Tampa Baby Baby by GoodLiving® Magazines

WELCOME TO

GOODLIVING’S TAMPA BAY BABY

A Resource Guide for Prenatal to PreK The journey from birth to five is full of important developmental milestones that prepare a child for the rest of his or her life. Tampa Bay Baby by GoodLiving® Media is our gift to parents filled with wishes for happy days and healthy children. Inside these pages, find encouragement, expert information and local resources, all here just for you. We invite you to share the online version with your friends, which is found at TampaBayBaby.net.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION TO OUR MAJOR SPONSORS WHO MADE THIS ISSUE OF TAMPA BAY BABY POSSIBLE: It is because of their partnership and support that we are able to provide both this print publication and the digital issue FREE OF CHARGE to parents in the Tampa Bay area.

ADVENT HEALTH DR. MAGGIE DAVIS, PEDIATRIC DENTIST FLORIDA KIDCARE GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM JOHNS HOPKINS ALL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL STATE REPRESENTATIVE CHRIS LATVALA, DISTRICT 67 PEDIATRIC HEALTH CARE ALLIANCE, P.A. SEAL SWIM SCHOOL STAYWELL/WELLCARE TOTA MUSIC AND THEATER CONSERVATORY

tampa bay

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About the Publication

Tampa Bay Baby is a print and digital resource guide published by GoodLiving® Media, an independent woman-owned company founded in 2010. The company’s mission is to produce publications, events and campaigns that support and encourage a healthy, positive and meaningful lifestyle. GoodLiving® has produced high quality gloss magazine for families, along with events, a social media presence, speaking engagements, advocacy and charitable efforts. In 2017, Tampa Bay Baby was added as a new title to be an informative resource guide for parents who have children ages 0 - 5. These are the most critical developmental years, and our community deserved a publication dedicated to this important, but magical time of life. Information for all this can be found at GoodLivingMagazine.com.

TAMPA BAY BABY ISSUE 2 printed July 2019

A publication of GoodLiving® Media EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Pamela Settle ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Marcie Kelliher ACCOUNT MANAGER Jennifer Harvey For information about Advertising, Writing Submissions, or Obtaining Additional Copies: TBBaby@goodlivingmag.com GoodLiving® Media PO Box 1795 Oldsmar, FL 34677 Tampa Bay Baby is published by GoodLiving® Media, owned by Light Shine Media Group, LLC. This is a free publication available through our sponsors and at locations throughout the community. It is also available as a digital magazine online at TampaBayBaby.net. All photographs, artwork, design, and editorial are sole property of GoodLiving® Media and Light Shine Media Group, LLC. No portion of this magazine in print or in digital form may be reproduced in any form without written permission. GoodLiving® is a registered trademark owned by Light Shine Media Group, LLC.

About the Cover The front cover photo was taken on the balcony at Glazer Children’s museum in Tampa by photographer Brandi Morris of Brandi Image Photography. BrandiImage.com We’d like to thank our adorable child models who came out with moms Teresa J., Jessica L., Angie C., Tara T. and Katie G. to be on our cover. They hail from St. Petersburg, Palm Harbor, Tampa, Brandon and Dade City, making this group a true representation of Tampa Bay!

Tampa Bay Baby and Light Shine Media Group, LLC, are not responsible for statements made by advertisers, guest writers or content sponsors for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. Readers should verify the advertising information of the advertisers. Tampa Bay Baby and Light Shine Media Group, LLC reserve the right to refuse any advertising for any reason. The views expressed by advertisers, guest writers and content sponsors are not necessarily those of the publisher, or other sponsors or advertisers. All rights reserved.

Letter from the Editor Welcome to Another Special Issue of Tampa Bay Baby! Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Pamela Settle, and I am a small business owner, communications professional, family advocate and mother. I’ve devoted my entire career to communicating life-changing and life-saving information to the public. Since 2010, as the owner of GoodLiving® Media, I have continued my commitment to good information, good news and good living. My philosophy has always been that the “why” is more important than the “what.” So yes, this is a magazine. Here is the why: We invite you to enjoy these sections of Tampa Bay Baby PREPARING FOR BABY pgs. 8-17 KNOW WHO IS HERE TO HELP LIVING WITH BABY pgs. 18-37 KEEP THEM SAFE & HEALTHY THRIVING BY FIVE pgs. 42-64 GET KIDS READY TO LEARN

The developmental years between birth and five are the most critical ones for any child. Neuroscientists have documented that the earliest days, weeks and months of life are a period of unparalleled growth when trillions of brain cell connections are made. During this time, all relationships and experiences come together to impact brain development that sets the course for life. Every moment from birth forward counts, even when you don’t notice it. Stable, safe, reliable and consistent relationships with parents and caregivers are vital to the development of social, emotional and thinking skills that lead to success in life and school. This means we need to provide babies with healthy parents, a healthy home life, healthy relationships, healthy schools, healthy environments and a healthy community. We must seek this in order for our babies to reach their fullest potential. What this looks like is different from family to family. However, I believe that what connects us as parents, no matter our life’s journey, is that we all want what is best for our children. Tampa Bay Baby is meant to be an encouragement, as well as a link for parents to connect to resources and to other parents. We live within the greater metropolitan Tampa/St. Petersburg area, either in the big cities, or in one of the smaller cities. With that comes a wealth of resources for you in this chapter of your life, if not in your immediate area, somewhere within driving distance. Tampa Bay Baby has a goal of connecting you to the resources you need. I personally encourage you to connect with the organizations, networks and companies that are featured in this publication. Also, follow Tampa Bay Baby on Facebook and Instagram for updates throughout the year. Finding support, friendship, assistance and quality expertise will make this journey more fulfilling. Don’t go it alone. These years of birth to five are the most important developmentally, but they are also magical, joyful and full of fun! And they only come once. From our Tampa Bay Baby to your Tampa Bay babies, we wish you all the best!

PAMELA SETTLE Publisher

Preparing for Baby KNOW WHO’S HERE TO HELP

Parent-Community Connections Truth! The old African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” means as much today in Florida as it did when it was ﬁrst said in another time and in another culture. While parents maintain sole responsibility to parent, teach, discipline, mentor and nurture, it’s not necessary to go it completely alone. The Tampa Bay area is rich with expertise to help families grow and thrive! There are agencies and programs staffed with caring, wonderful professionals and volunteers who can come along side and help you be the best parent you can be. Take a moment and learn about the structure that is in place to help you.

PREGNANCY CENTERS Pregnancy Centers are most often non-proﬁt organizations in place to help a woman who needs assistance and counseling. Not everyone who learns of a pregnancy is in an ideal place in life, and for some it can be frightening and full of uncertainties. Others may need help in obtaining prenatal care, parenting training, baby supplies and moral support. See our list of pregnancy centers on the next page.

HEALTH DEPARTMENTS Your county’s health department has numerous programs to encourage the health and well being of your children. Research your county’s website to learn of their exact programs that can include free or low-cost clinics, assistance with obtaining immunizations, help to quit smoking, breastfeeding assistance and the management of WIC, the program that helps mothers access healthy food items.

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HEALTHY START COALITIONS

RECREATION AND COMMUNITY CENTERS

This a nationwide network of agencies whose sole job is to give babies a healthy start in life by supporting the parents. Each county has its own coalition that links parents to resources and has numerous supporting programs. See pages 12-15 to learn about local coalitions.

Each city has community centers and/ or recreation centers, but they vary from city to city depending on funding and population. These centers offer a wide range of programs, classes and recreation activities for babies and young children. Keep in mind that you are able access programs in other cities, so look around on the other websites. Cities also fund parks for running, playing, climbing, sliding and getting that free play kids so desperately need. City parks are free, although some may charge for parking.

211 Each county also has a referral agency that is reached by dialing 211 on a phone. These agencies exist to be the link between citizens and the various local programs in place to help with emergencies pertaining to housing, hunger, domestic abuse, mental health, counseling and more.

LIBRARIES

Libraries are wonderful, magical and happy places for young families. Each city creates EARLY LEARNING its own program calendar, so look around COALITIONS at what other libraries have and visit them Each county has an Early Learning Coalition all! There will be read aloud events, crafts, (ELC) to support young children as they social time and even magicians and puppet approach the age for preschool. Contact your shows. Connect with your local libraries local ELC for information on how to locate and get on their email mailing lists to stay quality early learning care for your child. informed. You deﬁnitely want to make the Also inquire about any funding assistance local library a regular stop! and access to Voluntary Pre-K or VPK.

SAFE KIDS COALITIONS This source of information has local chapters housed at children’s hospitals to educate the community on all issues pertaining to safety. Learn more online at SafeKids.org.

HOSPITALS You’ll ﬁnd that many hospitals have support groups, classes and training for expecting and new parents. When researching hospitals, be sure to ask what they have available. Baycare Health Systems regularly sponsors a wide array of classes at their facilities. See pages 9-10 for a sample of what they offer.

PLACES OF WORSHIP

Places of worship are also places of welcome when it comes to finding family support, classes and friendships. Many offer a Moms’ Morning Out program where you can get a few hours to do some shopping, get a massage or take a nap. Each house of worship will be a bit different, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Call the office to find out what is available for your age child and ask to be introduced to someone if you are nervous going alone. Ask around to friends in your area for a referral.

Pregnancy Centers

KNOW WHO’S HERE TO HELP

PREPARING FOR BABY

A Woman’s Place Tampa • Tarpon Springs • Pinellas Park Bay Area Pregnancy Centers Clearwater • St. Petersburg Foundations of Life Pregnancy Center St. Petersburg • Tampa • Spring Hill LifeCare of Brandon Brandon Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers Tampa • Land O’Lakes Choices Women’s Center Ruskin Kimberly Home Clearwater Next Stepp Life Center St. Petersburg Upper Pinellas Support Pregnancy Center Tarpon Springs West Pasco Pregnancy Center Port Richey

Breastfeeding Support

The Tampa Bay Breastfeeding Task Force has a mission to support, promote, and protect breastfeeding in Tampa Bay. Their volunteer board of directors support and lead activities like the Big Latch On, Breastfeeding Friendly Daycare Trainings, the Annual Breastfeeding Conference, milk depot sponsorship for the local Florida Milk Bank, distribution of informational materials, and advocacy efforts in conjunction with the Florida Breastfeeding Coalition. tbbreastfeeding.org. La Leche League is an international organization dedicated to providing support, encouragement, information and education to women who want to breastfeed. Leaders are experienced, accredited and trained to offer free telephone/ email counseling. La Leche League offers breastfeeding support and information through monthly meetings, phone & email help, lending libraries, books for sale, blogs and more. To ﬁnd a local group near you, visit lllflorida.com Women Infants and Children (WIC) offers moms prenatal breastfeeding classes, hands-off latch help, pumps (depending on the situation), and most importantly, support and encouragement to give moms motivation to reach their nursing goals. Pump Rentals St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital (813) 872-3932 Lactation Help Lines St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital (813) 872-3932

BayCare Maternity Classes BIRTH CENTER TOURS Visiting our birth suites, mom-baby unit and other key areas will familiarize you with our facility and help you prepare to give birth. • Mease Countryside Hospital, Safety Harbor • Morton Plant Hospital, Clearwater • St. Joseph’s Hospital - North, Lutz • St. Joseph’s Hospital - South, Riverview • St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital, Tampa • Winter Haven Women’s Hospital, Winter Haven

CHILDBIRTH, BREASTFEEDING & NEWBORN CARE BASIC PREPARED CHILDBIRTH (1/2 DAY) Covers the third trimester, labor, breathing, relaxation, birthing and postpartum concerns. BREASTFEEDING CLASS Covers breastfeeding basics, skin-to-skin contact, tips for returning to work and when to call a health care provider/lactation consultant. BREASTFEEDING AND NEWBORN CARE This class will cover several aspects of newborn care such as breastfeeding, bathing, diapering and safety risks. CESAREAN BIRTH CLASS For moms having scheduled C-sections. Covers preadmission, day of surgery, the OR, pain management, breastfeeding and newborn care. CHILDBIRTH REFRESHER This class empowers expectant mothers to become informed, active participants in the childbirth process. LABOR & BIRTHING POSITIONS Designed and taught by labor nurses to enhance the ease and rapidity of your labor and birth experience. NEWBORN CARE Covers various aspects of safe infant care including feeding, diapering, bathing and signs of illness, as well as cues and communication. PREPARED CHILDBIRTH In-depth coverage of the third trimester, labor, breathing, relaxation, birthing and postpartum concerns. Available in two, three or four sessions. PREPARED CHILDBIRTH (EXPRESS) Helps expectant mothers become active participants in childbirth. Covers breathing, coping, comfort, medications and postpartum adjustment. YOUR HOSPITAL STAY/POSTPARTUM ISSUES Learn about your hospital stay, including visitation and safety. Being a new mom and emotional changes (the “baby blues”) will also be discussed. 9

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(Baycare Classes continued....)

SPECIALTY CLASSES BOOT CAMP FOR NEW DADS A certified facilitator teaches new dads how to bond with and care for baby, survive the first weeks, support mom and more. CARING FOR MULTIPLES Covers newborn care for parents expecting more than one baby. Topics include crying/comforting, diapering, bathing, feeding and sleeping. CAR SEAT INSPECTIONS A certified CPS technician teaches you how to correctly install and use your car seat. GRANDPARENTING CLASS Includes a discussion of the changes in hospital care over the past few decades and the latest recommendations in newborn and infant care. HAVE A HEALTHY PREGNANCY Learn how to have a healthy pregnancy including proper nutrition, safety concerns, the highlights of each trimester and when to contact your doctor. INFANT & CHILD CPR Learn to perform lifesaving CPR and choking rescue methods on infants and children based on American Heart Association guidelines. SAFE BABY EXPRESS Covers CPR, infant/child/adult CPR (non-certifying), car seat safety, SIDS, childproofing and Shaken Baby Syndrome. SIBLING CLASS Addresses the joys and challenges of being an older sibling. Age-appropriate information and activities help children prepare. Classes available for 3 year olds, 4-5 year olds and 6-10 year olds. WATERBIRTH CLASS Examine current trends, contraindications and the psychological and physiological benefits of warm water immersion labor and birth.

SUPPORT GROUPS BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT Breastfeeding mothers receive support from other mothers and our certiﬁed breastfeeding consultants. LIFE AFTER CHILDBIRTH Handling the emotional ups and downs, breastfeeding challenges and more. Open to postpartum women who delivered up to one year ago. SUPPORTING MOTHERHOOD AND MORE Whether you are a ﬁrst-time mom or adding to your family, this is for women who are adjusting to new roles and undergoing emotional changes. Locations and pricing may vary.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER VISIT BayCareEvents.org 10 • tampa bay

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KNOW WHO’S HERE TO HELP

PREPARING FOR BABY

Moms Helping Moms Tampa Bay is full of heart. Just ask the organizations that are Alpha House out there helping moms. They know ﬁrst hand that other moms Alpha House is an organization in St Petersburg that assists are usually the ﬁrst to respond to a call for help. moms in crisis with a pregnancy. They need volunteers to help with fundraising, event planning, donation collection and Nobody understands or cares about babies more than the sorting, and huggers and rockers for babies when mom is in community of moms. a group session. They accept maternity and ladies clothes, Our community has numerous charities and grassroots baby clothing, toys and accessories, and baby food, formula groups that support moms. Many of those organizations need and diapers. Donations are accepted at 701 5th Ave N., St. donations of items that parents need for their children. They Petersburg. Alphahousepinellas.org take gently used baby items and clothing as well as new food, diapers and wipes to use either in the direct work with families Clothes to Kids This organization accepts new and gently used clothing and shoes or to be sold low cost in thrift stores. If it weren’t for moms for school-aged children. Families come to their two locations to being so generous with their donations, these organizations obtain free clothing for their children. Drop clothing at their stores would suffer. Individual acts of kindness all year long or hold a clothing drive for your school, church or neighborhood. support domestic violence shelters, pregnancy centers, foster Hold a drive at your church or collect within your circle of friends. children programs and assistance programs. Here are a few Support them and learn more at ClothestoKids.org. organizations that are helping local families.

Babycycle

The Seventh Mom Project

Torrie Jasuwan of St. Petersburg was looking for a way to pass along baby items she no longer needed and didn’t ﬁnd what she was looking for. So like so many other problem solving moms, she took it on herself to create a solution, and Babycycle was born.

Co-founded by Elizabeth Good and Rebecca Hartley-Woods, this organization helps moms struggling with pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders and depression. They raise awareness, assist in educating health and social service professionals, operate peer to peer support groups, and maintain a resource guide. To get or give help, go to TheSeventhMomProject.org.

Her efforts are making a huge difference. Babycycle now has a warehouse and drop off locations in the St. Petersburg area to collect donated diapers, wipes and other baby items. Torrie urges all moms to get involved somehow in helping others, whether its holding a diaper drive for Babycycle or volunteering at a school. They also accept cash donations at their website BabycycleFL.org.

The Cloth Option

M.O.M. Giving a helping hand to single moms who earn too much to qualify for benefits is what motivated Andrea Clark, a single mother of four children. She says she knows first hand that single working moms work hard, but still struggle to make ends meet living paycheck to paycheck. Her organization seeks to make a difference in the lives of single moms, and dads, by helping them find resources and programs to help them reach their goals of self sufficiency. Donate or get involved at MomIncFL.org.

Chelsea Jackson is a local mom and the local Tampa Bay advocate for The Cloth Option (TCO), a national non-profit cloth diaper bank that connects moms who have diapers to donate with moms who are in need. The cost of diapers is a serious Parenting Groups concern for many families, and many people may not realize that Some of the longest lasting friendships start when babies meet public assistance programs do not help with the cost of diapers. at a parenting group. They can be hard to find, so ask around. There are families who must choose between diapers and other Here’s a few to consider: necessities. If help is needed, visit theclothoption.org/apply. • For parents who have twins, triplets or more, the Mothers of Caregivers can apply for assistance online or submit a paper Multiples Club has social and educational events. TBAMoms.com application directly to a local advocate. The program has • The MOMS Club® or Moms Offering Moms Support is an no income or citizenship requirements and is free for those established support system with several local chapters in the approved. TCO always needs donations of cloth diapers. To metro Tampa area. Volunteer Coordinators are experienced reach Chelsea, email her at Chelsea.FL@theclothoption.org. MOMS Club Moms who are there to help and available to call for advice, ideas and help. Meeting during the day to support Kimberly Home at-home mothers, they believe that being a mother doesn’t For 30 years, the Kimberly Home in Clearwater has been mean being isolated at home. Moms meet together with helping women and their children. Volunteers and donations children supervised by caregivers. are constantly needed to meet the ongoing need. Among the • Jack and Jill of America, Tampa Chapter, is a membership many services they provide are pregnancy and ultrasound organization of mothers with children ages two to 19, testing, counseling/mentoring, infant and toddler daycare and dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders by providing material items to new moms. They also opened a strengthening children through leadership development, daycare center that will care for babies from eight weeks to volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty. The three years. While babies are getting good care, the moms will Tampa Chapter has an Oh So Hot Tiny Tots Grade Group for be helped with education and job training. kimberlyhome.org ages two to five. greatertampajackandjill.org. 11

EVERY BABY DESERVES A

HEALTHY START

BEDS 4 BABIES The Healthy Start Coalition and its partners want to make sure each newborn baby has his or her own safe bed to sleep in for naps and nighttime. They provide free Pack n Plays for Pinellas County families, plus a set of ﬁtted sheets and safe sleep tips to protect your baby from suffocation– every night, every nap, and every time. If any mother needs help acquiring a proper bed for her baby, she is urged to contact the Healthy Start Coalition. Several different government and outreach programs in the county may be able to provide a proper bed. There are eligibility requirements, but if your baby is going without, it’s better to call and ask for help. The Healthy Start Coalition of Pinellas helps pregnant moms and their new babies! This non-proﬁt, community-based organization has evolved during its two and half decades of service, but one thing hasn’t changed -- the staff and volunteers continue to be some of the nicest, most caring people you’ll ever meet. They want only the best for you and your baby! Their programs are designed to support healthy pregnancies, babies and families, and their services are provided at no cost to the families. Some programs come to you, to help you prepare your home or adjust to the new baby.

Call/ text 727-512-3740 info@healthystartpinellas.org BABIES SHOULD ALWAYS SLEEP ALONE. ALWAYS ON THEIR BACKS. ONLY IN AN EMPTY CRIB OR PACK N’ PLAY.

Getting involved is easy. At the beginning of your pregnancy, your doctor or midwife will ask you to ﬁll out the Healthy Start prenatal screening form. Based on your needs, you will be referred to one of their many programs. ABOUT THE PICTURE: Real People Dedicated to Healthy Babies! Healthy Start Coalition of Pinellas Staff Photo at their Annual Meeting.

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WANT TO GET INVOLVED? Would you like to make a donation to Healthy Start or become a coalition member to help us accomplish our mission? Contact us at (727) 507-6330, ext. 229.

GET THE

Pinellas County

Connect

COMMUNITY RESOURCE & SERVICES GUIDE Every year, the Healthy Start Coalition publishes an updated resource guide ﬁlled with organizations in the county helping families. Download it for free at HealthyStartPinellas.org or by scanning the QR Code above.

RESOURCE CATEGORIES INCLUDE: Car Seat Safety Check Locations Childbirth/Parenting Classes/Doula Services Child Care Counseling Services Dental Services Domestic Violence Drug/Alcohol Addictions Food Assistance Health Centers/WIC Ofﬁces Housing - Shelters Legal Services & Assistance Maternity & Infant Clothing/Supplies Nutrition and Breastfeeding Resources Parenting Education Special Needs Child Care/Medically

NEIGHBORHOOD FAMILY SERVICE CENTERS In the guide, you’ll ﬁnd these Neighborhood Family Service Centers that provide parenting support and promote a healthy and safe community in which families can thrive to their greatest potential. • Union Academy NFC | 401 E.MLK Jr. Dr. in Tarpon Springs • Mattie Williams NFC | 1003 Dr. ML King St. N. in Safety Harbor • Hispanic Outreach | 612 Franklin St. in Clearwater • Dr. Martin Luther King Family Center | 900 N. MLK Jr. Ave. in Clearwater • High Point NFC | 5812 150th Ave. N. in Clearwater • Family Center on Deafness | 12445 62nd St. Suite 303 in Largo • Greater Ridgecrest Area Youth Initiative | 13420 Adams Circle in Largo • Lealman/Asian NFC | 4255 56th Ave. N. in St. Petersburg • Sanderlin NFC | 2335 22nd Ave. S. in St. Petersburg Like us on Facebook and Instagram to learn of our events and others in the community.

CONNECTING PINELLAS FAMILIES TO COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Whether you are expecting your first child, adding another member to your family or already have a baby, we can help you choose a parenting program perfect for your family!

There’s a program for every family needing guidance or having questions at this very exciting time. Soon-to-be and new parents in Pinellas County have many options for home visiting programs. Each program has its unique beneﬁts for moms, dads and other family members involved in the care of the newborn. Program visitors can meet with you and your family in your home or location of your choice. All programs have trained staff offering ﬂexible options and a variety of support and services. All programs can help with: • • • • • • • • • • •

Support during pregnancy Parenting and parent-child interaction Breastfeeding education and support Depression screening and referrals Counseling and nursing services Child development screening and referrals Mom self-care and reproductive health Fathers’ Services Well-woman care and family planning Well-baby care Connections to community resources for family needs

In addition, each home visiting program in Pinellas County has unique features such as parenting activities, a medical focus, working with families working through substance involvement and assisting high-risk populations. Each program has eligibility requirements, but our Family Partners can walk you through each program and assist you in making the right choice. For you, your baby and your family! CALL US TODAY FOR DETAILS AND TO FIND THE BEST FIT FOR YOU! (727) 507-4260

Connect is a community service of the Healthy Start Coalition of Pinellas, Inc. 4000 Gateway Centre Boulevard • Suite 200 Pinellas Park, Florida 33782

PREPARING FOR BABY

SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES IN

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY HEALTHY START CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN The Healthy Start Coalition of Hillsborough County has been providing a variety of programs to improve the health and well-being of pregnant women, children and families in Hillsborough County since 1991. Programs serving Hillsborough County families include: HEALTHY START Available to pregnant women and women with infants under one to improve birth outcomes and mother and child well being.

Programs available at various locations throughout Hillsborough County. Visit cfctb.org for information regarding locations and times for speciﬁc services, or call (813) 673-4646. ABC PROGRAM A Breastfeeding and Childbirth Program offering comprehensive prenatal education services to prepare families for childbirth and their new role as parents. Services include childbirth education, newborn care, breastfeeding basics and Baby Café.

HEALTHY FAMILIES Available to pregnant women and women with infants under three months old. Offers parent support, child development monitoring and education.

BABY BUNGALOW An early childhood resource center offering parent-child developmental play groups, parent workshops and ongoing child developmental screenings at multiple locations across Hillsborough County.

SAFE BABY PLUS Available for families with infants under age one. Offers developmental screening online and by mail and critical information on how to keep infants from leading preventable causes of infant death.

FAMILY LEARNING CENTER Gold Seal developmental childcare center offering individualized care to children and parenting classes and support groups to mothers who are receiving services for substance use.

CHILDREN’S BOARD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTERS Six locations in the county offering programs and services emphasizing child development, health and safety; available at no cost to members. The Centers are designed to help families and communities become happier, healthier and stronger in a refreshing home-like environment where caring staff and members offer support, opportunities and new friendships.

FATHERHOOD SERVICES (FRANC) Offers fathers and fathers-to-be Boot Camp for New Dads, Who’s the Man?!, fatherchild developmental play groups and Nurturing Dads Program.

MOMCARE Offers information to expectant moms related to insurance and prenatal providers. NURSE FAMILY PARTNERSHIP Offers a variety of prenatal and parent support services to new moms who are expecting their ﬁrst baby. WOMEN AND INFANT SPECIALISTS AT WIC Highly trained and experienced staff are housed onsite to bring a multitude of education and services to the thousands of clients who visit WIC sites every month.

For more information, visit healtystartcoalition.org or call (813) 233-2800.

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KIDS ON THE BLOCK Educational puppets teach third graders to recognize child abuse and use the “NO, GO & TELL” safety rule to get help from responsible adults. Fourth graders learn to recognize and report bullying and to have empathy and respect for others. KOTB is provided to more than 25,000 students in Hillsborough County annually. LAYLA’S HOUSE A parent-child resource center in the heart of Sulphur Springs that offers engaging educational programs, resources and activities to enhance positive early childhood development and provide support from pregnancy through kindergarten entry. PARENTS AS TEACHERS Certiﬁed Parent Educators provide in-home parent education and family support from pregnancy through a child’s transition into kindergarten. Parents learn about each stage of development so they can enhance their child’s language development, intellectual growth, social development and motor skills. POSITIVE PARENTING PARTNERSHIP (P3) Positive Parenting Partnership’s evidence passed Trip P parent education services are open to any parent or caregiver who would like to establish a better relationship with their child, teach their child something new, or “unteach” problematic behaviors. It gives parents the skills to build strong family relationships.

KNOW WHO’S HERE TO HELP

PREPARING FOR BABY

SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES IN

PASCO COUNTY The Healthy Start Coalition of Pasco incorporated in 1992 and received its first funding in 1994. The Coalition is a non-profit, community-based partnership of consumers, business and community advocates addressing maternal and child health issues in Pasco County. The Healthy Start Coalition provides administration, community education, and support of the Healthy Start Program and Coordinated Intake and Referral (CI&R). This year, the Healthy Start Coalition of Pasco is celebrating its 25 years of helping pregnant moms and their new babies! Healthy Start is a free, voluntary statewide program that is aimed at preventing premature birth, low birth weight and infant mortality. Healthy Start cares for women, and for children up to three years of age. Healthy Start seeks to reduce infant mortality and low birth weight babies. Each year many babies die in the U.S. before their first birthday. The U.S. has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the industrialized world.

SAFE SLEEP EDUCATION SESSIONS The goal of the Safe Sleep education sessions is to provide new parents and caregivers with the latest guidelines regarding safe sleep practices, and how to keep a safe sleep environment. Our target audience are pregnant women, women with infants and their caregivers. An educational presentation is shared along with a pack n’ play and a tote bag with a swaddle to continue to promote safe sleep practices. The Healthy Start Coalition can provide a pack n’ play if your infant is not sleeping in a safe place.

HELP OTHERS THROUGH HEALTHY START Helping new babies is easy by donating new diapers, wipes, baby clothes, onesies, car seats and pack n’ plays. Call our ofﬁce for more information on how to donate.

HEALTHY START CAN HELP YOU WITH: Healthy Start offers support, education and services to pregnant mothers, families and children, by assisting with answers to general health questions, giving referrals to various community- based programs, immunizations, child birth and parenting classes, and offering information about housing, clothing, and nutrition. Healthy Start Program includes targeted support services that address identiﬁed risks. The range of Healthy Start services available to pregnant women, infants and children up to age three include (but are not limited to): • Home visiting • Information and referral • Comprehensive assessment of service needs in light of family and community resources • Ongoing care coordination and support to assure access to needed services • Nutritional and smoking cessation counseling • Childbirth, breastfeeding and parenting support and education • Women’s Health Education • Conﬁdential Psychosocial Counseling for Non-Medicaid participants • Family planning education • Other community resources

ABOUT THE PICTURE We are here caring for moms, babies and their families! Healthy Start Coalition staff and Healthy Start program staff at a monthly meeting. WANT TO GET INVOLVED? Help us give babies a healthy start! Visit us online or contact us at (727) 841-7888 to become a sponsor or a Coalition member.

Like us on Facebook to keep track of community events! 15

PREPARING FOR BABY

The Benefits of a Postpartum Doula Traditionally, women have been taken care of by other women in their community or family after giving birth. Some cultures have a period of several weeks where a new mother is expected to do nothing but rest and recuperate with her new baby. During this time, her mother, sister, cousins, aunts and other women in the community tend to her and the family’s needs. Today, many women do not have this support available and this is where a postpartum doula can be extremely valuable. The idea of having a labor/birth doula support you during labor and birth is very popular.

WHAT IS A POSTPARTUM DOULA? WHAT DOES A POSTPARTUM DOULA DO? A postpartum doula is a trained, professional support person that can assist you after your baby is born. Her duties may include: •providing newborn care expertise •answering questions on any topic (diapering, bathing, feeding) •physically supporting you while you recover •breastfeeding counseling •preparing food •light housekeeping •taking care of other children •organizing your household •overnight newborn care •sleep consulting •emotional support, and more! Pregnancy and birth take a toll on your body and you need time to rest and recover. If you delivered via cesarean, you are also recovering from surgery. On top of this, you are getting to know and learning how to take care of your beautiful new baby. This phase can be overwhelming. You will be ﬁlled with love and joy, but also very, very tired.

We would love to talk to you about how our team can help you to have a peaceful postpartum experience! Contact us today to set up a consultation.

Picture this; you arrive home from the hospital after just giving birth to your sweet baby. You’re tired, hungry and your baby is fussing to breastfeed. You and your partner scramble to eat something fast while sleepily trying to get the baby to latch. Now imagine this same scenario - but this time you arrive home to meet your postpartum doula. She prepares a healthy meal for you and your partner and helps you ﬁnesse baby’s latch. She makes a warm cup of tea for you to drink while nursing your little one. When you are ready, you hand baby over to your doula for a diaper change and soothing while you head off to the peace and comfort of your own bed for a much needed nap. Sound like a fantasy? It’s not!

WHO HIRES A POSTPARTUM DOULA? Here are just a few examples: •First-time parents •New parents without a local network of family or friends •New parents who have a demanding career •Families with an older child or children at home •Families with a baby in the NICU •Parents of multiples We know that you want the best for your baby and your family. We are here to help you get settled in and recover so you can give them the best of you! Rest easy knowing that our doulas are here to nurture you and your family in the postpartum days. 16 • tampa bay

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CHRISTIE COLLBRAN and AMY LEWIS Owners, Doulas Buddha Belly Birth Services (727) 489-4750 buddhabellybirth.com hello@buddhabellybirth.com

KNOW WHO’S HERE TO HELP

PREPARING FOR BABY

CHOOSING A PEDIATRICIAN: WHAT SHOULD I ASK? by KARALEE KULEK-LUZEY, M.D. Medical Director Pediatric Health Care Alliance, P.A.

Congratulations! A new baby on the way is an exciting time, and there are so many decisions and choices to make, including selecting a pediatrician.

Parents-to-be are invited to schedule a complimentary prenatal visit at any of our ofﬁces, where you can meet our staff and pediatricians, tour the ofﬁce, and ask any questions you may have about care for your new baby. Learn more at pedialliance.com/expecting

HILLSBOROUGH Apollo Beach Office • (813) 493-1779 116 Harbor Village Ln., Apollo Beach Big Bend Office • (813) 672-3497 10729 Queens Town Dr., Riverview Brandon Community Office • (813) 685-4553 811 S. Parsons Ave., Brandon Citrus Park Office • (813) 968-2710 6550 Gunn Hwy., Tampa FishHawk Office • (813) 571-6800 5621 Skytop Dr., Lithia North Carrollwood Office • (813) 968-6610 3638 Madaca Ln., Tampa Northside Office • (813) 971-6700 4446 E Fletcher Ave., Suite A, Tampa South Tampa Office • (813) 872-8491 3222 W. Azeele St., Tampa

PASCO Lutz Office • (813) 948-6133 1942 Highland Oaks Blvd., Suite B, Lutz Suncoast Office • (813) 475-7100 1850 Crossings Blvd., Unit 100, Odessa Trinity Office • (813) 731-0944 1812 Health Care Dr., Trinity Wesley Chapel Office • (813) 973-0333 5259 Village Market, Wesley Chapel

PINELLAS Crossroads Ofﬁce • (727) 381-1147 6671 13th Ave N, Suite 1-D, St. Petersburg Walsingham Ofﬁce • (727) 391-0158 12951 Walsingham Rd., Largo

Parents-to-be should consider selecting a pediatrician toward the beginning of your third trimester. This is an important decision and you will want to allow yourself time to meet with the pediatricians in your area, see their ofﬁces, and have peace of mind with your choice well in advance of your baby’s arrival. Below are some sample questions you can ask at a prenatal visit and interview.

After Baby Arrives • What are your hospital affiliations? • How soon after the baby is born will he or she be examined? • When is my first visit in the office with my new baby? • How often are visits needed?

About the Office • How can the pediatrician be reached? • What are the ofﬁce hours? • Are there early morning, evening, or weekend hours for working parents? • How long does it take to get a routine appointment? • How long is a typical visit? • Is there always time for questions? • Who covers for the pediatrician if he or she is not available? • Are all visits with a pediatrician, or are some visits with a nurse practitioner?

About the Pediatrician • How long have you been in practice? • Why did you decide to become a pediatrician?

Urgent Needs and Illness • When my child is sick, can I get an appointment the same day? • Is it policy to have “telephone” hours or can we call with questions anytime? • How are after-hours calls handled? • Is there a pediatrician on-call 24 hours a day?

Caring for Your Baby Discuss your prospective pediatrician’s views on breastfeeding and infant nutrition, circumcision, immunizations, sleep, use of medications and antibiotics, and any other specific health concerns you may have. THERE ARE OTHER ASPECTS TO CONSIDER, WHICH YOU CAN OBSERVE OR ASK ABOUT DURING YOUR VISIT: • Do they accept my insurance plan? • Is the office staff warm and friendly? • Are there separate well and sick waiting rooms? • Is the equipment modern? • Are hallways and rooms clean? • Is the office child-friendly, with cheerful examination rooms? • Do you feel safe going to the office? • Is there adequate parking? 17

LIVING WITH BABY

Create a Safe Home Environment For Your Child Once babies learn to crawl, exploring their surroundings isn’t far behind. While there is no substitute for active supervision, using injury-prevention techniques and products can provide an extra layer of protection and added peace of mind. As the primary provider for children’s health needs in this area, St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital knows ﬁrsthand how devastating injuries can be, as well as how easily they can be prevented with some simple safety measures. “The best approach to making your home a safe environment for curious crawlers and toddlers is to list potential dangers in each room, then take steps to eliminate them,” says Michelle Sterling, St. Joseph’s Children’s Wellness and Safety Specialist and Safe Kids Tampa Coordinator.

BEDROOM

KITCHEN

Potential threats in the bedroom include strangulation, suffocation, choking and falls. To eliminate these risks:

In the kitchen, potential risks include burns, cuts from sharp utensils, poisoning from common household chemicals and choking hazards. To help eliminate these dangers: • Cook on back burners and turn handles away from the front of the stove. • Use burner and stove child-safety locks. • Place hot foods and liquids at the center of the table. • Lock all medicines and toxic substances away on high shelves. • Keep the ﬁre extinguisher handy and in good working order.

BATHROOM Hazards in the bathroom include drowning, scalds, falls and poisoning. To avoid these injuries, be sure to: • Set hot water thermostat no hotter than 120°F. • Lock medicines and cleaning supplies away on high shelves. • Never leave young children unattended in the bathtub, even for a moment. “Small children can drown in an inch of water and within a few moments,” said Sterling. “Once bath time is over, immediately drain the tub. Also, keep toilet lids closed, use toilet seat locks and be sure to keep the bathroom door closed.”

• Remove cords from window blinds and drapery. • Make sure all crib-railing slats are secure and no more than 23⁄8 inches apart to avoid accidental strangulation. • Remove all toys and stuffed animals from crib.

AROUND THE HOUSE Since toddlers are still developing mobility and coordination, falls pose a significant risk. Be sure to: • Secure TVs and top-heavy furniture to the wall with anchor straps. • Tie up loose electrical cords and cover unused plugs. • Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairways. • Install door and cabinet locks. • Cushion sharp furniture edges. • Keep matches, gasoline, lighters and all other flammable materials locked away and out of reach. • Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home. Sterling adds that in any room of the house, toys can become dangerous if misused or if they fall into the hands of children who are too young to play with them. “Toys with small removable parts, which could pose a choking hazard to young children, are a definite no-no for toddlers.

ST. JOSEPH’S CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL’S SAFETY STORE features low-cost injuryprevention products, including safety gates, cabinet locks, ﬁre extinguishers, smoke alarms and window blind cord wraps. The store is staffed by trained Wellness and Safety Specialists who help families determine their safety needs and select appropriate products. The specialists also provide free education on how to use and maintain the safety products, including demonstrations on how to install a child passenger seat and the correct way to wear a bike helmet. The Safety Store is located on the third ﬂoor of St. Joseph’s Hospital’s Medical Arts Building and can be reached at (813) 554-8510.

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KEEP THEM SAFE & HEALTHY

LIVING WITH BABY

HEATSTROKE PREVENTION On average, every 10 days a child dies from heatstroke in a vehicle in the United States. In more than half of these deaths, the caregiver forgot the child was in the car. In Florida, a vehicle left in 90°F weather for 10 minutes can heat up to 109°F, which, according to Sterling, can be a lethal environment for a small child, especially a baby or toddler who is harnessed into a seat belt or can’t move yet.

DID YOU KNOW? You can sign up for car seat inspections, infant and child CPR classes, Safe Baby Express classes and more at BayCareEvents.org.

CAR SEAT SAFETY Child safety seats, when correctly installed and used, are extremely effective in saving children’s lives, reducing the risk of death by as much as 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers. Unfortunately, research indicates that 73% of child safety seats are used incorrectly, and previous studies have shown that ﬁgure to be as high as 93% in Hillsborough County. AVOID THESE COMMON CAR SEAT MISTAKES: Mistake #1: Using a defective car seat. Don’t buy a used seat; you don’t know its history. And never use seats that are missing a label or instructions, have cracks or missing parts, have been recalled, or were in a crash. Mistake #2: Using a forward-facing car seat too soon. For the best protection, keep your baby in a rear-facing car seat until they are atleast two years old. Kids who ride in rear-facing seats have the best protection for the head, neck and spine. When they are older than two AND have outgrown the rearfacing seat (refer to exact height and weight limit on the side or back of car seat), move them to a forward-facing car seat. Older children should be in a booster seat until they are at least 57 inches tall. Until age 13, all children should sit in the backseat. Mistake #3: Installing the car seat incorrectly. Make sure the car seat is tighly anchored and not in the path of an airbag. Mistake #4: Securing the harness straps incorrectly. They should always be snug and straight. For rear-facing car seats, use the two lower slots, and strap the harness at or slightly below the shoulders. For forward-facing seats, use the top slot and strap at or slightly above the shoulders. Mistake #5: Positioning the chest clip incorrectly. Snap the chest clip at armpit level for rear-facing car seats and at mid-chest or armpit level for forward-facing seats.

To keep your precious cargo safe: • Never, ever leave your child alone in the car, even for a minute. • Check the back seat every time you exit your vehicle. • Place a large or brightly colored stuffed animal in your child’s car seat when not in use. Then, when you buckle in your child, move the animal to the front seat to remind you that baby is on board. • Install a smartphone app that knows when you’ve ﬁnished driving and reminds you to check for children in the back seat. • Put something in the back seat that you can’t leave without, like your purse or briefcase, your phone, or even your shoe.

WATER SAFETY It’s something most parents think could never happen to their family, but every year in the United States nearly 1,000 children drown. For every child who drowns, four more are hospitalized for near-drowning. In Florida, drowning rates for children under age five are more than double the national average and higher than any other state. COMMON HAZARDS THAT CAN LEAD TO DROWNING AND TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID THEM: Hazard #1: Weak or No Supervision • Actively supervise while children are playing in or near water. • Never leave young children unattended in bathtubs. • Never rely on a personal flotation device (arm band swimmies, water wings, rafts, etc.) to protect a child. • Keep rescue equipment and a telephone poolside. Hazard #2: No Barriers • Never leave a child alone when in or near a body of water– even if it’s less than a few inches. • For pool owners, install four-sided isolation fencing at least five feet high. Make sure it is equipped with self-closing, self-latching gates. Fencing should completely surround swimming pools and prevent direct access from a house or yard. • Door alarms, pool alarms and pool covers, when used correctly, can add an extra level of protection. • Hot tubs should be covered and locked when not in use. Hazard #3: No CPR Skills Performing CPR on drowning victims immediately, before paramedics arrive, may prevent brain damage and be the difference between life and death. Hazard #4: Weak or No Swimming Ability Enroll children in swim lessons taught by qualified instructors. Afterwards, do not assume your child is ‘drown-proof.’ He or she still needs constant supervision in the water.

The question child passenger safety experts at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital hear most is, “Which car seat is the best?” According to Sterling, the answer isn’t a specific brand or model, but rather the one that fits the child, fits the vehicle and is used correctly every time. 19

Swim Safer Little Seals TIPS FOR STARTING YOUR BABY ON A LIFELONG JOURNEY OF LOVING THE WATER

and Being Safer In It. by MICHA SEAL Owner, CEO Seal Swim School Lutz, Riverview, South Tampa, Wesley Chapel

As expecting and new parents, we are very aware about the importance of car seats and that back is best when putting a baby to sleep. But far too often water safety is overlooked. Drowning is the #1 cause of accidental death in children ages one to four. Enough children in Florida drown each year before their 5th birthday to ﬁll three or four preschool classrooms. The good news is that drowning is preventable.

CPR & First Aid Everyone in the household and anyone who is likely to supervise your child(ren) should know CPR with rescue breaths. When performed correctly, CPR can save a child’s life by restoring blood ﬂow to the heart, brain and other organs, and restoring breathing until help arrives. It is important in many emergencies including accidents, drowning, suffocation and more. Check the Red Cross and local hospitals for CPR classes near you.

Barriers Every pool should have a fence that is a least four feet high, is non-climbable, has self-closing/self-latching gates and surrounds the pool on all four sides– especially the side that separates the house from the pool. Additional levels of protection include: • Door and window alarms • Pool alarm • Approved safety pool cover

At Seal Swim School, we use the concept of the Ring of Safety to educate children and parents about being safer in and around In Florida, it’s the law to have at least one safety feature in the water. Using all pieces of the Ring together provides the best place so be sure to learn about Florida State’s Residential level of protection and signiﬁcantly reduces the risk of drowning. Swimming Pool Safety Act.

Active Supervision Eighty-eight percent of children drown in the presence of an adult and 23% happen during family gatherings near a pool. And did you know that when drowning occurs toddlers don’t yell or splash, they sink fast? That is why we teach to identify a “water watcher” every time you are around the water with children. The water watcher is a designated adult that is actively watching the children in and around the pool.

Learn to Swim

Water Babies There’s no need to wait until your baby has her 1st birthday to start swimming lessons! Water Babies classes are a great way for mom and baby to bond, spend time with other parents and babies and build your child’s love for and confidence around water. Plus, it has been proven that children who swim demonstrate more advanced cognitive and physical abilities than other children. A study by the Griffith Institute for Education Research revealed that children under five who took formal swim lessons were anywhere from six to 15 months ahead of the normal population when it came to cognitive skills, problem solving in mathematics, counting, language and following instructions!

Formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% in children ages one to four. A child is never too young to learn. Look for swim lessons that integrate safety, survival, and swim skills. Your child should learn skills such as how to turn and get to the wall if she falls in, and to ﬂoat on her back in VISIT US ONLINE AT addition to treading and stroke.

sealswimschool.com

SWIM SMARTER. SWIM SAFER. SWIM SEAL.

ON CALL for ALL KIDS IF YOUR CHILD DOES ACCIDENTLY GET INTO A MEDICATION

CALL POISON CONTROL

1-800-222-1222

GIVING YOUR CHILD THE CORRECT MEDICINE DOSAGE Whether it’s a teaspoon or a tablespoon once a day or several times a day, giving your child the right dose of medication is important to his or her health and safety, but it can sometimes be tricky. Rachel Dawkins, M.D., from Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, helps parents sort out the right way to give the right dose. Always read the medication label and follow the dosing instructions DR. RACHEL DAWKINS for your child’s age and weight. Make sure to ask your child’s doctor how much to give, how often to give and for how long. Ask the pharmacist how the medication should be stored. Read instructions carefully. Some medications will say, “Don’t use under a certain age.” Follow this instruction and consult your pediatrician. Be sure to give the recommended dose. Don’t give half doses or “a little extra”—even if you think the child is not as sick or more sick than usual. Dosages are based on what is safe and effective for a child based on weight, not on the severity of the illness. Too little medicine can be ineffective and too much can be harmful.

Don’t give medications that contain the same active ingredients. Be careful that you aren’t giving medication with the same ingredient—for instance Tylenol and acetaminophen are the same. Some cough and cold medications also will contain acetaminophen, so it is important to read labels. Never give medicine intended for adults or medicine prescribed for someone else to your child. Even if two children have similar illnesses, they might need a different drug with different dosages and directions. Do not give aspirin or aspirin-containing products to your child. Never give aspirin to kids, especially during viral illnesses. This can cause Reye syndrome—a potentially life-threatening illness. This is confusing to families because aspirin is labeled “baby aspirin” but baby aspirin should only be taken by adults. Don’t use cough or cold medicines in kids under four. Cough and cold medication are of little beneﬁt to young kids and can have serious side effects. If your child has a cold or is congested, try saline nose drops, a humidiﬁer or a steamy shower to help relieve the symptoms.

Keep medications stored up and away from your child’s reach/sight. Another don’t I’ll add is don’t call Don’t use kitchen spoons to measure medication. medication “candy” so your child will take it. Kids may think it’s Measure doses correctly. Use a dropper, measuring cup or a treat and take it when they are not supposed to, which can syringe that came with the medicine. Never use household lead to accidental overdose. spoons or measuring cups.

On Call for All Kids is a weekly series featuring the medical experts from Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. Visit HopkinsAllChildrens.org/Newsroom each Monday for the latest report. 21

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www.SleepBabySafely.com 23

PINELLAS LEADERS COME TOGETHER TO PROMOTE

Safe Sleep Practices for Babies In Pinellas County, a group of committed partners formed the Preventable Child Death Planning Team and adopted a common vision: To eliminate the preventable deaths of children under age six from three leading causes – suffocation due to unsafe sleep, drowning and inflicted head trauma.

continued to die from suffocation while sleeping, the group turned to the data for answers and created a more targeted campaign, called Sleep Baby Safely. Driven by local data, Sleep Baby Safely uses direct language, consistent messaging and coordinated materials to deliver safe sleep education across all touchpoints.

Led by the Juvenile Welfare Board, the Planning Team meets regularly to further the work of the regional Prevent Needless Deaths campaign. But when babies

In its ﬁrst year, campaign partners worked to reduce the number of infant sleep-related suffocation deaths by 50%, and the Pinellas County Commission proclaimed 2019 as Sleep Baby Safely Year!

The Juvenile Welfare Board would like to acknowledge and thank the many agencies listed below for their commitment to preventing needless deaths and for giving all babies the chance to celebrate their first birthdays. Bayfront Hospital/ Bayfront Baby Place • CASA • Children’s Home Network/Kinship • Clearwater Police Department Community Health Centers of Pinellas • Directions for Living • District Six Medical Examiner’s Ofﬁce Dunedin Fire Department • Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County • East Lake Fire Rescue Eckerd Connects Community Alternatives • Florida Department of Children & Families Florida Department of Health in Pinellas: Healthy Families Pinellas; Florida Healthy Babies; Nurse-Family Partnership; Women, Infant, and Children (WIC); Pinellas County Child Care Licensing Board; and Vital Statistics Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg • Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services Healthy Start Coalition of Pinellas • Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital & Suncoast Safe Kids Coalition Largo Police Department • Lealman Fire District • Lutheran Services Florida • Mease Countryside Hospital Morton Plant Hospital • Operation PAR • Personal Enrichment through Mental Health Services (PEMHS) Pinellas County Government • Pinellas County Emergency Medical Services/Medical Director • Pinellas County Schools Pinellas County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce • Pinellas Suncoast Fire & Rescue • R’Club Child Care • RCS The Haven & Grace House St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital • St. Petersburg Fire Rescue • St. Petersburg Free Clinic • St. Petersburg General Hospital St. Petersburg Parks & Recreation • St. Petersburg Pediatrics • St. Petersburg Police Department • Seminole Fire Rescue Staywell/Wellcare • Suncoast Center/Children’s Advocacy Center • Sunshine Health • Sunstar Paramedics Treasure Island Fire Rescue • USF St. Petersburg/Infant Family Mental Health YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg • YMCA of the Suncoast

Pictured above are leaders from the Pinellas Preventable Child Death Planning Team accepting a proclamation for Sleep Baby Safely Year from the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners in January 2019.

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Safe Sleep for Babies: What You Need to Know

LIVING LIVING WITH WITH BABY BABY

by JON R. THOGMARTIN, MD District Six Medical Examiner for Pinellas and Pasco Counties

From the time they are born, babies count on their parents and other caregivers to keep them safe. Yet on average every month in Pinellas County, a healthy baby suffocates from sleeping unsafely. 100% of these deaths could have been prevented.

we stress never to sleep with your baby or lay them down to sleep on an adult bed or other soft surface. We also stress keeping baby’s crib empty – nothing but a ﬁrm mattress and tight-ﬁtting sheet. No toys, stuffed animals, bumper pads, loose blankets or pillows. To keep baby warm, we recommend a one-piece sleeper or sleep sack, which is also known as a wearable blanket.

Suffocation deaths due to infant unsafe sleep practices are the number one cause of preventable death for children under 18. In fact, nearly as many children die from this cause in their ﬁrst year of life as die in the next 17 years from all other preventable causes combined. These include drownings, car accidents, gunshot wounds, and suicides.

Some believe they can safely co-sleep with their babies; others practiced unsafe sleep with their older children, or perhaps their own parents co-slept with them or put them on their stomachs to sleep.

Babies must be protected from suffocation every single time they are laid down to sleep – every night and every nap.

MORE BABIES DIE IN ADULT BEDS THAN ANYWHERE ELSE A total of 90 infant sleep-related deaths occurred in the last 10 years in Pinellas County: that’s about ﬁve empty kindergarten classrooms of children! The majority, about two-thirds, were caused by co-sleeping with a parent or other adult, or when babies were laid down at naptime in an adult bed. Babies are also dying from sleeping on other soft surfaces like sofas, futons, and air mattresses – or from being laid down to sleep on their stomach instead of on their back.

WE KNOW MORE TODAY THAN WE USED TO

We respond to all of these by simply saying, “We know more today than we used to.” For example, car seats weren’t always required for infants and young children, but we now know they are proven life savers. Today, most parents would never risk putting a baby in a car without using a car seat, even if they’ve never had an accident. Using the same logic, why would anyone risk sleeping a baby unsafely?

IT’S EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY It only takes one time for a baby to sleep unsafely to be tragic. DON’T RISK IT! Protect all babies from suffocation, every night and every nap. It’s everyone’s responsibility to learn, practice, and share these life-saving tips: Follow Safe Sleep ABCs – ALONE, BACK, CRIB. Always put babies to sleep alone on their back in an empty crib with only a ﬁrm mattress and tight-ﬁtting sheet. Room Share, Don’t Bed Share. Bring baby’s crib into parent’s room, and never lay baby to sleep on a soft surface like an adult bed, couch, or air mattress. Stay Alert While Feeding Baby. Set an alarm and always return baby to crib after feeding. Breastfeed, if possible – it’s best for baby.

THE CAUSE OF DEATH IS SUFFOCATION - NOT SIDS The District Six Medical Examiner’s Ofﬁce has not determined a cause of death as SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) in 19 years. SIDS denotes that the cause of death is unknown or undetermined. However, when a healthy baby dies a sleep-related death, suffocation or overlay is frequently the cause of death.

WHAT’S COMFY FOR ADULTS IS DEADLY FOR BABIES Things that adults ﬁnd comfy for sleeping, like memory foam, pillow-top mattresses, thick down comforters, and pillows can cause babies to suffocate. That’s why 25

LIVING WITH BABY

COPING WITH CRYING submitted by JUVENILE WELFARE BOARD OF PINELLAS COUNTY

“One would think that it could never happen to someone who wore scrubs, worked in a hospital, and taught parents how to care for their babies and keep them safe,” shared Susan MartinWarren. But it did.

Never try soothing a baby when you’re

In 2005, Susan was working one evening for the Healthy Families program in Hillsborough County. Her husband was home caring for their two young children: 3-year-old Carter and 3-month-old Graham.

“We were sent home from the hospital and told to expect the worst but hope for the best.”

“The night Graham was shaken, he exhibited symptoms common to Shaken Baby Syndrome. His father, while I was working, lost his ability to cope. As it was related to me, Graham went limp and turned white; he was non-responsive and unconscious.”

Abusive head trauma, or Shaken Baby Syndrome can happen to anyone. It happens in seconds but its consequences are lifelong. Shaken Baby Syndrome can happen in a split second when a parent or caregiver loses control and shakes a baby in an attempt to stop their crying. The baby’s head is heavy and their neck muscles are weak. Shaking makes the brain rotate back and forth inside the baby’s skull, shearing the fragile blood vessels and nerves and causing the brain tissue to tear. This violent act can lead to permanent brain damage, paralysis, bleeding of the brain, blindness, seizures and even death.

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frustrated. Know your limits, plan ahead and ask for help when needed.

Graham survived, but many in his situation do not. Over half of all infants and toddlers diagnosed with acute head trauma, or Shaken Baby Syndrome, die. Graham was fortunate in that he survived, but he lives with lifelong consequences. He has permanent damage to one hemisphere of his brain, impacting his gross and fine motor skills and vision. He’s considered “special needs” and struggles with short-term memory loss. In his short life, he’s had brain surgeries and countless medical appointments – and he lives with a permanent shunt to drain the fluid that builds up around his brain. Stress and frustration that can lead someone to shake a baby can happen to anyone. That’s Susan’s message, and she travels the country to share her story and educate professionals, parents and caregivers on ways to keep babies safe and cope with crying.

KEEP THEM SAFE & HEALTHY

LIVING WITH BABY

Coping with Crying Non-stop crying is difficult and a challenge for all parents. Did you know...? • Babies cry for many reasons; they cry an average of 2-3 hours a day and sometimes more often. • Crying happens most often in the evenings. • Crying may start and stop for no apparent reason. • Crying may not stop no matter what you do. • A baby’s crying will not hurt him or her. • Crying is normal! Crying is completely normal, and yet it is the number one reason or trigger for frustration that may lead someone to shake a baby. The most important thing to remember is that the goal isn’t to get the baby to stop crying. The goal is to calm or soothe them. If you’re feeling stressed as a parent or caregiver, you’re not alone. It’s important to understand what triggers your frustration and know your limits. Plan ahead by establishing tiers of support – trusted friends, family members and neighbors who can provide different levels of help. Someone you can trust to watch your baby when you need a time-out. Others are good listeners and will be there anytime, day or night, for support by phone.

Tips

for Coping with Crying CHECK THE BABY’S BASIC NEEDS • Is the baby hungry or is the diaper dirty? • Is the baby too hot or cold? • Is the baby ill, running a fever or teething? • Is the baby overstimulated or overtired?

SOOTHE THE BABY • Swaddle, cuddle, rock or sway the baby. • Hold the baby close while walking or swaying. • Gently massage the baby’s back, chest or tummy. • Make a “SHHH” sound to mimic the womb. • Sing, hum or talk in a soothing voice. • Play soft music or dim the lights. • Offer a paciﬁer. • Take the baby for a walk in a stroller, ride in a car seat or place in a swing.

COPE WITH FRUSTRATION

Babies cry for many reasons and crying is normal. Remember, the goal isn’t to get the baby to stop crying... The goal is to calm or soothe them.

• Take time to regroup. Place the baby on his or her back in a safe place, like in a crib, and walk away. • Sit down, close your eyes and take several deep breaths. • Call those on your support plan; ask them to come by to give you a break or simply talk with you over the phone. • Check on the baby every 5 to 10 minutes to make sure they’re alright while you take a time-out or seek support. 27

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for Kids

FOR KIDS, IT’S GREAT INSURANCE. FOR PARENTS, IT’S ONE LESS WORRY.

Your child and their siblings could be one of the 179,600 children eligible for completely free or low-cost health and dental insurance through Florida KidCare – even if one or both parents are working. Approximately 2.4 million children rely on Florida KidCare for the head-to-toe coverage they need from birth through the end of age 18. Florida KidCare is designed to provide services to children at each stage of growth and development. Health and dental services are delivered through quality plans that offer a choice of local doctors, dentists, specialists, hospitals, pharmacies and other health care providers. Benefits include but are not limited to: • Doctor Visits • Check-ups • Vision & Hearing • Dental Care • Hospital Stays Florida KidCare includes free, subsidized and full-pay options based on family income and household size. Most families pay nothing at all for coverage, and many pay as little as $15 or $20 a month. Families who do not qualify for free or subsidized coverage may purchase a competitively priced full-pay plan. Florida KidCare is available to almost every child. Lawfully residing immigrant children are eligible without a waiting period. With no application fee and year-round enrollment, the time to apply is always now. Simply fill out the application, and Florida KidCare will match your child with the right option.

APPLY ONLINE ANYTIME at FloridaKidCare.org or call 1-888-540-KIDS

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Preparing Your Child for Their Physical In all likelihood, your child is going to need a physical exam at some point for a school activity (like sports or band) or to go to camp. But what’s involved in a physical and where can you go to get one? We’ll explain why physicals are important, what to expect and how we’re working to make them convenient for your family.

WHAT IS A PHYSICAL EXAM? A physical examination, or physical for short, is a routine set of tests to examine your child’s overall health and is also used as a preventative measure to ensure their whole health going forward. It’s also sometimes referred to as a clinical examination, medical examination or wellness check. A physical can be performed by your child’s primary care provider or by one of our board-certified nurse practitioners conveniently located at an AdventHealth Express Care at Walgreens near you. This exam isn’t to diagnose if your child is sick, but rather to determine they’re healthy enough to participate in activities like sports. Between May 1 and September 30, your child can get a physical at one of our 15 AdventHealth Express Care at Walgreens clinics conveniently located around Tampa Bay. They’re offering special pricing on physicals for students at a reduced rate of $30, down from the normal $60. Most locations have evening hours, are open seven days a week, and no appointments required.

PHYSICAL EXAM During the physical examination portion of the testing, the provider will be physically touching your child quite a bit, so they should be prepared for it. The provider will look in their eyes, ears, nose and throat to look for any indications of infection or other problems. They’ll also listen to your child’s breathing and heart to make sure there are no problems there as well. The provider will also touch or push on parts of their abdomen and possibly other areas to look for any abnormalities or pain and check their reflexes as well. They’ll also check the hair, skin and nails for any signs of problems. The provider will also conduct a visual exam, looking for the appearance of any potential conditions. They’ll look at your child’s eyes, head, chest and abdomen for any abnormalities; check their musculoskeletal health by looking at their hands, wrists and other joints; and check their nervous system and motor skills by testing their speech and walking.

WHERE TO GET YOUR CHILD’S PHYSICAL In our continued effort to provide you and your family with high-quality, convenient whole health care, AdventHealth Express Care at Walgreens, conveniently located near you, is open seven days a week and many with evening hours. If your child requires a physical exam for school, sports or camp, visit AHExpressCare.com to schedule an appointment or call (844) 397-0018 to make one today. Walk-ins are always welcome.

WHY ARE PHYSICALS IMPORTANT? Routine physicals allow providers the opportunity to track any changes in your child’s body and overall health. They’ll be able to notice any potential problems with development and provide important preventive care. Physicals are also important for keeping up with any vaccinations– including boosters, new available vaccines and seasonal vaccinations against the flu.

WHAT’S INVOLVED? The series of tests given during your child’s physical will check their vital statistics like blood pressure, heart rate and weight. If they have a family history of illness or certain types of inherited disease, their provider may focus more on certain tests than others. HEALTH HISTORY Their provider will ask your child about any changes in their body they’ve noticed since their last physical, which may indicate something in need of closer attention. These questions may involve asking about any injuries, allergies, medications or supplements they’re on since their last physical. 29

First Tooth, First Visit by MAGGIE N. DAVIS, DMD Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

START EARLY Dental cavities can be preventable if healthy habits are started early. This is why our office offers a complimentary first visit between 6-18 months of age. Parents and babies are given a tour of our clean and kid-friendly space, then the doctor provides a lap exam with you and your baby. We will assess your little ones teeth to ensure there are no enamel problems, then discuss breast or bottle feeding habits, proper brushing technique, when to use fluoride, pacifier or thumb habits, injury prevention and more! Once an established patient, we will extend our emergency on-call services to you so that you will always be able to reach our doctors after hours. This complimentary first visit prepares you and your child for their first dental cleaning at age two.

WHY A PEDIATRIC DENTIST? We are the pediatricians of dentistry. After completion of dental school, our doctors have an additional two years of training to specialize in both healthy children and those that are medically complex. In addition, we are Diplomates in the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, which is a prestigious qualifying status that is earned by fewer than 3% of dentists. We will recognize dental abnormalities more readily than dentists who do not exclusively treat children all day, every day. We are equipped with smaller instruments and we can present an array of options to treat your child.

TONGUE & LIP TIE Infant tongue and lip tie is a congenital condition that affects nearly 5% of infants. This condition can restrict movement of the tongue and lips, making breast and bottle feeding more difficult. It can also cause future problems in speech development and overall oral health. Having breastfed all three of her children, Dr. Maggie understands the challenges and rewards first hand. She has a passion for correctly diagnosing and helping these babies. Our office uses a soft-tissue laser to correct these tongue and lip tie releases. We offer a comfortable area for you and baby to nurse and have a network of wonderful lactation consultants and speech language pathologists who we will work with to ensure your continued success with breast or bottle feeding.

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT? Our Team! Upon arrival you will be greeted warmly and made to feel at home. Our team is made up of mothers themselves and we are passionate about what we do. We love to educate and help prevent tooth decay. We also find great joy in being a part of our community. Meet Dr. Maggie Davis, pictured here with her family.

Dr. Maggie Davis & Associates 3840 Tampa Road Palm Harbor, Florida

727.786.7551 drmaggiedavis.com

She invites you to visit their website drmaggiedavis.com for informational videos and to get to know the doctors. 31

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qBreastfeeding a & and Safe Sleep

WITH SAMANTHA STALEY (IBCLC)

Community Outreach Champion Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County

q: Why is breastfeeding What are some of the common myths about important? a: Breastfeeding is the foundation of life. breastfeeding?

It sets up the gut in the infant, not just in early life, but throughout all of life. The importance to the baby is tremendous. Breastfeeding reduces infant mortality, reduces Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants and reduces the risk of suffocation during sleep. It also protects against a lot of diseases, ear infections, eczema, asthma, obesity, leukemia, diarrhea and vomiting. Breastfeeding also promotes advanced brain development. In addition to this, there are benefits to the mother. Reduced risk of ovarian and breast cancer are the two biggest ones. Lastly, the bonding between the mother and the baby is incredibly important for the social development of the child and can give the child confidence and security.

How long do you recommend breastfeeding? Are there any benefits to extended breastfeeding? American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusively breastfeeding for at least six months. As you introduce solids, it is recommended to continue breastfeeding for at least a year. An interesting fact that most women don’t know, is that every year a mother continues to breastfeed, she lowers her risk of getting breast cancer. Regardless of how long a mother chooses to breastfeed, any amount of breastmilk is going to benefit both her and her baby, so she should do what feels right for her.

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MYTH #1: MILK SUPPLY Only 5% of women in the world cannot breastfeed due to milk supply issues. In the first few days of life, baby’s stomach is only the size of a marble and the little bit of colostrum mom makes is the perfect amount. As baby’s tummy grows, and baby demands more, mom makes more. It’s that simple. Producing milk is supply and demand. The more you nurse, the more you produce.

necessarily self-weaning. Eliminate distraction by choosing a quiet, dark room and try to nurse when the baby is more willing (like when they are sleepy).

What are some of the basics for safe sleep for babies? In 2016, more than 3500 babies in the United States died because of unsafe sleep practices (CDC.gov)

In Pinellas County alone, we lose roughly one baby every month due to unsafe Tip: If you have to miss a feeding make sure sleep practices. The best way to prevent to express your milk to keep your supply up. this is the ABC’s of safe sleep – ALONE, BACK, CRIB: Always put babies to sleep MYTH #2: DIETS alone on their back in an empty crib, Women worry that their diets won’t be bassinet or Pack ‘n Play. Remove all items healthy enough for the baby, but the baby from crib (blankets, pillows, stuffed will pull all the nutrients it needs from animals, bumpers, etc.) and use only a their mother regardless of what she eats. firm mattress with a tight fitting sheet. MYTH #3: MEDICATION Most importantly, Share a room, not a bed, Consult with your physician about any for the first year of life. Room-sharing medication you take, as there are some offers the benefit of having baby close to medications you should not take while mom or dad without the risks, so bring breastfeeding. However, there are lots the crib into the parents’ room for baby’s of medications that are perfectly safe. first year. Never put baby to sleep on soft Download the app: LactMed. surfaces like adult beds, couches, futons, MYTH #4: TOBACCO SMOKING The best thing you can do if you are a tobacco smoker is to breastfeed your baby. Even if you are not smoking tobacco around them, they will be exposed to second or third hand smoke and breastmilk offers the best defense. MYTH #5: BABY REFUSED THE BREAST It is incredibly rare that a baby under a year will self-wean. As a baby grows they become more curious and distracted, so even if they push away, they are not

recliners or air mattresses and never use blankets to keep baby warm. Use a sleep sack or warm pajamas instead. After the first year of age, you can introduce lovies.

KEEP THEM SAFE & HEALTHY

ABOUT THE PHOTO: Mothers from south St. Petersburg gathered at the Next Stepp Pregnancy Center to celebrate the Big Latch On, an annual global event celebrated in small gatherings like this around the world during the month of August, which also happens to be Breastfeeding Awareness Month. BigLatchOn.org

Are there any safe sleep tips to help breastfeeding mothers? Bring the crib or bassinet as close as possible to the bed so you can easily access baby. Ask for partner support if possible. Set an alarm and always return baby to crib after feeding. A lot of mothers have strong feelings for why they co-sleep when they breastfeed. However, suffocation could still happen and the risks are higher when you bed share. Of the infants who died in 2016 and 2017 due to sleep related causes, nearly 20% were breastfed, so while breastfeeding lowers the risk of suffocation, it cannot guarantee prevention. Another tip is when using a sleep sack, be sure to keep babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arms free to allow for nighttime feeding cues.

LIVING WITH BABY

Is there anything else you want to share with us about breastfeeding or safe sleep best practices? Yes. The Florida Healthy Babies Initiative is a statewide initiative. In Pinellas County we are focusing on breastfeeding, infant safe sleep and access to resources for new parents. We want parents to feel that they have support and for mothers to know their rights when it comes to pumping in the workplace or nursing in public. Florida law protects a motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right to breastfeed anywhere she is allowed to be. This initiative is also focusing on the health disparities that exist between white mothers and women of color. Some great ways to get involved with the initiative would be to advocate at your place of employment, share this information with family and friends, and consider volunteering with the Tampa Bay Breastfeeding Taskforce (tbbreastfeeding.org). To learn more about Florida Healthy Babies in Pinellas County go to pinellas.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/wellnessprograms/healthy-babies. To get involved, email HealthyBabies@ flhealth.gov or call (727)568-8192.

For local groups and support year round: TBBreastfeeding.org 33

Birth Outcomes in Tampa Bay are Not All Equal These Racial Disparities are NOT by Choice. They are systemic. BLACK MOTHERS

are nearly 2X as likely to: Have unstable housing • Experience unemployment • Suffer from postpartum depression • Be obese before pregnancy • Have a blood transfusion in pregnancy • Die during pregnancy or childbirth • Have a baby with low birth weight • Birth an infant that is admitted to the NICU • Lose her baby during pregnancy or postpartum...

and 3X as likely to: Have kids in the home living in poverty • Lose her infant due to unsafe sleep • Be physically abused by her partner • Have anemia prior to pregnancy.

WHITE MOTHERS

are nearly 2X as likely to: Own her own home • Earn double the income • Have a high school or higher education • Receive early prenatal and dental care • Take a prenatal vitamin • Have a birth covered by private insurance • Breastfeed exclusively for six months • Have thyroid and anxiety issues prior to conception • Smoke during the third trimester • Consume alcohol during the third trimester • Engage in binge drinking just prior to pregnancy • Be underweight prior to pregnancy.

Time to Fix the System. Time to Close the Gap. To get involved, email: HealthyBabies@flhealth.gov

To learn more about these data or to ﬁnd speciﬁc statistics in your own county, please visit: flhealthcharts.com and https://nationalequityatlas.org You may also view the full report from the Florida Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) at: floridahealth.gov/statistics-and-data/survey-data/pregnancy-riskassessment-monitoring-system/_documents/reports/prams2015.pdf

KEEP THEM SAFE & HEALTHY

LIVING WITH BABY

GADGETS, GUIDANCE & GOOD OLD

Common Sense When it comes to keeping the newest member of your family safe, loved and nourished, at what point do all the gadgets, professional guidance and good old common sense come together? At what point do these three things intersect to help you make those clear-cut, best parenting decisions?

JANICE FLOYSTAD

For answers to these questions, we turn to a woman with over 30 years’ experience in prenatal and postpartum care. Janice (Jan) Floystad ran the WIC breastfeeding program in Pinellas County, trained numerous IBCLC’s, educated nurses and physicians and currently serves as a lactation consultant for St. Pete General.

Q: Are there any must-have gadgets and anything parents should be aware of before using them? A: A safe bassinet, crib or well-tested bedside sleeper is a definite must-have. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that baby be in the same room for the first year of life, but on a separate sleep surface with no obstructions that could lead to suffocation. Keeping baby as close to you as possible at nighttime will ensure optimal breastfeeding, brain growth and emotional development. What should parents be aware of? Stay away from naptime rockers unless you plan to stand there and make sure baby’s face doesn’t get buried in those fluffy sides. Never rely on monitors to prevent suffocation (formerly referred to as SIDS), and unless mom has a long waist, avoid nursing pillows as they will position baby too high for a good latch. If you need something on your lap, a pillow is fine. Another gadget of concern is the swaddler. These are fine if you need to calm a baby and you’ve exhausted all options. But too many mothers are using swaddlers to keep baby asleep longer at night, and this can interfere with mom’s milk supply, as babies are meant to feed at night. Milk-making hormones are 25% higher at night. A swaddler can mask baby’s feeding cues by pinning their arms and hands. Babies need their hands to self-stimulate and wake to feed. During the first 4 months, milk supply is hormone driven, and for moms who cannot nurse during the day, those night feedings are critical for maintaining milk supply. Finally, because the swaddler traps baby’s arms, they should never be used once baby is older and starts rolling over.

Should moms always follow the guidance of their healthcare professionals? What about all the warnings regarding babies sleeping with mom? Humans were meant to sleep with their babies. That’s where babies were most safe and could have uninterrupted access to night feedings. But we no longer sleep on hard dirt floors in caves, where there’s no risk of suffocation. We sleep on squishy beds with foam mattresses and fluffy pillows. It’s sad that this is a danger, but it is. And yet despite the warnings to mom not to sleep with her baby, she does. Why is that? More than 40% of moms co-sleep with their babies even though they swear to their healthcare provider that they don’t. Even if she doesn’t intend to, she might accidentally fall asleep with her baby while nursing at night because her milk producing hormones are higher in order to put her back to sleep quickly. She is fighting nature. So think about the environment she is in and make it as safe as possible so that if she accidently does fall asleep, the hazards are removed. Read the guidelines for the AAP on what constitutes a hazard and follow them. For example, is the bed against a wall where baby could get stuck? Is there a gap between the mattress and the headboard where baby could get stuck? Couches and recliners? Lots of nooks to get stuck in. If there are hazards you can’t remove, put a firm mattress on the floor with a tight fitted sheet to lay down and nurse on – away from everything in case you accidentally fall asleep. It’s important to thoroughly assess your environment for safety in case you fall asleep with the baby. Do not nurse lying down if you are overtired, obese, medicated, use alcohol, smoke or reside in a smoking household, or there is another person or pet by the baby. For nursing mothers, my best advice is to look carefully at where you are nursing and think about anything in that environment that could be a hazard and remove it.

Where does good old common-sense fit in with all the gadgets and guidance? Babies interact with moms for a reason. It’s not random. I encourage moms to develop and trust their maternal instinct, because it’s there for baby’s protection. It’s wonderful that moms have access to gadgets that can help make parenting easier and safer and the professional guidance from trusted healthcare providers can help her make informed decisions. But moms come with their own innate skills and good old common sense. And it’s free. Trust your instincts, seek guidance to make safe and informed decisions, and look to the tools and gadgets to compliment (not replace) the great abilities you already have. 35

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PARENTING 101

Baby’s First Fuel

LAUREN ZIMET, M.S. Director of Skills Development Perspectives Center for Holistic Therapy

Congratulations if you are a new or newish parent reading this article! It’s my hope to share information from the perspective of a speech and feeding specialist, natural health care professional, and a mother. As every new parent knows, babies do not come with instructions. The car seat, the highchair and the infant tub all come with a booklet of instructions. Obviously, this is not the case with a baby. When babies are born, we parents are lucky to receive a handout or two on nursing or infant massage when discharged from the hospital. Most parents want the best for their precious infant and the whole topic of feeding can be a bit of an overload. Where to turn? Who to trust? What is the best food to feed my infant or toddler? Here’s the short version of what I feel is current in today’s world. First and foremost, mothers, listen to your maternal instinct. It’s there for a very real purpose.

baby and a journal can help you pinpoint culprit foods. Also, if your baby is cranky or having trouble sleeping, be a detective to find what food could be affecting behavior. Often parents worry that food intolerance is an indicator of long-standing digestive issues, but it may be temporary. We can strengthen baby’s digestive and immune systems by feeding nourishing and healing foods, and by being mindful of the developing gut and how it interacts with the brain, nervous system and sensory system. Learning how to do this will provide a better foundation for your developing baby. For mothers who are unable to or choose not to breastfeed there are formulas available now which contain nutrient dense vitamins and minerals from real foods for infants and children who need liquid nutrition. One such company is Functional Formularies. Another trusted resource is The Weston A. Price Foundation where you can learn how to make a natural, homemade infant formula (dairy or dairy free). TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR BABY FORMULAS Functional Formularies functionalformularies.com/nourish.html The Weston A. Price Foundation westonaprice.org/health-topics/childrens-health/ formula-homemade-baby-formula/

INTRODUCING SOLIDS.

Around six to nine months of age, it is customary to introduce solids to baby. Often new parents are told to introduce solids earlier, starting as early as three to five months. However, before taking this route, it is important to understand baby’s development and the current vs. traditional ways of thinking. First to know is that the term “milk teeth” was given to the first four teeth (two upper, two lower) because baby’s primary nutrition is still achieved through mother’s milk. So even though solids are being introduced, it’s not for nutrition. The primary reason to introduce first purees to baby is to create new oral and taste experiences: to develop the coordination of the jaw, lips and tongue so they can work together to decipher new textures and tastes. Typically, when babies can sit upright independently, reach for and pick up soft and safe foods, they have enough trunk control to begin “tastes.”

FEEDING AND INFANT FUEL MILK. Breast milk is known as the gold standard in nutrition for newborns. If you’re able to breastfeed (or pump) breast milk, you can feel confident that you are feeding your baby liquid gold, full of the nutrients that newborn brains (and little bodies) need to grow and develop. Breast milk is full of fatty acids, antibodies, nutrients, protein and fat and is a truly complete food for babies. If you have food sensitivities or if your baby is uncomfortable with gas or reflux, keep a food journal and be mindful of what you eat. It is possible to share some of your stomach issues with 36 • tampa bay

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Also important to know is that the predominant digestive enzyme for carbohydrates, ptyalin, doesn’t get released in the mouth until the molars come in. When the molars are in place, the gastric enzymes are prepared to do their job for breaking down starches. This is why some research suggests that foods like rice cereal and oatmeal not be introduced into the gastrointestinal system until first molars are cut, even though cereals have been a traditional first food before the molars are in. When the grinding molars come in, the glands will begin to release digestive enzymes to help break down carbohydrates. To help your baby digest, it’s helpful to know that the tinier the particles are broken up, the larger the surface available for the gastric enzymes to work on.

KEEP THEM SAFE & HEALTHY

CHOOSING FOODS BASED ON NUTRITION Before the molars though, babies can still get experience with oral exploration such as sucking, gumming, licking and exploring fruit, soft veggies and soft, chemical-free, free range fish, poultry or meats. Initially these can be wrapped in cheesecloth or baby safe feeder bags. This will help to stimulate oral motor development. To maximize nutritional absorption, consider introducing some nutrient dense first foods. A few ideas for soft starter foods are avocado, banana or well cooked organic chicken with bone broth. Bananas and avocados are low-allergen foods. Bananas are also one of the few fruits that contain amylase, making them easier to digest. Avocado is packed with healthy brain fats. Broth is a great source of gelatin, amino acids, bio-available minerals and other nutrients. As a liquid, it is also an easy transition for baby. Vegetables have a much higher nutrient content than grains and less chance of an allergic response, so introducing veggies before grains makes sense. Likewise, introducing veggies before fruits makes sense so that baby doesn’t become accustomed to only sweet tastes. Unfortunately, baby food jars or pouches do not have the same amount of nutrients that fresh, home-made foods have. In many parts of the world, animal protein and vegetables are the first foods. When I was a new mom, I wasn’t aware of this, so I followed the more traditional American pediatrician advice to begin with starch. I often wonder how my daughter’s digestive system would be different had we taken a different route. In any case, I’m here to share that meat contains a natural source of iron, which babies naturally need, and doesn’t require the enzyme amylase to be digested. Meat is also a complete source of protein and amino acids, plus provides more calories and nutrients per ounce than other foods, making it a logical first baby food and the choice of many cultures around the world. Just to clarify, we are not talking deli meat or hot dogs. The recommendation is quality meat products that can be cooked, grated and/or pureed. If possible, use organic, clean, grass-fed meats, poultry or wild fish, low in mercury. (For more information, check The Weston A. Price Foundation website and The Action for Healthy Kids.)

LIVING WITH BABY

AVOIDING SUGAR LADEN FOODS It’s become convenient and easy in our society to grab readyto-eat foods, however most shelf stable, processed foods contain added hidden sugar. Not to mention the tempting sugary treats, fruit juice drinks and candies that seem to be everywhere. Vow not to get your baby’s first taste experiences connected to sugar, especially high fructose corn syrup. Become a vigilant label reader and alert caregivers of your dietary preferences. Kelly Dorfman, author of Cure Your Child with Food and Nutrition Detective, shared, “The number of calories toddlers consume has increased in the last few decades mainly due to the addition of sugary foods and drinks. Now half the children entering Kindergarten are at risk for diabetes. Fortunately, this threat is not like a random lightening strike but something parents can control.” It’s been said that this generation of children will not live as long as their parents due to an increase in chronic disease, like diabetes. Surely our food choices in the U.S. are a contributor to this change being seen in our children. But as parents, we can lead our children to a healthier start in life by saying “no” to sugary foods and “yes” to nutritious fruits, vegetables and meats.

YOU CAN DO IT! As I stated at the beginning of this column, the task of getting babies off to a good start in life with proper nourishment can be overwhelming, especially with food marketers telling you what they want you to know. And of course, we all know that moms are busy, tired and multi-tasking when little ones are in the home. We want food to be easy. We need food to be easy. So let me encourage you that it is possible to feed nutritious food and not lose your mind over it -- or be tempted to give in and give up. The first, and most important step, is to develop the mindset that you will provide nutritious food in your home and on the go. The next step is to develop your own food style, cooking techniques, shopping short cuts and weekly meal plans. There are an abundance of healthy food cooking blogs on the Internet, rich with ideas for homemade baby food, toddler finger food and quick meals -- many of them designed for the budget conscious family. There will be trial and error and you will always be learning something new. But I can say from experience that there is nothing more satisfying as a mom than knowing your children are eating nutrient rich foods -- the ones that are the healthy building blocks for their little bodies -- and that you did that for them out of love!

Lauren Zimet, M.S., CCC/SLP, CNHP serves as the Director of Skills Development at Perspectives Center for Holistic Therapy, overseeing the Early Insights Program and The Powerful Project. Lauren is a licensed speech, language and early communication specialist. She is certified in Neuro-Developmental Training (NDT), is a certified parenting coach, and is a registered Better Brains for Babies (BBB) trainer. In 2014 Lauren received her designation as a Certified Natural Health Professional. She has over 2 decades of experience in the helping fields. Lauren can be reached directly at lauren@perspectivesholistictherapy.com perspectivesholistictherapy.com | earlyinsights.com

A Case for Play by KATE WHITE Director of Marketing and Communications Glazer Children’s Museum

It’s been a busy day filled with project deadlines and leadership meetings. At home, I glance at the dishes in the sink and sigh as I start cooking dinner. The dog is barking as my husband and young daughters get home and flood the house with sweet giggles and demands for snacks. The girls are two and four, and like all kids they keep us on our toes. Amid the chaos of our evening routine, Audrey declares “Let’s play monsters! Mommy, Ellie can be on your team!” I’m tempted to tell them to just play in their room until dinner; they have plenty of toys and books to entertain them. Plus, they have each other and that’s why we had two kids, right? But those sweet smiles and freckled cheeks get me every time. Soon, my husband and I are chasing them around the house and roaring like scary monsters. The game morphs as the girls team up as monster trappers, turning the tables on us. They capture me with a blanket and eventually train me to be a friendly monster. The game continues (while our untended dinner gets cold) as monsters, trainers, mermaids and puppies somehow unite in a world that can only be imagined in the creative minds of children. Even when it’s inconvenient, I know that underneath the imaginative stories and laughter, there is real learning and development happening. Working at the Glazer Children’s Museum, I witness the benefits of unstructured play every single day. We teach parents why play matters and encourage them to play with their children. When parents interact and guide their children to play with purpose, it enhances the early childhood learning and development that is quietly happening beneath the surface. As a parent, those principles trickle into every aspect of life. I am constantly amazed at the growth I observe in my kids as a result of interactive, unstructured play. I see them learning and developing in all aspects of their lives, without them even noticing. So, let’s take a moment to unpack the benefits of play in early childhood development.

Physical Development Exercise is vitally important for kids, and play is the best way for them to get moving. Especially in young children, physical play develops fine and gross motor skills, and at the Glazer Children’s Museum our exhibits are curated to balance the two. From building with blocks in Engineer’s Workshop to climbing in Water’s Journey, play refines dexterity, strength, coordination and more. Physical play also allows kids to explore boundaries and discover what their bodies can do. Outdoor play exposes kids to nature and provides a platform to teach them about the environment and how to be responsible citizens of the Earth. Plus, they can enjoy the fresh air while they’re at it.

Social and Emotional Skills Play teaches kids social and emotional skills that set them up for wellness and balance in life. While learning through failure, they start to recognize risk, learn to adapt, and develop resilience. Playing with other children teaches collaboration as they work together to achieve a common goal. Playing in public spaces such as playgrounds, beaches and cultural institutions, like the Glazer Children’s Museum, develops empathy as kids from different backgrounds, races, genders and abilities all play together.

Cognitive Development Kids learn as they play, often without even noticing. Inventing games and solving problems encourages creativity. Toys, books and outdoor play all expose children to repetition, categorization, numbers and colors. Parents, you can reinforce these concepts by playing with your child. As you play, call out the colors of certain objects, count things as they pass by, and ask leading questions to guide your child’s learning. For example, challenge your child to go down the blue slide, or find two pinecones. Be specific to help your child’s brain connect the dots. The moral of the story is that play matters. Kids grow and learn through play as they develop their physical, social and emotional and cognitive skills. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some monster trappers to chase around the living room.

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Managing Your Baby’s

Digital Life The experts all agree that screen time is not GOOD for babies. They need human interaction and lots of snuggling while awake. For ages 2 - 5, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that viewing should be limited to one hour per day, be high-quality, educational programming and be viewed with a caregiver who can relate the show’s content to real life. That doesn’t sound exactly like real life in today’s busy, high tech world, yet it is sound advice based on research that is looking for what’s best for children. As a parent, managing modern technology is a new responsibility you will have for all 18 years, and since it’s fairly new and changing regularly, you don’t have much to go on. New research is emerging that will continue to show the effects, both good and bad. Each age group comes with different recommendations and challenges, so the goal should be to stay informed, diligent, aware, engaged and in control. Remember as the parent, you have the right to say “No” and to set and enforce the rules to protect your children, whether you have a preschooler or a teenager. The AAP has created a Family Media Use Plan that can be found at HealthyChildren.org. Look under “Family Life” and choose “Media.” There you will get a link to their planning document, along with recommendations and safety precautions.

WHY LIMIT MEDIA USE? Not enough sleep. Young children with more media exposure or who have a TV, computer, or mobile device in their bedrooms sleep less and fall asleep later at night. Even babies can be over stimulated by screens and miss the sleep they need to grow. Delays in learning and social skills. Children who watch too

much TV in infancy and preschool years can show delays in attention, thinking, language and social skills. One of the reasons for the delays could be because they interact less with parents and family. Obesity. Heavy media use during preschool years is linked to

weight gain and risk of childhood obesity. Food advertising and snacking while watching TV can promote obesity. Also, children who overuse media are less apt to be active with healthy, physical play. Behavior problems. Violent content on TV and screens can contribute to behavior problems in children.

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THE RADIATION FACTOR Noting that research findings are incomplete and that more research is needed, the AAP reinforced their recommendations that parents exercise caution and limit exposure when it comes to digital devices that emit radiation from electromagnetic fields (EMF). They remind parents that cell phones are not toys, and are not recommended for infants and toddlers to play with. On their website HealthyChildren.org, The AAP has information entitled Cell Phone Radiation & Children’s Health: What Parents Need to Know. They reiterate children’s unique vulnerability to cell phone radiation stating, “Another problem is that the cell phone radiation test used by the FCC is based on the devices’ possible effect on large adults—not children. Children’s skulls are thinner and can absorb more radiation.” They also share these tips to reduce radiation exposure: Use text messaging, speaker mode or hands-free kit When talking on the cell phone, hold phone away from your head Make only short or essential calls on cell phones Avoid carrying your phone against the body in a pocket, sock, or bra. If you plan to watch a movie on your device, download it first, then switch to airplane mode while you watch in order to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure. Keep an eye on your signal strength. The weaker your cell signal, the harder your phone works and the more radiation it gives off. Avoid making calls in cars, elevators, trains and buses. The cell phone works harder to get a signal through metal, so the power level increases. Remember that cell phones are not toys or teething items. Source: The American Academy of Pediatrics

OTHER TIPS FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS • Do not feel pressured to introduce technology early. • Monitor children’s media. • Turn off TVs and other devices when not in use. • Keep bedrooms, mealtimes, and parent-child playtimes screen-free and unplugged for children and parents. • Avoid exposure to devices or screens one hour before bedtime. • Avoid using media as the only way to calm your children.

Creativity Builds Brains Singing, playing music, dancing and acting are powerful tools for brain development that enhance learning potential and build social skills in an environment of fun. When children are toddlers and preschoolers, the value comes in having art and play mix together for a building of skills, knowledge and appreciation of art that together enhances their humanity and lasts a lifetime. Parents from all over the Tampa Bay area bring their children to classes at the TOTA Music and Theater Conservatory. We offer classes for all ages and talent levels, starting with toddlers, and see our most important job as investing in the lives and development of our students. We take an individualized approach to learning, focusing on what the students need today to live a well-rounded, artistic life.

Sing. Act. Dance. LIVE! For a full list of classes, visit totaconservatory.com CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE A TOUR AND A FREE INTRODUCTORY CLASS!

(727) 475-9098 ___ TOTA Music & Theatre Conservatory 220 Palm Harbor Boulevard Palm Harbor, Florida

It all starts with creative playâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;developing original ideas into artistic, skillful presentations. The arts are incomparable in building confidence, speech development and memorization skills. Students learn to identify their best mode of learning through ear training, developing aural skills and visual exercises. Learning to play instruments is also proven to successfully strengthen eye-hand coordination of tactile skills. Dance training brings all the areas together, with inner beat, spatial awareness and muscular development. These programs fuel the passions of students and strongly impact their overall intelligence and life-long achievements. Research has proven that there is a powerful connection between mathematics and the arts. Children who study music have shown increased test scores in science and math. Since music is its own language, based on notations and abstracts, every aspect of music can be broken down into mathematical concepts. Most typical youngsters do not want to study their math lessons, but give them a drum to count rhythms and subdivide beats, and the students are soon performing division and fractions with each tap of their drum stick. Students are so involved in the fun they are experiencing, they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realize how much they have learned! Come see what we are about here at TOTA. Parents are invited to visit our lovely facility for a private tour and for their child to receive a complimentary private lesson. It will be the beginning of a new adventure for your child. Let us find your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion, as we guide and shape development toward self-discipline, confidence, motivation and happiness through the world of music, theatre and dance. TOTA was founded by renowned Roseann Tota, who has received degrees from Marywood University (MA) and Hartt School of Music (BM). Combined with extensive teaching experience in private and public sectors, she has blended her study of music and the arts to create TOTA Music and Theater Conservatory. Surrounded by a staff of top-notch performer/ educators, Roseann has realized her vision to offer an educational facility for artistic development and training that is both high level and pure fun!

THRIVING BY FIVE

BRAIN BUILDING GAMES by AMY PERRY Owner, Pediatric Occupational Therapist Foundations Therapy

When I reminisce about childhood, I remember having fun with my next door neighbor named Mimi. Climbing trees, exploring the brook and falling in the mud are pieces of my summer adventures. Today, life is different. Our kids are bombarded by the latest Wii game and life in general is just more complicated than it used to be. So with summer break upon us, I have compiled ten ideas for brain-building games that parents can do during the summer break that fall within my favorite philosophy as a mom, Keep It Super Simple, a.k.a., K.I.S.S.

As a therapist and owner of a pediatric clinic, you’d think my kids would have the coolest toys at home. The truth, according to my children, is that all the other kids have better toys. So over time, I’ve learned that simply buying more toys doesn’t keep kids busy and learning. It does, however, create the need for a larger bag for donations to Goodwill. These activities require very little in terms of supplies. They are fun and will work to improve your children’s developmental skills over the summer months. Make these ideas your own. Let your creativity run wild!

1. A HOUSE SCAVENGER HUNT Come up with a list of items from your house. You know what’s in your house. In my house, we collect Matchbox cars, Lego’s, dress-up clothes, and balls. I have the kids find a specific color Matchbox car, five green Lego’s, dress-up as a community helper, and get the largest ball you can find in the house. This improves categorizing, counting, colors, dressing skills and size relationship.

2. CREATE ARTWORK TO IMPROVE THE LUNG Get a straw, paper plate and food coloring. Put a dab of food coloring on a plate and blow through the straw. Put several colors down and watch the colors mix together. This improves lung capacity. Also, eyes converge as you blow through the straw, so now you are improving attention span and vision strength.

4. GUESS THE ANIMAL 3. PSEUDO-SOCCER Use a ping pong ball or craft puff ball on the floor. Set-up “goals” using any two objects on each side of the room. Get on the ground and commando crawl or move as a snake toward the ball. Blow the ball to the goal without using hands. Long, extended breaths provide the best control and will improve lung capacity. Also, moving on your hands, forearms and belly will help build core, scapular and neck strength needed for reading, writing, and visual motor activities.

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Create obstacles around the room and have fun moving over, around, through, under and between the obstacles as an animal of choice: bear, crab, snake, kangaroo, frog, lizard, lion, giraffe, monkey or opossum. Make noises or not; you make the rules. Work on positions while building strength as you maintain the posture of the animal. Have the kids imitate the animal or follow the leader around the room.

5. FLASHLIGHT FORT GAMES A flashlight is one of my favorite toys to give as a present for a preschooler. I giggle when I buy an industrial flashlight in the hardware department, only to wrap it in Elmo wrapping paper for a four-year old’s birthday party. Usually within the month, the child’s mother tells me the flashlight was the favorite gift! Again, the K.I.S.S. philosophy! Back to the game. Make a fort in the house using sheets or beach towels. Drape the linen of choice over a table or several chairs and take flashlights into your secret fort. Use the light beam to draw letters, numbers or shapes on the fort walls. Spell words or learn your phone number and address. Take turns drawing with the light and have the child guess the drawing. Take a break and generate laughter by playing flashlight tag with the lights.

7. FAST NAMING GAME Collect ten items around the room and put them in a line on the floor. March, clap, jump or bounce while sitting on an exercise ball to a consistent beat. While moving, kids name each item in order on the floor. Change the order. Add clapping to the syllables. If your child messes up the name or beat, just keep going. Repeat the activity without correcting your child. The brain is an instrument that usually will self correct when given the opportunity.

9. PLAYDO GAMES You can use store bought, but I like to make homemade Kool-Aid playdo and let the kids pick their flavor. It smells good and we keep it in the fridge so it’s nice and cold to “wake up” fingers and hands and improve body awareness. Although the Kool-Aid playdo smells delicious, the strong salty taste is less desirable. Keep one playdo as is but then give others texture by adding sand and rice for new feelings to explore. It also adds resistance for your hands which will improve fine motor strength and dexterity. You can also add items such as coins, plastic animals and pegs and have the child find the hidden toys. Increase the challenge by blindfolding your child with a bandana while he searches for the missing treasures. This activity improves fine motor skills for writing, cutting, buttoning and opening containers. WARNING: items placed in the playdo can be a choking hazard and sand is not a good thing to eat.

GET KIDS READY TO LEARN

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6. VOLCANO Fill a bucket with soap and water. For blowing bubbles, a straw will do, but I prefer using a long, clear tube from Home Depot that I get in several widths. Wash them first in the dishwasher. Let kids pick their tube of choice and have fun blowing through the tube to make the bubbles rise. Long, deep breaths are needed for optimal results. Before long, the volcano will erupt over the side. Everyone can take those bubbles in the palm of their hands to blow them into the air. (This is messy so you may want to do this outside or on a patio.) See how many times you can blow the bubbles in the air between two people. Breath control and deep breathing techniques are important calming strategies for test taking or calming a child down at bedtime.

8. MULTI-TASKING BALL GAMES Use a ball to kick, bounce or throw back and forth. When you get the ball, say an item in a sequence, such as the alphabet, numbers from one to 50, months of the year, days of the week or colors of the rainbow. If you master that activity, have one person count while another says the alphabet. Switch positions and do it again. It is important to do the activity to a beat. The goal is be successful with multi-tasking. You can add activities to challenge balance and coordination to further stimulate brain development. Don’t get frustrated because is meant to be a brain teasing activity.

10. SHAVING CREAM FUN Get a cheap can of shaving cream. Find a mirror or bathtub wall that needs cleaning. Have your child sit in front of it, and you sit behind your child. Squirt the shaving cream onto wall choice. Use your finger to draw a shape, number, or letter on your child’s back and then have the child draw what he feels on the back. The child must draw and identify the choice shape, letter or number. Switch places and you draw in the shaving cream. Points are tallied by correctly identifying the drawing. This improves fine motor and visual motor skills. At the end of the game, use a paper towel or small rag in each hand and move across the surface: up, down and right to left (reading direction) to clean up. Do figure eights or play race cars, but the arm must move against the resistance as it cleans up the shaving cream to improve arm strength while learning spatial relations and following directions. Amy Perry is a wife and mother of three, energetic boys in Clearwater. She owns Foundations Therapy, a pediatric occupational, physical, and speech-language therapy clinic in Countryside. At the clinic, she works as a pediatric occupational therapist specializing in Sensory Processing Disorder. Her hobbies are park hopping with the family, swimming in the pool, and ﬁnding hidden treasures at garage sales.

THRIVING BY FIVE

Building Baby’s Brain THE BASICS OF

NEURO-NURTURING ARE EASIER THAN YOU THINK Most parents will agree that they want their children to grow up to be happy, smart, caring and healthy. These are common words often associated with the question, “What do you want your child to be like?” It may be harder to articulate in words, but parents also instinctively know that they want the beauty of their child’s heart to shine, for the child’s individual, unique essence to rise to the surface and for the child to be comfortable with who he or she is as a person. If this is what you want most for your child, then a concept called neuro-nurturing can beautifully influence all of these outcomes, and it’s easier to accomplish than you think. A little knowledge can have an incredibly positive and lasting impact. Neuro-Nurturing™ shares the invaluable understanding that a well-developed brain allows the unique essence of a child’s heart to shine.

IT HAPPENS IN THE BRAIN AND IT BEGINS EARLY! When I was being released from the hospital after having my first baby (more than two decades ago), I was terrified when the doctor said to make an appointment in six weeks

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for a well-baby checkup. What were we going to do with her for those first six weeks?! Fortunately for modern moms, science has come a long way since then. We didn’t have the same brain development knowledge that we do now. You are more fortunate than I was and your children can benefit. This new knowledge, based on science, can help you develop the confidence that you are providing what the growing brain of your child needs most. Advances in technology provide the awareness that not only does the brain grow in the womb, but brain research also informs us that a great amount of development happens in the preschool years. It is both critical and exciting to realize that even though the brain doesn’t complete development until about age 25, much of a child’s brain growth occurs from conception to age five.

UNDERSTANDING REALLY ISN’T COMPLICATED! When you hear the terms “brain science” or “brain research,” it might initially sound too complicated or overwhelming to think about. The fantastic news is that when it comes down to applying what the research tells us, it really is not very complicated. The basics are likely things that you are already doing! If you are regularly providing predictably responsive, healthy, supportive, experiences with lots of loving interaction and play, you are positively contributing to your child being happy, healthy, caring and smart.

GET KIDS READY TO LEARN

by DEBORAH McNELIS, M.ED. Brain Insights LLC

Basic Brain Insights & Ideas Provided below are three extremely easy to understand brain development basics. It makes a difference to your life and your child’s future to realize how a young child is influenced by experiences. It really is critical to the healthy development of children to have the adults in their lives understand the positive difference we can so easily make!

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CREATING ABILITIES The brain develops through a “use it or lose it” process. Connections that are made through repeated or frequent experiences are retained. Other connections that are not repeatedly used will be pruned or eliminated so the active connections can become stronger. Abilities and skills are developed through this process. Days filled with opportunities to move, play and explore with real objects is the way strong connections and abilities are developed best. Screens, worksheets and flashcards are not ideal ways to develop healthy brains in the early years.

See the section on brain building activities (next page) to learn more about some things that can build positive neuronurturing connections. These types of experiences enhance other essential brain connections that are developing, and will MAKING CONNECTIONS contribute to the process of developing higher level thinking Your baby was born with about 86 billion neurons or brain cells. Many of these neurons are not connected with each other skills, creativity, problem solving and getting along with others. at birth. The brain physically grows as connections between the Research reveals not only do these experiences contribute to a healthy brain, but they also positively influence a healthy body. brain cells are made. It is primarily experience that influences the creation of these connections. So, the brain is “experience DIRECT INTERACTION dependent”– it depends on you providing experiences. Early adult-child interactions have a dramatic impact on both The warm, consistent, responsive care you give not only social/emotional and language development. Researchers meets the basic needs of your child, it plays a critical role in have shown that when parents spoke to their infants often, development. The way that you and other caregivers respond children learned almost 300 more words by age two than did to your child directly affects the base of later development. children whose parents rarely spoke to them. Loving relationships have a positive impact on your child’s self-perception and acceptance of who they are. Additionally, Exposure to language through screens (other than talking with family on video calls) does not provide benefits. Children early nurturing relationships impact the ability to selfregulate, to plan, to have empathy for others, to problem solve, need to interact directly with others. Children need to have people talking directly to and with them about what they are to control impulses and to be more resilient. seeing and experiencing throughout the day for their brains to fully develop language skills. An extremely important aspect of direct interaction is that it is done in a way of respecting your child and responding to how they are feeling. For example, if your child is upset and crying in the checkout line at the store, they simply need your help. An important helpful tip to know is that your child’s brain is still developing, and so big emotions are not yet easily controlled. What your child is showing you is that he needs you to use your calm brain to help calm his brain because he doesn’t know how. When you say something like, “It is hard to not have the things you want and it makes you sad, doesn’t it?” you are providing an experience that helps a child learn to self-regulate. Responding in an understanding way contributes greatly to your child being happy, healthy, caring, smart and letting their uniqueness shine! It is my sincere hope that you enjoy the shared insights that you can incorporate into everyday life with your children. I believe that building the connections through Neuro-nurturing is so important that I created educational packets of information that parents, caregivers and teachers can use to enhance brain development. You can buy them online at BrainInsightsonline.com. Please share this information with others who interact with your child so that they can join you in building baby’s brain to be happy and healthy in life! 49

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Building Baby’s Brain, continued...

Essential Brain Building Activities from Birth to Age Five A WIDE VARIETY OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES THAT BUILD SMALL MOTOR SKILLS, like puzzles,

blocks, cutting, clay crafts, coloring and things that require the use of fingers and precise movements. AN ABUNDANCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES THAT BUILD LARGE MOTOR SKILLS, like running around

obstacles, jumping, hopping, kid’s yoga, spinning, throwing, climbing and games that involve the use of arms and legs. FREE PLAY TIME WITH FRIENDS OR SIBLINGS.

Young children need unstructured time with other kids to develop social skills through imaginary play, inventing, problem solving, creating, and role playing. EATING WHOLE FOODS THAT PROVIDE NUTRITION.

Processed foods are stripped of nutrients, and so to get nature’s vitamins and minerals, we need to provide them with food that isn’t pre-packaged. Small bites of fruits and vegetables are more fun if allowed to touch, smell and experience the taste. A trip to a market or a garden can help a small child learn where real food comes from.

FOLLOW YOUR PEDIATRICIAN’S GUIDELINE FOR HOW MUCH SLEEP YOUR CHILD NEEDS to have for proper

development. Brains process experiences, grow and rest during sleep. They need to have a regular routine to get enough sleep on a daily basis in a safe sleeping arrangement and on their back as an infant. A LACK OF CHAOS. A child’s brain is impacted directly by a chaotic environment, even as an infant. This includes noise, yelling, excessive movement, demands and commands, stress of caregivers, instability and lack of predictability. Babies need peace. Children need regular and calm routines. STIMULATION OF THE BRAIN BY LISTENING TO MUSIC.

Change it up. Calm music for quiet times and lively music for dancing and energetic times. Varied genres and music from a variety of cultures is valuable. READING OUT LOUD TO YOUR BABY EVERY DAY is stimulating to the brain in numerous ways. The interaction, the closeness, the visual stimulation and the verbal communication build skills that will help in school and in life. ENGAGE THEIR IMAGINATION by telling stories,

making up stories, creating plays and puppet shows, asking open ended questions, exploring new places, drawing or painting pictures and making music. ESTABLISH APPROPRIATE EXPECTATIONS AND REGULAR ROUTINES. Kids desire structure and do best when they know

what to expect from you, and what you are expecting from them. If you have an established developmentally appropriate expectation, stick to it. Do your best to stay on eating and sleeping schedules. ACKNOWLEDGE THE RANGE OF EMOTIONS YOUR CHILD EXPERIENCES. Help your child deal with feelings by recognizing

and identifying them. Children are sometimes smarter than we realize, but need calm support so they can learn how to manage the emotions that still feel too big to handle. Using your maturity shows them you value their response and helps guide them to developing their brain for self-regulation.

READ USING FUN VOICES OR USE FINGER PUPPETS

Deborah McNelis, M.Ed is the founder of Brain Insights LLC and developer of the Neuro-Nurturing Interaction Packets and Naturally Developing Young Brains activity packets in English and Spanish There is one Neuro-Nurturing Interaction Packet for each of the ﬁrst six years of life, providing fun activities to entertain active brains during busy everyday life.

to make reading a truly enjoyable experience.

BrainInsightsonline.com

LOTS OF TIME SPENT OUTDOORS. Fresh air and sunlight are not only healthy, but children need to learn about and build an early relationship with their surroundings through using multiple senses in the exploration of grass, leaves, trees, water and animals.

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CAR RING SUPPORTS DEVELOPMENT CHILDCARE PRESCHOOLS VPK HEALTH SPECIAL NEEDS MENTAL HEALTH NUTRITION

We can do this — together. Thrive By Five Pinellas is working to build an early childhood system that is equitable, accountable, and responsive — because Pinellas County’s youngest deserve equal access to every opportunity for success. Although our county is rich with resources, too many of our kids continue to struggle. Thrive By Five is a community-based actiondriven effort created to implement an ongoing game plan to help families and children sooner rather than later. A RECENT STATE REPORT SHOWED THAT ONLY 60% OF PINELLAS CHILDREN WERE “READY” FOR KINDERGARTEN. WE DON’T THINK THAT’S ACCEPTABLE, AND YOU SHOULDN’T EITHER.

NEIGHBORS COMMUNIT TY WORKPLACES

TB5P.org Sign up for our newsletter at tb5p.org and follow the Thrive By Five Facebook page for ongoing information, resources and events.

POLICY EMPOWERED

AT-A-GLANCE VISION Every child enters kindergarten prepared to thrive in school and life. MISSION Mobilize all parts of our community to create equitable opportunities for young children to thrive. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO THRIVE BY FIVE? Healthy development allowing children to thrive in the ﬁrst ﬁve years of life includes: - physical health and well being; - social competency; - emotional maturity; - language and cognitive development; - communication and family support.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO THRIVE BY FIVE? - Early Learning - Identiﬁcation and Intervention - Family Supports - Physical Health, Mental Health and Nutrition

HOW CAN YOU HELP? - Join a project team. - Learn more about kindergarten readiness. - Become an early childhood advocate. - Donate to support the work. - Adopt an early learning center. - Adopt family friendly workplace policies. - Contact us about many ways to get involved.

WHO’S INVOLVED? STEERING COMMITTEE Dr. Marcie Biddleman Juvenile Welfare Board Jalessa Blackshear Parent Representative Lindsay Carson Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County Dr. Ulyee Choe Pinellas County Health Department Dr. Ricardo Davis Lutheran Services Florida/COQEBS Jaime Dixon Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg Dr. Michael Grego Pinellas County Schools Ray Hensley Pinellas County Health Department Tom Kennedy Business Sector Representative Paula Keyser Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital April Lott Directions for Living Chuck Tiernan Community Foundation of Tampa Bay

WANT TO JOIN THESE ORGANIZATIONS IN A MOVEMENT TO MAKE EARLY CHILDHOOD A PRIORITY IN PINELLAS? Learn more and signup at TB5P.org or call 727-455-1567.

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EARLY LEARNING by LINDSAY CARSON

Chief Executive Officer Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County

Early childhood experiences have been proven to shape future academic, social and even health outcomes. You don’t have to an expert in child development to give your baby what they need. Parents are a child’s first and most important teacher. The most important thing you can teach your baby is that there is a loving adult that they can depend upon. Successful children come from homes with working parents, stay-at-home parents, live-in grandmothers, etc… Most children attend preschool. Some begin as infants; others start with Voluntary PreKindergarten when they turn four-years-old. You decide what best meets the needs of your child and your family. Nothing replaces us as parents, but a partnership between families and providers creates a healthy and stable environment for young children to thrive. Gone are the days of just “babysitting and daycare” so parents could work. Considering that 90% of brain synapses are formed before a child ever goes to kindergarten, there is a great focus on “early learning.” More and more, families are looking for early learning programs to support their child’s healthy development. What exactly is early learning? First, it’s NOT pushing kindergarten and first-grade skills into preschool. The key to high-quality early learning is age-appropriate curriculum. Each activity, center and circle time is planned intentionally to teach different skills. Young children learn through experimentation and discovery. More simply put… they learn best through play. That’s right– not workbooks, not desks in rows, not apps and definitely not videos. They are still in the hands-on mode, (that’s why they touch everything)! Language development is crucial in the early years; this is the foundation of literacy skills later on. They develop these skills by listening to stories, singing songs and talking with their peers. Young children are developing language skills through practice, that’s why they talk so much…. High-quality early learning programs are only quiet at naptime. It is not all about letters and numbers. Young children are also learning executive function skills, or how to manage their thoughts, emotions and actions; these are equally if not more important than the academic skills. Some examples are working memory, meaning they can recall information and apply it in a new situation; flexible thinking or trying different approaches to solve a problem; and self-control, the skills we need to resist temptation and impulse.

Coincidently, according to the Florida Chamber of Commerce, these “soft skills” are in high demand in today’s workforce. So if want your child to be employable, invest in developing their executive function skills during the early years.

Choosing Quality Child Care Looking for an early learning program? While there is no secret that cost and location can limit your options of available choices, it is important to do your research. Whether you are looking for a family childcare home or center, Child Care Resource and Referral can offer resources on choosing quality and financial assistance. Explore options online at ELCPinellas.net or call (727) 400-4411 Here are a few things to look for when you visit a potential childcare home or center– and remember to follow your gut, that intuition thing is real. • Does it look clean and safe? Are they licensed? (If not, keep looking). You can review licensing inspection reports at pclb.org • How do the adults speak to the children? Are they respectful, warm and nurturing? One of the most important elements of a quality program is the interaction between the children and adults. • Do children generally look happy? Are they playing? Are there lots of toys and materials within reach of children? • Is the provider accredited or participating in quality improvement programs? • Are the activities appropriate for the age? For example, babies should not have TV or electronics and preschoolers should not do worksheets.

Lindsay Carson is a wife and mother of two amazing children. She has worked in early childhood education for nearly 20 years and has a bachelors in early childhood education and a masters in nonproﬁt management from the University of Central Florida.

RESOURCES FOR PARENTS OF SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN FAMILY NETWORK ON DISABILITIES Advocacy and education organization for families who have children with disabilities. For more information and details go to fndfl.org.

EARLY STEPS

CENTRAL FLORIDA PARENT CENTER Visit their website to access their calendar of local events and trainings. They also provide assistance with issues concerning Exceptional Student Education. cflparents.org

THE FAMILY CAFÉ CONFERENCE This is an annual free statewide event for information and networking for children with disabilities, special health care needs and their families. familycafe.net

In Pinellas and Pasco Counties, Florida’s Early Steps partners with Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital to provide early intervention and therapy services to eligible infants and toddlers (birth to three years old) with signiﬁcant developmental delays or a condition that may result in a developmental delay. The program’s focus is on activities that will help the child learn and develop, because starting interventions early puts children on the right path to learn and develop at their fullest potential. Children who qualify for the Early Steps program have at-risk or conﬁrmed conditions that can lead to physical or mental delays. There is no income requirement to qualify for the program and families are not charged for services. You do not need a referral to join the Early Steps program. For information, call (800) 374-4334 or email achearlysteps@jhmi.edu.

Five

Budgeting Basics for New Parents by SARAH HUSSAIN Market Vice President Achieva Credit Union

Planning for parenthood can be tricky: there’s no official parenting manual, and no two babies are ever the same. But one thing you can plan for is how to make the most of your money as you welcome your new bundle of joy. Here are five tips we like to share with our credit union members who are budgeting for their babies: START A RAINY-DAY FUND RIGHT AWAY Though we do our best to keep our babies safe and healthy, you should always expect the unexpected. Be sure you have an emergency fund to help pay for things like illnesses, injuries or medications. Doctor copays can easily add up. BE PRACTICAL WITH BIG BUYS I once bought a cool flashy stroller for my first-born child, only to realize that flashy doesn’t necessarily mean convenient. A stroller is one of the biggest purchases you’ll make, so be practical about it. Try buying an all-in-one travel system with an infant car seat, a car-seat base and a stroller. It can save you money since you’re not buying the items individually– and don’t be afraid to take the stroller for a test drive first.

BE SMART ABOUT STOCKING UP You’ll never be sure of the products that’ll work best for your baby until you know what he or she prefers. Buy a minimum amount of diapers, wipes and pacifiers to test things out before making bulk buys. IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO SAVE It may be hard to picture your baby going to college or getting married, but it’s never to soon to save for life’s big moments. Set up a savings account as soon as your baby is born, and add some money to it every month. Though it may feel like a small amount, $10 from each paycheck makes a difference in the long run. Achieva Credit Union also offers a 529 plan, a tax-advantage plan designed to encourage saving for future education costs. A final thought: Once your kids reach school age and their classes visit Achieva’s space in Finance Park, they too will learn how to save money in educational yet interactive ways. Located in Largo, Finance Park is a hands-on simulation experience for students, helping them to build a foundation to make intelligent financial decisions. Achieva’s space in Finance Park is slated to open for the 2019 school year.

CHOOSE COST-CONSCIOUS CLOTHING Newborns outgrow their clothing in the blink of an eye, so avoid buying clothes too far in advance. You’ll likely be throwing money away if you try to predict your baby’s size two or three months down the road. Another tip is to check out consignment shops. You can still get quality baby clothes, some might even have tags on them– and no one will know the difference. And sure, those leather shoes might look cute on your baby, but they aren’t necessary. Stick to socks.

Sarah Hussain is a Market Vice President and Certiﬁed Financial Counselor for Achieva Credit Union. She leads six branches in northern Pinellas County, overseeing branch staff, market growth, and community efforts. She’s also a mother of one daughter and one son. Contact Sarah by calling (727) 415-0490 or by emailing shussain@achievacu.com for ﬁnancial advice or to learn more about Achieva Credit Union.

EDITOR’S NOTE Much appreciation to Achieva Credit Union for their sponsorship that is providing copies of Tampa Bay Baby to parents of preschool students throughout Pinellas County. 55

MOM’S MENTAL HEALTH It’s 5 a.m., and your two-month old daughter is finally sleeping. The problem is, you aren’t. You’re tossing and turning, wondering “What did I sign up for?’ Your three-year old son just screamed for the Black Panther action figure from the middle of Target, through the checkout line and into the parking lot, While everyone was staring at you. Parenting is hard work, and eyes often turn to the mother. How can a mom be at her best? When she knows her own health is as important as the needs of her child(ren). Here are ten tips for maintaining your sanity, as you negotiate the sometimes stormy seas of motherhood.

Find a Support Group. There are many new mom groups. Hospitals and birthing centers can be resources for finding other moms. Some host groups for moms on a weekly basis. Parenting classes can help a mom find support and new tools for her parenting tool belt. On-line groups can be helpful, when time is short. If these supports still leave you feeling overwhelmed…

Contact a Professional. Postpartum depression and anxiety are real and common. Please allow yourself the right to medical support (that you would instantly get for your suffering child). Whether you choose medication, therapy, or a combination, realize that help is available. Should you choose to do this, also…

Avoid Comparisons. Avoid comparing yourself to other mothers; your child to other children; your body to other post-pregnancy bodies. Honor your individuality, for yourself and your young family. As you do this… Retool the To-Do List. Add this item to every day’s list, “Child unpredictability equals Mom choosing flexibility.” You still will get many things done while building time for the unexpected…and please, above all… Enjoy Your Little One as Much as Possible. Gather the magic moments and string them together like pearls. Remember each day will hold pearls, along with challenges. Make sure that as you focus on the tough stuff, spotlight those great moments, too!

Be Realistic. It’s isn’t all sweetness and sunshine. There will be days when you wonder “Why did I choose to do this?” When those moments come, face them head on; and…

Be Patient (With Yourself). Every step along the parenting path is a fresh one. Whether you have one kid or 10, there’s always a new “something” to face– usually on a daily basis. Having to problem-solve day after day (even moment by moment) can be incredibly challenging. There will be days when the ball drops, either from your hands or your kids’. When this happens… Be Forgiving of Yourself. We all make mistakes. If you screamed back at your son at Target, know you will both survive. Humans are amazingly resilient. Take a deep breath, and…

Take Time to Think. You have the right to take 10, 15, even 30 seconds to think a situation through before taking action. Tell your screaming child, “Mom is going to think about this.” It never hurts for a child to see their parent think over something. This is an essential skill for parents and children. If you’ve given the situation some thought and are still struggling… Ask for Guidance. Reach out to your people; the family and friends who form your “village.” Let a loving person have some time with your child. It’s good to be away from your child sometimes, if just so you can miss them. Many strangers in the parking lot are sympathetic, and a mom can say “We sure are having a tough time right now.” If you feel isolated, or your village isn’t available… 57

Tips from Pinellas County Schools Kindergarten Teachers Will your child be attending kindergarten soon? It’s a perfect time to start focusing on things like cooperation, playing well with others and following directions. All of these skills will help your child make a smooth transition. Here are a few more ideas to prepare your child for school:

in size order or alphabetized. Make a scavenger hunt in your home and count windows, or find objects that begin with a specific letter. Identify colors by sorting laundry into colorcoded piles. Real-life applications of numbers, letters and colors will give your child a jumpstart on their educational journey.

TALK ABOUT KINDERGARTEN

NURTURE YOUR CHILD’S LOVE OF LANGUAGE

Build excitement and lessen anxiety by talking with your child about kindergarten. Many schools have Meet and Greet events before the school year starts. If you miss the Meet and Greet day, call to see if you can arrange a quick visit to see the school and to meet the teacher with your child. By visiting the school and meeting the teacher together, your child will feel more comfortable in a new environment.

Read frequently during the day and encourage your child to use imagination by making up stories. Read billboards, magazines, or shopping lists. Visit libraries and bookstores regularly.

ESTABLISH A ROUTINE

Start preparing your child a week or two before school begins. Figure out how long it will take to get your child ready for Help your child memorize basic information, such as name, age, school and set a schedule. Choose regular times for your child address and phone number. It’s also a good idea for children to to eat, play and sleep each day. Routines are comforting and know various body parts in case they aren’t feeling well. This will help your child know what to expect. Request a school will prepare them if teachers ask questions. schedule, so you can prepare your child for what an average day will be like. FIND EDUCATIONAL MOMENTS

START WITH THE BASICS

IN YOUR DAILY LIFE

LEARN MORE

Use real-life encounters to teach your child about numbers and letters. For example, while unloading groceries, you can ask your child to count anything from cans to bananas. Hone your child’s organizational skills by requesting items be placed

For more ideas to prepare your child for school, visit pcsb.org/kg. You’ll find a variety of resources, including a Countdown to Kindergarten activity sheet.

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GET KIDS READY TO LEARN

START YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATION ON A FIRM FOUNDATION WITH PINELLAS COUNTY SCHOOLS by MICHAEL A. GREGO, ED. Superintendent Pinellas County Schools

Pinellas County Schools provides high-quality educational opportunities that prepare children for success in kindergarten and beyond. Based on the Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards, each program provides developmentally appropriate activities that nurture children’s emerging talents and strengths. We take pride in our successful efforts to prepare children for school. Pinellas County’s Kindergarten Readiness rate is significantly better than the state rate, according to the latest data released by the state. In the upcoming school year, we plan to expand VPK sites to provide even more educational opportunities for families.

THRIVING BY FIVE

Our academic offerings include topnotch neighborhood schools and more than 75 magnet programs tailored to students interests talents and abilities. Options include visual and performing arts programs, gifted studies, international studies, and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Academic programs are complemented by a vast array of extracurricular programs, including 260 after-school STEM Academies and nationally recognized arts, music and athletic programs. We have aggressively expanded gifted services to identify a growing number of gifted learners, and all elementary schools provide gifted services. We also offer exceptional education services for students who have disabilities. Pinellas County Schools is focused on putting the best teachers in our classrooms. The National Council on Teacher Quality selected Pinellas as an inaugural winner of the Great Districts for Great Teachers honor for elevating the best teachers through supportive policies and practices. All of our schools are accredited by AdvancED, the parent organization of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Please explore what we have to offer. After you apply, attend an open house, take a tour and ask about parent involvement opportunities. You’ll meet other parents and learn tips to help your child thrive. Most of all, enjoy being a parent of a young learner! This is the beginning of your child’s education and a milestone for their educational journey. To learn more about our early childhood programs, visit pcsb.org/early or call (727) 588-6513.

Celebration of Reading We know that early experiences and brain development mark the path for a child’s success in school and in life. There is no shortage of toys, videos, games or theories that claim to give your baby the academic edge, however, parents are a child’s first and most important teacher. As parents, we all want our children to have the very best opportunities and advantages, but what does that really mean? What can parents do?

JOY OF READING ALOUD Research shows that reading aloud to babies and children of all ages pays off with big dividends for the whole family through all the phases of childhood! In today’s world, where conversations have been reduced to an emoji, this is an actual chunk of time where a parent and child can bond face-to-face and engage in some stimulating conversations. Books can take you both on an adventure to new places and open the door to talk about a challenge facing a character. Children hear language and learn new words. Choose chapter books to read aloud, too. By doing this, the child builds her attention span and it creates a love for stories. Books like The Chronicles of Narnia are fantastic adventure books with plenty of opportunities to do character voices, and to stop and talk about the moral decisions. Unplug for 30 to 60 minutes at a time and read aloud. No child is immune to a great book being read aloud. And all the better when it’s a parent doing the reading.

READ TALK SING The Early Learning Coalition has been a big supporter of reading since it began in 1999. It’s current executive director, Lindsay Carson, says they encourage parents to read, talk and sing as much as possible to their babies, toddlers and preschoolers. She also has this advice for parents of young children: • Young children NEED human interaction. Resist the temptation to use electronic devices for reading and singing. The Academy of Pediatrics recommends no devices for children under two with good reason. Bedtime stories are great for bonding and reading! • 85% brain synapses are formed before age five. Reading is an important element in creating attachment and bonding during this time. Talking helps in brain development, so ask your child questions about what he is doing, what he sees and how he feels. Finally, sing—about anything. They love the sound of your voice, even if it is not in tune. • Children have natural developmental milestones, so it’s not necessary to push them to read prematurely. Let them be kids. Jumping ahead to teach reading too early can interfere with and preempt learning other skills that are set to develop during the preschool years, like spatial skills or problem solving skills. • There is no need to purchase fancy flash cards or products. Simply be with them and READ TALK SING everyday. These activities develop vocabulary and language, which are the precursors to literacy and help to develop their skills.

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• Learning experiences can be built into everyday moments. Doing the laundry, walking in the yard, waiting (forever) at the pediatrician’s office, or grocery shopping can all be turned into “brain building” moments. Sign up for Vroom! And receive daily messages on how you can help your child learn and grow. Visit joinvroom.org to learn more.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY Books are magic in a kid’s life– the real ones with paper pages and covers and spines, and that yummy book smell. And then there’s the experience: to have it and hold it; to read through the pages watching the bookmark move toward the back over a few days; and “Yay!” that moment of pure satisfaction when he can revel in the moment the last page is read. One of the great achievements of our society is our system of public libraries, where any child can experience the magic of books at no charge. Today our libraries are much more than book lenders. They have advanced with the times to become places of community with meeting rooms, classes, online resources, seminars and even concerts! In Pinellas County, each city runs their own library and keeps their own calendar. Some programs are similar, but some are very different. There are read aloud events for young readers to bring books alive. There are Lego® and STEM events for children. Sign up for their e-newsletters to receive event information. Set aside at least one day each month to visit the library with your children. This experience can never compare to their digital world. Visit PPLC.us for a full list of Pinellas County libraries and links. You don’t need to stick to only your local library. Explore all the library websites and see what might be happening just a few more minutes down the road.

NURTURE You don’t have to be an expert in child development to give your baby what they need. What your child needs more than anything else, is you. The most important thing you can show your baby is that there is a loving adult he or she can depend on. Brain development actually starts with attachment and bonding. The time you spend holding your little one, cooing, smiling, reading and playing is not only fun, it is making him smarter!

PINELLAS COUNTY KIDS LOVE TO READ! In addition to paper books, Pinellas County Schools offers the myOn Program to the county’s students. This online digital platform for obtaining books to read on devices is highly engaging to children, allows students to select their own books and becomes a tool for teachers and parents to monitor reading progress. The Book Bus, sponsored by Pinellas County Schools, is on our local roads stopping to hand out free books to local children. Save your books and watch for the Book Bus coming to a school near you! The Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County sponsors the Officer Friendly & Friends Book Club, which places volunteers from local police departments, fire departments, Sunstar and county crossing guards into local early learning centers to read aloud to children. Then during Celebrate Literacy Week each year in January, they bring in volunteers from throughout the county to help them promote the importance of literacy. The volunteers serve as special guest readers during the week at various early learning sites. Guest readers have included local business and nonprofit executives, elected officials, local celebrities, law enforcement, first responders and more!

Good Life Lessons Found in Children’s Stories Because Brian Hugged His Mother by David L. Rice “It’s a great story of how one random act of kindness unleashes a series of more and more kindness throughout the day. Our family still reminders each other of this simple and true phenomenon. Be nice to the person around you and you’ll be amazed to see what happens in your life.” --- Chris Steinocher, President of the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce The Sneetches and Other Stories by Dr. Seuss “The story teaches children about discrimination, the importance of diversity, and need to treat everyone fairly.” --- Dr. Ulyee Choe, Director of the Pinellas County Health Department The Louisiana State Bird Beauty Pageant by Todd-Michael St. Pierre “It’s a delightful little story that celebrates culture, conﬁdence, and internal beauty. All important values for our youngest readers.” --- State Representative Jennifer Webb, District 69 Oh The Places We Will Go by Dr. Seuss “It shares the message with kids that they can be anything they want to. I like to tell kids to ﬁnd what they’re passionate about and do that.” --- The Honorable Rick Kriseman, Mayor of St. Petersburg

THRIVING BY FIVE

Prescription to Play When was the last time your doctor gave you a prescription to play? If you have children under the age of five, chances are greater that the subject of playtime came up during one of his/her routine well child visits. In recent years, the medical community has recognized that there is power in the act of play to promote and enhance child development. Children MUST be given the opportunity to engage in developmentally appropriate play in order to gain fundamentally important skills such as social interaction skills, learning cause and effect and language skills. Think back to your childhood–what kinds of play can you recall? Did you play with dolls, or maybe cars? Did the great outdoors spark your imagination? Perhaps you were like my older brother and me, spending hours building forts out of couch pillows and blankets. Many of us engaged in all types of play and whether we realized it or not, we were learning as we played. The facts is that play is NOT frivolous; it is brain building. Even a baby builds her brain by exploring objects– bringing them to her mouth to investigate. She’s also learning social skills through play by cooing and smiling, causing her caregiver to smile back. The simple act of taking food off a spoon and waiting for another bite to be ready teaches the important playtime rule of taking turns. In fact, over the first year of life, a child’s brain will double in size and by age three will have reached 80% of its adult volume. It is therefore critically important to provide ample opportunity for young children to play, explore, pretend, be curious, investigate and discover. More importantly, play is an opportunity for parents and caregivers to engage with their children. Here are a few quick and easy prescriptions for play that I often discuss with caregivers and patients:

INFANTS 0-6 MONTHS Talk, talk, talk. Infants are sponges and can learn language skills from a very early age. I encourage caregivers to begin talking to their babies right away. Try giving your baby a play-by-play while changing a diaper, or during feeding time you could tell them about something you read or observed. 62 • tampa bay

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by SARAH KELLEY, MD Asst. Medical Director of Pediatrics Community Health Centers of Pinellas

Imitate. Vary your facial expressions and gestures so baby can imitate them. You can also imitate your child’s sounds and engage in a back-and-forth conversation.

7-12 MONTHS Movement. Provide a safe environment to crawl and explore. During playtime, place your baby in a variety of positions– such as her tummy or side. Peek-A-Boo!

1-3 YEARS Read. Regularly reading to and with your child fosters learning and can spark pretend play based on the stories you read. Drum time. Simple household items like plastic containers or wooden spoons can easily be used for play in the hands of an imaginative child. Pretend. No equipment needed. Simply use everyday items, like pretending to drink out of an empty cup or using a banana as a phone.

4-5 YEARS Sing. Turn on some kid friendly music and sing along. You can also dance and hop around if space allows. Act. Give her time and space to act out imaginary scenes, roles and activities. Story time. Tell your child stories or read to them and ask questions about what they remember. You may have noticed that digital playtime didn’t make my list. TV, video games and smartphones have become a constant presence in most of our homes, but truthfully, they encourage passivity rather than active learning and socially interactive play. In addition, overuse of media items often takes away from real brain-building play, either indoors or outdoors. It becomes especially confusing for parents and caregivers when digital media products are marketed toward young children as “educational.” My advice is to engage in digital learning platforms carefully and together as a family. Keep an eye on the clock as well to keep total screen time less than two hours total per day. So, grab your kiddos and have fun using this Prescription to Play!

Visit us online at chcpinellas.org or call (727) 824-8181. Community Health Centers of Pinellas County provide high quality primary care services to adults and children, including prenatal, newborn and dental care. We see patients with most private insurances, Medicaid, Medicare and offer sliding scale fees to the uninsured. Suncoast Center 5523 Roosevelt Blvd., Clearwater Clearwater Dental Center 702 Jasmine Way, Clearwater Clearwater Center 707 East Druid Rd., Clearwater Dunedin Center 1721 Main St., Dunedin Largo Center 12420 130th Ave. N., Largo Lealman Center 4950 34th Street N., St. Petersburg Oldsmar Center 3860 Tampa Rd., Suite C, Oldsmar Pinellas Park Center 7550 43rd Street N., Pinellas Park1 Bayfront Center 701 6th Street S., Suite 741, St. Petersburg Johnnie Ruth Clarke Center 1344 22nd Street S., St. Petersburg St. Petersburg Center 612 Dr. M.L.K., Jr. St. N., St. Petersburg Tarpon Springs Center 247 South Huey Avenue, Tarpon Springs Mobile Health Center locations will be posted on our website

Board Certiﬁed in pediatrics, Dr. Kelley completed her residency in pediatrics at the University of South Florida. She lives in Pinellas County with her husband and three children. Her hobbies include beach days, party planning, reading, and trying new, “foodie” restaurants around town.

TB5P.org READY FOR KINDERGARTEN. READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD.