LIVING LIFE UNPLUGGED

I spent this past weekend without access to the television and the internet. I hadn’t even considered the reality of this circumstance when planning the weekend, but as I am a creature of habit, it came abruptly to my attention shortly before 8:00 on Saturday evening when I started thinking about the British comedies I usually watch at this time. And I wasn’t able to watch the news. What about Hurricane Irene? Would our house still be standing when I returned home? On Sunday afternoon, when we packed to leave, I noticed that I felt unusually rested. Was there a correlation between the lack of exposure to technology and my feeling good? I think there might be.

Lori Wong, one of our new NC Pre-K teachers, tells me that her family has been living peacefully without cable access for years. Her three children, all in advanced placement classes at school, don’t feel as if they’re missing out on anything either. Lori believes that without the noise and distraction of the television, her children are more focused and there is more family time.

Could you go unplugged for a week?-----a day?

Katherine Generaux, Community Inclusion Director

The following behaviors have been suggested by the American Academy of Pediatrics (2006) and others as red flags for ASD in the first two years of life:

• Lack of appropriate gaze;
• Lack of warm, joyful expressions with gaze;
• Lack of sharing enjoyment or interests;
• Lack of alternating to-and-fro vocalizations with parents;
• Lack of response to name;
• Delayed onset of babbling past 9 months of age;
• Decreased or absent use of pre-speech gestures (waving, pointing, showing);
• No single words by 16 months;
• No two-word utterances by 24 months;
• Repetitive movements or posturing of body, arms, hands, or fingers;
• Loss of language or social skills at any age.

The below video illustrates defined patterns of early onset.  It is so important that doctors recognize the signs.  Remember that Early Intervention is the best treatment!  For more information go to http://autismpdc.fpg.unc.edu/content/video-early-onset

 

The First Day of School...

Thursday was the BIG day for our family. Madison decided to wear her white button up dress shirt with her navy blue pleaded skirt on her first day of Kindergarten. It was not difficult to wake Madison up...she was excited the minute she woke up to put her uniform on and get ready for her BIG day! We asked her questions like...Are you going to be scared? Do you remember where your class is? Do you remember your teachers names? Almost wanting to go through it for her.

As we pulled up to the school before we got out of the car daddy led us in prayer asking God for protection, guidance, understanding, compassion, and love and that Madison would be safe, make good choices, gain knowledge, and shine her light of love, compassion and service to her peers and teachers. As I watched other families walk their children to class...passing them in the hallway...I thought to myself...I can't believe our little girl is in Kindergarten. The look on her face showed mommy and daddy that she was taking brave steps...to a new chapter in her life not even fully understanding everything because she is only....5 years old. Wow! Where did time go...

Kids spell love T-I-M-E. ~John Crudele

Cedric and Michelle Macon, Proud Parents



It's All About More-Eat More Salad

Did you know that big salad eaters were likely to lose 8 1/2 times more weight than those that consume few greens?  Leafy greens have importent nutrients that aid weight loss, including folate which is a B vitamin.

Consume as many leafy greens as you can to boost your weight loss.  To prevent further fat storage use dressings made with healthy oils which contain linoleic acid, such as safflower oil.  Be creative, add spinach to omelettes, quiches, and pasta dishes.  Try some exotic greens such as escarole, bok choy, or broccolie rabe.

Visit WebMD and watch this video to see how to spruce up your salads and take them from boring to luscious!

http://www.webmd.com/diet/how-to-eat-more-vegetables/making-salads-interesting#playhowto=0

Next Week: Never eat the world's worst breakfast.

excerpts from:  http://www.livestrong.com/article/365206-rich-sources-of-protein-for-a-4-year-old/#ixzz1Ufz9kZDU

Colleen Carman, Finance/HR Director

More Alike Than Different

This is Cooper, he likes to paint.

 He thinks splashing in the water is the greatest thing EVER.

 Cooper is almost two years old.

Cooper naps after a long day.

Cooper is just like you and me...

                       Did you see a little boy? Or did you see a little boy with Down syndrome?

Deborah K. Howell, Assistant Director

 

TRAVELING ACROSS COUNTRY WITH THREE SMALL CHILDREN IN TOW: LADY, ARE YOU KIDDING?

Pack several small, easy to stash activities that can entertain your child on the airplane and at the airports.

Here are some suggestions for airline travel with young children:

• Allow plenty of time at the airport for check-in, and connecting flights. Remember how much longer it takes to achieve anything with kids in tow and apply the same formula to your travel plans.

• Ask if your flight is full when checking in. Some assistants will block out the seat next to you in a less full flight or offer you the option of seating next to a vacant seat. (Recent experience has taught me that airline flights are completely full, though it is still worthwhile to ask.)

• Get on the plane first and off the plane last to get a better chance of assistance from cabin crew.

• Take a set of reins or a harness for a toddler so that you can let him walk around the terminal - but still keep him close at hand.

• Pack a small bag with just one diaper, a few wipes, a perfumed nappy sack and some rash cream if needed and place it in the seat pocket in front of you.

• Some planes have a larger bathroom at the very rear of the plane with a correspondingly larger change table. Wait for this to become free if you have a larger baby to change, as airplane change tables are small.

• Always test the temperature of food heated in the aircraft galley before you give it to your child. If is often way too hot!

• Disposable bibs are a great idea for infant mealtimes on board an airplane.

• Ask for bottles and meals to be warmed well in advance of when you need them. Airline personnel do not have a microwave and have to heat using hot water in the galley. This takes time.

• Wrap toys to add to their entertainment value. Leave one end of the package open so that you can show the 'gift' to security staff if they ask you to.

• Bring toys out one by one - get maximum use from them, pack them away, then move on to the next toy.

• Get older children to carry their own special tote with basic entertainment contents - stickers, coloring book, reading books, cassette tapes, dolls or cars etc. KidsTravelHappy.com sell a great travel toy tote that's good for this and also fits neatly under the seat in front for take-off and landing!

• Take an extra-large purse as a carry on. That way you can fit in extra things like toys, snacks, wipes and a fresh diaper. (Since your purse is not counted as a carry-on, this is a really good idea.)

http://www.flyingwithkids.com/travel_tips.htm



Cecii’s drawing of her parents riding on the airplane.  (According to the rendering, both parents are still smiling!)

Katherine Generaux, Community Inclusion Director

A Journey of HOPE continued

When we hold our newborns it's hard to fathom ever sending them out into the world.  Eventually every parent must say good-bye as a precious son or daughter starts college, joins the military, gets married, or moves into their first apartment.  Letting go can be a painful moment, but also one full of hope.  

On Friday Michelle blogged about her little girls transition to kindergarten and I want to follow up with my youngest sons transition to college.  You may remember my blog a couple of months ago when I talked about his ADHD and all of the struggles throughout his school career.  There were many years that I never thought I would have the opportunity to drop him off at college.  Through a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, not to mention many prayers, our hope became a reality yesterday.  Me and my husband dropped our son off at college.  It was bitter sweet!

Micah and dad hooking up the printer in his dorm.

My son is now an adult, moving to this new stage of life.  He will face pressures, frustrations, and disillusionment.  His freedom to make decisions without asking me or his dad permission means the consequences are also his.  Is he ready?  According to the calendar he is.  All I can do at this point is to pray and continue to hope that the love and faith we have raised him with has made a difference when he needs it.  

These days the verse (Philippians 1:6) will see me through.  If you are struggling with a child with special needs and gripping to hope.  Hang on to that grip tight, don't let it slip away.  There is HOPE; if you don't believe it, just ask me.  


Norma Honeycutt, proud mother

Kindergarten Countdown

An old Chinese proverb states that, a journey of a thousand miles starts with one small step. And for all the kids starting school this fall, this couldn't be more true. If you have a new kindergartner at home, you're just DAYS away from leaving the 'baby' phase behind.




Madison (far right) has a pink and black book bag with peace signs all over it, a Justin Beiber lunch box,

and red, white & blue school uniforms...she is ready for Kindergarten on Thursday.

The key to making this transition as smooth as possible are two things, communication and preparation.
Oftentimes children will have concerns, but won't verbalize them. Bringing it up to them will allow them to feel that there is a safety zone, and that any worried feelings are totally fine.

• Briefly explain what they will be doing. Pointing out the positives like making friends, painting, learning new things, and, having a teacher, are great ways to get them excited. Eventually, this will allow them to accept the school year confidently.
• Farewell fears. Many parents like to tip-toe out of the classroom in the hopes that their child won't notice. The fear of you leaving, however, can scare them even more. Explain prior to entering the class what to expect and that there will come a time when you will part. This way, it won't be such a shock when it happens.

Every child reacts to their first day differently, and arriving at class well in advance will assist this transition. The first two weeks might not go as planned, but that's to be expected. In time, your child will understand the routine and embrace it. A little time and patience will go a long way.





Michelle Macon, Program Coordinator
New Kindergarten Mom

It's All About More-Week 3

Eat more before and after exercising

 

Our third week is about the importance of fuel for your body especially when exercising or exerting yourself beyond normal activity!  

 Before your workout or any strenuous activity, plan on having a light carb and protein snack about 30 minutes before.  Also try eating a small protein snack after your workout.  You will feel energized and it will speed muscle growth and aide recovery.

 
Snacks and meals with carbs and protein are especially essential for children when they are actively playing all day.  Their bodies need long lasting fuel to make it through the day.  Remember to provide your children with plenty of water throughout the day as well.

Next week:  Be a salad lover

For more information, click on the following links:

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/365206-rich-sources-of-protein-for-a-4-year-old/#ixzz1Ufz9kZDU

For more detailed information, read the book "The Women's Health Diet" by Stephen Perrine with Leah Flickinger.

Colleen Carman, Finance/HR Director

Wrapping It Up!!

 

The first week of summer camp seems like a very long time ago. We were new to each other, unsure of what to say on that very first walk through the woods. Now almost 10 weeks later most of these children have made memories with new friends that will last a lifetime.

This summer has been an awesome summer of swimming, movies, hikes, relays, cook outs, games, dancing, skating, bowling, visits to the nursing home and many other activities that were enjoyed not only by the children but by the staff.

Just remember as time flies by you to please take the time to stop and smell the flowers, they may be gone tomorrow.

Deborah K. Howell, Assistant Director

A CONVERSTATION WITH MY DAD ON HIS 90th BIRTHDAY

My father, Roy Generaux, on the day of his 90th birthday.

We sat together, looking out toward the ocean at the rented house on the coast in Northern California near my parent’s home. It was after the party celebrating my dad’s 90th birthday that I finally had a chance to sit down and spend a few quiet moments with Dad. “And so what have you learned in 90 years?” is the question I posed to my father. “I’ve learned that everyone you will ever see or meet has something to teach you, if you are open to learn. Every person should be treated with dignity. We are, after all, more alike than we are different. “He looked at me then and said, “Kathy, you tend to get ahead of yourself. You always have. You need to be more present; live in the moment. You will be happier if you learn to do this.”

Words of wisdom from my dad on his 90th birthday.

Katherine Generaux, Community Inclusion Director

Even Toddlers Can Enjoy Picnic's!

Summer is the time for family picnics.  Our Mighty Duck Family was able to enjoy one today!  Children are never too young to enjoy a outdoor picnic.  Have you taken advantage of the outdoors this summer and went on a picnic?  It can be as simple as throwing some sandwiches together or grilling out like we did.  Rowan County is full of wonderful parks that your child would love!  Take time out to enjoy the great outdoors and share some quality time with your family!  

Norma W. Honeycutt, Executive Director

It's All About More, Week 2

                                                 

In the “It’s All About More” series, week two visits the importance of protein and its role as a macronutrient that provides energy for the body, is essential for tissue repair, and for enzyme and hormone production. It is a very necessary part of every diet.   

Protein is also a vital nutrient for muscle growth but (Surprise!) it is also a key to weight loss.  Researchers and study groups have found that people who include protein in every meal and snack dropped more weight than those that skipped this important nutrient.

“When you eat 10-15 grams of protein, you stimulate a burst of protein synthesis that helps build muscles”.  As you build muscle, your metabolism increases and in turn burns fat.  The formula is to eat between .54 and 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight per day.  Portion size and calorie content is important so be sure look for foods with a higher protein number from 6g to 10g or more.

Because so many children and adults have some food allergies, the following list has a variety of protein rich foods:

Milk, soy milk, eggs, cheese, yogurt, peanut butter, lean meats, fish, poultry, beans, tofu, lentils, other legumes, grains including bread and pasta, nuts and seeds.


For more information, click on the following link:

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/365206-rich-sources-of-protein-for-a-4-year-old/#ixzz1Ufz9kZDU

For more detailed information, read the book "The Women's Health Diet" by Stephen Perrine with Leah Flickinger.

Colleen Carman, Finance/HR Director



New Staff Join Partners In Learning

Today at Partners In Learning we have 5 new staff members join our family. They are from left to right:

Megan Crotts, NC Pre-K Lead Teacher, Lori Wong, NC Pre-K Lead Teacher, Hillary Gordon, Two Year Old Lead Teacher, Cassie Karriker, Toddler Assistant Teacher and Crystal Love, NC Pre-K Assistant Teacher.

These teachers come to us with Bachelors Degrees, Associates Degrees, working toward their degrees and over 20 years of combined child care experience. They are ready to create wonderful new learning experiences for young children for years to come.

Deborah K. Howell, Assistant Director

A CIRCLE OF WOMEN

Last evening, I had the privilege of spending a couple hours with a group of interesting women. Our group meets once a month or so, and we come together to share life stories and spiritual perspectives. Last night we brought hand work with us - needlepoint, knitting, drawing materials, while we experienced a quiet, meditative period of time. The experience was reminiscent of days long ago when women would sit together and work on either individual or group projects. They also used this time to reflect on their lives’ and offer support to one another.

There is a term I learned in an Economics course. It’s called opportunity cost. It means that when you choose one thing, you are often giving up the opportunity to choose something else. Most of us are so busy today with work and family; we barely have time to maintain friendships. The opportunity cost for our heavily scheduled lives is the opportunity to truly get to enjoy close connections with people outside of our immediate families. It seemed to me yesterday, as I sat in a circle with these very wise women, that it might be a good idea to rethink some of our priorities.

Katherine Generaux, Community Inclusion Director

Can a Kinect really help children with Autism?

One of my staff members told me about this group of children with autism who were being taught and encouraged to use this Kinect and how they began to communicate and progress developmentally faster than children not using the Kinect. I wanted to share it and get your thoughts on if you think it is a good use of the latest technology for children with Autism.  Also, I wonder if it would work well for children with all types of disabilities.  

Children with Autism using Kinect