Prevent Bullying

The month of October is full of areas to observe, learn about, participate in, and be aware of. One of the topics I think is really important to touch on is the National Bullying Prevention Month for October. As child care providers, we often see children resolving their differences with little guidance by their teachers. On occasion, we might have to intervene to offer positive resolution in the conflict. There are moments when we might not realize that bullying could be happening to one or more children. 

As a child care center, we do NOT tolerate any form of bullying by the children, staff, or families. We value everyone as a unique individual. Our value and self-worth is primarily developed by the actions and words of our peers. When bullying occurs, the value and self-worth of a child lowers and can create problems for the child.

                Please take a few minutes to visit the following links on how to recognize, address, and do your part in the prevention of child bullying.

http://www.pacer.org/bullying/nbpm/

http://www.facebook.com/PACERsNationalBullyingPreventionMonth

http://www.nctsn.org/resources/public-awareness/bullying-prevention-awareness-month

                                                                                                                                                                                               

Reading and Books

One of the most important parts of our curriculum at Cox Children's Center is through reading books. Children enjoy learning through books and seeing pictures of things they want to learn about. While at the center, our teachers spend time reading books and looking at books with your children about the current project or other topics of the day. 

Looking at books and reading stories is something you can do at home with your child too. Reading can reduce some of the "busy" moments children have and encourage a calm time instead. You may want to read a book before bedtime, after a lot of gross motor time to transition to calmer/quieter activities, or if your child is interested in something you could find books about the subject to extend their play/interest. 

Another way to link school to home would be to reread the book(s) read in the classroom or to find books with similar subject matter. Our center participates in  monthly Scholastic book orders and book fairs. If your library at home is rather small in size, consider ordering from Scholastic this month. Book orders are due September 20th and order forms have been sent home today.