EVERYTHING
FOR YOUR FAMILY
Health: Birth to 5
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outdoor world Open the front door of possibilities The Children and Families Commission of Orange County was formed in September 1999 to allocate Orange County’s funds from the Proposition 10 ballot initiative, which added a 50-cent sales tax on tobacco products sold in the state. The commission’s mission statement focuses on three platforms: Bridges for Newborns, Family Resources, and School Readiness. The commission sponsors and supports programs to meet the greatest needs of the youngest children of Orange County. The following is part of our yearlong initiative to bring you the commission’s “Help Me Grow” program. The most incredible classroom is waiting for your child and all you have to do is open your front door! Your child learns to explore the world outside by using all five senses. Seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting and touching new and different things strengthens his brain. The space outside allows her to run, climb and jump, which strengthens her body. There are many things that you can do with your child in the great outdoors to help him practice the skills he will need for school and for a healthy life. Here are some examples: Reading: Point out street signs and talk about what they mean. Writing: Use a stick to write your names in the dirt or sand. Math: Collect small stones or shells and count how many you found. Science: See how many different types of leaves you can find and compare the colors and shapes. Music: Make up a little song about the weather or something that you see outside. Movement: Jump over cracks in the sidewalk. Self-help skills: Practice following the rules outside (for example, crossing the street together, or throwing trash in the trash can). Making Friends: Help your child introduce herself to other children playing outside. If possible, make a plan to meet them at the same location in the future. Art: Bring some paints and paper outside. You won’t have to worry about the mess! Where should you go? Your child can explore in your own yard, while walking with you to the grocery store or post office, or at the beach or park. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your outside time: Babies: Keep your diaper bag fully loaded with supplies so it will be ready to go when you are. Toddlers: Consider leaving the stroller at home and letting your little one practice using his feet. Pack supplies in a backpack so that your hands will be free when he is on the move. Preschoolers: Let your older child be a part of planning your outing. Try drawing a map together showing the path you will take and the landmarks you will pass on the way. Let her direct the way and tell you which way to turn! For information about Orange County resources and services for young children and families, call Info Link Orange County toll-free at 888.600.4357. Children and Families Commission of Orange County. For more information, visit www.occhildrenandfamilies.org KOCE, in conjunction with the Children & Families Commission of Orange County, continues its “Help Me Grow” program this month. The 13-part series, focused on advice and tips for 0-5-year-olds and their families, airs Mondays at 7 p.m. and rebroadcasts on Fridays at noon. The following are topics scheduled for April. April 4: “Teachable Moments” (Take advantage of everyday activities to help your child learn. Observe when your child’s interest is piqued, and determine if she is developmentally ready for a new learning.) April 11: “Big Events in Little Lives” (How to help children through tough times like divorce or a death in the family. Help for children who become depressed, aggressive, even unmanageable from adversity.) April 18: “Getting Ready for Kindergarten” (Getting ready begins before your child is born. The show covers prenatal care, how to create a stimulating home environment, reading with your child and more.) |
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