren Licensed Childcare Providers 1-800-222-1222 Great Start Parent Coalition Great Start to Quality

Information & Resources greatstarttoquality.org Michigan 2-1-1 database 1-877-614-7328

Dial 2-1-1 or mi211.org

United Way of Southwest Parent Liaison: [email protected] Michigan uwsm.org Make a difference in the life of a child.

For the most up-to-date version of the Family Success Guide in English & Spanish visit greatstart-vanburen.org 2nd edition, 2019

10 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR CHILD FEEL IMPORTANT / STRENGTHENING FAMILIES ...... 2 ROLE PLAY / BACKYARD SCAVENGER HUNT ...... 3 8 POSITIVE DISCIPLINE TECHNIQUES ...... 4 HOMEMADE APPLESAUCE / PIZZA QUESADILLA ...... 5 BEAT STRESS BEFORE IT BEATS YOU ...... 6 ENCOURAGE PRE-READING AND PRE-WRITING SKILLS ...... 7 10 WAYS TO BE A BETTER DAD ...... 8 HELP YOUR CHILD BE A GOOD LISTENER ...... 9 SNOW ICE CREAM / 10 WINTER FUN ACTIVITIES / HOMEMADE BIRD FEEDER ...... 10 31 DAYS OF ACTIVITIES TO NURTURE A YOUNG SCIENTIST...... 11 31 DAYS OF ACTIVITIES TO NURTURE A READER ...... 12 31 DAYS OF ACTIVITIES TO NURTURE A MATH WHIZ ...... 13 31 DAYS OF ACTIVITIES TO PROMOTE SOCIAL STUDIES SUCCESS ...... 14 HELP YOUR CHILD BEHAVE ...... 15 YUMMY BANANA BOATS / FRUIT SMOOTHIES ...... 16 TEACH CHILDREN TO BE SAFE AND SMART WITH TECHNOLOGY ...... 17 DO-IT-YOURSELF PLAYDOUGH / HARDENING CLAY ...... 18 SUPPORT YOUR CHILD'S EDUCATION ...... 19 GET TO KNOW ME QUESTIONS / BACKYARD GAME IDEAS ...... 20 BOOST SELF-ESTEEM ...... 21 HELP YOUR CHILD GET READY TO READ ...... 22 FREE! FREE! FREE! / GREAT BOOKS TO READ WITH YOUR CHILD ...... 23 KEEP YOUR CHILD SAFE ...... 24 ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO BE RESPONSIBLE ...... 25 TIPS TO TAME BEDTIME BATTLES / SAFE SLEEP FOR YOUR BABY ...... 26 LET'S PLAY FINGERPLAY ...... 27 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN TO EXPERIENCE BEFORE KINDERGARTEN ...... 28

10 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR CHILD FEEL IMPORTANT

1. Kneel or lean down to get on your child’s level when you talk together.

2. Sit and eat a meal together as often as possible. 3. Spend five minutes a day interacting with your child: talking, playing, or just sitting together.

4. Ask your child’s opinion when possible, “Should I wear my blue shirt or my red shirt?”

5. Look for something you like about your child, and tell him about it. 6. Ask questions about her day, and listen when she tells you. 7. Share things from your day. Your child will love to share in your life. 8. Draw a picture for your child and hide it where she will find it, in a pocket or on her pillow. 9. Kiss your child goodnight and tuck him into bed at night. 10. Tell your child that she is important, at least once a day.

STRENGTHENING FAMILIES WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A STRONG FAMILY?

Parental Resilience means… Be strong and flexible *Take good care of yourself. *Plan ahead and adapt to change. *Pursue your hopes and dreams. *Have a positive attitude about life.

Social Connections means… Parents need friends *Say hello to neighbors. *Be active in your community. *Know your child’s friends/families. *Join a group with common interests.

Knowledge of Parenting and Child Development means… Being a great parent is part natural and part learned *Do an Ages & Stages Questionnaire. * Build on your child’s strengths/interests. *Attend parent education events. * Discuss your child’s progress with their teacher.

Concrete Support in Times of Need means… We all need help sometimes *Get information from other parents. *Use a calendar to manage your time and family events. *Ask others for help when needed. *Gain knowledge of community resources. Call 2-1-1.

Children’s Social and Emotional Development means… Give your child the love and respect they need *Be consistent. *Provide social opportunities for child. *Help your children solve problems. *Identify and discuss feelings.

For more information, visit: www.bestrongfamilies.net

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ROLE PLAY

Role playing games with children is a fun and interesting way to learn and to strengthen their imagination. Kids love to mimic adults’ actions and learn about life in the process.

Role play ideas:  Restaurant: Grab a memo pad, a towel for the waiter or waitress’ arm, an upturned cardboard box with some plastic lids attached for a stove, and kid-sized dishes … you get the idea.  Boot Camp: Set up an “obstacle course” of pillows, cushions, and chairs inside, or whatever your yard allows outside. One child may time the others with a stopwatch or kitchen timer.  Theater: This one has endless possibilities! Someone can make tickets, write a script, make costumes, make a set, etc. If you have a clothesline and a couple of sheets, a wide doorway, or just a bunk bed on which you can hang blankets—voila! Instant stage.  Police/detective: Make up a story about a mystery that’s happened (gasp!) in your own home: stolen cookies, a broken vase. The kids will need to make up their own clues and ending. As an added challenge, kids can take turns leaving clues to the mystery around the house.

 Role play stories from books!

BACK YARD SCAVENGER HUNT Why a scavenger hunt? They are easy to create and can be tailored to any theme, any age, any place. Scavenger hunts are usually thought of for parties or other large groups, but they’re just as fun for small families or even individual children. A scavenger hunt adds an element of competition, urgency and excitement to any everyday event and makes it something special. You will need:  Paper with items you are going to look for  Pen or crayons Instructions: 1. Make a list of items and draw pictures to help children recognize the words. 2. Go walking in your backyard and ask your child what they see, have fun! Bad weather? Try an indoor hunt! 1. Make a list of items around the house OR 2. Cut and paste from a grocery ad for a grocery store hunt! greatstart-vanburen.org Family Success Guide Page 3

8 POSITIVE DISCIPLINE TECHNIQUES

1. Remove your child from the situation. If your child insists on running toward the street, take him inside. If she hits her playmates, remove her from the group. Explain why you are removing him/her so that she connects being removed with the unwanted behavior.

2. Allow for natural consequences. If your child doesn’t finish dinner, he will be hungry. This makes a much stronger point than being punished or forced to eat dinner. If your child doesn’t clean up her toys, they may get broken or thrown away. By allowing children to suffer the consequences of their actions, caregivers move them towards self-discipline.

3. Remove yourself from the situation. Never correct behavior when you are angry. Tell your child that you are very angry, you need a few minutes to calm down, and that you will return soon to deal with the misbehavior.

4. Allow your child to correct mistakes. Accidents do happen. Allow your child to clean up the spilled milk, to sweep up tracked in dirt, or to make right whatever is wrong. This makes the accident a learning experience and allows the child to make amends.

5. Distract your child. This works well with younger children. If you do not approve of a behavior, give your child something more appropriate to do. She will often forget about what she was doing earlier.

6. Play games to get your child to cooperate. Turn getting dressed for bed into a race. At clean-up time, tell your child to first collect all of the blue items or all the toys with wheels.

7. Clearly explain what behavior you expect, and why you expect it. Children need to be told the same thing many times over. It is hard for a child to generalize rules; throwing a ball in the house might be wrong, but that is different from bouncing a ball in the house. This same concept can be used when out and about, the grocery store has different expectations than the park.

8. Ignore the behavior. Much misbehavior is a cry for attention; if you ignore the behavior it will often go away. Ask for the behavior you want to see instead: “I will listen to you when you talk nicely to me instead of whining.”

*If you need help implementing these 8 techniques, set up an appointment with a Family Links Educator @ (269) 539-5214 (free for all families).

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HOMEMADE APPLESAUCE

This recipe is a great way to use apples. Making applesauce provides opportunities for children to cut, stir, press, and eat. It also makes your house smell wonderful as it cooks. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

 About 6 apples

 ½ cup water

 ½ teaspoon cinnamon, more or less to taste

 1 teaspoon lemon juice

 1 teaspoon sugar

Directions:

1. Peel the apples, remove the cores, and cut them into small pieces. Children can help with a

butter knife or small plastic knife (supervise closely while cutting).

2. Put the apples in a large saucepan.

3. Add other ingredients.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

5. Cook until the apples are soft and mushy. Stir every few minutes so the mixture doesn’t

stick. Add more water if needed. Let the apples cool.

6. When they are cool, pour them into a colander, strainer or sieve.

7. Press the mixture through the holes with the back of a big spoon. Sprinkle with a little more

cinnamon and eat it up.

8. PIZZA QUESADILLA Ingredients:

 2 (10 inch) whole wheat tortilla  1 cup mozzarella, shredded  6 tablespoons pizza sauce  Pizza toppings: pepperoni, black olives, green peppers – or your other favorite toppings.

Directions : 1. Heat a large pan over medium heat. 2. Place one tortilla in the pan, sprinkle half of the cheese over it, followed by the pizza sauce and pepperoni, the remaining cheese and finally the remaining tortilla. 3. Cook until the quesadilla is golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted, about 2-4 minutes per side. 4. Spread the pizza sauce over the top of the quesadilla followed by the mozzarella and pepperoni. 5. Bake at 400 degrees until the cheese has melted, about 5-10 minutes. 6. Let cool and ENJOY!

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BEAT STRESS BEFORE IT BEATS YOU

1. Get organized. By organizing your children and yourself, you can reduce stress, remember more, and avoid playing “catch-up.” Not sure where to start? Ask an “organized” friend for help! 2. Implement systems. Tell your children that you will be doing laundry on a certain day, and clothes have to be in the basket for them to be washed. Older children especially will learn to follow the system/process when they have to go to school without a favorite shirt. Post a shopping list on the refrigerator and write things down as you notice they are getting low. This will cut down on last-minute trips to the store. 3. Avoid filling in every minute of time with extra activities. Too many children are “overbooked” with sports, lessons, and other activities. It is okay to have some time when nothing is planned. Take part in a few activities that you feel are very important, and pass on others. 4. Make some time for yourself. This often sounds impossible, but you can steal a few minutes in your day. Organize a bedtime routine that allows you to take a bath or watch a TV show after the children are in bed. Get up 15 minutes earlier so you can enjoy a cup of coffee before the day begins. Play your children’s favorite video, give them a snack, and relax by reading, listening to music, or podcast. These minutes can make a big difference in reducing your stress level. 5. Find a support system. Find someone who will listen to and support you: a neighbor, a family member, a friend, a spouse, or a parent of your child’s friend. Once you have had a chance to blow off steam, let the problem go. Ask your Family Links Educator for advice, call (269) 539-5214 to enroll if you are not currently enrolled – it’s FREE! 6. Laugh. If you look hard enough, there is always something to laugh about. Laugh alone, and laugh with others. Nothing relieves stress like humor. 7. Let some things go. No one will know if the dishes don’t get done every night. Share the chores; children love to help. Don’t worry if it doesn’t get done perfectly. Your child will not remember if she had socks that matched, or if her bed was made every day. She will remember the times you spend together.

Are you in need of help? Are you having a difficult time financially? Do you need someone to talk to? Are you struggling with anxiety? Do you need help dealing with a difficult situation?

If any of these (or similar situations) apply --- then we HIGHLY encourage you to reach out to the following, CONFIDENTIAL, hotline via text message. You will get a response from a trained professional, that will help you through whatever it is that you're going through! In crisis? Text HAND to 741741

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ENCOURAGE PRE-READING AND PRE-WRITING SKILLS

1. Read with your child. Children who love to read become strong readers. Introduce your child to the joy of reading together every day. 2. Offer different types of reading materials. Allow your child to see and handle different kinds of books, magazines, catalogs, and newspapers.

3. Point out letters when you see them. Children are more likely to learn to read when they see letters and words used in everyday life. Point out the letters in your child’s name when you see them in books or on signs. 4. Let your child see you reading. Your child will be more interested in activities that her favorite adults are doing. Remember, you are her #1 role model. 5. Provide many tools and ways to explore new skills. Provide paper, writing tools, chalkboards and chalk, magnetic letters, and envelopes. These items support learning at the child’s own level. When you are writing, no matter what you are doing, invite your child to join you. You can ask them to write the shopping list, etc., even if it’s only scribbles. 6. Encourage and support your child’s progress, but don’t push. Children show a natural interest in learning new skills, and caregivers can tap into this natural enthusiasm. If pushed or criticized, a child might lose interest in continuing to explore the world of reading and writing. Encourage early reading skills such as picture and pretend reading. 7. Help your child to express himself in writing. Write down your child’s stories, and read them back to him. Help him to write letters to other people, or to help you make a shopping list. 8. Encourage your child to use her new reading and writing skills. She can write notes, using a combination of letters and pictures. Congratulate her as she recognizes letters. Ask her to help you shop by identifying labels. 9. Talk about words and sounds. Play word games, and tell nursery rhymes. While waiting at the doctor’s office or in line, try to find certain letters or words that start with certain letters. Make language fun!

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10 WAYS TO BE A BETTER DAD

1. Respect your children's mother. One of the best things a dad can do for his children is to respect their mother. A father and mother who respect each other, and let their children know it, provide a secure environment for the children. When children see their parents respecting each other, they are more likely to feel they are also accepted and respected.

2. Spend time with your children. If you always seem too busy for your children, they will feel neglected no matter what you say. Treasuring children often means sacrificing other things, but it is essential to spend time with your children. Kids grow up so quickly. Missed opportunities are lost forever.

3. Listen first, talk second. Take time and listen to your children's ideas and problems. Listening helps them feel respected and understood.

4. Discipline with love. All children need guidance and discipline, not as punishment, but to set reasonable limits. Remind your children of the consequences of their actions and provide meaningful rewards for desirable behavior. Fathers who discipline in a calm and fair manner show love to their children.

5. Be a role model. Fathers are role models to their kids, whether they realize it or not. A girl who spends time with a loving father grows up knowing she deserves to be treated with respect by boys, and what to look for in a spouse. Fathers can teach sons what is important in life by demonstrating honesty, humility, and responsibility.

6. Be a teacher. A father who teaches his children about right and wrong, and encourages them to do their best, will see his children make good choices. Involved fathers use everyday examples to help their children learn the basic lessons of life.

7. Eat together as a family. Sharing a meal together can be an important part of healthy family life. In addition to providing some structure on a busy day, it gives kids the chance to talk about what they are doing and want to do. It is also a good time for fathers to listen. Most importantly, it is a time for families to be together each day.

8. Read to your children. Children learn best by doing and reading, as well as seeing and hearing. Read to your children when they are very young. When they are older, encourage them to read on their own. Instilling your children with a love for reading is one of the best ways to ensure they will have a lifetime of growth.

9. Show affection. Children need the security that comes from knowing they are wanted, accepted, and loved by their family. Dad, get comfortable hugging your children. Showing affection every day is the best way to let your children know that you love them.

10. Realize a father's job is never done. Even after children are grown and ready to leave home, they will still look to their fathers for wisdom and advice.

Source: National Fatherhood Initiative www.fatherhood.org/fatherhood/10-ways-to-be-a-better-dad greatstart-vanburen.org Family Success Guide Page 8

HELP YOUR CHILD BE A GOOD LISTENER

1. Go to where your child is. Instead of yelling down the hall, capture her attention by going to her. 2. Make sure you have your child’s attention. Get down on your child’s level; use eye-to-eye contact and gentle physical cues to draw his attention before you speak. 3. Ask your child to repeat back what you say. Many times we think our child understands what we are saying; yet the child might tune out after the first few words. You can know that the child understands—and focus his attention—when he repeats your message back to you. 4. Reduce distractions. Put the phone away, turn off the TV, or ask her to stop reading to pay attention to what you are saying. 5. Clearly state your expectations. Make a statement instead of asking a question when you need something to be done. If you ask, “Can you clean your room please?” The answer may be, “No.” “Please clean your room” doesn’t give the child a choice. Avoid phrases like “Would you like to…” or “Why don’t we…” 6. Keep messages simple. Children have very limited attention spans. Be specific and direct in what you are asking for. Use one-word reminders, use visual clues, and give your child a chance to respond or ask questions. 7. Model good listening skills yourself. Children are always much more likely to engage in a behavior when they see you doing it. When you listen to your child, you also show how good it feels to be heard. 8. Allow for natural consequences. If your child refuses to listen to you, allow her to suffer the consequences of her actions. If she doesn’t come to dinner, her food might get cold. If he doesn’t throw his dirty clothes in the laundry, he may not have his favorite shirt to wear.

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SNOW ICE CREAM

Make a batch of delicious vanilla snow ice cream with 2 ingredients and big bowl of freshly-fallen snow! It’s a super winter activity to do with your family and it tastes so good!

Instructions: 1. Scoop clean, fresh snow into a large bowl. 2. Sprinkle vanilla over snow. 3. Drizzle condensed milk over all. 4. Fold all ingredients together, and stir until well-combined. 5. If necessary, add more snow until you're happy with the consistency of your ice cream. 6. Scoop into a bowl, and enjoy!

10 WINTER FUN ACTIVITIES

Here are 10 fun (and inexpensive) outdoor activities to get you motivated to play in the snow!

1. Build a snowman. 2. Go sledding. 3. Go ice skating. 4. Build a winter bonfire and make s’mores. 5. Go on beautiful winter hike. 6. Build a fort and have a snowball fight with your kids (or your spouse/partner). 7. Take a blanket and a cup of hot cocoa and sit outside. 8. Shovel paths and set up an obstacle course in the yard with jumps, tunnels and other challenges. 9. Feed the birds or go birdwatching. Make your own birdfeeders out of pine cones, peanut butter, and birdseed. 10. Make snow paint. Simply add food coloring to water and put in a spray bottle, then go out and paint your yard!

HOMEMADE BIRD FEEDER

Making homemade bird feeders for your backyard is a fun way for you and your kids to get to know which birds are native to your area, and a great way to help out your feathered friends when their food sources are scarce in winter-time.

What you need:  Peanut butter or shortening, oats/cornmeal, bird seed  Toilet roll or paper towel (makes two out of paper towel roll) or pine cones from backyard  String to hang from tree  Container for mixture

Directions: 1. Tie a string around the pinecone or paper roll. 2. Mix ½ cup peanut butter/suet/shortening with ½ cup oats/cornmeal and bird seed. 3. Use a spoon (or fingers!) to spread the mixture onto the pinecone/paper roll. Make sure to get the mixture into the open areas of the pinecone. 4. Hang your bird feeder in a tree just outside your window and watch the birds enjoy their treat! greatstart-vanburen.org Family Success Guide Page 10

31 Days of Activities to Nurture a Young Scientist*

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Encourage your Make muffins Make a “Feel With your child, Explore things Make a nature Ask your child child to imitate with your child Book” with your make a list of your hands can collage. Collect how she knows if the sounds of and let him child. Glue things found do—clap, bend, sticks, flowers, and it is day or night. animals or insects choose the kind different fabrics outside. Then, go snap, etc. leaves and glue to heard in the yard. to make. to each page. on a nature paper. Talk about scavenger hunt. textures.

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Wash old pennies Explore the world Stretch rubber Outside, find and Watch the Outside, find Watch small in vinegar and through a bands around a talk about movement of three things that things roll down salt. What magnifying glass. small box and animals that live clouds. smell good or an angled happens? pluck them to in trees. smell bad. empty paper make sounds. towel tube.

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 What happens to Breathe onto a What happens Mix cooking oil On white paper, Place leaves Play with ice in dark paper if it is window or mirror. when a little and colored draw with a under paper and the sink. What placed in a sunny What begins to vinegar is placed water in a clear candle or white make leaf happens over area all day long? happen? on baking soda? plastic bottle. Add crayon, then paint rubbings. time? glitter, sequins, with watercolor etc. for extra fun. paint.

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Outdoors, find Encourage your Lay in the grass Pull a weed and Use hands with Explore shadows Talk into a cup, things that can child to make and look for explore its root. liquid soap and on the wall using bottle, and can. fly in the air. sounds by insects. water to create a flash-light. How does the blowing across many bubbles. sound change? the top of a plastic bottle.

29 30 31

On a warm day, Encourage your Go for a “bird *Some of the calendar activities are from the place some rocks in child to feel his walk.” Look for Leaps and Bounds Child/Parent Activity Kit of the sun and others throat as he different birds and the Poverty and Social Reform Institute in the shade. Later, swallows. listen for their 8129 Packard St. Warren, MI 48089 (586) 759-3895. compare how each Describe what is sounds. set of rocks feel. happening.

Simply 11 Science

31 Days of Activities to Nurture a Reader

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Go on a reading Ask your child to Make up a song Read a book that Help your child stay Make up the Keep a weather picnic. Bring a name two friends using your child’s your child chooses. organized by using beginning of a journal with your basket full of books and ask him what name. Encourage Have your child re- plastic bins, then story and ask your child this week. and spread out a makes them him to come up enact the story. label them with child to add to it. Have your child blanket and read special. with a song using pictures and words. illustrate days with outside. your name. drawings of a sun or raindrops.

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Ask your child to Explore maps with Play Simon Says Read a book that With your child, Let your child tell Take your child to tell you a story your child (i.e. with your child your child chooses. change the song, “If you a bedtime the post office. Let about her favorite state map, globe). using words like, Have her note the You’re Happy and story tonight. her mail a letter. stuffed animal. Locate where you “behind,” and numbers of the You Know It, ”to Listen to your child Talk about what live and other “between.” “Simon pages and say include other and encourage by you are places that you Says stand beside them. feelings and actions: asking,“...and then experiencing. know. the couch.” Allow your child to also be “If you’re angry and what happened?”. Simon and follow you know it, shake her directions. your head.”

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Go on a “picture Make a book with Take turns playing “I Read a book your Tell stories to your Make toothpaste with Go to the library walk” before your child using Spy” to find objects child chooses. If your child about when your child: with your child reading the text of paper, hole that begin with a child has difficulty she was a baby. and help her punches, staplers, particular sound. “I listening to stories, 4 tsp baking soda a book. Building glue, markers, and see something on it is helpful to speak Show her pictures 1 tsp of salt choose a book to vocabulary and magazines. the table that starts slowly, to repeat and encourage her 1 tsp of water and a take home. working on with the /v/ sound sentences, and use to ask questions. predictions. (vase). pictures to illustrate drop of food flavoring the meaning. extract, such as mint or orange if you have it. Test it out!

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Make puppets. You Look through Use paper and Listen for sounds Make cookies Read a book under Read a book your can use small pictures with your crayons to make outside with your together. H e l p a shady tree. child chooses. Run paper lunch bags child. Ask your special cards. child. Ask your child y our child to your index finger and crayons. child to tell you Encourage your child about the sounds and under print. This Encourage your about what’s to write a message. where they might be explore and gain helps children child to make his happening in the Remember to accept from. skill with the understand reading puppet talk with pictures your child’s efforts cooking utensils from left to right and yours. and help if asked. and ingredients. top of the page to Mail/deliver these the bottom. special cards.

29 30 31 Have your child Have your child Have your child create a grocery make up a story name animals or shopping list using from a picture. vehicles of pictures from a Cut out pictures transportation grocery ad. from magazines and then ask her or cards. to imitate the sounds they make.

12 Living Literacy

31 Days of Activities to Nurture a Math Whiz

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 When doing Find things that Play a game where Toss pennies Count food items Move different Let your child help laundry, compare have a circular you direct your child towards a small at snack time (e.g., body parts in a you measure the weight of dry shape and trace to jump forward & bowl. Count how 5 crackers, 20 circle. ingredients for a clothing to wet circles onto back, to run far or many get in, how raisins, 10 baby simple recipe – clothing. paper. stay nearby. Have many fall out, carrots) preferably their your child lead and and how many favorite! take turns. there are altogether. 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Collect rocks Find twelve small Ask your child to Count all the Go on a shape Find things that Count and outdoors. Guess things that fit in find something windows of the hunt—outdoors are really long / compare “giant how many will fit an egg carton. shorter than same shape or or indoors. Look short / wide / steps” to ”baby in your hand. she is. size in the home. for triangles, narrow. steps” when squares, circles, crossing a room. ovals, etc.

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Use an empty Order items in the Find things in Imitate your Cut sandwiches in Sort the day’s Arrange dolls or toilet paper roll cupboard from your home that child’s series or squares and mail by envelope action figures by to measure heaviest to have numbers on pattern of hand triangles. size. height. things in the lightest. them. claps. home.

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Show your child Look at baby Use ordinal Invite your child Help your child to Make a 5-piece Invite your child how to make a pictures together. number words, to sort spoons find and practice puzzle from the to move along truck with a Talk about how “first,” “second,” and forks. pressing “9-1-1” on front of an empty with a wind-up non-working phone. rectangle, a your child has third,”etc. (Note: cancelled cell cereal box. toy and stop square & 2 circles. changed over phones will still when it stops. time. reach 911 if they have battery power.)

29 30 31 Sing songs with Comment on Find the numbers repeating words. temperature on a grocery store changes from receipt. outdoors to indoors.

13 Meaningful

Math

31 Days of Activities to Promote Social Studies Success:

Activities for You and Your Child to Share

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Share books Look at a map / Choose clothing Make a fire Collect and Use a radio to Discuss why you about globe with your to donate. collage with red, recycle paper find different have rules at waterways— child. Point to orange & yellow from around kinds of music. home. Help oceans, rivers, where you live. bits of torn your home. your child lakes, ponds, and paper. Talk develop some streams. about what household rules. firefighters do.

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Have your child Learn a song in Taste a new fruit. Draw a picture of Share a book Include toys Learn to say pretend to be a another Talk about the the family. about a farm. related to methods “hello” in mail carrier and language. taste, color and of transportation different deliver mail to texture. into play. Discuss languages. everyone in your the need to home. transport goods & people..

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Visit a farmers Look for Trade a stuffed Visit a local Visit a fire Make a rainstick Visit an animal market or a airplanes. animal or doll greenhouse and department. using a paper shelter. u-pick farm. Where do you with a friend. learn about the towel tube, think they are different plants. rocks or beans going? and tape.

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Talk about the Remove any litter Look for different Share a book Talk about fire Look at a family Visit an older rules for safe in your yard. languages on about pets. safety. Plan an photo album. relative. outdoor play. product escape plan and containers. a meeting place outside the home in case of fire.

29 30 31 Vote on what the Take mail to the Smell or taste family eats for post office. different spices. breakfast.

14 Social Studies

HELP YOUR CHILD BEHAVE: STOP THE BATTLE BEFORE IT BEGINS

1. Set up the environment to avoid problems. If your child always plays with the phone, instead of scolding her, move it up out of reach. Put special or fragile items in a safe place until your child is older. Put latches on cupboards, and remove unsafe items from the environment. 2. Give your child alternatives to unwanted behavior. If you are worried about your child coloring on the walls, offer paper and a reminder—as you give out crayons. If he loves to climb on the bathroom sink, find a safer place to explore new climbing skills, like at a local park. 3. Be clear with your expectations. Children often are not sure about what behavior is expected, even in familiar settings. Before going into any situation, explain the behavior you expect. 4. Be clear with your consequences. “You need to eat your dinner; if you play with your food, I will take it away.” Children need to know not only the behavior that is expected from them, but also the consequences if they do not follow the rules. 5. When it is safe and appropriate, offer your child choices. “Should we have green beans or carrots for dinner?” “Would you like to wear your blue pants, or your red pants?” When you share control with your child in some situations, he is less likely to exert control when it is neither safe nor appropriate. This also lets your child know that his opinion does matter. 6. Prepare your child for upcoming changes. Tell your child, “In 5 minutes it will be time to turn off the T.V. and brush your teeth.” She will have time to prepare for the transition, and have less reason to protest. 7. Use gentle, but firm, physical reminders when needed. Firmly hold a child’s hand as you approach the street, for example. 8. Ignore the little things. Concentrate on the behaviors that are dangerous or truly a problem. Overlook behaviors that really don’t matter. Is it worth a battle to make sure that socks match?

BOOKS ABOUT FEELINGS AND EMOTIONS  When I Am / Cuando Estoy by Gladys Rosa-Mendoza  Glad Monster, Sad Monster – A Book About Feelings by Ed Emberley & Anne Miranda  Llama Llama Mad at Mama by Anna Dewdney  My Many Colored Days by Dr. Seuss  The Feelings Book by Todd Parr  The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry, and The Big Hungry Bear by Audrey Wood & Don Wood  Today I Feel Silly: And Other Moods That Make My Day by Jamie Lee Curtis  Life is Like the Wind by Shona Innes & Irisz Agocs

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YUMMY BANANA BOATS

These yummy snacks are nutritious and lots of fun to make. Be extra careful when working around the stove with your child. Try adding different toppings every time you make them, until you find your favorite combination.

You will need:  Bananas cut in half lengthwise (1/2 for each person).  Different toppings such as: marshmallows, peanuts, strawberries, chocolate chips, coconut, sunflower seeds, etc.  Spoons  Aluminum foil

Instructions: 1. Preheat the oven to 350°. 2. With the spoons, carefully carve out a path down the middle of the banana. 3. Fill the path with the toppings. 4. Wrap the bananas in foil and put them on a cookie sheet. 5. Place them in the oven for 7 – 10 minutes. 6. When they are done, carefully remove them from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. 7. Sit at the table together and eat your delicious creations.

Healthy food can be purchased using electronic benefits through WIC at many stores. For more information, call your local WIC agency @ Intercare (269) 427-7914 or visit www.michigan.gov/wic.

FRUIT SMOOTHIES

The wonderful thing about fruit smoothies is that you can take out or add anything you want. If you keep some fruit in the freezer, they are quick and easy to make. Fruit smoothies also contain less sugar than store bought juice. Children can cut the fruit themselves with plastic knives and supervision.

Instructions: 1. Cut 2 or 3 pieces of fruit into small pieces. Bananas, pears, apples, oranges, strawberries, and peaches work well. Add spinach or kale to the fruit to get an extra serving of vegetables. 2. Put the pieces into a baggie, place them in a freezer, and let them sit overnight. Or purchase frozen fruit. 3. Pour 1 cup of juice into the blender. 4. Use one flavor, or use a mix of flavors. 5. Add the frozen fruit to the juice. 6. Blend on high for 3 minutes until thick 7. Pour the smoothie into cups and enjoy your refreshing drinks.

FUN TIP: You can also pour the mixture into paper cups, stick a spoon or popsicle stick into each one, and put the cups into the freezer. The next day you will have a yummy and healthier alternative to ice cream bars. greatstart-vanburen.org Family Success Guide Page 16

TEACH YOUR CHILDREN TO BE SAFE AND SMART WITH TECHNOLOGY

1. Know what your child is watching on TV or is doing on the computer. Choose programs and websites designed especially for children. Make sure that your child is viewing things that are age-appropriate.

2. Take advantage of blocking systems. There are free programs for both the computer and some cable systems that block children from visiting inappropriate web sites or watching inappropriate shows. Look for “restrictions” on electronics.

3. Start early to develop good habits around technology. Limit how much time can be spent watching TV or playing games or being on the computer. Encourage children to use these media for educational purposes.

4. Set a good example. Limit your own viewing. Avoid having the TV on all of the time. Develop other things to do in your free time.

5. Make TV watching a family time. Sit down together and watch TV. Start discussions based on what you are watching. This is a good way to talk about your values and beliefs. Play games with what you are watching.

6. Help your child understand the difference between real and pretend. Young children do not understand that much of what they watch on TV is pretend. Remind them often that people on TV are pretending, just like children often pretend.

7. Talk with your child about the commercials. Help your child understand that advertisements are designed to make them want to buy something, and they are often misleading. Encourage your child to be skeptical about these commercials, and to be a smart consumer.

8. Reassure your child. Children can become very frightened by what they see on TV. Remind them about the difference between real and pretend. If they are watching the news, tell them that sad things do happen but that they are safe. Children need specific reassurance; just telling them “everything will be okay” can make them more anxious.

9. Read to your child. Turn off the TV and computer, and spend time reading and playing together. 10. Teach your child your home phone number. Let them try to dial the number. Remind them of places you may have written it for safety (inside backpack / coat).

RESOURCE: ConnectSafely.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating users of connected technology about safety, privacy and security. You’ll find research-based safety tips, parents’ guidebooks, advice, news and commentary on all aspects of tech use and policy. www.connectsafely.org/great-internet-safety-resources

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Do-It-Yourself PLAYDOUGH HARDENING CLAY

You will need: This clay can be used to make decorations, gifts, or permanent models that your child • 1 ½ cups flour wishes to keep.

• ¾ cup salt If you punch holes in the clay before it dries, • 2 tablespoons oil you can hang the decoration up with a string once it is dry. You can also make small balls; • ½ cup of water punch holes all the way through, and paint • 1 tsp cream of tartar (optional) them. When they are dry, you can put them onto a string to make a bead necklace.

Instructions: If you do not want the clay to harden, keep it 1. Mix together all ingredients. in an airtight container in the refrigerator between uses. 2. You can add food coloring to make different colors, or add a package You will need: of Kool-Aid® for color and a fun • 1 cup of cornstarch smell. *Prepare to be messy. • ½ cup of baking soda 3. Mix with a spoon, and then knead the dough with your hands. • ½ cup of water

4. Adding 1 tsp cream of tartar will Instructions: make playdough last longer and will be softer. 1. Mix all of the ingredients in a pot.

2. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until a ball forms.

3. Dump the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead while it cools. Once it has cooled a bit, children can help with the kneading.

4. Form the dough into desired shapes, and let dry overnight.

5. Decorate your sculptures, and display them proudly.

Have fun with your child!

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SUPPORT YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATION

1. Get to know your child’s teacher. 2. Get involved in the school. If you cannot attend parent meetings, find things that you can do to help from home. Talk to your child’s teachers or the office for ideas. 3. Make sure your child gets a good night’s sleep and eats breakfast. 4. Find out what your child’s class is learning and find ways to supplement that learning at home. If they are talking about stars, stay up and stargaze. If they are talking about ships, go to the library and pick up a library book about ships. 5. Have your child teach you what he learned at school. 6. Make time to talk about what is happening at school. Ask specific questions that require more than a “yes” or “no” answer. 7. Have a set place and time to do homework. Sit down with your child while she is doing homework and talk it through with her. 8. Find ways to encourage your child to use math, reading, and writing skills in everyday life. 9. Tell your child how important education is to you, and demonstrate it by showing an interest in his education. 10. Let your child see you using math and reading. Tell her about ways that education has helped you. LOOK FOR QUALITY CHILD CARE & PRESCHOOL When children are in a high-quality program in their first five years, they are given a safe place to learn, explore their world and build relationships. By being in this type of environment, the foundation is set for them to be successful in school, work and life.

Find high quality childcare and preschool: www.greatstarttoquality.org

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GET TO KNOW ME QUESTIONS AT THE DINNER TABLE

Move beyond the basic "How was your day?" and consider this list of questions to help get your kids talking:

1. What do you like daydreaming about? 2. What makes you happy? 3. What have your friends been up to? 4. If you could do anything right now, what would you do? 5. What do you look forward to when you wake up? 6. Do you ever think about renaming the colors of your crayons? 7. What character makes you laugh the most? 8. If you opened a store, what would you sell? 9. What's your Superhero name and what powers do you have? 10. You're at the beach. What's the first thing you do? 11. If you could grow anything in the yard, what would it be? 12. What makes you feel brave? 13. What makes you feel loved? 14. How do you show people you care? 15. What does it feel like when I hug you? 16. If your stuffed animals could talk, what would they say? 17. If you wrote a book, what would it be about? 18. How would you design a treehouse? 19. What do you enjoy giving people? 20. Did you smile or laugh extra today?

BACKYARD GAME IDEAS

Games are fun, especially backyard games. And they provide healthy activity which is important for both children and adults. Each of our chosen activities are easy to play and will provide hours of fun.

 Bowling using pop bottles and ball  Hide and seek  Red light, green light  Jump-rope and Double Dutch  Hopscotch  Bean bag toss  Create a backyard obstacle course  Make a sprinkler out of a 2-liter pop bottle, poke holes in the bottle, and tape it to the hose.  Soccer / kickball / Badminton  Frisbee greatstart-vanburen.org Family Success Guide Page 20

BOOST SELF ESTEEM

1. Spend time with your child. Do special things together. Let her know that she is important to you. 2. Listen to his ideas and thoughts. Take him seriously when he shares these things with you. 3. Pay attention to your child’s emotions and feelings. Let her know that no feeling is bad; our feelings are part of who we are. 4. Set limits for your child. Enforce these limits consistently and fairly. 5. Hold realistic expectations for your child. Give him tasks that will challenge him, yet make him feel successful. 6. Discuss behaviors and problems without blaming the child. Work as a team to solve problems together. 7. Find ways that your child can help around the house. This lets her know that you trust her and that she is capable of helping you. 8. Discover things that interest your child. Explore these interests together. 9. Let your child know that you are there for him. Give him your full attention when he talks to you. If this is not possible, explain why, and set a time when you will be able to listen completely. 10. Point out and build on your child’s strengths. 11. Share a joke and laugh together. Laugh at the jokes he tells you. 12. Let your child know that it is okay to make mistakes. Let your child try to correct and learn from those mistakes. 13. Remember what it was like to be a child. Be quick to celebrate the good, and slow to criticize the bad.

Spending time with your children is one thing you will never regret.

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HELP YOUR CHILD GET READY TO READ

Reading is essential for school success. Five of the best ways for children to

get ready to read are talking, singing, reading, writing and playing.

Why is it important for children to get ready to read before they start school? Children who enter kindergarten with pre-reading skills have an advantage. They can focus on learning to read instead of first learning essential pre-reading skills. Children who start kindergarten ready to read have greater success throughout their school years.

Your library has many resources to help you talk, sing, read, write, and play with your child. Public libraries have books, audiobooks, music CDs, read-along kits, story times and other programs, services and resources that parents can use to help children get ready to read. Take your children to the library and enjoy it together. Every Child Ready to Read® @ your library® is a program of the Association for Library Service to Children and Public Library Association, divisions of the American Library Association. Every Child Ready to Read® @ your library® is a registered trademark and is used with permission.

Van Buren District Library • vbdl.org Antwerp Sunshine Library, Mattawan Gobles Branch Library Bangor Branch Library Lawrence Branch Library Bloomingdale Branch Library Webster Memorial Library, Decatur Covert Branch Library Michigan eLibrary • mel.org

Independent Libraries Hartford Public Library • hartfordpl.michlibrary.org Paw Paw District Library • pawpaw.lib.mi.us Lawton Public Library • lawtonlibrary.com South Haven Memorial Library • shmlibrary.org

* Audiobooks are a great way to bring literacy into the car. Check them out at your library!

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FREE! FREE! FREE! SIGN-UP ONLINE @ greatstart-vanburen.org/Contact-Us

FREE BOOKS! (Birth – 5 years old) The United Way of SW MI is partnering with the Dolly Parton's Imagination Library! Registered children, birth to their 5th birthday receive FREE books every month! Children must be live in Van Buren County. To sign up, go to the Imagination Library website: https://imaginationlibrary.com/usa/affiliate/MIVANBUREN/

EARLY CHILDHOOD CALENDAR (Birth – 5 years old) Early Childhood Calendar includes calendar of events, parenting tips, activities and more.

GREAT START PARENT COALITION (Birth – 12 years old) The Great Start Parent Coalition (GSPC) is open to all parents in Van Buren County. We work to help educate, inform and recruit parents in our community to become involved in making our county a great place for young families to live and grow. During our monthly meetings, parents share information and participate in decision- making processes to improve early childhood services. Ultimately, we're all working together to provide a GREAT START for all children. We also made this AWESOME book you are holding! Connect with us on Facebook @ Van Buren Great Start Parent Coalition or sign up online.

FAMILY LINKS (Prenatal – 5 years old) Free home-based parenting education. All educators are certified in Parents as Teachers curriculum. Family group events, developmental screenings, hearing and vision screenings, and links and referrals to community resources and local schools are also provided through the Family Links program. To find out more information call (269) 539-5214.

Early On (birth – 3 years old) Early On Michigan offers early intervention services for infants and toddlers, birth to three years of age, with developmental delays or disabilities, and their families. If you are concerned about your infant’s or toddler’s development, call Early On at 1-800-EARLY-ON or, in Van Buren County, contact Early On at (269) 539-5129.

GREAT BOOKS TO READ WITH YOUR CHILD Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin, Jr Stone Soup by Marcia Brown Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin, Jr. Snuggle Puppy by Sandra Boynton Dr. Seuss’s ABC An Amazing Alphabet Book! by Dr. Seuss That’s Not My Panda by Fiona Watt Elephant & Piggie by Mo Willems The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak Go, Dog, Go! by P.D. Eastman The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Ratham The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown The Little Red Hen by Paul Galdone If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff The Napping House by Audrey Wood Is Your Mama a Llama? by Deborah Guarino The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney The Three Billy Goats Gruff by Paul Galdone Mouse Paint by Ellen Stoll Walsh The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

Great Children’s Books about Autism Andy and His Yellow Frisbee by Mary Thompson A Friend Like Simon by Kate Gaynor Noah Chases the Wind by Michelle Worthington Hello Roar, Little Dinosaur by Hazel Reeves

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KEEP YOUR CHILD SAFE

1. Learn the basics of first aid and CPR. It is best to be prepared in case of an emergency, even though we hope there will never be one. Preparation helps caregivers avoid panic and take steps to help instead of making the situation worse. Contact your local Red Cross or hospital for information.

2. Review fire safety rules with your child. Many parents assume that their child knows not to play with matches, or what to do in case of fire. Review these safety precautions often with your child. Make a fire escape plan and practice it. Show your child a picture of a fire fighter with all his gear on. Many children hide in a fire because the fire fighters frighten them. Check the batteries in your smoke detectors. Remove hazards from your child’s reach.

3. Follow safety belt and car seat laws. Even good drivers have accidents. Safety belts and car seats are small steps that make a big difference. Children under age 12 should always sit in the back seat. Insist that children follow these laws.

4. Review with your child the rules about “stranger danger.” A stranger is anyone who does not have permission from your parents to take you with them. This includes people your child sees every day, and does not consider a stranger. Teach your child the difference between good touch and bad touch. Reassure your child that you would never be angry with the child if someone touches him or her in inappropriate ways, and that you want to be www.safekids.org To have your car seat checked: told. Teach your child to run in the opposite direction and attract as much Van Buren (east side): call Friend attention as possible if someone does try to take him. of the Court @ (269) 657-7734

5. Tell your child to never touch a firearm. Keep firearms well out of reach of Van Buren (west side): call children. Never assume that a child does not know where a firearm is; always Bronson Wellness Center, Safe Kids Greater South Haven @ lock it away. Teach a child that if a playmate is playing with a firearm, he should (269) 639-2949 run away and get an adult. 6. Know your child’s friends; ask questions about where they are going and what they are doing. Children want to be kept safe, and they are counting on you to do it. Keeping track of your kids is not intruding into their lives; it is your job as a parent.

7. Equip your child with fast facts. Teach your child her full name, caregivers’ full names, address and phone number, and how to dial 9-1-1 for help.

8. Put all medicine up and away and out of sight, including your own. Choose child- resistant caps for medicine bottles.

9. Cleaning materials should always be stored out of reach of children and pets. Install child-proof latches on under-sink cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom.

10. Keep a list of emergency telephone numbers in your kitchen. Phone numbers to include: family doctor, preferred hospital and phone number, 9-1-1, Poison Control 1-888-222-1222, and family emergency contact names and phone numbers. This list can be left with babysitters and can also be put in the diaper bag. greatstart-vanburen.org Family Success Guide Page 24

ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO BE RESPONSIBLE

1. Give children age-appropriate chores. Even a young child can help set or clear the table, pick up toys, or sort clothes. Don’t worry if the result is not perfect. Children who are allowed to help when they are young and eager are more likely to accept their role in helping around the house as they get older. 2. Hold a child accountable for consequences. If a toy gets left outside and it rains, the toy gets ruined. A child calls a friend a mean name, and that friend no longer wants to play. If we run out and buy a new toy, or smooth things over with the friend, a child may learn their actions have no consequences. 3. Support children in righting their wrongs. Offer support to children as they try to correct their own actions. Encourage a child to call a hurt friend to apologize and make things right. If a child tracks dirt into the house, ask him to clean it up, without berating or yelling at him for making a mess. 4. Involve children in solving problems. If a problem behavior is repeated often, involve the child in finding a solution together. If a child continues to track mud into the house, come up with reminders to take off shoes when coming into the house. Help him carry out his plan, and congratulate him if the plan is successful. 5. Allow children to make choices. An eight-year-old child can make her lunch, choosing lunch items from good choices that you have offered. A four-year-old can choose clothes from selections that you have set out. Children will take more responsibility if you show trust in their abilities and decisions. 6. Practice working with a budget. Instead of giving money whenever your child asks, give an allowance for spending on extras. You can also develop budgets for other activities, such as TV viewing. Set aside 5 hours a week, and allow her to decide how to use those hours within your family’s viewing guidelines.

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TIPS TO TAME THE BEDTIME BATTLES

1. Make sure children are sleeping enough: Experts recommend children in preschool get about 11-12 hours of sleep. Preschoolers should be going to bed as early as 7 p.m. in order to get enough rest. What time do your children need to be awake in the morning? Are you aiming for an early enough bedtime? Once you establish what time your children need to be falling asleep, back up an hour to an hour and a half to allow for sufficient time to complete the bedtime routine. This might require adjusting your typical evening accordingly. 2. Set a bedtime routine: Include your children when deciding the order of the bedtime routine. Perhaps they prefer to shower in the morning, or read their books together on the couch instead of in bed. The more control and buy-in a child has to the routine, the less likely they are to object. Once the order of the routine is established, it’s time to put it down on paper. Older children often like a checklist that they can check off as they proceed. Younger children can benefit from a picture routine. Images, either cut from a magazine or actual photographs of your child can be a great way for a child to learn what is coming next. When children protest that they are hungry, for example, you can refer back to the routine to show what they have already completed. 3. Follow the routine: Once your bedtime routine is established, it’s time to set it in motion! Allow time for children to transition to the new bedtime routines, but remain consistent in your expectations. If certain problems tend to keep popping up, consider where an adaptation might need to be made. Look for ways to anticipate your children’s needs, for instance, a child who is out of bed for water every night might just need a glass of water on the bedside table. 4. Stick to it: It can be tempting to abandon the routine on weekends or special nights like birthdays. Rather than skipping the whole routine, adjust the time as needed, but stick with the same, familiar pattern. Children feel a sense of security and comfort in knowing what is coming next. SAFE SLEEP FOR YOUR BABY We know that it can be tempting to bring your baby to bed with you, or let your baby sleep in a bouncy seat just so you can get some rest. But the fact is that a baby dies every three days in Michigan and these deaths are 100% preventable. Follow these tips for safe sleep during every nap and night-time routine:

 Place your baby on their back, in a crib, bassinet or pack-n-play for every sleep time.  Use a firm mattress with a tightly fitted sheet.  Keep baby’s sleep space clutter free – no pillows, blankets or toys.  Avoid covering baby’s head or overheating. Instead of a blanket, consider using a sleep sack, wearable blanket or footed sleeper to keep baby warm.  Remind everyone who cares for your baby, including babysitters and family members, how to keep baby safe while sleeping. www.michigan.gov/safesleep

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LET’S PLAY - FINGERPLAY Fingerplay is a fun way for young children to play with language and pave the way for literacy.

BUTTERFLY TEN FINGERS I have 10 fingers A caterpillar crawled (Hold up both hands, fingers (Extend left arm and crawl right index spread) finger up it like a caterpillar) And they all belong to me, To the top of a tree. (Point to self) “I think I’ll take a nap,” said he I can make them do things, (Wiggle right index finger) Would you like to see? So under the leaf he began to creep. I can shut them up tight, (Move under left hand) (Make fists) He spun a cocoon and he fell asleep. I can open them wide, (Make fist around index finger) (Open hands) For two long weeks he slept in that cocoon I can put them together, (Place bed, Till spring came along and said, palms together) I can make “Wake up! Wake up! You sleepy head.” them all hide. (Put hands behind (Shake arms) back) Out of the leaf and he did cry. I can make them jump high, (Hook thumbs & spread fingers to make a (Hands over head) butterfly) I can make them jump low, “Look, I am a butterfly!” (Touch floor) I can fold them up quietly, CRISS, CROSS, APPLESAUCE (Fold hands in lap) Criss, cross, applesauce, And hold them... just... so. (Draw an X on child’s back with finger) (Whisper) Spiders running up your back. (Walk fingers up child’s back) Cool breeze, TWO THINGS MAKE A PAIR (Blow gently on child’s neck and back of head) Two things make a pair. Tight squeeze, (Hold up two fingers) (Give child a big hug) And on me, I’ll show you where. Now you’ve got the (Point to self) shivers! (Gently tickle I have two ears, and I have two eyes. child) (Point to your ears and eyes) Both are important to make me wise! I have two holes in my nose. THREE LITTLE NICKELS (Point to your nose) Three little nickels in a pocketbook new, That let me smell a beautiful (Hold up three fingers) rose. One bought a peppermint, then there were two. (Pretend to smell a rose) (Bend down one finger) I have two hands that clap a Two little nickels before the day was done, beat. One bought a little train, and then there was (Clap hands to words) one. I have two feet that are really (Bend down another finger) neat! One little nickel I heard it plainly say (Stomp feet) (Wiggle finger) “I’m going into the piggy bank, for a rainy day!” (Put your finger into your pocket with flourish) .

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ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN TO EXPERIENCE BEFORE KINDERGARTEN

FREE Visit the Kalamazoo Valley Museum Attend a local Play Group Take a tour at the Wolf Lake Fish Hatchery Go on a hike (Kal-Haven Trail, Sarett Nature Center, Celery Flats) Play at Lake Michigan beach in South Haven or Farm History Day at the Michigan Flywheels St. Joseph Museum (check their website for dates) Ride the Holly Jolly Trolley in Bronson Park Swing on the swings with your child at a local (seasonal) park (pick a different park each visit) Check out your local libraries’ programs and events. Visit a nearby Splash Pad Get a library card and a Michigan Activity Pass

$10 & UNDER Join Hike it Baby on hikes throughout the year Go ice skating at the South Haven Ice Rink Explore at the Curious Kids Museum and Ride the trolley in Van Buren County (Van Buren Discovery Center in St. Joseph Public Transit) Find a u-pick farm. Pick blueberries, strawberries, Visit a fall harvest pumpkin patch / apple peaches, pears, plums, apples, cherries, orchard (Harvest Moon Acres, VerHages Fruit raspberries, blackberries Farm & Cider Mill, or others) Visit Forever Curious Children’s Museum in Take the family bowling. Register for the Kids Fennville Bowl Free summer program @ kidsbowlfree.com

$11+ Learn about automobiles at the Gilmore Car Ride rides, explore airplanes, activities for kids Museum and more at the Air Zoo in Kalamazoo Splash around at Surfari Joe's Indoor Wilderness Get the wiggles out and visit Jungle Joe’s or Waterpark Skyzone Visit the zoo. (Binder Park Zoo, John Ball Zoo, Visit Hobbie Hut in Dowagiac and get crafty with Alligator Sanctuary, Potawatomi Zoo, Boulder ceramics. Ridge Wild Animal Park)

Free or reduced family field trips, check out the Van Buren Great Start Parent Coalition Facebook page! Also, visit www.vbco.org to view local festivals and events, u-pick farms, nature trails, skateboard parks and more!

JAM Playgroup open gym Binder Park Zoo Binder Park Zoo Kalamazoo Valley Museum

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This Family Success guide was made available to you through the Michigan Department of Education, the Van Buren Great Start Parent Coalition and the efforts of many supporters and sponsors:

These materials were developed with funds from a grant awarded by the Michigan Department of Education. It is the policy of the Van Buren Intermediate School District that no discriminatory practices based on race, color, national origin, sex, (including sexual orientation or transgender identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category, (collectively, "Protected Classes"), be allowed in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities. Inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies should be directed to Barbara Matthews, Director of Finance & Operations or Dave Manson, Assistant Superintendent, 490 S. Paw Paw Street, Lawrence, MI 49064, 269-674-8091.