CherokeeCountySpring2010Edition_REVISEDWEB

Cherokee County Spring 2010

BeSafe Child

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Since 1994

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Ice C Kid ream Cer s & $2 for the tific 5 Gi Par ates Fo ft ents ! r

Child Care Guide Compiled by

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See the material here in this publication or it can be from any of the past editions we have on-line. Go to www. besafechild.com & click on Past Editions.

Find an article that applies to your child or family and give us your feedback. Or it could be a suggestion you may have.

In return you’ve earned a $25 Gift Certificate from a participating restaurant.

It is just that simple: See - Apply - Feedback - Earned Simply S.A.F.E. Respond to this promotion by going to our website www.besafechild.com and click on “Contests and Events” in the Yellow Bar. Or you can mail it to us at Be Safe Publications, 566 CR 4103, Jacksonville, Texas 75766 Be sure to give us your name & mailing address so we can send your gift certificate.

Limited Offer----Respond now to be assured of a gift certificate.

This offer is limited to the first one hundred (100) that respond. One gift certificate per family will be allowed. Please show your gratitude to these restuarants for participating in our promotion of child safety and health by giving a 15 to 20% gratuity on the total check.

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Inside BeSafe Child Don’t Miss Page 2 “Simply S.A.F.E.” Give Away! $25 Gift Certificate From A Local Restaurant & Page 13 For Your Kids---FREE Ice Cream Cone From DQ! CHIP And Children’s Medicaid.......4 Autism.......................................5 Living With Autism...........................5 ETMC Aqua Kids...............................5 Child Care Assistance.......................6 Lack of Activities in Kids Today......8 More Fruits and Vegetables, Please.....9 Adding Fiber to Your Child’s Diet....9 Kids and Canines.............................10 Protecting Kids From Poisoning.....10 Head Lice Facts..............................11

Vaccines: What You Should Know..12 Kids Center DQ FREE Soft Cone.........................13 Explaining Stranger Danger..............14 Protecting Kids On-line....................14 Guide to Child Care Centers............15 Living With Asthma.........................17 Stopping Domestic Violence............18 Alcohol & Energy Drinks................19 Allowances in Today’s Economy.......20 Obesity: A Growing Problem.......21-22

The Cherokee County Health Department Seal indicates that they have approved the article.

ON THE COVER: Matthew Nance, Alyssa Nance, Samantha Cruz, Dr. Escalona-Cruz, Matilyn Liles Gowin, Javanni Shurn

BeSafe Publications

566 C.R. 4103, Jacksonville, TX 75766 903-586-3767  1-800-233-8568 Fax 903-586-0333 www.besafechild.com email: info@besafechild.com Publisher/Editor: Royce Ewing Graphic Design/Layout: Claudette Wooddell Office: Patricia Goar ©Copyright 2010 BeSafe Publications We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information within these pages. We cannot, however, assume any liability for any kind of its validity or completeness or for additional or changed information subsequent to the date the information contained herein was submitted for publication. BeSafe Publications welcomes your suggestions and inquiries. Articles from professionals in child safety are also encouraged. While we retain our copyright position, we do grant permission to responsible parties to duplicate our articles in the interest of child safety, health and good character.

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Do your children need low-cost health care coverage?

Find Out about CHIP/ Children’s Medicaid for your children. The most you will pay for all of your children is $50 for one year of coverage, but most families that qualify pay little or nothing.

If your family income is below the following limits, there is a good chance your children may be eligible for CHIP or Children’s Medicaid.

Updated Income Guidelines for CHIP/Children’s Medicaid April 2009 – April 2010 Family Members May qualify for Children’s Medicaid May qualify for CHIP (Adults plus children) Annual Family Income Annual Family Income 1 $10,830 $21,660 2 $14,570 $29,140 3 $18,310 $36,620 4 $22,050 $44,100 We also offer assistance with Food Stamps, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, CHIP Perinatal, and Long Term Care.

Contact Us to see how we might be able to assist you!

888-903-0028 903-535-0028 www.healthyeasttx.org

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Autism In Children Source: David Wheeler, M.S., LPC

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Program Coordinator, ETMC Behavioral Health Center

utism is a pervasive developmental disorder of early childhood. It appears to be genetic, although there is no scientific proof of this. It is usually evident before the age of 3 years. Childhood autism is marked by a poverty of language, and a marked inability to meaningfully connect with other people. The latter includes a significant lack of social interaction and, usually, gaze aversion. Often, persons with autism will refer to themselves in the third person. It is believed that autism is primarily a disorder of perceptual integration. This means that the sensory input that the average person can see, taste, touch, smell, and hear, are overwhelming for the person with autism, creating a seemingly unbearable harsh noise in their heads. Childhood autism exists across a broad continuum of intellectual functioning, meaning some persons with autism may function in the range of profound mental retardation, while some may function at much higher levels intellectually.

Because of their difficulty with integrating perceptual stimuli, children with autism have an aversion to change, in even the smallest increments.

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Subsequently, persons with autism function best when their environment is highly structured and they have a very predictable, regimented schedule. Behavioral science has developed many ingenious methods with which to treat persons with autism.

This, in general, includes the reduction of overall perceptual stimuli the child is exposed to. With consideration for the fact that physical contact with others can be overwhelming for the person with autism, the use of a “hug” machine is often very soothing and reassuring. Please take note that, nowhere in this article will the reader find the term “autistic person”.

This is certainly by design, as it is very important to understand that the disorder does not define the person. It is but one component of the person’s makeup. It is important for the general public to understand more about this debilitating disorder, as we tend to fear, disdain, and vilify that which we do not understand. It is also important to understand that the only thing which separates those of us we consider “normal” from those with disabilities is usually just luck.

Making Life Better For Families Living With Autism

s many as one out of 91 children today are diagnosed with autism and the need for effective treatments continues to grow. Getting the right support at the earliest stage in life makes all the difference. Known as early intervention, this critical type of service gives children the skills they need to be successful. What should you do if you think your child has autism? Here are a few suggestions: • Trust your instincts.

• Talk to your pediatrician.

• Find out about early intervention.

“We know that through early detection and individualized intervention, children with autism make significant progress,” said Patricia Wright, MPH, Ph.D., national director autism services, Easter Seals.

For more information about living with autism, visit www.easter seals.com or www.actforautism.org.

ETMC Aqua Kids

Does your child need to learn to swim or become more comfortable in the water? ETMC’s Aqua Kids program can help! Aqua Kids offers a fun learning environment where your child can learn to swim in our indoor warm water pools from our certified aquatics instructor, Gay Tyra, BS, WSI. Classes are available for children ages 6 months to 12 years and sessions are held year round. Call 903-596-3150 for more information or to register or view our complete schedule online at http://etmc.org/pdf/AguaKids2010.pdf 5

Child Care Assistance for Students, the Employed and the Unemployed Available NOW!!!!!

Yes, that is right! There is childcare assistance available for an individual or families who are: • Working • Have recently lost their job due to a lay-off • Are attending School • Or your employer has reduced your hours Individuals interested: • Must be working or have a combination of school and employment that equals 25 hours per week.

OR • Enrolled in college for a minimum of 9 semester hours or attending vocational training for 25 hours per week.

OR • Actively looking for employment 25 hours per week if unemployed.

Individuals: • Must pay a parent share of the cost based on the family gross monthly income.

• Must meet other program criteria • May be placed on a waiting list • Must meet income guidelines.

CCS Income Guidelines

Family Size 2 3 4 5 6 7

Gross Monthly Income (Up To) $3,004 $3,710 $4,417 $5,124 $5,830 $5,963

Counties served: Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, and Wood.

For more information please call Child Care Services at 800.676.8283.

The CCS program is an equal opportunity program. Auxiliary aids and services are available, upon request, to those with disabilities. TDD #711 6

ARE YOU TIRED OF PAYING DAYCARE EXPENSES?

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Let the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Help you and your family with Daycare cost!

Eligibility is based on your family income and family size.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL CHILD CARE SERVICES AT 1-800-6768283 OR 903-526-1105 The CCS program is an equal Childcare assistance is available in the opportunity program. following counties: Anderson, Camp, Cherokee, Auxiliary aids and services are Gregg, Harrison, Henderson, Marion, Panola, Rains, Rusk, Smith, Upshur, Van Zandt, Wood.

available, upon request , to those with disabilities. TDD #711

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Days Gone By: Lack of Activity in Kids Today

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Source: Sandra Stanley, Tyler ISD

o you remember when you were a child, when the first day of spring arrived and the days lasted longer? Wasn’t it great to stay outside until dark working on that tree house or racing friends on your bikes? Remember when staying inside was the last place you wanted to be on a sunny day with no school?

The memories are as if it were just yesterday.

Unfortunately to some, today the mere thought of being outside is a punishment.

Staying indoors, playing video games or watching television, all while eating not so healthy foods, has become the norm for children. Days turn into weeks and before long an unhealthy habit of inactivity and unhealthy eating has developed. Statistics for obese children are increasing due to unhealthy eating habits, lack of motivation and inactivity.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “American society has become ‘obesogenic,’ characterized by environments that promote increased food intake, unhealthy foods, and physical inactivity.”

Obesity occurs when a person eats more calories than the body burns up. If one parent is obese, there is a 50 percent chance that the children will also be obese. However, when both parents are obese, children have an 80 percent chance of being obese. Certain medical disorders can cause obesity; however, less than one percent is caused by physical problems. Obesity in childhood and adolescence can be related to: • poor eating habits • overeating or binging • lack of exercise (i.e., couch potato kids) • family history of obesity • medical illnesses (endocrine, neurological problems) • medications (steroids, some psychiatric medications) • stressful life events or changes (separations, divorce, moves, deaths, abuse) • family and peer problems • low self-esteem • depression or other emotional problems Although there are many factors that contribute to obesity in children there are steps parents can take to keep a watchful eye on their child’s food intake and activity. Obese children need a thorough medical evaluation 8

by a pediatrician or family physician to consider the possibility of a physical cause. In the absence of a physical disorder, the only way to lose weight is to reduce the number of calories being eaten and to increase the child’s or adolescent’s level of physical activity. Lasting weight loss can only occur when there is selfmotivation. Since obesity often affects more than one family member, making healthy eating and regular exercise a family activity can improve the chances of successful weight control for the child or adolescent. Ways to manage obesity in children and adolescents include: • start a weight-management program • change eating habits (eat slowly, develop a routine) • plan meals and make better food selections (eat less fatty foods, avoid junk and fast foods) • control portions and consume less calories • increase physical activity (especially walking) and have a more active lifestyle • know what your child eats at school • eat meals as a family instead of while watching television or at the computer • do not use food as a reward • limit snacking • attend a support group (i.e. Overeaters Anonymous) You can make a difference! Emphasize your child’s strengths and positive qualities rather than focusing on weight problems. Have more family meals together. Children who eat with their families are less likely to snack on unhealthy foods and more likely to eat healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Studies have shown that when family meals are prioritized, structured, and positive in atmosphere, fewer weight control problems and disordered eating patterns were observed.

Parents, take this opportunity to increase family time and live a healthier lifestyle as a whole. By making this a family affair, your child knows that they are not alone in making these healthy choices, and they will gain confidence in themselves.

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More Fruits And Vegetables, Please

aking sure children eat a healthy amount of Grilling some vegetables can make fruits and vegetables may require some creativthem sweeter and encourage chility. Nutritional recommendations suggest children eat dren to try them. Or you can arthree to five servings a day, but many finicky eaters range raw vegetables in a fun way: may refuse to cooperate. Here are a few tips to make broccoli for hair, cherry tomatoes these nutritious foods look more attractive: for eyes and carrots for lips.

• Mix it in. Add fruits to smoothies Don’t force kids to eat foods they or yogurt. Mix fruits like bananas don’t want. As children grow older, or vegetables such as zucchini into they may find it easier to experiment muffins and breads. Add vegetables with flavors they previously found to pasta sauces, lasagna, meat loaf, overwhelming. omelets and casseroles. Order your ¥ Set a good example. If you don’t pizza with vegetable toppings. Put eat a healthy amount of vegetables bananas and raisins in your panand fruit, your child will assume it is cakes. not important.

• Drink it up. Serve fruit juice Also, start them early. Exposing instead of soda. Try serving an children to a variety of fruits and all-natural juice that’s packed with vegetables when they are young can fruits and vegetables. get them on the right track.

• Take a new approach. Mix fruit To help finicky eaters get enough With any luck, you may be surwith yogurt or serve with a dip. fruits and vegetables, try serving prised to hear your children asking Serve fruit salad or gelatin with vitamin-rich fruit and vegetable for more fruits and vegetables. fruit for dessert or add fruit to the For more information, visit www. juice blends. morning cereal. appleandeve.com.

Offer veggies with a dip or serve a vegetable stir-fry.

Adding Fiber To Your Child’s Diet

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here’s good news for parents who are looking for ways to satisfy their children’s hunger and help them manage their weight. Adding fiber to their diet can be a convenient and healthy way to do both.

Dietary fiber is often attributed to helping adults and children alike feel full faster. Several health organizations, such as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, have recognized the important role of dietary fiber in decreasing the risk of a variety of chronic diseases, and obesity in children.

According to the National Fiber Council, however, most children get half or less of the recommended amount of dietary fiber per day.

Fortunately, adding fiber and its resulting benefits to your child’s diet can be a fairly simple process. A good start to increasing fiber intake is to pack school lunches and after-school snacks with whole grains, fruit and veggies.

Try these tips: • Keep the skin on fruits, such as apples and

pears, which are rich sources of fiber.

• Select breads made with whole grains for sandwiches. They don’t always need to be traditional breads-try pitas, bagels or fajita wraps with whole grain.

• Look for additional ways to include more veggies with lunch or after-school snacks, such as salads, veggies on sandwiches or even raw veggies served with dip.

• If packing pasta or pasta salad, use whole grain pasta varieties.

• Don’t forget to work in more whole grains with snack time, too. If your children want something crunchy, try whole grain crackers with peanut butter or low-fat cheese rather than cookies or chips.

To make things even easier for busy parents, many food manufacturers are adding whole grain options to their offerings.

To learn more, visit www.lance.com.

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Kids And Canines

dog’s wagging tail and soft, fluffy ears can be as irresistible as the forbidden cookie jar to a child. But while the family pet is tolerant and patient with your child, other dogs may not be.

The American Kennel Club advises parents to teach their young children how to treat all animals with care and consideration, and how to steer clear of potentially dangerous situations.

What Kids Need To Know: Always ask a dog’s owner if you may pet the dog. Some dogs shouldn’t be touched. Approach a dog from the front or side-not from behind. Hold your hands low and speak softly. Do not surprise a dog, force him into a corner, wave your hands or scream at him. Dogs may get defensive at the food dish.

Don’t interfere when a dog is eating and never put your hands between a dog’s mouth and his bowl. Some dogs are very protective of their balls or chew toys. Never take a bone or toy from a dog’s mouth unless he’s trained to drop it or give it to you. Avoid teasing, rough wrestling, or tug-of-war games. Dogs may get too enthusiastic and forget

you are not a dog. Fetch, frisbee and agility are better outlets for your dog’s energy. Respect a dog’s space. Dogs naturally defend their territories. Do not stick your hand inside a strange dog’s crate or car window. Never try to break up a dogfight. Trying to separate fighting dogs may make them more excited, and they might turn on you or accidentally bite you.

Children should always ask the owner’s permission before Call an adult for help. touching a dog. Observe canine body language. Beware of a dog that is barking, growling or showing his teeth.

Stay away if his ears are back or his hair is standing up on his back. Say “NO” firmly and slowly walk away with your arms by your side. Do not scream, stare into his eyes or run away.

Visit www.akc.org for more information.

Protecting Children From Poisoning

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ost people regard their homes as safe places. However, most accidents involving children, especially accidental poisoning, occur in the child’s home.

Children like to imitate their parents. Babies who watch their parents take medications may want to do it too. A few precautions can prevent a fatal accident. *Always close bottles after taking medications. *Use child resistant bottles and packaging.

Remember, they are child resistant, not childproof. *Keep medications in the original containers, preventing confusion. *Keep all medications out of the reach and sight of children. *Follow directions carefully to avoid accidental overdoses. *Baby vitamins look and taste like candy. If the vitamin has an iron supplement, as few as five can be deadly to your child.

Remember: *When buying art supplies for children, be sure they are safe for children. *Never use cups, soft drinks bottles or milk 10

cartons to store leftover paint, paint thinner or cleaning products. *Keep mouthwashes, aftershave lotions and perfumes out of children’s reach. Children are very sensitive to the toxic effects of the alcohol contained in these products. *Check your garage, utility room, kitchen and bathroom for toxic items. Antifreeze, windshield washing fluids, gasoline and cleaning compounds are deadly when taken internally. *Know if your plants are poisonous and keep them out of reach of children.

If you suspect poisoning: Remain calm. *Call your local poison control center at 1-800-POISON-1 or your doctor.

Keep these numbers near your telephone. *For household products, follow the first-aid instructions on the label and then call the poison control center or doctor*Be prepared to give the child’s age, height, weight any existing health problems and what your child ate or drank.

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Head Lice Facts

Source: Lufkin ISD School Health Advisory Council

HOSPITAL STAYS CAN BE SHORTENEDHERE’S HOW...

n this article are some facts about head lice and what you can do if your child and you get them.

• Itching is the first sign of heal lice, unless your child has a very light case. Check your child’s head and scalp all over especially behind the ears and near the LIKE THE OLD-TIME neckline and the back of the neck when scratching begins.

DOCTOR, WE MAKE • Look for lice and their eggs or “nits.” You may see the nits before you find a louse because HOUSECALLS... each louse can lay up to 150 at a time.

• You may first find lice or nits on the hair at the FOR BOTH ADULT AND “nape” of the neck (back of the head where the hair stops and the neck begins) and behind the PEDIATRIC PATIENTS ears. But, they can live anywhere; so, look all over the scalp.

• If you know of another child with head lice, be alert that your child may contract lice too.

Children get lice from other children. There is no incubation period. When live lice move from one child to another; they are “home” and can begin laying eggs immediately.

• Children get head lice almost as much as the common cold. Millions get them at least one time, once a year.

• They can not hop, jump or fly but can crawl WE PROVIDE INFUSIONS FOR: from child to child anytime children are close together, during play or sports or even nap time.

• Sharing combs, brushes, hair fasteners, hats, ETMC caps, coats, neck scarves and even head phones spread them, too. Sharing a locker or cubbyhole with a lice-infested child is a common way TRINITY MOTHER FRANCES to spread lice. Lice can attach to your child while sitting on carper or furniture. Lice can even attach to stuffed toys.

(ANTI-BIOTIC, CHEMO, PAIN • Children get lice more than teens or adults.

MANAGEMENT, NUTRITIONAL Any child can get head lice! It doesn’t matter where they live or go to school; how much AND HYDRATION THERAPIES.) money their parents have or, if boy or girl, black, white or brown.

• A child isn’t sick or unclean if they have head Pharmacy Solutions lice. Taking baths won’t kill lice or keep children from getting head lice. And, if a child has Kevin Dobbs, R.Ph. head lice, it certainly doesn’t mean they have bad parents.

Dealing with lice is difficult, sometimes embarCall us for information rassing and can be overwhelming to anyone caring for children. You can take care of your 903 295-3338 child’s head lice problem at home without a visit to the doctor or clinic. Treatment should 800 280-3338 be with shampoo or cream rinse approved by the FDA that can be purchased without a 913 NW Loop 281 #117 prescription at the drug store, grocery store or Longview, Texas other places that carry drug store products.

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Vaccines: What Every Parent Should Know

mmunizations and vaccines are hot topics Iquestions in the media recently and parents may have about ingredients, timing and more.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) believes that all children should be vaccinated in a timely manner. Here are five reasons why vaccines are an important part of your child’s health care: 1. Vaccines prevent deadly childhood disease.

Polio, whooping cough, meningitis-these diseases once claimed the lives of thousands of children in the U.S. Thanks to the development of vaccines, death rates from these illnesses have dropped dramatically. But in order to keep these rates low, children need to be vaccinated.

2. Vaccines are safe. Vaccines are tested in thousands of people before they are added to the childhood immunization schedule and are continuously monitored for any safety risks. Valid scientific studies have shown no link between thimerosal and autism. This mercury-based preservative was once used in several vaccines (and is still used in some flu vaccine). However, since thimerosal was removed from childhood vaccines in 2001, autism rates have actually increased, supplying further evidence that thimerosal does not cause autism.

3. Deadly diseases are still a threat to children. Deaths due to Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) in Minnesota and Pennsylvania remind us that vaccine-preventable diseases are still a threat. In addition, the United States

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has seen increased cases of measles and whooping cough. Outbreaks in unvaccinated communities show that these diseases are still out there and thrive when children aren’t fully immunized.

4. Multiple vaccines do not overwhelm a child’s immune system. Antigens are the substances that create immunity to disease.

Improved vaccine development has led to a decrease in the number of antigens in each vaccine. So while there may be more vaccines given than a decade ago, the number of antigens that a child’s system must respond to is less than what a single vaccine contained 50 years ago.

5. Staying on schedule is important. Infants are susceptible to infectious diseases. While these diseases could make an older child very sick, they could be deadly for infants.

The recommended immunization schedule is designed to work best with a child’s immune system-at certain ages and at specific times.

If a vaccine requires a second or third dose, they need to be given within a certain time frame or the vaccine will not fully protect your child.

Keeping your infant safe and healthy is an important part of caring for your baby. By giving your child needed vaccinations on a timely basis, you can help your baby get a head start on a healthy future. For more information visit the AAP Web site, www.aap.org

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Explaining Stranger Danger

Child advocates point to incidents where lost children hid from rescuers because they were “strangers” or willingly walked away with someone who didn’t fit their idea of a “stranger.”

When asked, children will often describe a “stranger” as someone who is ugly or mean. They don’t think nice-looking or friendly people are “strangers.” If someone talks to a child or is around a child more than once, that person loses his or her “stranger” status. The child then thinks he or she “knows” the person.

Practice “what if” scenarios with your children. Reinforce these skills during a trip to the mall or park.

Reassure your children that you are there for them, and remind them that there are other people who can help.

If your children are lost,

they may be surrounded by many “strangers” who can help them if they ask. We need to give children safety nets of people they can go to if they need help. That includes uniformed law-enforcement or security officers, a salesperson with a name tag, an information booth clerk at a mall, or a mother with children.

If children are lost outside, they should never wander away from where they first became lost. If that place becomes too dangerous because of severe weather or another threatening situation, children should go to the nearest safe spot and wait. They should make noise by yelling, blowing a whistle, or otherwise attracting attention. This will help bring someone to their rescue.

Teach your children well by what you mean by “Stranger Danger.”

Source: National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

Protecting Children From Online Predators

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ore than 25 million children go online regularly. Unfortunately, some child predators are taking advantage of this fact by approaching children online with the intent to meet them for a sexual encounter offline.

According to the Department of Justice, 1 in 5 children is sexually solicited over the Internet.

That’s why parents should get involved in their children’s activities on the Internet and always know with whom they are chatting online.

Online lingo, such as “ILU” (I Love You), “CYO” (See You Online), and “a/s/l” (Age/Sex/Location) are commonly used by Internet-savvy kids. Yet a national study found that less than five percent of parents are familiar with the shorthand used by children online. Unfortunately, many online predators know and use the lingo to become friendly with kids. “Shorthand like ‘POS’ for ‘parent over shoulder’ and ‘WTGP’ for ‘want to go private’ will stop being a mystery to parents as they become more Internet savvy, and that will keep kids safer,” says Ernie Allen, president of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC).

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NCMEC recently partnered with the Ad Council to sponsor a national multi-media campaign to help parents learn ways to minimize their children’s risks of being victimized. It offers these tips: Take steps to educate yourselves about the Internet. Place the family computer in a common area, not a child’s bedroom. Teach kids that people online are not always who they say they are. Talk with children about not giving out personal information over the Internet.

“The Web is an incredible resource for kids, but we need to equip our children to deal with the reality of today’s online world by educating them in how to spot troublesome behavior and make smart decisions,” says Allen.

To learn about kids’ chat shorthand and to get tips on how to talk to your children about online threats, visit www.cybertipline.com or call 1-800-THE-LOST.

Guide to Licensed Child Care Centers

This Directory was produced by the Better Business Bureau Foundation as a public service to assist parents in their search for a licensed child care facility. The Better Business Bureau does not endorse or recommend any product, service or company; therefore, parents should not consider this Directory a recommendation of any child care center. Any portion of the listing is subject to change at any time.

The Better Business Bureau suggests you visit and tour the facility before making a decision. Check the current status of the facility’s license with the Department of Protective & Regulatory Services at 533-4173. This license should be posted in a conspicuous place and reflect the correct address of the facility. The Monitoring Plan set by the Department of Protective & Regulatory Services is a good guideline when looking into a facility. It is indicative if the facility’s compliance with state guidelines. Ask to see their latest compliance report. It is a good idea to find out which items, if any, your facility was not in compliance with when corrections were made by the facility. Remember, this information can also change at any time. Make sure to check their current monitoring plan with Protective Services.

Here are some things to look for when choosing a child care service: • Is the facility clean? Are the children clean? • Is there a safe place to play both indoors and outdoors? • Does caregiver share your views on discipline and religion? • Can they provide special care such as diet and medication? • Is this facility open to you and welcome to visits anytime?

If you have questions or would like a brochure from the Better Business Bureau on choosing child care, please call us at (903) 581-5704 or toll free 1-800-443-0131.

Hours & Drop After School Ages Name, Address (Listed by Zip Code) Phone Capacity Days Open Ins Care Accepted

Zip Code 75766

Charlotte’s Web Day Care Center 586 S. Ragsdale, Jacksonville, 75766

586-5026

73

Mon.-Fri. 6:30-6:00

No

No

12 mos. - 13 years

First United Meth. Readiness School 1031 SE Loop 456, Jacksonville, 75766

586-7756

90

Mon.-Fri. 7:15-5:30

No

No

Infant - Pre-K

For Heaven’s Sake Christian Learning Ctr. 2028 E. Rusk, Jacksonville, 75766

589-3957

68

Mon.- Fri. 6:30-6:00

Yes

Yes

Infant - School Age

Kids First Weekday Education 210 Philip St., Jacksonville, 75766

586-4844

78

Mon - Fri. 7:30-2:30

No

No

Infant - Pre-K

Kids R Us 315 Ragsdale, Jacksonville, 75766

586-7210

64

Mon.-Fri. 6:30-5:30

Yes

Yes

2 years - 13 years

Kids-N-Motion 1006 N. Jackson, Jacksonville, 75766

586-0113

322

Mon.-Fri. 6:00-6:00

Yes

Yes

Birth - 13 years

Knee High Village 830 Canada St., Jacksonville, 75766

586-8542

55

Mon.-Fri. 6:00-6:00

Yes

No

18 mos. - 13 years

Betty’s Child Care 1100 Johnson Dr., Rusk, 75785

Zip Code 75785 and 75789 683-4760

34

Mon.-Fri. 6:00-6:00

Yes

No

Toddler - School Age

Charlotte’s Web Too 965 W. 6th St., Rusk, 75785

683-9691

68

Mon.-Fri. 5:30-6:00

Yes

No

12 mos. - 12 years

Cherokee County Christian Child Care 206 E. Third St., Rusk, 75785

258-3858

65

Mon.-Fri. 6:00-6:00

No

Yes

2 years - 13 years

Christ The Redeemer 247 Barron Street, Rusk, 75785

683-1404

51

Mon.-Fri. 6:00-6:00

Yes

Yes

Toddler - School Age

Little Britches Learning Center 272 S. Main, Rusk, 75785

683-2220

31

Mon.-Fri. 5:30-5;30

Yes

Yes

Toddler - School age

Little Britches Learning Center Too! 529 N. Main, Rusk, 75785

683-9872

17

Mon. -Fri. 7:30-3:30

No

Yes

Pre-Kindergarten

Troup ISD Child Care Center 935 SH 135, Troup, 75789

842-4020

61

Mon. -Fri. 7:00-5:45

No

Yes

Infant- Pre K

Stacy’s Bar-B-Que

FREE BOOKLETS AVAILABLE

CALL 581-5704 OR 1-800-443-0131 15

Kitchen and Catering

402 E RUSK ST - JACKSONVILLE, TX. CORNER OF HWY. 69 AND RUSK ST PHONE: 903.589.0866 CATERING

16

Living With Asthma

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or the nearly one out of 10 children affected by asthma in the U.S., school means exposure to triggers that may aggravate asthma symptoms.

Asthma is one of the most common causes of school absenteeism due to illness and accounts for almost 13 million missed school days each year among children ages 5 to 17.

Fortunately, there are ways parents can help manage their child’s asthma with the start of a new school year.

Understanding Asthma Asthma symptoms, which include coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, can occur at any time, so it is important for parents to work closely with their child’s doctor to identify asthma triggers that can exacerbate a child’s asthma during school. For example, classrooms may contain indoor allergens such as chalk dust, mold and dust mites, and recess time can result in breathing difficulties from exposure to outdoor allergens and changes in the weather.3 Upon identifying asthma triggers, parents should talk with their child’s doctor about appropriate ways to manage their condition.

“When my daughter Danielle heads back to school, she often experiences difficulty breathing in the classroom and on the playground,” said Julie Driggers of Omaha, Neb. “While a quick-relief inhaler helps bring her some relief during an asthma attack, I make it a point to set up an appointment with Danielle’s doctor before school starts to review her asthma treatment plan and discuss any changes or new options.”

In addition to a quick-relief inhaler, which treats wheezing and shortness of breath at the first sign of symptoms, children may require use of a long-term maintenance medication to help prevent or reduce the airway inflammation that can lead to asthma symptoms.

Tips For Managing Asthma Parents should consider additional ways to help manage their child’s asthma in the school

setting, such as: • Work with your child’s doctor to develop an asthma action plan that outlines the child’s asthma history and includes information about current medications.

• Provide school staff with the asthma action plan and emergency contact information.

• Talk to your child about what triggers asthma symptoms and make sure your child knows where his/her rescue inhaler for the treatment of sudden asthma symptoms is at all times.

• Learn the asthma policies and asthma emergency procedures in place at your child’s school.

• Find out how often and when a school nurse is on-site.

For more information, visit www.AsthmaSchoolTips.com.

Kick Back.

Enjoy.

STEAKHOUSE

Open: M-TH 4P - 10P Friday 4P - 11P / Sat. 12P - 11P Sun. 11A - 9P 5704 S. Broadway 509-8193 17

Steps Toward Stopping Domestic Violence illions of Americans avoid injury and M even premature death when more is done to curb domestic violence.

It’s a problem that occurs in all types of families and relationships regardless of race, sex, religion or economic status. It’s damaging whether it is emotional or physical and has devastating health effects. Drugs, alcohol, money or stressful situations often complicate the issue.

The advent of social media has allowed domestic violence to take on new forms, and with the benefit of these new technologies comes the risk of digital abuse, which can include unwanted, repeated calls or text messages, breaking into e-mail or social networking accounts, and being pressured to send private or embarrassing pictures or videos.

Domestic violence is not just a problem for adults. A survey by the Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence found that 40 percent of teenage girls were either victims or knew someone their age who had been abused.

According to the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence, 22 percent of women and 7 percent of men have experienced physical domestic violence at some point in their lives.

• Domestic violence causes an estimated 2 million injuries to women, 580,000 to men and 1,500 deaths annually.

• According to the Centers for Disease Control, the physical and mental health costs of domestic violence come to more than $4 billion annually-$5.8 billion when lost productivity is factored in.

• Annual health care costs for women who

were abused years ago are 19 percent higher than for other women, even after the abuse has ended.

It is important to know that something can be done to help prevent this tragedy if everyone takes domestic violence seriously. Anyone subjected to it should realize that he or she is not alone. There is support in the community.

Take action to keep yourself and your children safe. Find someone to help you with your feelings. Don’t be afraid to take legal action if necessary. Call a friend. Call the police.

You can also reach out to a number of organizations: Where To Get Help • National Domestic Violence Hotline; (800) 799-SAFE or (800) 799-7233; www.ndvh. org • Family Violence Prevention Fund: www. endabuse.org • National Women’s Health Information Center: www.4woman. gov/violence/types/dating.cfm • National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline: www. loveisrespect.org • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.choose respect.org • Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN): (800) 656-HOPE or (800) 6564673; www.rainn.org.

www.besafechild.com Our Previous 2 Years Editions are On-Line Now! 18

Alcohol & Energy Drinks: Bigger Than Ever

I

Source: The Coalition of Angelina County

n the past few years, there on the shelves with new logos So what does this mean for has been a lot of publicity and harder to read packaging those who drink them? Well, and raised awareness of alco- splashed with bright colors. in one drink they can ingest holic energy drinks. Popular Four Loko, one of the latroughly 12 cokes and 4 beers! brands like Sparks, Rock est in the line of alcoholic Deceptively advertised as Star and Tilt faced scrutiny energy drinks, has a bright energy cocktails, they offer for mixing extreme amounts camouflage can and comes in to give drinkers the energy to of caffeine with alcohol, a flavors like watermelon, fruit “go all night” without stating dangerous combination for punch, blue raspberry and the possible consequences anyone. Their tasty flavors, lemonade. It is also larger such as alcohol poisoning. misleading marketing, and in- than previous alcoholic enParents, always be aware of expensive prices make them a ergy drinks, what your kids are drinkperfect product for an under- coming in a 23.5 ounce can ing. Don’t be afraid to look age audience. James Mosher, with 12% alcohol content as more closely at each product, JD, of Pacific Institute for compared to the 16 ounce often times the words “alcoresearch and Evaluation said cans with 6-7% alcohol conholic beverage” are discreet “Alcohol producers are taktent. Other brands like Max and easy to miss. Be on the ing advantage of the popular- and Jungle Joose have also lookout for nutrition labels ity of nonalcoholic energy adopted these larger quan– alcoholic drinks will NOT drinks to sell their products to tity cans with higher alcohol have one. Be aware of the youth.” Parents, law enforce- content. health risks involved. Mixment offiing stimulants cials, politiand alcohol Can you tell which can of energy drink cians and can result in has alcohol in it? retailers were being “wide educated awake drunk” about these – a feeling new products of alertand learned ness while to look more intoxicated. closely at This can lead what kids people to enwere drinkgage in risky ing. behavior beUnfortunatecause they are ly a parent’s unaware of The beer industry is hoping that you can’t. job is never their intoxicaIf you guessed Sparks, Max, Four Loko, & Joose, you guessed simple. New right. But how are parents to be able to tell the difference when tion level. products are they are marketed to look just like a typical energy drink?

Passport to Summer Camp Discovery

Summer 2010 Day Camp Program Discovery Science Place, Tyler TX Week long courses June 7th – August 13th

Visit www.discoveryscienceplace.org for information. Or call (903) 533-8011 ext. 33.

Class sizes are limited. Register Today!

19

F

Allowances In Today’s Economy

or many families these are financially troubling times. There may be a cut back in income, loss of job, or even a foreclosure on the home. The situation should be carefully explained to your children, assuring them that they will be taken care of and will be safe. They may not get all they want, but that you will do all you can to provide their immediate needs and to improve the family’s income.

If you are able to provide an allowance in today’s economy it is an opportune time to teach them to be responsible and spend their money wisely. Teaching children the value of a dollar is not made easier when they have an exact allowance and know what it is to cover. Teaching children the value of our work ethic is a challenge, when they are allowed to earn extra money by doing extra chores it becomes easier. The key is the “extra” bit. Children, as they get older, should be given certain chores around the house. Cleaning their room, picking up toys, taking out trash are chores that should not be rewarded with dollars.

Teaching children the value in saving a portion of their allowance or earned chore income, on the other hand, may not be easy. It is not easy for

most parents, so how could it be easy to teach it?

When there is something the child wants and it could be acquired by the child saving within a few weeks becomes an opportunity to teach this lesson.

Teaching values about material things in our commercial Western world is another challenge. Actually teaching savings can help take the emphasis off the everyday instant gratification that our children can be imbedded with. If the child really wants a bike and you have decided that he must earn it, teach passing up the impulse purchases at the store by reminding him of the bike. Ask the student of yours what does he really want, the cheap toy now or saving for the purchase of the bike. If he chooses the instant gratification, remind him of that decision when he is short on cash to make the bike purchase. By not assisting him with the bike purchase and having to wait until the money is saved, he learns a lesson of what is important; the cheap toy now or a worthwhile bike later.

Good Luck! This is not an easy task for the parent or the child. We love our children and want them to be happy now. Teaching these principals, however, will give them a stronger financial basis for a secure future.

Helpful Toll-Free Numbers Dial 2-1-1 for Information & Referral Your link to health and community services.

■ Fast, Free, & Confidential ■ 24-hours/day, 7-days/week ■ All Languages ■ Dial 2-1-1 or 903-534-9977 Hablamos Español 2-1-1 East Texas is a collaborative partnership of the United Way of Tyler/Smith County and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

• Texas Poison Control 1-800-222-1222 • Texas Department of Family & Protective Services (DFPS) Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-5400 • Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Vision & Hearing Screening 1-800-252-8023 Ext. 6687 • Office of Attorney General Child Support: 1-800-252-8014 • Centers for Disease Control & Protection (1-800-CDC-INFO) 1-800-232-4636 • Texas Youth Hotline 1-800-210-2278

www.unitedwaytyler.org 20

• Runaway Hotline 1-800-580-4357

YOUTH SERVICES A DSHS funded Mental Health Program at ACCESS The ACCESS youth mental health program team includes psychiatrists, counselors, service coordinators, and trainers, all working together to help youth who have emotional, behavioral, or mental problems.

Eligibility Services Intake and screening Youth, ages 0-17

Crisis intervention Severe emotional, behavioral, or Psychiatric and medication services

mental disorders Counseling Serious difficulty in everyday Skills training

functioning Parenting skills Risk of removal from home Service coordination Fees Substance abuse counseling Charges for priority population are

based on ability to pay Insurance and Medicaid accepted

.. . . . .

.. .. .. ..

(903) 589-9000 5656 N. Jackson, Jacksonville MHMR Crisis Line 24-hour: 1-800-621-1693

Obesity: A Growing Problem

E

Source: Janette Maldonado-Johnson

very year about 300,000 deaths are reported due to Obesity. About 15% of teens are obese. What are the main causes of obesity? Unhealthy eating habits and not enough physical activity.

What is Obesity? Simply too much body fat. Obesity affects your health. It can increase your risk for: • Heart Disease • High Blood Pressure • Stroke • Type 2 Diabetes • Certain types of cancer Benefits of a Healthy Weight: • Feel Better • Feel More Attractive • Have More Energy • Be Healthier How can you reach a Healthy Weight?

• Focus on healthy eating and getting more

exercise.

• Balanced meals containing grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, beans, and dairy.

• Look at the label (nutrition facts) • DON’T Supersize it!

• Set goals that are: specific and reachable.

According to the National Institutes of Health and the Mayo Clinic Parents Can: • Buy and serve more fruits and vegetables than convenience foods.

• Limit soft drinks, sweetened beverages, and high-fat sugary snack foods. Offer water or low-fat milk and healthful snacks.

• Use cooking methods that are lower in fat, such as baking, broiling, and steaming, instead of frying.

21

• Serve smaller portions.

• Avoid using food as a reward or as a bribe. Percentage of Children & Adolescents • Do not allow children to skip breakfast.

Who Were Overweight in 1963-2002 Skipping it may lead to overeating later.

• Sit at the table to eat. Eating in front of a TV or a computer screen promotes consumption and lessens awareness of feeling full.

• Encourage physical activity, such as bike riding, playing ball, and jumping rope.

• Limit time spent on watching TV, using the computer, and playing video games.

• Plan active family outings, such as visiting the zoo, going swimming, or playing in the park.

• Assign active chores to your children.

• Set the example in healthful eating and exercise.

For more information look online: www.

Graphic provided by Centers For Disease Control presidentschallenge.org or www.cdc.gov/ nccdphp/dnpa/obesity .

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services The STAR/UCAP programs at ACCESS, FUNDED BY Department of Family and Protective Services, works to reduce family conflict, prevent truancy, prevent runaway, reduce delinquent behavior, and prevent child abuse. The program helps families resolve problems within the home.

Services are provided at no charge.

. . . . . . .

Eligibility Youth, ages 0-17 Runaway Homeless Truant At risk of abuse or neglect In conflict with family Involved in delinquent offenses, misdemeanors, or felonies

. . . . . . . .

Services Intake and screening Crisis intervention, 24 hours Family counseling Skills training Linking with resources Emergency shelter Bilingual services Prevention programs

Services To At Risk Children/Universal Child Abuse Prevention at ACCESS 804 Main Street, Jacksonville, Texas (903) 586-3175 STAR Crisis Line 24-hour: 1-800-621-1693, ask for STAR services Services for Universal Prevention of Child Abuse are open to all ages, are free, and have no eligibility requirement. Call (903) 586-3175 to inquire about free local classes for parents or youth.

CALL 1-800-252-5400 to report child abuse.

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Around-the-clock emergency care in Rusk & Jacksonville.

Any time of day or night, you’ll find care for a range of medical illnesses and injuries at the ETMC Rusk 24-Hour Emergency Center and the Level III trauma center at ETMC Jacksonville.

Emergency physicians equipped with advanced technology are always present to care for

emergencies both major and minor. With ambulance and Air 1 service, the ETMC Rusk 24-Hour Emergency Center and the Level III trauma center at ETMC Jacksonville offer a higher level of care and convenience for the people of Cherokee County.

ETMC Rusk 24-Hour Emergency Center 1325 N. Dickinson Drive • 903-683-3500

ETMC Jacksonville 501 S. Ragsdale St. • 903-541-5000

A not-for-profit organization committed to improving the quality of life in East Texas communities. | www.etmc.org

One with East Texas.