4-11 MWR Life

Month of the Military Child April is Month of the Military Child and we dedicate this issue to the wonderful children of Fort Campbell. This is our chance to celebrate the joy, pride, and resilience that these amazing children bring into our lives. For this issue, I wanted to take this opportunity to work closely with Child, Youth and School Services (CYSS) to get a better perspective of the services and programs that they offer. Turn to page 15 to learn more about all that’s new and exciting with CYSS. I also wanted to be able to feature the creativity and talent of some of our Military Children. Take a look through a child’s eyes in our first ever MWR Life, CYSS School Age Services (SAS) and Youth Services (YS) photo contest on pages 3 and 4. It’s amazing to look at an image from the perspective of a child. Next time you go out with your little ones, try to see things through their eyes. Pay attention to things that interest them and use that to initiate a conversation. I am continually surprised at the insightfulness of children and how they observe things that we don’t even see. Even though my daughter is only six months old, I still try to look at things from her perspective. What makes her smile and giggle?

What is scary enough, to make the bottom lip stick out and tremble with unshed tears? What must it be like to be so small and defenseless when the world around you seems so big? The emotions are right there, no hiding or deceit. It is a completely different type of communication and I learn something new from her every day. Whether you have an infant, grade schooler, or teen, there are always opportunities to change your perspective. Open your eyes to what they see and look at the world through the eyes of a child.

Melissa Wells, Editor mwrlifeeditor@fortcampbellmwr.com

Inside this issue

3 Child’s Perspective

The winners of the post-wide photography contest.

8 Growing Imagination Help your child learn the fun of gardening by starting a garden with them.

10 Little Hands...Big Helpers Fun and easy recipes for you and your children.

15 Growing with CYSS Explore the changes that are happening with Fort Campbell CYSS.

Editor

Advertising

Melissa Wells

David Loos Creative ink 931-206-4459 sales@creativeinktn.com

Contributors

Tara Goodson Amanda Hoover Felicia Jefferson Katherine Kolodzie Keri McPeak Sunny Smith

Publisher

Creative ink

Photography Deborah Young Tara Goodson Melissa Wells Dreamstime Nuttakit

18 Rivers & Spires Festival A fun filled weekend in April with music, crafts and activities for the whole Family.

cover

Creative Director Sears Hallett

*MWR Life is proud to feature Family Members of MWR employees on April’s cover.

Disclaimers: Fort Campbell’s MWR Life Magazine is a monthly magazine produced by the Fort Campbell MWR Marketing Department under the authority of AR 215-1. Facilities and activities publicized are open to authorized patrons.The mention or appearance of commercial advertisers, commercial sponsors and/or their logos does not constitute endorsement by the Federal Government. The information in this issue is current at the time of publication; activities and events are subject to change.

MWR Marketing is located at 5663 Screaming Eagle Blvd, Fort Campbell, Kentucky. For more information, call 270-798-7535 or log on to www.fortcampbellmwr.com.

24 hr. event line - 270-798-3172 • www.facebook.com/fortcampbellmwr

20 All in the Family MWR Life featured employees.

18 Family Child Care (FCC) 21 School Age Services 21 Autism Awareness Month

A Child’s Perspective MWR Life Month of the Military Child Photo Contest

By Tara Goodson This month, MWR Life partnered with Child, Youth and School Services (CYSS) School Age Services (SAS) and Youth Services (YS) to inspire our youngest citizens to show us what Fort Campbell means to them. We asked kids to submit a photo to be judged along with a brief description of what inspired them to take the photo. Twenty-nine wonderful photos were submitted and every single one was heartwarming; some bringing a smile and a laugh, and some even bringing tears to the eyes of the viewer. After speaking to several of the judges, the one consensus was that it was hard to narrow it down to a winner in each category.

What struck a chord with me was the pride that came through in each picture. All of our children are incredibly resilient and proud to have a Family member stationed here at Fort Campbell.

After viewing the photos and reading the children’s descriptions, I understood the judge’s opinions a little better. Sunny Smith, Lead Training Specialist, came to the same conclusion that I did. “When I saw the photos, the first thing I thought of was how much time we spend with the schoolagers/youth in our care and how much we don’t know about what goes through their minds. We play with them, help them make friends, help them with homework, but there is a part of them that we can’t reach-and that part is how much Fort Campbell means to them. Fort Campbell has become a part of them.”

When the staff was given the opportunity to participate, there was no hesitation on their part. Spencer Murdock, lead at the Billy C. Colwell Youth Tech Lab, said he let the kids know there was no right or wrong way

to take the pictures. “I was most impressed with their willingness to participate with enthusiasm and amazed at the pictures they took without a pre-conceived notion of patriotism.” Some of the children knew immediately what they wanted to take a photo of and a few pondered it a while before asking for the camera. With submissions that ranged from LEGO®s, to horses, to Family members, it was eye opening for both the children and the staff. Spencer asked the kids why they took the pictures that they took and was impressed by the responses that were given. Most associated fun times with their parent to Fort Campbell, and I think that shows how many great resources we have available and the way we use them.

The winner in the School Age Services category is Jonathon Sarazan.

“This picture represents what I think about Fort Campbell, The 101 Screaming Eagles Task Force. My dad is a pilot in the task force so that task force is what I think about Fort Campbell. That is why I took this picture.”

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Donna Davis, a Program Assistant at the Photo Club at Lucas Youth Services, was amazed at the composition and quality of photos submitted in the Youth Services category. She is very proud of each child’s entry and said it hit close to home for her as she is currently going through a deployment. The

children asked if they could go on a mini field trip to a couple of locations around post.

Pictures were taken at the Pratt Museum, the Gander Memorial, the elementary school and a few other locations. Whether the photo was of a building representing strength, or that of a solitary child, pride shines through in each and

every one. Some of the children asked Donna for guidance and her opinion of what they should photograph. Donna reiterated to them that the photo should capture what Fort Campbell means to them personally, and how they want their feelings portrayed. They took that idea and ran with it.

The winner in the Youth Services category is Tatianna Headen.

“Here is why I think this picture represents Fort Campbell. The reason why I think this picture represents Fort Campbell is because of the eagle and the people behind them. The reason for the eagle is because it is our symbol of our post The Flying Eagles. The reason for the children in the back is because of we are a part of the military. We are all Family; we have the same things in common. This is why I chose this picture to represent this topic.”

Honorable Mention in Youth Services: Carlos Antonio Hernandez Calo Michael McClain Ra’Geena Ruffin Jose Ignacio Davilla Sakari Nichols Honorable Mention in School Age Services: Jonathan Chachere Mekhi Bogerety Ta’Jon White www.fortcampbellmwr.com

This contest brought us twenty-nine entries, two winners, and eight honorable mentions, all of which allow me to reflect on how children view our day to day lives.

Just as Sunny said, we don’t know what goes through their minds on a day to day basis. I know I will be

using these photos as a discussion point at dinner and lending out my camera a little more often to my children. They say that our eyes are a window to the soul. These photographs give us a glimpse of what is seen through the eyes of these Fort Campbell children.

All photography contest entries can be viewed at www.fortcampbellmwr.com/photocontest.

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Planting a Child’s Garden

By Melissa Wells April 22 marks the 2011 annual Earth Day celebration. We often hear the phrase “go green,” but what does that really mean?

Should we recycle more, stop using plastic water bottles, use compact fluorescent light bulbs, buy local, drive a hybrid, and walk to work when possible? All great ideas that can certainly help the environment, but what do we really know about that environment. I think that one of the best and most relatable ways to be “green” is to become more familiar with what’s in your own back yard. This year celebrate the Month of the Military Child and Earth Day by introducing your child to soil; plant a garden.

I guess that I was really lucky that I grew up on a farm with a deep understanding about where food comes from and what it takes to get it to the table. Many children only know that vegetables come in pretty, pre-washed packages from the grocery store, and have no concept of what it takes to produce what’s on their plate. They don’t know that a fresh, home grown tomato explodes in your mouth with a tangy taste of sunshine, quite unlike the mushy reddish orbs served up straight from the hothouse that are readily available in grocery stores. Not only will children enjoy the different tastes and textures of fresh fruits and vegetables, but they can stretch their imagination by picking out their own plants, organizing a garden layout, and figuring out the best way to eat what they have grown. It is also a great way to get them outside and moving around. Additionally, this process is a wonderful way to educate children about seasonality and that historically; all foods were not available year-round. It will encouage them to want to eat seasonally, another environmentally conscious initiative.

There are many ideas to get your kids interested in gardening. For example, pick a theme for your garden. What’s

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their favorite food? My bet is pizza is somewhere on that list. Try planting a pizza garden. Include plants such as tomatoes, peppers, basil, oregano, garlic, and onions and discuss how you will make a pizza with the ingredients once they are harvested. Talk about an incentive to take care of the garden!

Children can also research other recipes for the fruits and veggies that they have planted as well as ways to preserve the extras. This is also a wonderful way to expand your child’s palate.

They are much more likely to try a new food if

they have grown and nurtured it themselves. Growing your own vegetables also reduces the need for packaging and transportation of that food.

Eating local is a great “green” initiative!

Even if the idea of vegetable gardening doesn’t appeal to you, you can still enjoy the outdoors and make children aware of their environment by planting a butterfly garden.

You will enjoy a variety of butterflies as well as other natural pollinators such as birds and honey bees. I like the idea of planting these gardens next to a window.

Not only can you look out to see butterflies of all shapes, sizes, and colors, but you can enjoy the wonderful scent of the flowers and herbs.

Planting herbs in your garden serves a dual purpose of attracting beneficial insects and providing wonderful flavors for your favorite meal.

A great resource for gardening information is R.F. Sink Library right here on post. Encourage your child to research books and magazines, look at pictures, and pick out what appeals to them. You might be amazed to find out that they choose the structure of a formal English garden, the wild nature of a cottage style garden, or a mixture of several different styles. Either way, children love to use their imaginations and create. With a garden, the possibilities are endless. They can design a garden for color, for a favorite food, for scent, or for wildlife. Encouraging a love of nature will only make them more aware of their environment and what they can do to preserve it for the future.

Have fun and learn more about the environment at the USAA and MWR Red, White, and Blue Goes Green Family Event, April 30, 12 - 4 p.m., Destiny Parks and Pavilions.

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Little Hands Big Helpers

By Tara Goodson

One of the easiest ways to connect with your children and to help them be happier and healthier begins at the dinner table. Start a bit earlier by having your little ones help you prepare dinner. I found this to be a sure-fire way for my girls to enjoy what we were eating. It also gets them excited about trying new things. Call it bribery or buy in, either way they aren't picky eaters and they enjoy helping out in the kitchen. It is a win-win! Now that they are old enough to use knives safely, they act as my sous chefs and cut up the Baked Chicken Fingers with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts 2 Tbsp vegetable or olive oil 1 cup bread crumbs 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese 1 tsp crumbled dried oregano 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp black pepper Honey mustard dipping sauce: 2 Tbsp honey 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard 2 Tbsp vegetable or olive oil Directions: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Spray a baking sheet with nonstick vegetable oil spray.

Cut each of the chicken breasts into 4 or 5 lengthwise "fingers." Place in a bowl. Add the oil and stir to coat everything evenly. In a bowl, stir together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt and pepper. Transfer to a plastic bag. Add the chicken strips, 3 or 4 at a time, and shake to coat with the crumb mixture.

Arrange on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining chicken strips and crumb mixture. Bake for 10 minutes, turn the strips over and continue to bake for another 5 to 10 minutes until nicely browned and cooked through. Meanwhile, make the dipping sauce. Blend the honey, Dijon mustard and oil in a food processor or blender until creamy.

vegetables or meat. Before I was comfortable letting them use a knife, I asked them to stir sauces and even measure the ingredients. I also asked them to set the table and clear their own plates after asking to be excused. Sitting down together to eat meals encourages conversation and allows your Family to bond. This is especially important for Families that are often in a state of flux due to deployment. While these kid friendly recipes focus on the entrée, just add a veggie and a salad and you have a great meal!

5-minute Tortilla Pizza Tortillas Cheese Sauce Optional: additional toppings The sky’s the limit! If you are using additional toppings make sure they are already cooked and don’t add too many or it could affect the quality of the pizza.

Directions: Lay a tortilla on a pizza pan, cookie sheet or baking stone. Spread a thin layer of sauce on tortilla. Add additional toppings if desired.

Remember; don’t add too much or it will weigh down your tortilla.

Sprinkle with cheese and put in the oven under the broiler until the cheese melts. This only takes a few minutes, so watch it carefully.

Remove from oven, let cool, slice and serve.

Kebabs 2 chicken breasts or 2 beef fillets 4 small red potatoes 3 zucchinis 3 ears of corn Olive oil Directions: Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Soak eight wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. Cut meat into cubes (about 1 inch).

Cut potatoes into halves, and the zucchinis and corn into 1 inch rounds. Place ingredients onto skewers in the following order: corn, potato, meat, zucchini. Brush kebabs with oil.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake until veggies are tender and meat is done.

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Child, Youth & School Services Child Development Centers (CDC) 1. **24 Hour Care (opening FY-12) 2. Bastogne (270) 412-4485 3. Eagle (270) 412-3303/3304 4. *Gardner Hills 5. Part Day Preschool (270) 412-6767 6. Polk (270) 412-4471 7. Tennessee (270) 412-4477 8. Waters #1 (270) 439-7993 9. Waters #2 (270) 439-7996 10. *CYSS Directorate (270) 798-6539 11. Family Child Care (FCC) (270) 798-4959 12. *Kids on Site (Estep) 11. Parent Central Services (CYSS Central Registration) (270) 798-0674 School Age Services (SAS) Centers (270) 798-4129 14. Billy C. Colwell Center (270) 412-2315 15. *Gardner Hills 16. *Werner Park #1 17. *Werner Park #2 11. School Liaison (270) 798-9874 18. SKIESUnlimited Center (270) 412-5455 Youth Activites 19. Teen Club 24/7 (270) 956-1033 19. Youth Center (Taylor) (270) 798-3643 19. Youth Sports (270) 798-6355 Community Services 20. Army Community Service (ACS) (270) 798-9322 20. Community Service Center (Lee) & ACS Director (270) 798-9322 21. Family Resource Center (FRC) (270) 956-2935 22. Financial Readiness (270) 798-5518 20. Lending Closet (270) 798-6313 23. Soldier & Family Assistance Center (SFAC) (270) 412-6000 24. Survivor Outreach Services (SOS) (270) 798-0277 Armed Services YMCA 25. Backdoor Boutique (270) 956-1566

26. Family Center & Co-op Daycare (270) 798-7422 Dining & Entertainment 27. 19th Hole (Cole Park) (270) 798-1822 28. Conference & Catering Center (Joe Swing) (270) 798-2175 27. Community Activities Center (Cole Park) (270) 798-4610 29. Dawg Haus (270) 798-0766 27. Southern Buffet (Cole Park) (270) 798-4610 30. Sportsman’s Lodge (931) 431-4140 Recreation & Leisure Aquatics 32. Baldanado Pool (270) 798-5207 33. Dolan Pool (270) 798-5350 31. Gardner Indoor Pool (270) 798-6310 34. Singles Pool (270) 798-4247 Outdoor Recreation 35. *Arcade & Gaming Center (The Zone) 36. BOSS Program (270) 798-7858 37. Bowling Center (Hooper) (270) 798-5887 27. Golf Club (Cole Park) (270) 798-4906 82. Challenge Course (270) 412-7855 39. Adventure Program (270) 412-7854 40. Archery Range (270) 798-2175 41. Dog Park, North (270) 798-2175 42. Dog Park, South (270) 798-2175 43. Hunting & Fishing (270) 798-2175 83. Paintball (270) 956-3118 38. Parks & Pavilions (270) 798-2175 45. Riding Stables (270) 798-2629 46. RV Park (Eagles Rest) (270) 798-2175 47. RV Park (Flechers Fork) (270) 798-2175 48. Skeet Range (270) 412-4015 49. Small Arms Recreational Range (270) 798-3001 36. Recreation Center (Dale Wayrynen) (270) 798-7391 Sports & Fitness 50. Estep Wellness Center (270) 798-4664/4023 51. Fryar Stadium, Sports Admin Office (270) 798-3094

Physical Fitness Facilities (PFF) 52. Fratellenico PFF (270) 798-9418 53. Freedom Fighter PFF (270) 798-7355 54. Gertsch PFF (270) 798-2753 55. Lozada PFF (270) 798-4306 56. Olive PFF (270) 798-4101 57. Softball Complex, North (270) 798-3320 58. Softball Complex, South (270) 798-3320 Trades & Services 59. Army Education (270) 798-5886 60. Arts & Crafts Center (Guenette) (270) 798-6693 61. Auto Service Center (Air Assault Auto) (270) 956-1101/1100 62. Auto Skills (North) (270) 798-5612 60. Engraving Etc. Specialty Store (270) 798-0171 63. Equipment Rental (Gear to Go) (270) 798-6806 64. Library (R.F. Sink) (270) 798-5729 65. Veterinary Services (270) 798-3614 Travel & Lodging 66. Army Lodging (Richardson) (931) 431-4496 67. Army Lodging (Turner) (270) 439-2229 68. Leisure Travel Services Office (270) 798-7436 Miscellaneous Services 69. 101st Airborne Division Headquarters (270) 798-9793 70. Blanchfield Army Hospital (270) 798-8055 71. Civilian Personnel Advisory Center (270) 798-7161 72. Commissary (270) 798-3663 73. Division Parade Field 74. Fisher House (270) 798-8330 75. Gate 4 Visitor Center & Vehical Registration (270) 798-5047 76. Gate 7 Visitor Center & Vehical Registration (270) 956-4495 77. In/Out Processing & MWR Public Relations (270) 798-7535 68. Main Post PX (270) 439-1841/1842 78. MWR Director (270) 798-9953 78. MWR Unit Funds & MWR Collections (270) 798-6818 80. Museum (Don F. Pratt) (270) 798-3215/4986 81. Wilson Theater (931) 431-3636 *Coming Soon

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GROWING WITH CYSS New Changes and Centers on Fort Campbell

By Melissa Wells 2010 was a historic year for Fort Campbell as it was the first time during Operation Enduring Freedom that nearly the entire division was deployed at the same time.

During that 12 month period, many changes have taken place across Fort Campbell, including over 251 million dollars in renovation, building and construction projects for the 2010 fiscal year. One agency in which many changes have taken place is Child, Youth & School Services (CYSS).

There is nothing more important than the health and well being of our children. Parents will be interested to know that many improvements have taken place throughout CYSS, including over 25 million dollars in renovations, improvements, and new construction. Additionally, they continue to provide the children of Fort Campbell with

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many exciting new programs.

This summer will bring about the opening of three brand new centers for school aged children. This program, School Age Services (SAS), looks after more than 475 children from kindergarten to 5th grade. The opening of these centers is a huge step for Fort Campbell. According to Sunny Smith, Lead Training Specialist, “this is very exciting because there were no SAS centers on Fort Campbell.

We were using the school gymnasiums and other facilities where available. It is also great because construction was actually completed ahead of schedule.” The centers allow a place for these children to receive before and after school care in a great environment dedicated to their specific needs. Find out more about these new centers on page 21.

Another new and exciting innovation

comes through CreativeCurriculum.net. This online service allows parents to have a hand in and be a part of their child’s care no matter where they are in the world. “Parents can log in with a secure password and view artwork, curriculum, and development forms,” says Smith. It is a great way for deployed parents to communicate and stay closely involved with their child’s care and education.

In addition to new SAS centers, the new Gardner Hills Child Development Center (CDC) was built and has opened. This center, located near the new housing area by Gate 10, is strategically located next to one of the new SAS centers as well as a brand new elementary school; a great bonus for parents picking up multiple children. The new CDC represents much needed space for Fort Campbell parents.

As anyone with a child on the waiting list will tell

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parents and children,” says Commander. Ms. Commander also pointed out that the deployment discounts for SKIESUnlimited continue for 90 days post deployment. More information about these discounts is available atwww.fortcampbellmwr.com or by calling Parent Central Services at (270) 798-0674. For more information about SKIESUnlimited, please call (270) 412-5455.

Teens and youth have experienced an upgrade as Taylor Youth Center (TYC) has been completely redone with all new furnishings. The Teen Club has also moved into this facility.

Teens can look forward to game rooms, a computer lab, a gym, and activities such as billiards, pool, video games, and table games.

This group also hosts many activities, camps, and excursions throughout the year. you, there is a desperate need for more availability of care. This new facility will add an additional 232 spaces for children up to age five; however, it will take time for all of these spaces to be made available. Even though the new center has opened, renovations are taking place at two other CDCs and those children will be transferred out to the new facility during the renovation period. Currently, Center 2 is closed and it is estimated that the renovations will take six months. The renovations will be mainly internal with a major reworking of the heating and air conditioning systems. After Center 2 reopens, Center 1 will then close for renovation, following the same procedure.

If you are looking for care in a more homelike setting, Family Child Care (FCC) is another option for patrons seeking quality child care. This is a home-based child care program that is associated with CYSS. Fort Campbell has

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seven providers that are accredited with the National Association of Family Child Care Providers. It is also an excellent opportunity for Military Spouses to run a home-based business while contributing to the Fort Campbell community. Read more about FCC care on page 18.

Renovations are also taking place at SKIESUnlimited.

“This renovation will allow the addition of more classrooms and fix the heating and air conditioning,” says Paige Commander, Director of SKIES. “We will also be raising the ceiling in the gymnastics room which will hopefully allow us to add some new classes.”

Don’t worry parents; your child does not have to miss out on any of the great SKIES classes during this renovation. Classes will be held at Taylor Youth Center (TYC) until the renovation is complete. In addition to the full slate of wonderful activities, children can also look forward to some new offerings from SKIESUnlimited. Some of the new classes include Russian language, boys-only gymnastics which includes tumbling and trampoline, tennis – taught at Austin Peay State University by the college coach, and how to be a model (ages 10 and older).

Another great activity is open gym, Mondays at 11 a.m. “It is great for

Youth ages 11 – 18 who are registered with CYSS can participate in the EDGE! (Experience, Develop, Grow, and Excel) program. This innovative series offers new learning activities each month. Best of all, it is free! Classes have been offered in paintball, bowling, skateboard construction, weight lifting, cooking, guitar, challenge course, and more. New activities/classes are offered every month.

For more information, call (270) 798-3643, or visit www.fortcampbellmwr.com.

New programs, services, and facilities are constantly being updated as Child, Youth and School Services continues to provide outstanding care to the children of Fort Campbell. Way to grow CYSS!

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By Amanda Hoover Clarksville’s award winning Rivers & Spires festival is right around the corner.

Starting April 14, this free, three day festival brings people from across the country together to downtown Clarksville to enjoy spectacular entertainment, unique arts and crafts, shopping, fun and games for children, and tons of food!

The first Rivers & Spires festival started as a tribute to celebrate the return of Soldiers in the 101st Airborne Division. Eight blocks of Historic Clarksville will be jam-packed with all sorts of Family-fun activities and areas to visit like the Children’s Parade, Quilts of the Cumberland, the River Queen Pageant, an international area, and an environment

awareness-Green Zone, just to name a few.

The heart and soul of Rivers & Spires has to be the music. With five different stages, and genres from country, to rock, to international, there is guaranteed to be a band that you will enjoy. The featured headliner of this year’s festival is CMA and Grammy award winner, Clint Black. He will take the main stage Saturday, April 16, 9 p.m. Don’t miss Fort Campbell’s own Rendezvous Groove on the Third and Main stage Friday, April 15, 7p.m.

All concerts during the festival are FREE! If you have children, check out the Kidz Zone!

Two different areas are designated just for children.

Filled with inflatables, carnival games, and other interactive entertainment, this is a perfect place to keep children happy and entertained. Older children will enjoy the Teen Zone where young adults can gather to play games and watch talent shows.

These two zones will be open on Friday, April 15 from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Saturday April 16

from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. Mascot Mania will also be located in the Kidz Zone! This event allows children to meet and interact with their favorite mascots including our own Buddy and P’Nut! Join them for singing, games, and more!

For more information on the 2011 Rivers & Spires Festival, visit the official website at www.riversandspires.com. Join the new Text Club by texting SPIRES to

Rivers and Spires (68255) to stay informed on all new updates and announcements about the festival. With all that this festival has to offer, you and your Family will have a blast! Come join us to celebrate the fun, excitement, and tradition of Rivers & Spires.

Family Child Care

There’s No Place Like Home

By Melissa Wells As a parent, one of the most important decisions that we can make is finding quality childcare. It was especially difficult for me when the time came to find care for my daughter. As a military Spouse and an MWR employee, my first choice was an on-post Child Development Center; however, due to the extensive waitlist, that wasn’t an option. I also searched off-post centers, but never really found a place where I felt completely comfortable. That is when I began to try to find out more information about Family Child Care (FCC) and found a wonderful place for Olivia.

Family Child Care is a home-based alternative to child care centers run through Child, Youth and School Services (CYSS).

Tammy Lewis, FCC Program Manager states “It [Family Child Care] gives patrons an opportunity to place their child in a Family-like setting similar to a home environment. They [parents] also have the consistency of one caregiver with their child all day long, allowing parents to communicate

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more closely about their child’s growth and development.”

Kandis Sullivan, FCC provider states that FCC homes “offer a homey atmosphere and one-on-one care, especially for the young ones…when they just need a hug. Some kids don’t adjust well to big environments and need a little extra time.”

There are great opportunities for those who wish to work from home as a Family Child Care provider. Free training is provided to those interested in the program as well as a chance to further their education and earn Child Development Associate Credentials. In addition to the educational opportunities and the chance to work with children, the FCC program sets them up with everything that they need. “We have a lending library with resources to assist them in running a quality program so that they are not out the cost of starting their own busi-

ness,” says Lewis. More information about becoming a provider is readily available at a monthly “On the Road to Becoming an FCC Provider” briefing as well as online at www.ArmyFCC.com. For more information call (270) 798-4959 When asked her favorite part about being a childcare provider, Mrs. Sullivan states, “The kids…when you bring a smile to their face or help them learn something new.”

What a great feeling for caregivers, parents, and children. Consider FCC for your childcare needs.

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All in the Family Child, Youth and School Services (CYSS) Employees Reflect upon Growing up within the Program

By Katherine Kolodzie As adults, each of us might hold snippets of memory from our youngest years in daycare or preschool. Some of the people who work with our children in CYSS grew up within the programs themselves. In some cases, they even work side-by-side with people who have known them since childhood.

Today, children learn while they play.

This style of learning and teaching is called “creative curriculum.” Each classroom features different play areas, with a caregiver to guide and supervise. Classrooms may have a dramatic play area, a housekeeping area, a block play area, art area, water play area, and room to be active and run about.

they want to do.”

“I like working with children,” Mary continued. “I used to work with kids as an MA (Medical Assistant) on the pediatrics floor of a hospital for 14 years. When we moved here, I decided to switch to daycare. The kids keep you active. I play with them, interact with them, keep them busy and take care of them. I make sure they stay safe.”

Jerri Chester works with infants and pre-toddlers at Bastogne Child Development Center. She grew up at Fort Campbell. Her children participate in CYSS, and her mother is CYSS’s Outreach Services Director.

deployed, there was an outlet geared towards the things I needed as a child. They understood what I was going through.”

Rebecca Adams works at CDC 2 as a CYPA in the preschool room. She enjoys trying to help children understand things outside of themselves and makes learning fun for them.

Rebecca remembers being in preschool and attending CYSS programs. “I thought it was the coolest thing in the world. It was a good experience. That was my first experience with being in a school, and I was excited to be there. I remember stories from my mom. I had a certain routine that I followed at the center and at home.

I remember a lot of the women who were there from the time I was 6 weeks old until I was in 1st grade.”

Roslynn Wortham Poindexter from CDC 2 has been at Fort Campbell since 1995. She’s a CYPA with pre-toddlers and toddlers.

“We have a lot of fun all day.

We work on gross motor skills.

I read a lot of books to them, sing a lot of songs. We help them to develop into little people,” Roslynn shared.

From 8th through 12th grade, Roslynn worked as a volunteer with Margaret Lilly, who became her friend and mentor.

Miss Margaret was a positive influence in Rosslyn’s decision to work with CYSS. Roslynn recalled, “As a child in CYSS, I was in the Eagles program at Taylor Youth Center in the 6th From left to right: Roslynn Wortham, Jerri Chester, Rebecca Adams, and Mary Mean grade. It’s funny because some of the people that I work with Mary Means is a Child and Youth “I’ve been in the military all my life, as now, worked at the center with me as a child.

Services Program Assistant (CYPA) with infants a child, teenager and adult,” Jerri shared. It’s crazy, and they’ll be like ‘Oh, you’re so and toddlers at CDC 2. She was 8 -10 years old “I volunteered in the program when I was old grown up!’” when she participated in the CDC and Youth enough and I worked with the Teen Club with Center in the mid - 1970s. Her Family was Miss Margaret and Miss Pearl. They are still Each of these women shares their stationed at Fort Jackson, SC, and then later at there at the Teen Club! They are the reason why enthusiasm and love of helping our children a small Baltimore, MD depot base.

I’m in CYSS. I saw the impact they had on me learn and grow. Their passion for childcare is a Of her childhood in CYSS, Mary said, and the community.” beautiful thing, and we are lucky to have their “they didn’t have all the dramatic play areas, or Jerri liked how CYSS employees could continued service to our Fort Campbell Families. the creative curriculum. I like the creative relate to her. “They understand what military curriculum that we use now. It gives kids a Families are going through because they are chance to make their own choices as to what Spouses themselves. Even when my parent was

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Autism Awareness Month

By Felicia Jefferson & Keri McPeak

Activities and Events to Raise Awareness

At Fort Campbell, the Army Community Service (ACS) Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) celebrates Autism Awareness Month in April. The staff hosts a variety of annual events in recognition of Autism Spectrum Disorder to include an art display, informational tables, a cake cutting, and the “Walk for Autism.”

Students in grades K-12 on the Autism Spectrum can submit their art work to EFMP which will be continuously displayed throughout the month of April at the Robert F. Sink, Montgomery County, and Christian County libraries. Artwork will also be displayed at the annual National Disability Awareness Month Exhibit and Luncheon in October.

To bring additional awareness to the Fort Campbell community, a cake cutting ceremony is scheduled for April 4 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Post Exchange (PX). EFMP staff will be available to answer questions and provide

a variety of information in reference to Autism Spectrum Disorders. In addition to the other activities, EFMP is also conducting a "Walk for Autism” on April 23 from 9 a.m. until 12 noon at Fryar Stadium. Last year there were over 400 participants! Finally, there will be a Family celebration on April 30.

EFMP also conducts monthly support group meetings throughout the year. These topics periodically address Autism Spectrum Disorder issues. A distribution list is used to keep Families informed of the monthly support group schedule and upcoming topics. Parents are also encouraged to contact the ACS Exceptional Family Member Program office to let them know of any topics they would like to see addressed at monthly support group meetings.

The staff at EFMP strives to raise awareness about mandatory enroll-

ment for Soldiers that have Exceptional Family Members. Enrollment ensures that the needs of the Family member are taken into consideration during the reassignment process. Soldiers must update their enrollment every three years. The EFMP team looks forward to serving Soldiers and Family members with special needs and hopes to make their experience at Fort Campbell both pleasant and rewarding. For more information about EFMP or any of the Autism Awareness Month events, please visit www.fortcampbellmwr.com/acs/efmp/index.html or call (270) 798-2727.

A Place of Their Own School Age Services Opens Three New Centers School Age Services (SAS) is proud to announce the construction of three brand new buildings! Until now, the children in SAS have only known gyms and cafeterias set up with folding tables and chairs. They haven't had their own walls on which to hang artwork.

What they are looking forward to is their own place, a place for themselves and their friends.

People might drive by these new buildings and just see another new construction project, but the children who go to SAS and the staff who work for Child, Youth and School Services (CYSS) SAS see something totally different; a place of their own.

When asked how it makes them feel, the children had this to say.

“We will have more rooms to go into, more things“ ~JR and Brandon Armstrong, Colwell SAS

“I think it’s great. Right now we don't have a lot to work with. In our building, we will have our own gym, a big art room - just big rooms! I love SAS a lot. When my dad is gone, it gives me a place to go so I can make friends and be with my friends.” ~ Katarina Rosas, 10 years old, Marshall SAS

“We will have a bigger place to go…with computer labs and gyms.” ~Cade Andrasco and Jalen Pinkney, Colwell SAS

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For over 10 years, the SAS staff has diligently and without complaint set up in gyms and cafeterias and have provided accredited, safe, and

By Sunny Smith

exciting out of school programs for children. This summer, though the quality of care remains, the space will change.

“We will have a sense of ownership, a place to call our own. We have always had a borrowed space. This will be our space,” says Greta Schwerma, SAS staff. Donna Davis has worked in SAS for over 10 years.

Her thought is, “Progress, we’ve always wanted it and needed it. The kids need it. We won't have to worry about being put out, being in someone else's space.

It's our own, the children deserve it, and we deserve it.”

The next chapter for SAS starts very soon.

The sod is down, the fences are going up, and the keys will be handed over. Chris Campbell, SAS Director says, “To me, it represents five years of hard work. The vision we had is coming alive.

I think of the sacrifice the staff and children have made…this is OURS. No one deserves it more than the children and staff who call Fort Campbell SAS home.”

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