A SPECIAL SECTION OF THE PETOSKEY NEWS-REVIEW
March 2011
Parenting Today P
arenting Awareness Month (PAM) is a Michigan initiative to promote awareness, education, and resources — through state outreach and local efforts — emphasizing the importance of effective parenting in nurturing children to become healthy, caring, and contributing citizens. Parenting Awareness Month is unique to Michigan and has been celebrated since 1993. The heart of Parenting Awareness Month is local activity. Communi4HYJO PZ 7HYLU[PUN (^HYLULZZ 4VU[O )RU 0RUH ,QIRUPDWLRQ &DOO 1RWWDZDVHSSL +XURQ %DQG RI WKH 3RWWDZDWRPL +HDOWK 'HSDUWPHQW
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ties throughout the state celebrate Parenting Awareness Month with parent and family fairs, conferences, local contests, and a variety of other activities. They use the initiative to circulate resource lists and make parents aware of the education and support available to help with their important job of raising children. For a list of the many local PAM activities taking place in communities throughout Michigan, visit Parenting Awareness Michigan at www.preventionnetwork.org.
Grand Prize Winner: Alyssa Koren Benton, grade 11, Holly, Mich. For a complete list of winners, visit www.preventionnetwork.org/pam/
www.parentactionforhealthykids.org
arent Action For Healthy Kids
THINKSTOCK
Childhood obesity:
INSIDE:
A growing concern
A mom’s perspective on special needs education ..............C2
Kristin Bates
Choosing quality child care ...............C3
Special to the News-Review
besity has been climbing steadily for the past 20 years. Defined, obesity is a body mass index of 30 or more. In 2009, in a study done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 29.6 percent of the population of Michigan was considered obese. For children as well, obesity has increased dramatically, affecting nearly triple the population compared to 30 years ago. “Concerns about childhood obesity are well founded as it can have both immediate and long-term health impacts. Obese youth are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, and are at greater risk for bone and joint problems and sleep apnea. Many obese youth experience social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem,� said Health Department of Northwest Michigan medical director Dr. Josh-
Helping your teen deal with stress ....C4 Community activity calendar ..C5 Community scrapbook .............C6 About shaken baby syndrome ....C7 Tips on talking to the legislature ......C8
ua Meyerson in an e-mail. Childhood obesity, according to the website www.cdc.gov, is the result of an imbalance between the calories a child consumes as food and beverages and the calories a child uses to support normal growth and development, metabolism and physical activity. Over time, obesity occurs when a child consumes more calories than are used. Many factors can influence this imbalance, such as genetic, behavioral and environmental factors. It is the interactions among these factors, rather than any single factor, that is thought to cause obesity. “They are also likely to become overweight or obese adults, which puts them at higher risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, cancer, arthritis,� said Meyerson, a boardcertified pediatrician. The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry relates obesity to poor eating habits, overeating or binging, lack of exercise, family history of obesity, low selfesteem and depression.
Doesn’t every child deserve all their shots?
C
hildren need five visits to their health care provider or local health department before they turn two. They need to get the shots to protect them from serious childhood diseases. One out of every four children in this country is not fully immunized.
By age two, your child should have: (4) DTaP (4) Hib (3) Polio (1) MMR (2) Hep A
(3) Hep B (1) Varicella (4) Pneumococcal (2) Influenza (3) Rotavirus
“Healthy lifestyle habits, including healthy eating and physical activity, can lower the risk of becoming obese and developing related diseases. We encourage parents to offer fresh fruits and vegetables to their children every day and limit soft drinks and sugary treats. Parents should encourage children to participate in physical activities at home, at PE classes and on sports teams, and to limit ‘screen time’ spent watching TV, playing games and using the computer,� suggested Meyerson. Some steps to help prevent obesity, offered by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, include building physical activity into regular routines, ensuring the school breakfast/lunch programs meet nutritional standards and provide daily physical education for pre-K through grade 12. Individuals should include at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day into their diet and control portion sizes. As a community, it suggests enSee OBESITY on PAGE C2
Contact your health care provider or health department to make sure your child's immunizations are up to date.
Protect the lives of the little ones you love. 800-432-4121 www.nwhealth.org
PARENTING IS FOR A LIFETIME
C2 OBESITY FROM PAGE C1
couraging the food industry to provide reasonable food and beverage portion sizes as well as increasing the availability of low-calorie, nutritious food items in local grocery stores. Megan Rapelje, the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) Ed program instructor for the Michigan State University Extension in Emmet and Charlevoix counties, added, “If you want your children to be active, show them how and involve them in the process. Let your child pick a physical activity that you can do together on a regular basis. Whether it’s taking a walk to feed the ducks or playing tag, offer them lots of opportunities to be active. Although modeling a healthy, active lifestyle is a simple concept, it’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.” Through the SNAP Ed program, Rapelje provides nutrition education, access to food resources and works to increase awareness of the importance of healthy lifestyles to lowincome residents. “This is a nutrition education program funded by the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) that focuses on offering educational classes to income eligible audiences, many of which receive SNAP benefits,” said Rapelje. A few current program examples are Team Nutrition and Pyramid Between the Pages for schools, and Eating Right is Basic, a series on basic nutrition to assist low-income individuals in stretching their food dollars, understanding basic dietary guidelines and adopting a healthier lifestyle. “Every time I teach a class about child nutrition, one thing proves itself over and over. Children are incredible understudies. If Dad doesn’t like green beans and everyone knows, it’s likely that Tommy will refuse to try them. If Mom eats an apple every day, Suzy will probably ask to eat apples,
ABOUT SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SNAP) “In the challenging economic climate, SNAP Ed is a free resource that strives to empower and educate families and individuals on how to prepare low cost, nutritionally sound meals. SNAP Ed classes take a hands-on, discussionbased approach to deliver research-based nutrition education, which makes it fun and accessible for all ages and backgrounds,” explained Megan Rapelje, the SNAP Ed program instructor for the Michigan State University Extension in Emmet and Charlevoix counties. According to the Food and Nutrition Service website, www.fns.usda. gov, SNAP provides food for 31 million people each month. With electronic benefits, low-income households can use this assistance at most grocery stores. It is the cornerstone of the federal food assistance programs by offering support to needy households and to those making the transition from welfare to work.
too. That being said, some picky eating is normal and part of healthy development, so don’t be discouraged if you are modeling healthy behaviors and you feel like you’re not making progress. Be consistent. It will pay off,” encouraged Rapelje. Residents in Emmet and Charlevoix counties can learn more about the SNAP Ed program by calling the Emmet County Michigan State University Extension office at (231) 348-1770 or by e-mailing rapeljem@anr.msu.edu.
March 2011 •
Special children, special education, special planning: What it’s all about, a parent’s perspective Lorraine Manary Formerly of the Child Abuse Council and Michigan Alliance for Families
A
ll children are special, especially to their parents. We all want what is best for our children, and when you realize your child has special needs, that desire only grows stronger. No one gets pregnant and expects to have a child with special needs or health concerns, yet many of us find that we do, and our education begins immediately. Sometimes, as in my case, you learn that your child will have a disability for their entire life. Other times, you realize slowly over time that your child is different; they learn more slowly, act out or simply act in unusual ways. For some it is an accident that suddenly changes your child. The fact is, that no matter how or why, many of us are parenting a child with special needs. My daughter Amanda, now 22, was born full term. We had trouble in the first trimester but no prenatal testing was ever done. She had a heart defect at birth and was flown to Children’s Hospital in Detroit. After a two-week stay, she came home and went back at 1 1/2 years for open heart surgery. We were stunned. A heart defect is one of the common physical concerns found in conjunction with Down syndrome.
• Martial Arts Programs • Post Game High School Parties • 3 on 3 Basketball tournaments • Individual and family memberships available • Youth Sports Programs • After-School Programming
Approximately 10 percent of the students in any school have special needs that impact their Manary education. These students use special education services and support to provide them with access to the education as guaranteed by law. Special education isn’t a place; it is those services and accommodations that help students be successful in school. This might be a special desk that accommodates a wheelchair, or a shortened list of spelling words, a quiet place to take a test or extra time on an assignment, or any other accommodation which helps a student access the curriculum and be successful in making progress toward their goals. So how does a parent, who deals daily with the effects of their child’s disability, work to make sure that they have the best education possible? I wish I could say it was easy. One of the difficult parts for parents is that schools are obligated to keep personal information confidential. Schools know who in the community have special needs, but are bound by that confidentiality and cannot share the information with other parents who want and need support. Michigan Alliance for Families, (800) 552-4821 or www.michiganallianceforfamilies.org, helps connect parents with others in the
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Special education isn’t a place; it is those services and accommodations that help students be successful in school. community and provide training and resources so the parents don’t feel isolated. Parenting a child with special needs is more complicated than a typically developing child, and parents can feel very alone, especially if there are behavioral or physical challenges. Educators grow up and want to educate. They go to school to learn more, they receive teaching certificates proving success in their own studies, and some specialize in educating children with special needs. This is a calling for many in education, but for parents of children with special needs it is a little different. Having had two “typically” developing children, I watched as they went off to kindergarten, then elementary school. It seemed so easy. The kids would go off in the morning and come home in the afternoon to tell me about their day. Their education came so easily for us all. Then came my youngest, Amanda, whose abilities were less defined, her education was not a smooth “given,” but a challenge. Where is the right placement if special education is not a place? How will she learn, and what are the most important lessons she’ll need when she is finished with school? In my mind, the most important of these questions is what will he or she need when done with school. What skills, academics and experiences will prepare my child for his or her future? The answer is different for each child, regardless of abilities, but this is where planning begins. It can be very scary to think we are labeling our children, but would we worry if the label were asthma or some other medical condition, if that label meant they received the treatment (read: services) they needed to be
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Be Because the early years are learning yyears, parents are key to helping their child get ready for school starting at birth. What your child experiences today impacts his or her success in the future. Great Start Network and Parent Coalition are here to help families with children birth to age 5 in the Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District service area! • age appropriate information on health, • development age appropriate on health, resources andinformation parenting/community development and parenting/community resources • connections between families and • their connections betweenschool families and neighborhood their neighborhood school • advocacy and educational activities with parents, • community advocacy and educational activities with parents, members, and policy makers community members, and policy makers • professional development training • and professional development training workshops and workshops
www.greatstartforkids.com
Call us today at 231.547.6217
healthy (read: successful)? No. The label is a means to an end; in this case the end is receiving necessary supports and services for a successful school experience. It is more work for parents and educators when a child needs special education services. But it doesn’t need to be overwhelmingly so. The Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process is designed to help both parents and educators know how to best provide for a child’s education. It starts with a description of the child’s present level of academic and functional performance based initially on data, which can include test scores, school work, documented observations, etc., and includes the student’s strengths, weaknesses and both what helps and stops the child from learning. These last two pieces are especially important as you think about how to arrange the learning environment to support a child’s access to education. The IEP process provided the path for Amanda to have the supports she needed to benefit from a public education. The classwork was adapted to a slower pace since it takes her longer to learn skills. Rather than 15 spelling words, Amanda might have five. She benefited most by being able to stay in class with her same-age peers. She may not have learned everything they did in school, but she was exposed to it, which creates shared memories. I’m amazed when I look at Amanda’s Facebook page and see that she has well over 100 “friends.” She continues to receive special education through an IEP with a focus on job training skills. My hope is that one day she will have a job, and perhaps her supervisor will have once been a classmate.
Dr. Ellsworth and Family
Christy L., Mother of three, Petoskey
Call today for a complimentary consultation!
or TOLL FREE at 1.877.866.3714 “Creating beautiful smiles for the entire family”
231-347-8899
Find us on Facebook: Parenting Awareness Michigan
PARENTING IS FOR A LIFETIME
March 2011 •
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Where to start when the time comes to choose child care Kristin Bates
Special to the News-Review
O
ne of the hardest decisions a parent will make, after rejoining the job market, is choosing who will take care of their child during their time away at work. If they are lucky, a grandparent is willing to take the responsibility. However, for most families, this isn’t the case, and a search is on for available child care. “Choosing a quality child care program is one of the most important decisions a family will make. But where do you look and what do you look for? Your first step is determining what type of child care is right for your family,” said Susan Chowen, child care specialist with Child Care Connections of Northwest Michigan. Child Care Connections, out of Traverse City, is a resource for child care referrals as well as training and information on child care for 10 counties — Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee and Wexford. “When you think that 90 percent of a child’s brain growth occurs within the first five years of life, you realize how imperative those early learning experiences are on your child. By having quality child care, this has a profound effect on your child’s overall development,” said Chowen, who has an office in Boyne City.
Chowen explained there are three options available for families. A child care center is a licensed facility that can include preschool, nursery school, Head Start programs, Great Start Readiness programs, and Chowen before-and-after-school care. Group child care homes are licensed homes in which two or more adults provide care for up to 12 children. A family child care home is a registered home where one adult provides care for one to six children. “Child Care Connections, which is a Great Start regional resource center, can provide child care referrals for families searching for providers in their area. Our staff can provide guidance by phone, in person or electronically if parents have Internet access,” Chowen said. To help with searching for quality child care, Child Care Connections has a brochure available to help guide parents through the many steps. These steps include helpful hints to use during the initial phone call to the provider. Most importantly, stressed Chowen, is to ask questions and schedule an interview or visit. If possible, take your child to the visit. A few suggested questions, according to Chowen, are: — Are the children taken off the premises? If so, how are they transported? — What is the medication policy?
COURTESY PHOTO
Jacob Morency and Abigail Sheffield play at Becky’s Daycare located in Boyne City.
— How are the children supervised? — Who are all the people who will be around my child? Are they screened? May I meet them? — Can you provide references of former parents who have used your care? “We are fortunate to have so many trained child care professionals in our area. They understand how children grow and learn, and they know how to provide the materials and activities that are most appropriate to the ages and interests of the children,” Chowen said. During the scheduled visit, Chowen advised that a parent understand the written policy and contract used by the care provider. Also, she recommended a parent be aware of their guidance/ discipline policy as well as all emergency procedures. In addition, it is important to know the experience and training background of the provider and staff. “In the near future, we will be working with the Great Start parent coalitions and other community groups to provide parents with learning materials and resources,” Chowen said. To help with making a sound decision, Michigan has taken steps to implement a field test plan of a Quality Rating and Improvement System, which will be in place in the fall of 2011. This rating system is currently in place in 21 states across the country, and 27 more states are in the development phase. “Licensed and unlicensed providers volunteer to be assessed against a set of quality standards and receive an overall rating that will be made public. Quantified by five stars, these ratings enable parents to make informed choices. Also, programs can improve their ratings through participation of quality improvement activities,” Chowen explained. For access to a comprehensive database of child care programs, visit www.greatstartconnect.org. To find out if your child care provider has any documented complaints or investigations, go to www.michigan.gov/ michildcare and click on “Search for Childcare Centers or Homes.” For information on Child Care Connections, visit www.childcarenwmi.com. For child care referrals, visit greatstartconnect.org. Chowen concluded, “In making your decision, consider all of your information and approach the provider with any questions or concerns you may have. It’s okay to be a choosy parent.” Families living in Charlevoix, Emmet and Antrim counties can contact Chowen at (231) 582-8070 or e-mail susanc@childcarenwmi.com.
UPCOMING EVENTS On Saturday, March 12, at the Community Reformed Church in Charlevoix, there will be a Parent and Child Care Provider Conference. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Keynote speaker will be Matt Jones, presenting “If I Only Had a Heart.” During the conference, participants will have the opportunity to attend breakout sessions with topics such as sleeping disorders, love and logic, financial planning and cheap and healthy snacks. “The Parent & Child Care Provider Conference is focused on educating and supporting families and providers. This free community event will present valuable information on health-related issues, offer discipline strategies, and address financial concerns,” said Susan Chowen, child care specialist with Child Care Connections of Northwest Michigan. On Saturday, May 14, the first Child Care Provider Fair will take place in Petoskey. The site has yet to be determined. “This event will allow all licensed child care providers to promote their programs and services, and make face-to-face contacts with parents searching for child care. Families will benefit by having a variety of providers in a single location, so they can become familiar with which child care service best meets their needs,” explained Chowen. For more information, contact Chowen at (231) 582-8070 or e-mail susanc@childcarenwmi.com.
Online resources — Database of child care programs, www.greatstartconnect.org — Child care provider documented complaints or investigations, www.michigan.gov/michildcare and click on “Search for Childcare Centers or Homes” — Child Care Connections, www.childcarenwmi.com — Child care referrals, greatstartconnect.org
Northwest Academy A K-12 Tuition-Free Public School & Children’s House Montessori & Pre-school
Julie Christiansen (Photo)
• Classes limited to 15 with strong Academic Concentration • On-Line School offers curricula for AP classes, credit recovery and students who must learn at home. • Every student receives a personalized education plan • Dual enrollment and college credits available for all high school students
“The Academic Choice” 115 W. Hurlbut Street • Charlevoix, MI 49720
Phone: 231-547-9000 • Fax: 231-547-9464 Email: info@nwa.edu
Dental Clinics North A PARTNERSHIP OF LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENTS General dentistry for the entire family. Catering to patients with Medicaid, Delta Healthy Kids, Northern Dental Plan Low Income/Uninsured
National Children’s Dental Health Month Dental decay is the most common preventable childhood disease. Lakeview Dentistry strives to improve dental education, and is committed to early disease intervention. A healthy mouth is a healthy body.
Lakeview
D E N T I S T RY O F C H A R L E V O I X
109 W. Hurlbut, Charlevoix, MI 49720 Located off of US-31 on top of the hill above Olesons.
231.547.4347 • www.charlevoixdentist.com
ALWAYS
NEW PATIENTS WELCOME
OPEN ENROLLMENT Charlevoix Children’s House A Montessori School
Openings available for fall enrollment! Ages 2 1/2 to 6 years old • Full or half day options. Montessori Method Preschool & Kindergarten Developmental Kindergarten Program for early 5-year-olds.
New patients are being accepted in:
• Individualized introduction to various levels of quality educational materials.
Cheboygan 825 S. Huron St. 866-878-6550
• Nurturing environment with qualified, caring instructors.
East Jordan 601 Bridge St. 866-878-6551
• Large outdoor play area. • Students do not need to be potty trained.
Petoskey/Harbor Springs 3434 M-119 866-878-6556
• Please call Miss Molly & set up a tour of the school.
For appointment call 877-321-7070
• Kindergarten students exempt from tuition costs.
Visit our web site: charlevoixchildrenshouse.org
Call 547-5599 for information or appt. to visit 8700 Mercer Blvd. • Charlevoix
OPEN HOUSE • April 21, 2011 • 9:00am – 7:00pm Children’s House 5 Mornings: Morning drop off 7:30 - 8:30 am Pick up at 11:30am Weekly cost of $85.00 Monthly cost of $340.00 00289207
Compare Charlevoix Children’s House to Daycare Daycare Children’s House 5 Mornings 5 School Days: Morning drop off 7:30 - 8:30 am Pick up at 3:00pm Weekly cost of $132.50 Weekly cost of $75.00 Monthly cost of $530.00 Monthly cost $300.00
Daycare Full Time (40 hr week) Weekly cost of $125.00 Monthly cost of $500.00
PARENTING IS FOR A LIFETIME
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March 2011 •
Helping your teen deal with stress S Melissa FrugĂŠ
Special to the News-Review
tress is normal. At some point, everyone feels a little extra pressure during their life — even children and young adults. But while many adults have learned how to cope with stress, many teens lack the needed skills and it’s up to parents to help them understand how to handle their feelings. Kelly Daunter, M.A. LLP, from Family Psychological Services in Petoskey, said teens can be particularly susceptible to stress because there are a lot of demands being placed on them, and they typically have to juggle many things they may not be fully equipped to deal with. Daunter goes on to say teens are often faced with biological changes, strained family dynamics, complicated peer relationships, bullying, romantic relationships, academic pressures and extracurricular demands. For many, the pressure to perform academically looms large; some are concerned with failing while others are concerned with meeting high expectations. “The stakes are higher (for students today). The requirements to graduate are a lot tougher,� explained Karrie Gaffney, guidance counselor at Charlevoix High School. Because of the Michigan Merit Curriculum, a measure adopted in 2006 which requires students to complete 16 credits in order to graduate, Gaffney said, “We’re expecting a lot more academically.� Adult worries also do not go unnoticed by teens.
Beginner to advance levels on-going classes
“There are a lot of families in crisis, especially with the economy, and the kids feel it,� said Gaffney. Stress can affect teens in a number of ways according to Daunter. Physically there may be changes in appetite, sleep habits, frequent head or stomach aches, body pains, heart palpitations and lowered immunity. Outwardly a teen may become more irritable or experience more mood swings, feelings of anxiety or depression, and anger. “Stress shows up as lethargy, lack of motivation and withdrawal,� said Daunter. “Memory and concentration problems are also common signs.� According to Gaffney, some teens may turn to drugs or alcohol to help them escape from the pressures they face, while Daunter added some may try to harm themselves by cutting their bodies. Parents are key when it comes to spotting changes in their children before things get out of control. “One of the most significant ways to address teen stress is to talk to your teens,� said Daunter. “Teens typically feel like nobody understands them, so spend some time with them, learn about how they are feeling and what they feel are their primary stressors, show that you understand and that you care. Address the seriousness of the issue and whether you and your teen want to deal with this on your own, or if professionals need to be consulted. Develop a plan of attack together, set goals together and teach teens how to address their stressors with
FIVE TIPS FOR TEEN TIME MANAGEMENT: 1. Help your teen prioritize (identify important tasks that need to be done during each day). 2. Make a list ranking what needs to be done first, second, third, etc. 3. Encourage your teen to use a daily planner for upcoming tests, homework, games, etc. 4. Monitor your teen’s phone usage; limit texting, especially at night. 5. Lead by example — organize your life and the show the value of time management. — From Karrie Gaffney, guidance counselor at Charlevoix High School
TIPS FOR DEALING WITH TEEN STRESS: 1. Talk to someone about your feelings. 2. Exercise. 3. Establish good sleeping habits. 4. Focus on healthy eating habits; skipping meals can increase mood swings. 5. Practice deep breathing. 6. Identify key stressors and figure out ways to eliminate or deal with them properly. 7. Try meditation or visualization (imagine yourself on a calm beach). 8. Try alternative treatments such as acupuncture, animal or art therapies. 9. Laugh. 10. Take time to relax or do something enjoyable. — From Kelly Daunter, M.A. LLP, of Family Psychological Services in Petoskey effective coping strategies.� Daunter also recommended a few coping strategies that work well for alleviating stress, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, exercise and good sleep habits to help your teen relax. “Listening to music and dancing are great stress relievers, too. Turn the stereo on and boogie down. You can’t help but feel energized and a bit more joyful,� said Daunter. Gaffney also suggests
Zion Lutheran
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Open House
3260 Woods Way, Suite 1 Petoskey, MI 49770 Phone: (231) 348-5590 Fax: (231) 348-5676
Tuesday, March 8 Zion Lutheran Church, 500 W. Mitchell Street, in Petoskey, will begin open enrollment for its Christian Preschool for the 2011-2012 school year with an open house from 3:30-7PM.
Serving Families for 25 Years Before & After School Preschool, Childcare Ages 30mos. -11yrs. 231-347-3939 • 414 Monroe Street Petoskey
Become A Foster Parent
3 year olds - 9:00-11:30AM • Tuesday & Thursday 4 year olds - 9:00-11:30AM • Monday, Wednesday & Friday Carrie Crawford, Director/Teacher Zion Lutheran Preschool is an outreach ministry of Zion Lutheran Church, serving Christ and the community by offering a quality Christian education. For more information or to enroll your child, call the Preschool office at 347-2757.
Random Acts of Bookmark Art
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A call to your creative side. Patrons are asked to submit artfully made bookmarks to the library. The library will randomly put them in library books throughout the summer months. Patrons who ďŹ nd the bookmarks will be “giftedâ€? the bookmark or they can leave it in the book for the next patron to ďŹ nd.
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Marit E. Vogel, M.D. Board CertiďŹ ed in General and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
CLASS SCHEDULE:
Monday - Friday 7am-6pm
helping your teen learn better time management skills in an effort to reduce stress. Since many teens are involved with numerous extracurricular activities, downtime is important and keeping expectations realistic, she added. “We can’t ask them to do things they can’t do. We can’t all dunk a basketball,� she said. If you have concerns about your teens and stress, you can find out more by contacting a family physician, school counselor or a local psychologist.
Story Time Hear stories, dance to songs, play games, learn ďŹ nger plays and have some all around fun with Miss Laura!
Thursdays 10:30am 2nd Saturdays 10:30am
www.charlevoixlibrary.org
989-732-1040 Make Your
TAX DOLLARS go further at...
650 W. Conway, Harbor Springs s NBTHRIFT SBCGLOBAL NET 00288864
MONDAY-SATURDAY 9AM-5PM
Head Start Programs Serving children and their families prenatal to age ďŹ ve through: • Head Start Center Based Programs • Early Head Start Home Visiting Programs • Family Child Care Partnership Programs
Call 231-347-9070 or 1-800-443-5518 231-237-7350
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Charlevoix Public Library 220 W Clinton St.
northwest michigan community action agency a community action partnership
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March 2011 •
Shawn-Dell Stenson takes a second to smile with her adorable twin boys Aiden and Kaiden Stenson who look ready for some lunch during an Early Head Start Parent Workshop.
Kim and Weston Chrysler sm ile big for a picture duri ng an Early Hea d Start Paren t Workshop.
Hunter Sonnenber and Charlie Ranney enjoy some oor time while woking together to put a train set together during Friday Early Head Start socializations.
Petoskey kindergarten teacher Kolleen Homuth and Macey Green sing the Itsy Bitsy Spider while riding to Star Power in Lansing, Michigan with the Great Start Collaborative and Parent Coalition.
Activities: Little Traverse Civic Theater presents “Alice in Wonderland� March 10 – 13 at Crooked Tree Arts Center. Shows at 7pm Thursday through Saturday and 2pm on Sunday. Tickets are $10. For more information contact Little Traverse Civic Theater at 348-1850. Parent/Provider Conference Saturday, March 12, 9am-3pm: at the Community Reformed Church in Charlevoix. Free Admission and door prizes. Have coffee and connect with our legislators then enjoy keynote speaker, Matt Jones. Lunch is provided. Informative break-out sessions offered from noon – 3pm. For more information call Sommer Poquette at 231-582-8070. This conference is a collaboration between Charlevoix/Emmet Great Start Collaborative, Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency, & Child Care Connections. Raven Hill Discovery Center Second Saturday Science Series Second Saturday of each month in 2011 from noon – 4pm. Admission is free. Sponsored by Charlevoix County Community Foundation. Try a different challenge each month and explore the museum, animals and outdoor exhibits. 4737 Fuller Road, East Jordan. Call 231-536-3369 for more information. March 12: “Air pressure� April 9: “Sound of Music� May 14: “Density� June 11: “Fossils� July 9*: “Motion and Force� August 13*: “Pond Critters� September 10*: “Bernoulli’s Principle� October 8*: “Science Magic� November 12*: “Surface Tension� December 10*: “Light & Lasers� *pending funding Family Night at Solace Spa - Relax with Your Children March 15th, 2011 and April 19th, 2011, 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.: Boyne Mountain Resorts. Family Night at Solace Spa - ages 6 and up. This evening is a chance to share healthy lifestyle habits with your children. The exclusive spa, typically reserved for guests ages 16 and up will be opened to any guest age 6 or older (accompanied with their guardian). A Spa Pass for Family Night is $5 per person (discounted from $25). Spa Member Families are complimentary. Evening spa pass includes a 30-minute family style yoga class at 7 p.m., a locker, robe, and access to the relaxation lounges, whirlpool, steam room and cedar sauna, indoor / outdoor pool and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. (Please bring bathing suit on family night for use of wet facilities, please call in advance to reserve space in yoga class). Family Night Youth Spa and Salon Mini Treatments: 15 minutes, $10 each Massage (please wear loose fit clothing) Facial Hand Treatment Foot Treatment Hair Styling Please contact Solace Spa at 231-549-7946 to make your appointment reservations and/or to reserve your space in the Family Night Yoga class. A spa service charge of 18% will be added to all services. Event details subject to change. Please contact (800) GO-BOYNE for more information. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group March 28 & April 25: 6pm – 7:30pm: Petoskey Friendship Center, 1322 Anderson Road. Child care by appointment. Call 231-347-3211 or 888-347-0369 for more information. 21st Annual Children’s Health Fair Saturday, April 16th from 9am – 2pm: at the Petoskey Middle School. A fun, free event that provides an educational environment where parents can learn how to keep their children healthy and safe. Join us for children’s activities, live entertainment and lots of raffle prizes. This event is sponsored by the Northern Michigan Regional Hospital.
Parent Education & Community Playgroups
Playgroups: Available to children 0 – 60 months and preschool age siblings, all playgroups are free of charge and are provided by the Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan. Playgroups are an opportunity to participate in fun activities, games and projects with your child; learn about age appropriate toys and activities; learn strategies to build self-
esteem; gain knowledge of child development and approaches to discipline; and network with other parents. If you have any questions, please call 231-347-0067. Tuesdays: Boyne City - 9:30am to 11am at Christ Lutheran Church, 1250 Boyne Avenue. Group leader: Taryn DavisHanson Wednesdays: East Jordan – 9:30am to 11am at Jordan Valley District Library Community Room. Group leader: Kate Essenberg. Alanson – 9:30am to 11am at United Methodist Church, corner of North and Chicago. Group leader: Taryn Davis-Hanson Fridays: Petoskey – 9:30am to 11am at United Methodist Church, 1804 East Mitchell Street. Group leader: Taryn Davis-Hanson Parent education series: Planned Parenthood and MSU Extension are partnering again for the “Let’s Talk Let’s Eat� Parent Education Series during the month of March. The classes will be every Tuesday in March (8th ,15th, 22nd and 29th) from 9:30am to 12pm at the Health Department on M-119. To register, you can call MSU Extension at 231.348.1770 or Planned Parenthood at 231.347.3710 ext. 13. The cost is $10 per person or couple.
Library Activities: Charlevoix Public Library 8 $MJOUPO 4USFFU $IBSMFWPJY t Mondays: 11:00am – Independent Play Group Hour. Join our ongoing play group with your child and meet other moms, dads, caregivers and their children. We provide the time & space – you provide the companionship & fun. Thursdays: 10:30am – Story Time with Ms. Laura. Ages Birth to 5 are welcome to join us for stories, songs, and crafts. Saturdays: Every second Saturday of the month at 10:30am is Family Story Time! Petoskey District Library & .JUDIFMM 1FUPTLFZ t Mondays: 10:30am-11:00am - Parent/Child Lap Sit Thursdays: 10:05am-10:35am – Parent/Child Lap Sit - A 30 minute program for parents and children under three. Join us for a mixture of songs, stories, fingerplays, poems and puppets.
Michigan Alliance for Families: Information, support and education is given to families of children and young adults with disabilities from birth to age 26. Parent support meetings are held on an ongoing basis at the Petoskey Library. For additional information contact Lorraine Manary at 231-582-9863 or 1-800-552-4821 or visit www. michiganallianceforfamilies.org Great Start Parent Coalition: Starting March 21st, the Parent Coalition will meet every other month on the third Monday from 5:30 – 7pm. A light dinner, child care and gas cards will be offered at each of the meetings. Join us March 21st at the old Middle School in Boyne City, 321 South Park Street. We will be having a presentation by MSU Extension on Budgeting & Meal Planning. For more details contact Mandy Peterson, Great Start Parent Liaison at 582-8070.
Maverick Musser & Somer Messenger working hard at Petoskey Children’s Nursery.
Free Preschool Recruitment Dates
A tuition-free Preschool Recruitment is taking place during the months of March and April for children ages 3 and 4 years old. Appointments can be made beginning March 2nd by calling 1-877-866-3714. Preschool Recruitment will be held in the following districts: Boyne Falls East Jordan Alanson Boyne City Charlevoix Petoskey Pellston
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Health Department Programs:
Your local health department provides many supportive services for you and your family. For more information about our services visit www.nwhealth.org Charlevoix County: 220 W. Garfield St., Charlevoix (800)432-4121 Emmet County: 3434 Harbor Petoskey Rd. (M-119), Suite A, Harbor Springs, (800)432-4121
Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Program WIC provides free food to women who are pregnant and breastfeeding, and infants and children up to age 5.
Sara Jonker (mom) working with students Van Atchison, Clementine Hall, and Brynn Jonker at Petoskey Children’s Nursery.
Maternal Infant Health Program These programs assist families with pregnant women or young children by providing information on pregnancy, preparation for the baby, infant care, infant feeding, and parenting. Newborn Home Visits - All families with a newborn may receive a home visit to weigh the baby, answer questions, and provide information on caring for a new baby, as well as connect you with community resources. Hearing & Vision Screenings - Your child’s ability to see and hear is very important to the learning process. A vision test is required prior to school entry. FREE Vision Screening is available at your local health dept. office for all children, 3-18 years of age. FREE Hearing Screening is available for all children 6 months of age and older.
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March 2011 •
Aiden and Kaiden Stenson take a time out to take a quick picture with their mom Shawn-Dell Stenson during an Early Head Start socialization in Alanson.
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Bryleigh Rummer attends the Early Childhood Investment Corporation’s rty Sand Box Pa t ar St for Great g! in ns La st Ea in
Johnney Sonnenberg focuses on using his fine motor skills while picking up a ball in sensory table. Aaron Otto and son Augustin doing some creative moving to Maureen Scott of Peacemeal at the Grain Train General Membership meeting.
Bryleigh Rummer, Haley Rummer and Jim Rummer ride in the Petoskey 4th of July Parade in support of Great Start and early childhood!
Bradley Flynn enjoys hammering the homemade green playdough at the Petoskey Health Fair.
Beth Watts and Charlie Ranney enjoy a snowball painting craft during an Early Head Start socialization.
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Josie Poquette dances and looks through her pretend glasses at the Jim Gill concert at the Charlevoix Library, hosted by Great Start. Aiden Stenson shows his cooking skills while mixing ingredients during a cooking and baking demonstration for an Early Head Start Parent Workshop.
Jayden Losey takes some time to enjoy a story with his mom Tina Adams.
Jennifer Hand helps daughter ElissaMay Shively work on a craft. Josie Poqu ett enjoys pain e ting at the Boyne USA Resort
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Johnney Sonnenger enjoys a fun craft with Mary Jo Waugh, Child Family Specialist for Early Head Start during a socialization. Rebeca Otto teaching Augustin about social responsibility at the Grain Train General Membership meeting in January of 2011.
Special guest, Augustin Otto, performing with Dale and Maureen Scott and Peacemeal at the Grain Train General Membership Meeting.
ElissaMay Shivel and mom Jennifer Hand taking time to observe and engage in cooking demonstration. Charlie Ranney enjoys pumpkin painting at the Great Start Parent Coalition costume exchange!
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PARENTING IS FOR A LIFETIME
March 2011 •
C7
Shaken baby syndrome Kathleen Reed
Co-chair of Charlevoix-Emmet County Child Abuse Council
S
haken baby syndrome is the popular phrase used to describe the injuries to the brain which children and infants suffer when they are shaken, hit in the head, dropped or thrown. More recently, health care providers use the term abusive head trauma (AHT) instead of shaken baby syndrome because it more accurately describes the cause and effect of this unfortunate occurrence. Experts estimate that 1,200 to 1,400 cases of AHT occur in the United States each year. Understanding and Reed preventing AHT is paramount, as head trauma is the leading cause of death in child abuse cases in the United States. Approximately one quarter of children with AHT die as a result, and the remaining three quarters are likely to require medical attention and therapy for many years. While AHT is seen in children up to 5 years old, most victims are under 1 year old, with the average age at 3 to 6 months. Infants and very young children are at high risk for injury when shaken, dropped or thrown because their under-developed neck muscles permit their heads to rotate and move back and forth uncontrollably. The resulting violent motion of their brains inside their skulls causes rupture of blood vessels and bruising, tearing, bleeding and swelling of
brain tissue. This swelling inside the fixed space of the skull results in further compression of blood vessels inside and around the brain. Just one episode of shaking for two to three seconds can result in damage to the brain. The brain damage is increased when the shaking or throwing ends with impact on a firm surface, such as a crib or infant seat. The clinical picture of brain injury which results from AHT is different than that which occurs as a result of “short falls,” when a child accidently falls a short distance (less than 4 feet) off the couch or bed or out of a high chair. Perpetrators of AHT are usually parents or caregivers. It is estimated that 65 to 90 percent of perpetrators are male, commonly in their early 20s. Perpetrators of AHT are generally stressed and frustrated by an infant’s crying and lose control. Unfortunately, the brain damage caused by AHT often decreases the child’s crying, suggesting to the perpetrator that shaking is an effective way to stop the child’s crying. Children who are victims of AHT may suffer permanent damage, including: — Partial or total blindness; — Hearing loss; — Seizures; — Impaired intellect and developmental delays; — Speech and learning difficulties; — Memory and attention span problems; and — Balance and coordination problems. These problems often require long-term medical attention and intensive physical and occupational therapy to correct.
THINKSTOCK
Signs, symptoms of AHT The signs and symptoms of AHT vary depending upon the duration and force of the shaking, throwing or hitting, and whether impact with a firm surface was involved. A child who is severely injured may become unconscious. Children who suffer less severe AHT injuries may become lethargic, rigid, irritable, vomit, have poor sucking and swallowing, difficulty breathing, have seizures or unequal pupils. Some AHT victims may be unable to lift their heads or track moving objects with their eyes. Many children who are brought to the emergency room or a physician’s office after an episode of
Early On Directory of Services for Families in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties Lutheran Child and Family Service .......439-0821 Educational Services/Preschool Charlevoix-EmmetISD .........................547-9947 Early On, Hearing, Speech & Developmental Screenings, Special Education, Even Start, Great Parents/Great Start, Be-Four Programs, Education for School Age Parents, Early Head Start (prenatal-3 y ears) ........................ 1-800-443-5518 Head Start (NMCAA) ................ 1-800-443-5518 Tuition-free preschool programs ............347-9070 or 1-800-443-5518 Little Traverse Bay Bands Head Start .....539-8325 Kids Club Preschool @East Jordan Elementary School ...................................................536-7564 GreatS tart.............................................582-8070
Maternal and Child Health Services Health Department of Northwest Michigan ........ ................................................... 1-800-432-4121 Immunizations, Newborn Home Visits, W.I.C., Maternal/ Infant Health Program, Family Planning, Breast & Cervical Cancer Screening Dental Clinic, Children’s Special Health Care Services Northern Michigan Regional Hospital ..487-4900 Community Health Education Cent er ....................... 1-800-248-6777 Childbirth Education Information ........487-4762 Charlevoix Area Hospital.......................547-4024 East Jordan Health Center.....................536-2206 Free Clinic- NMH ................................487-3600 Boyne City Free Clinic ..........................582-6828 Planned Parenthood ..............................347-9692 Pregnancy and Resource Center ............348-3388 Community Health Center ...................348-9900
Community Services Great Start Network ................... 1-877-866-3714 North Country Community Mental Health ................................................... 1-800-834-3393 Respite, Counseling, Family Support Subsidy Department of Human Services ............348-1600 Charlevoix/Emmet Count ies ...... 1-800-580-9844 Medicaid, FIP, Food Assistance Program, Child Day Care, Child Protection NW Michigan Community Action Agency ................................................... 1-800-443-5518 Food, Shelter, Heating Child Care Connections (childcare referrals) ................................................... 1-800-968-4228 MSUE xtension,E mmetCount y ..........348-1770 Charlevoix Count y ................................582-6232 Children, Youth & Family Education, 4H Women’s Resource Center .....................347-0067 Ed Opportunity Prog., Domestic Abuse Program, Playgroups, Counseling, Children’s Learning Center, Safe Home Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians ..............................................................242-1400 Michigan Works! Employment Needs ...347-5150 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Petoskey ...................................................... 231-622-8508 Northern Community Mediation..........487-1771
Counseling/Crisis Services Child and Family Services .....................347-4463 Hospice of Little Traverse Bay ...............487-4825
24 Hour Crisis & Information Line ......347-0082 Women’s Resource Center .....................347-0067 3rd Level Crisis Center ............... 1-800-442-7315 Legal A id .................................... 1-888-645-9993 Child Abuse and Neglect .......................348-1600 After hour s: ...........................................347-1700 North Country Community Mental Health ................................................... 1-800-834-3393 Harbor Hall .............. Out-patient 347-9880 1-866-850-4556
Shelter Services Boyne City Housing Commission .........582-6203 Nehemiah P roject ..................................347-0363 Women’s Resource Center (Safe House) 347-0082 Salvation A rmy ......................................347-3531 Department of Human Services ............348-1600 Charlevoix/Emmet Counties .... 1-800-580-9844
Food Assistance Manna P roject .......................................347-8852 Salvation A rmy ......................................347-3531 NW Michigan Community Action Agency ................................................... 1-800-443-5518 Health Dept. of NW Michigan (WIC) ................................................... 1-800-432-4121 Charlevoix Community Food Pantry.....547-9122 East Jordan Family Health Center .........536-2206 (Emergency food pantry) Local churches
Transportation Charlevoix County Transit ....................582-6900 The Straits Regional Ride (Emmet County) ................................................... 1-866-731-1204
Special Needs Children’s Special Health Care Services ................................................... 1-800-359-3722 Easter Seals Society of Michigan ................................................... 1-800-292-2729 National Organization of Rare Disorders ................................................... 1-800-999-6673 Michigan Protection & Advocacy Service ................................................... 1-800-288-5923 Family Support Network of Michigan ................................................... 1-800-359-3722 MI Alliance for Families ............. 1-800-552-4821 March of Dimes .......................1-800-968-DIME Supplemental Security Income (SSI) ................................................... 1-800-772-1213 Early On Information ............. 1-800-EARLYON The Arc Michigan ...................... 1-800-292-7851
This Early On bookmark is made available through a grant by Michigan Department of Education, Part C of IDEA, Char-Em ISD and by Early On Northwest Coordinating Council (231) 547-9947 For local human services links: www.char-em-hscb.org February 2011
AHT are unfortunately not identified as AHT victims. Unless a health care provider has reason to suspect abuse, the AHT victim can be easily misdiagnosed with colic or the flu. Physicians may use the following symptoms as evidence of AHT: — Hematoma (blood) in the retina; — Skull fracture; — Brain swelling; — Hematomas on the brain; — Fractures of the ribs and long bones of the arms and legs; and — Bruises on the head, neck and chest.
Prevention of AHT The most important thing to know about AHT is that it is completely
preventable through increased awareness, education and appropriate caregiving strategies. Health care providers in the United States have demonstrated statistically significant decreases in AHT through a program which provides new parents (both mothers and fathers) with education about the dangers of shaking babies and young children, and strategies for dealing with the stress of a crying child. The National Center for Shaken Babies has developed a successful prevention program called “The Period of Purple Crying,” which helps caregivers understand and deal with normal crying in young children. These and other programs suggest the
following strategies for dealing with the stress of crying children: — Making sure the child’s basic needs have been met (food, fluids, appropriate temperature, dry diaper, etc.); — Providing a constant or rhythmic white noise (vacuum, clothes dryer, fan, humming); — Holding the child close to your body or swaddling the baby; — Rocking or walking; — Singing or talking; — Taking the child for a ride buckled into a stroller or in a car buckled into a car seat; — Decreasing loud noises and lights; — Providing with sucking opportunities (bottle or pacifier); and — Calling another adult to take over care of the child when you become frustrated and feel you are losing control. If crying continues despite these approaches, contact or take the child to a health care provider. Remember, young children are completely unable to protect themselves from the very real and long-lasting effects of AHT. Please do your part to prevent AHT in the lives of children you know.
Resources:
— KidsHealth, a project of The Nemours Foundation, www. kidshealth.org/parent/medical/brain/ shaken.html — Epilepsy Foundation of Central Florida, www.aboutshakenbaby.com — Maryland Department of Health, Family Health Administration, fha.maryland. gov/ohpetup/eip_ sbsfacts.cfm
Grandparents raising grandchildren:
Resources available to ease transition Melissa Frugé Special to the News-Review
N
ow is the time when many Baby Boomers are beginning to focus on retirement and weekends with their grandkids, not raising second families. But according to the Friendship Centers of Emmet County there are nearly 40 families in Antrim, Charlevoix, Emmet and Cheboygan counties — and more than 70,000 statewide — where grandparents have suddenly found themselves in a unique position. They have custody of their young grandchildren. Sue Ann Bouwense is the friendship center’s Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group coordinator. She said circumstances surrounding the shift in custody from parent to grandparent vary, but in our area most involve substance abuse or a lack of parenting skills. “A full guardianship is created when a third party files to become a guardian of a child. This arrange-
ment does not require the parent(s)’ permission or agreement. The court must decide that both parents are unwilling or unable to care for the child,” explained Bouwense. There are also information packets that explain the process in detail available from the probate court in each county. Bouwense described the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group as offering much needed support and advice to grandparents. Some of the issues discussed during the monthly meetings include guardianships, custody, adoption, health insurance, food assistance programs, money management, preparing to take a grandchild into your life, dealing with the parent(s)’ rights and the child’s feelings. The support group also allows the children a chance to interact with others in similar situations and realize they are not alone. A few pieces of advice offered by the Grandparents Raising Grand-
children Support Group include emphasizing the importance of healthy eating and an active lifestyle, creating a safe environment, focusing on positive interaction with grandchildren — some grandparents find setting boundaries can be a challenge — and above all, remembering to have fun. Taking over guardianship of a grandchild can be very stressful for everyone involved and it’s important to play and laugh to help soften the burden. For more information about the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group call (231) 347-3211. The group meets 6-7 p.m. the fourth Monday of every month, except December, at the Petoskey Friendship Center. Child care is available. The Michigan State University Extension in Emmet County also works with grandparents in similar situations. To find out more about the available programs, call (231) 3481770.
Watch Me Grow! Childcare • Preschool • Dev. Kindergarten Summer Kids Camp • K-6 Tutoring
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PARENTING IS FOR A LIFETIME
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March 2011 •
Be heard
Tips on discussing parenting issues with the legislature Mark Lindsay Special to the News-Review
D
iscussing parenting issues with your legislature can be a daunting task unless you’re prepared. There are, however, many methods to successfully present your concerns and be heard. Matt Gillard is an early childhood advocate with Education Matters, which provides consultation for childhood advocate organizations. He recommended first knowing the process and who is involved. You can easily find out who represents you by visiting the Michigan website at www.michigan.gov and clicking on Michigan government. “We should all know who represents us and be active in reminding them of what matters to us,� Gillard said. The Michigan Legislature is made up of two parts, the Senate and the House of Representatives. There are currently 110 Michigan representatives and 38 senators, all of whom are elected officials. Senators serve four-year terms running concurrent with the governor’s, while representatives serve twoyear terms. The state legislature enacts the laws of Michigan; levies taxes and appropriates funds from money collected for the support of public institutions and the administration of the affairs of state government; proposes amendments to the state constitution, which must be approved by a majority vote of the electors; and considers legislation proposed by initiatory petitions. The legislature also provides oversight of the executive branch of government. The majority of the legislature’s work, however, entails lawmaking. Through a process defined by the state constitution, statute and legisla-
COURTESY PHOTO
Matt Gillard gives a lift to his son, Joel, then 3 1/2 years old, during the 2009 Star Power advocacy day at the Capitol in Lansing. tive rules, the legislature considers thousands of bills (proposed laws) during each two-year session. “There are many bills before the Michigan Legislature each session. Children and family issues are always a large part of them,� Gillard noted. “You may find that your concerns are already before the Congress in one form or another, so doing some research is a great idea to begin with.� Once you’ve decided that you would like to address your concerns directly to your elected representative, there are many effective ways to go about it. A well-written letter or e-mail is an extremely effective method of communication and will reach the representative’s office if you aren’t able to in person.
Phone calls directed to the representative regarding a specific issue that is currently before them can be even more effective. “A state representative that receives three or four calls on an issue they’re voting on will consider that an overwhelming response,� Gillard noted. “It really doesn’t take thousands of people to make a difference, and they want to know what their constituents think.� You may also choose to visit your representatives at their regional offices or even at the state capital in person. Gillard recommended making an appointment to visit during the fall or early winter months before the legislature convenes in January. Few local legislators will refuse to make time for a group of their
constituents who would like sit down and discuss the issues. “The earlier you schedule your meeting the better — all of your local boards, councils, public interest groups and other legislators will also be scheduling meetings at the same time,� he noted. Once you’ve secured the meeting, organize what you want to say. You should follow some basic principles when dealing with your legislator: be polite, be organized, be brief and target your message. When meeting with your legislator, being argumentative will be counterproductive. State your case. They may disagree, but by voicing your concerns you have hope that they’ll change their mind. During your meeting with your legislator know what issues you want to address and stick to them. Have a designated spokesperson who carries the discussion who can state your position as succinctly and simply as possible. If the legislator has questions, you can expand on your remarks. Your legislators will have a least a passing familiarity with the issues likely to come before the general assembly. Your goal is to make your legislator see how supporting your position serves his or her interests and philosophy. Once your legislators are off to the Capitol, that doesn’t mean they are off the hook. You can both keep in touch and make sure they doing their best to represent you by following the progress of the legislative session and making your voice heard. Most state general assembly websites have features that allow you to track the progress of bills, including finding out how your legislator voted, both in committee and on the floor. One of the best ways to get your opinion across
at the general assembly is to go there yourself; virtually every meeting of the general assembly is open to the public. You may also schedule a meeting in person with your legislator at their offices. When meeting with a legislator in his or her office during session, the basic principles noted above for out of session meetings — be polite, be organized, be brief and target your message — are even more important. Your meeting is likely to be short, sandwiched between committee and subcommittee meetings, floor sessions and meetings with other constituents, so make the most of it. Although public hearings are on only a few issues each year, there is time for the public to speak in favor or in opposition to most bills. Before calling for a vote, most committee chairs ask if
VIVACE SCHOOL
of Music & Arts, Inc.
there is any member of the public who wishes to speak in favor or in opposition. Use that opportunity. “We have a yearly event (called Star Power) where we take 4,000 to 5,000 parents to the capital for a day,� Gillard said. “The biggest thing we can recommend to people is to not be intimidated by the idea of speaking to a legislator.� For more information or to sign up for Star Power, visit www.greatstartforkids.org. For more information and tips on how to effectively be heard by your legislature there are many resources on the Internet. The state website has several good links and you may contact them directly for information as well. For more information on Matt Gillard and his work you may contact him at mgillard@ecic4kids.org.
FAMILY FOSTERCARE The Charlevoix-Emmet Department of Human Services is seeking families and individuals to provide foster care for local children ages 0-17.
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For more information or to schedule a tour please call
(K-8) 347-3651 or (Pre-K) 347-3860 NORTH COUNTRY
COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH North Country Community Mental Health provides comprehensive services for individuals and their families experiencing serious mental illness, emotional problems or developmental disabilities. To access services, call: Access Center: 1-800-834-3393 TTY: 711 After Hours Crisis Line: 1-800-442-7315
OFFICE LOCATIONS: Bellaire - 203 E. Cayuga Street Charlevoix - 6250 M-66 North Cheboygan - 825 S. Huron, Suite 4 Gaylord - 800 Livingston Blvd. Kalkaska - 625 Courthouse Drive Petoskey - One MacDonald Drive