Londonsarg 2016 2017 final by Parent Coach Club

WELCOME, WHEN YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, KNOWING WHERE TO TURN ON A GOOD DAY IS DIFFICULT ENOUGH, BUT DURING CRISIS IT IS NEXT TO IMPOSSIBLE. Internet searches can bring up thousands of options, but how can you be sure they are correct? Our goal is to provide you with starting points - the most credible and reliable local organizations that are here to serve you. If you have questions and need answers now, these are the organizations to talk to. These organizations can provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information you need to make informed decisions on what is right for your family. If you would like a more comprehensive list of resources, please visit our website The all-in-one resource for busy parents!

WHERE TO BEGIN www.211ontario.ca

211 - Information and referral helpline to community, Social, government and health services.

CALL 2-1-1 FOR:

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

RESOURCE GUI DE

CALL 211

School Age

RESOURCE GUIDE

Non-emergency police number Food banks Walk in clinics Alzheimer support Mental health help Meals on Wheels Emergency shelters for homeless Services for domestic violence victims Public health Telehealth Ontario Crisis services Provincial and local helpline phone numbers Settlement help for newcomers Housing help centres Youth drop in programs Child, youth and family counselling Emergency utility assistance Understanding which government service might help or assistance Disability support programs Parenting programs

parentguide.ca

RESOURCE GUI DE

School Age

RESOURCE GUIDE

PARENT GUIDE INC.

CREDITS

PHONE: 519.645.7342 EMAIL: info@parentguide.ca WEBSITE: parentguide.ca PUBLISHER: Jennifer McCallum FACILITATOR: Peter Barnes DESIGNER: Brandon Caskanette SALES: info@parentguide.ca (519) 645-7342

Canada Revenue Agency – 84,85 Canada Safety Council – 74,75 Canadian Child Care Federation – 26,27 Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants – 88,89 Canadian Mental Health Association – 61,64,65 Canadian Paediatric Society - 40 Canadian Red Cross – 108,109 Child and Youth Network – 28 CAS London/Middlesex - 78 Health Canada – 49 KidsHealth – 18,19 Kids Help Phone – 62,63 Lambton Public Health – 41,47 Lice Squad Canada - 55 MediaSmarts - 112 Middlesex-London Health Unit – 72,73,76,77,106,107,110,111 Ms. Money - 89 Ontario Association of Optometrists – 51 Ontario Dental Association – 52,53 Ontario Ministry of Education – 118,119 Parachute – 106,107 Parent Guide Inc. – 11,87,91,96,98,99,100,113 Pediatric Oral Health & Dentistry – 52,53 Thames Valley Parent Involvement Committee – 24,25,32,33,34

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: www.kimmikphotography.ca

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS:

The School Age Resource Guide and partners assume no liability for any errors or omissions in advertising, editorial, and/or listings. The information in this guide is not intended to replace or substitute the individualized care that you receive from your qualified health care professional. All advertising and editorial copy is provided as a resource only. Editorial, listings, and advertising in the School Age Resource Guide does not constitute an endorsement of any kind, nor does exclusion indicate lack of endorsement. Every effort was made to locate all relevant resources.

Thank you to Kimberly Ridsdale for the 2017 cover photograph. Your child could be on the cover next year!

The all-in-one resource for busy parents!

Enter our annual photo contest! Coming Spring 2017!

RESOURCE GUI DE

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

School Age

FACEBOOK - www.facebook.com/ParentGuide TWITTER - @parentguide Copyright 2016. School Age Resource Guide 14th Edition London-Middlesex, St. Thomas-Elgin, Oxford 2017 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. ISBN# 978-1-927542-11-8

Parenting a school age child can be the most rewarding and scary thing you have ever done! Trust me, I know the questions, wonders, and worries that come with parenting and my goal is to help you navigate through these next very important years. Researches say that the first 6 years of a child's life is the most important, and while that is true, these next few years are equally as important. Your kids need you in their lives now more than ever - but between making lunches, helping with homework, meeting the kids physical and emotional needs, and getting to work yourself, there isn't much time left to research the community that is here to support you and your family. That is why we have worked so hard to get this book into your hands. Throughout this guide you will find important contacts and articles on everything from starting school to preparing for secondary school. This guide is intended to be a reference for you to keep handy for many years to come. Take a read through it now so that you know where to return to when you are looking for answers.

Jennifer McCallum, Publisher and Founder ENGAGING PARENTS SINCE 2001

Thank you to the many community organizations and businesses that have supported us in the printing of the 2017 edition. We pride ourselves in working with only the best and most credible resources in our community. By working closely together, we can assure you that you are receiving consistent and up-to-date information. No matter what stage your child is at, you can find answers here. For a full list of resources in your community, visit our website at www.parentguide.ca Enjoy the year and keep in touch with us on Facebook for daily parenting tips, encouragement, and support! - Jennifer

ONLINE

IN PRINT

GET THE INFORMATION YOU NEED WHEN YOU NEED IT!

parentguide.ca

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Each category provides you with a main list of resources as well as important articles to help guide you through these very important school age years. This guide is intended for use in conjunction with www.parentguide.ca where you can search specific categories or locations for a complete list of resources. Enjoy and happy parenting!

WHERE TO BEGIN 8-10 ...... RESOURCES 11 ...... TIPS TO MAKE THE SCHOOL YEAR RUN SMOOTHLY

COMMUNITY 14-15 ...... RESOURCES 16 ...... LONDON PUBLIC LIBRARY LOCATIONS 18,19 ...... VOLUNTEERING IN YOUR COMMUNITY

EDUCATION 22,23 ...... RESOURCES 24,25 ...... YOUR GUIDE TO SCHOOL COUNCILS 26,27 ...... UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT WAYS WE LEARN 28,29 ...... 2000 WORDS TO GROW 34 ...... PARENT INVOLVEMENT POLICY 35 ...... TUTORING

HEALTH AND WELL BEING 38,39 ...... RESOURCES 40 ...... FEVER AND ILLNESS 41-47 ...... CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES 49 ...... IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE 51 ...... HOW WELL CAN YOUR CHILD SEE? 52,53 ...... DENTAL 55 ...... THE FACTS ABOUT LICE

HELP AND SUPPORT 58-60 ...... RESOURCES 61 ...... SUICIDE 62,63 ...... WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BULLYING 64,65 ...... CHILDREN, YOUTH AND DEPRESSION

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PARENTING RESOURCES ...... 68-70 PARENTING STRATEGIES ...... 72,73 BABYSITTING BASICS ...... 74,75 HOW TO PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL ...... 76,77 YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIFE OF A CHILD OR YOUTH ...... 78

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RESOURCES ...... 82,83 REGISTERED EDUCATION SAVINGS PLANS ...... 84,85 TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN ...... 87 FINANCIAL LITERACY ...... 88,89 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR DIGITAL PHOTOS ORGANIZED ...... 91

PROGRAMS, SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES RESOURCES ...... 94,95 PLANNING A BIRTHDAY PARTY ...... 96,97 THE BENEFITS OF ART ...... 98,99 THE IMPORTANCE OF SPORTS ...... 100

SAFETY RESOURCES ...... 104 BICYCLE HELMETS ...... 106,107 STOCKING YOUR FIRST AID KIT ...... 108,109 CREATING SAFE SCHOOL CLIMATES ...... 110,111 INTERNET SAFETY ...... 112 ONLINE RULES FOR YOUR CHILD'S SAFETY ...... 113

SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCES ...... 116 SPECIAL NEEDS FUNDING ...... 117 PLANNING FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS ...... 118,119 INDEX ...... 120-126

COUPONS ...... 127

parentguide.ca

WHERE TO BEGIN

Visit parentguide.ca for additional resources and articles

| WHERE TO BEGIN WHERE TO BEGIN RESOURCES COMMUNITY

MUNICIPALITY OF SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX

211

153 McKellar St., Glencoe ON (519) 287-2015 www.southwestmiddlesex.ca

www.211ontario.ca

Information and referral helpline to community, government, and social services More resources on page 14

For information on parks and recreation, tourism, garbage, parking, construction, permits, social supports, child care, roads & transportation, events, maps & more. LONDON/MIDDLESEX COUNTY CITY OF LONDON (519) 661-4500 www.london.ca

MIDDLESEX COUNTY (519) 434-7321 www.middlesex.ca

MUNICIPALITY OF ADELAIDE METCALFE 2340 Egremont Dr., Strathroy ON (519) 247-3687 www.adelaidemetcalfe.on.ca

MUNICIPALITY OF LUCAN BIDDULPH 33351 Richmond St., Lucan ON (519) 227-4491 www.lucanbiddulph.on.ca

MUNICIPALITY OF MIDDLESEX CENTRE 10227 Ilderton Rd., R.R. #2, Ilderton ON (519) 666-0190 www.middlesexcentre.on.ca

MUNICIPALITY OF NORTH MIDDLESEX 229 Parkhill Main St., P.O. Box 9, Parkhill ON (519) 294-6244 www.northmiddlesex.on.ca

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

MUNICIPALITY OF STRATHROY-CARADOC 52 Frank Street, Strathroy ON (519) 245-1070 www.strathroy-caradoc.ca

MUNICIPALITY OF THAMES CENTRE 4305 Hamilton Rd., Dorchester ON (519) 268-7334 www.thamescentre.on.ca

VILLAGE OF NEWBURY 22910 Hagerty Rd., P.O. Box 130, Newbury ON (519) 693-4941 www.newbury.ca

ST. THOMAS/ELGIN COUNTY CITY OF ST. THOMAS (519) 631-1680 www.stthomas.ca

ELGIN COUNTY (519) 631-1460 www.elgincounty.ca

AYLMER 46 Talbot St. W., Aylmer ON (519) 773-3164 www.aylmer.ca

MUNICIPALITY OF BAYHAM 9344 Plank Rd. P.O. Box 160, Straffordville ON (519) 866-5521 www.bayham.on.ca

MUNICIPALITY OF CENTRAL ELGIN 450 Sunset Dr., St. Thomas ON (519) 631-4860 www.centralelgin.org

WHERE TO BEGIN | MUNICIPALITY OF DUTTON DUNWICH 199 Currie Rd., Dutton ON (519) 762-2204 www.duttondunwich.on.ca

TOWNSHIP OF MALAHIDE 87 John St. S., Aylmer ON (519) 773-5344 www.malahide.ca

TOWNSHIP OF SOUTHWOLD 35663 Fingal Ln., Fingal ON (519) 769-2010 www.southwold.ca

MUNICIPALITY OF WEST ELGIN 22413 Hoskins Ln, Rodney ON (519) 785-0560 www.westelgin.net

WOODSTOCK/OXFORD COUNTY OXFORD COUNTY 21 Reeve St., Woodstock ON (519) 539-9800 www.oxfordcounty.ca

TOWNSHIP OF BLANDFORD BLENHEIM 47 Wilmot St. S., Drumbo ON (519) 463-5347 www.blandfordblenheim.ca

TOWNSHIP OF EAST ZORRA-TAVISTOCK Box 100, 90 Loveys St., Hickson ON (519) 462-2697 www.ezt.ca

TOWN OF INGERSOLL 130 Oxford St., Ingersoll ON (519) 485-0120 www.ingersoll.ca

TOWNSHIP OF NORWICH 285767 Airport Rd., Norwich ON (519) 468-2410 www.twp.norwich.on.ca

TOWNSHIP OF SOUTH-WEST OXFORD 312915 Dereham Line, Mt. Elgin ON (519) 877-2702 www.swox.org

TOWN OF TILLSONBURG 10 Lisgar Ave., Tillsonburg ON (519) 842-9200 www.tillsonburg.ca

CITY OF WOODSTOCK 500 Dundas St., Woodstock ON (519) 539-1291 www.cityofwoodstock.ca

TOWNSHIP OF ZORRA 274620 27th Line, Ingersoll ON (519) 485-2490 www.zorra.on.ca

EDUCATION More resources on page 22

SCHOOL BOARDS CONSEIL SCOLAIRE CATHOLIQUE PROVIDENCE 920 Huron St., London ON (519) 673-1035 or 1-800-407-2338 www.CscProvidence.ca see ad on pages 30,31

CONSEIL SCOLAIRE VIAMONDE (416) 614-0844 or 1-888-583-5383 www.csviamonde.ca

LONDON DISTRICT CATHOLIC SCHOOL BOARD 5200 Wellington Rd. S., London ON (519) 663-2088 www.ldcsb.on.ca

THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD 1250 Dundas St., London ON (519) 452-2000 www.tvdsb.on.ca see ad on pages 6,24,25,32,33 inside front cover

parentguide.ca

| WHERE TO BEGIN HEALTH

1-866-531-2600 www.mentalhealthhelpline.ca

FOR EMERGENCIES CALL 9-1-1

ONTARIO WORKS

TELEHEALTH ONTARIO – 1-866-797-0000

HEALTH CARE OPTIONS:

Find a family doctor, walk-in clinic, urgent care centres and more www.ontario.ca

THE HEALTH LINE:

Need help connecting to health services? Call 310-2222 (CCAC) www.thehealthline.ca

PUBLIC HEALTH ELGIN ST. THOMAS PUBLIC HEALTH (519) 631-9900 or 1-800-922-0096 www.elginhealth.on.ca

MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT (519) 850-2280 www.healthunit.com see ads on pages 15,17,48,50,54,71,105, inside back cover

OXFORD COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH & EMERGENCY SERVICES (519) 539-9800 or 1-800-755-0394 www.oxfordcounty.ca/health

HELP AND SUPPORT More resources on page 58-60

ASSAULTED WOMEN'S HELPLINE 1-866-863-0511 www.awhl.org

CHILDREN’S AID SOCIETY

Elgin – (519) 631-1492 London/Middlesex – (519) 455-9000 Oxford – (519) 539-6176

KIDS HELP PHONE 1-800-668-6868

LONDON & DISTRICT DISTRESS CENTRE (519) 667-6711 www.londondistresscentre.com

MENTAL HEALTH HELPLINE

More resources on page 38

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

1-800-267-8097 www.gov.on.ca

THE HEALTH LINE

www.thehealthline.ca

PARENTING More resources on page 68-70

FAMILY CENTRES FAMILY CENTRE ARGYLE 1990 Royal Cres., London ON (519) 455-2791

FAMILY CENTRE CARLING-THAMES 335 Belfield St., London ON (519) 432-0488

FAMILY CENTRE WESTMINSTER Coming Soon!

FAMILY CENTRE WESTMOUNT 1019 Viscount Rd., London ON (519) 473-2825

FAMILY CENTRE WHITE OAKS

565 Bradley Ave., London ON (519) 685-1400 www.familyinfo.ca Family Centres are designed to make life easier for all families by offering a single door to the many opportunities in their neighbourhoods and across London. Everyone is welcome. See what we have to offer and get connected to your community! Family Centres are being developed in neighbourhoods by London’s Child and Youth Network. Don’t waste a minute! Find one in your neighbourhood and hurry over to check us out! see ad on page 75

FAMILY INFO

• local resources • Family Centres • Child Care Waitlist www.familyinfo.ca

PARENT GUIDE INC.

• local resources • ages and stages articles • print and online resource guides www.parentguide.ca

more great articles at

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WHERE TO BEGIN |

TIPS TO MAKE THE SCHOOL YEAR RUN SMOOTHLY…

“

(We recommend reading “Connected Parenting” by Jennifer Kolari MSW, RSW www. connectedparenting.com) 1. Print out labels that include your child’s name, address, phone number, and emergency contacts. You won’t believe how many times you need to write this out in a year for school trips, permission forms etc. This will save you a lot of time!

5. Set a homework routine early! Provide a neat, quiet area to work in and make homework just one of those things you do every day! 6. Read EVERY day…and everything... comics, recipes, books, magazines, road signs etc.! 7. Take time to talk to your child about their day. Stay connected.

2. Label all your child’s clothing and school supplies with their name. Don’t forget those mittens! 3. Use the Planner that is offered at school. This is a great way to stay in touch with your child’s teacher and a way to organize notes and homework going back and forth from school to home. 4. Keep in touch with your child’s teacher. Volunteer in the classroom if you can or set a time to meet with the teacher to discuss your child’s progress.

parentguide.ca

COMMUNITY

Visit parentguide.ca for additional resources and articles

| COMMUNITY COMMUNITY RESOURCES GOVERNMENT RESOURCES

LIBRARIES

211 ONTARIO

LONDON/MIDDLESEX LONDON PUBLIC LIBRARY (519) 661-4600 www.lpl.ca see ad on page 16

Call 211 www.211ontario.ca ONTARIO GOVERNMENT

www.ontario.ca SERVICE ONTARIO:

Provincial government services and programs. Visit over 60 centres across Ontario 1-800-267-8097 www.serviceontario.ca Find information on: • Arts and culture • Business and economy • Driving and roads • Education and training • Environment and energy • Government • Health and wellness • Home and community • Jobs and employment • Law and safety • Rural and north • Taxes and benefits • Travel and recreation

MUNICIPAL CONTACTS See pages 8-9 for a list of city, town, and township contacts. Find information on: Parks and recreation, tourism, garbage, parking, construction, permits, social supports, child care, roads and transportation, events, maps and more.

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

MIDDLESEX COUNTY LIBRARY (519) 245-8237 www.middlesex.library.on.ca ST. THOMAS/ELGIN COUNTY ST. THOMAS PUBLIC LIBRARY (519) 631-6050 www.st-thomas.library.on.ca ELGIN COUNTY LIBRARY

(519) 631-1460 www.library.elgin-county.on.ca WOODSTOCK/OXFORD COUNTY WOODSTOCK PUBLIC LIBRARY

(519) 539-4801 www.woodstock.library.on.ca OXFORD COUNTY LIBRARY

(519) 485-7394 www.ocl.net

COMMUNITY | PUBLIC HEALTH

FIND INFORMATION ON: ABUSE, ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS, BEAUTY AND BODY ART, BREASTFEEDING, CANCER, DENTAL HEALTH, DISEASES, DRINKING WATER, EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT, ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND EATING HEALTHY, FOOD SAFETY, HEALTHY SCHOOLS, IMMUNIZATION, INFECTIOUS DISEASES, LYME DISEASE, PARENTING, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, PREGNANCY, RABIES, ROAD SAFETY, SAFETY, SEXUAL HEALTH, AND SUN SAFETY.

HEALTH UNITS/PUBLIC HEALTH ELGIN ST. THOMAS PUBLIC HEALTH (519) 631-9900 or 1-800-922-0096 www.elginhealth.on.ca MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT (519) 850-2280 www.healthunit.com see ad on pages 15, 17, 48, 50, 54, 71, 105, and inside back cover OXFORD COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH & EMERGENCY SERVICES

(519) 539-9800 or 1-800-755-0394 www.oxfordcounty.ca/health

parentguide.ca

| COMMUNITY LONDON PUBLIC LIBRARY LOCATIONS Beacock 1280 Huron St., London ON (519) 451-8140 Byron 1295 Commissioners Rd. W., London ON (519) 471-4000 Carson 465 Quebec St., London ON (519) 438-4287 Central and Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Library 251 Dundas St., London ON (519) 661-4600 Cherryhill 301 Oxford St. W., London ON (519) 439-6456

Crouch 550 Hamilton Rd., London ON (519) 673-0111 East London 2016 Dundas St. E., London ON (519) 451-7600 Glanworth 2950 Glanworth Dr., London ON (519) 681-6797 Jalna 1119 Jalna Blvd., London ON (519) 685-6465 Lambeth 7112 Beattie St., London ON (519) 652-2951 Landon 167 Wortley Rd., London ON (519) 439-6240

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

Masonville 30 North Centre Rd., London ON (519) 660-4646 Pond Mills 1166 Commissioners Rd. E., London ON (519) 685-1333 Sherwood 1225 Wonderland Rd. N., London ON (519) 473-9965 Stoney Creek 920 Sunningdale Rd. E., London ON (519) 930-2065 Westmount 3200 Wonderland Rd. S., London ON (519) 473-4708

COMMUNITY | NOTES: ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

parentguide.ca

| COMMUNITY

more great articles at

parentguide.ca

VOLUNTEERING IN YOUR COMMUNITY

“

Did you know? In order to receive a high school diploma, each student must have a minimum of 40 volunteer hours! Contact your school for more details. It's easy to feel disconnected, as many parents juggle work, school, kids, and activity after activity. But some simple things can bring a family closer — playing a game, going for a hike, or cooking a meal together. One of the most satisfying, fun, and productive ways to unite is volunteering for community service projects. Volunteerism also sets a good example for your kids and helps the community. REASONS TO GET INVOLVED Why should your family lend a helping hand? • It feels good. The satisfaction and pride that come from helping others are important reasons to volunteer. When you commit your time and effort to an organization or a cause you feel strongly about, the feeling of fulfillment can be endless. • It strengthens your community Organizations and agencies that use volunteers are providing important services at low or no cost to those who need them. When a community is doing well as a whole, its individuals are better off, too. • It can strengthen yourfamly. Volunteerism is a great way for families to have fun and feel closer. But many people say they don't have the time to volunteer after fulfilling work and family commitments. If that's the case, try rethinking some of your free time as a family. You could select just one 18

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

or two projects a year and make them a family tradition (for example, making and donating gift baskets to care facilities for the elderly around the holidays). WHAT KIDS CAN LEARN FROM VOLUNTEERING If volunteering begins at an early age, it can become part of kids' lives — something they might just expect and want to do. It can teach them: • A sense of responsibility. By volunteering, kids and teens learn what it means to make and keep a commitment. They learn how to be on time for a job, do their best, and be proud of the results. But they also learn that, ultimately, we're all responsible for the well-being of our communities. • That one person can make a difference. A wonderful, empowering message for kids is that they're important enough to have an impact on someone or something else. • The benefit of sacrifice. By giving up a toy to a less fortunate child, a child learns that sometimes it's good to sacrifice. Cutting back on recreation time to help clean up a beach tells kids that there are important things besides ourselves and our immediate needs. • Tolerance. Working in community service can bring kids and teens in touch with people of different backgrounds, abilities, ethnicities, ages, and education and income levels. They'll learn that even the most diverse individuals can be united by common values.

more great articles at

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• Job skills. Community service can help young people decide on their future careers. Are they interested in the medical field? Hospitals and clinics often have teenage volunteer programs. Do they love politics? Kids can work on the real campaigns of local political candidates. Learning to work as a team member, taking on leadership roles, setting project goals — these are all skills that can be gained by volunteering and will serve kids well in any future career. • How to fill idle time wisely. If kids aren't involved in traditional after-school activities, community service can be a wonderful alternative.

COMMUNITY | but helping out by fetching a paintbrush or holding the nails involves them just the same. Work at a community food bank or soup kitchen as a family. Find an organization that serves the elderly. Take food to people who are homebound and visit with them. Your kids can brighten a lonely senior's day instantly. Offer your family's help at the local animal shelter. Help plant flowers or trees. The possibilities are endless. Whatever you choose to do, volunteering and community service can benefit both the community and your family.

more great articles at

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UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT WAYS WE LEARN

“

When parents know their child’s best way to learn, they can help their child learn more effectively. People learn in different ways. Some learn best by seeing, others by hearing, and others by touching. Knowing our preferred learning style helps us learn and remember new things. When parents know their child’s best way to learn, they can help their child learn more effectively. It is just as important for you to know your own learning style. Parents usually teach in their preferred learning style, which may be different from the child’s. At any age, your child will learn more easily using his preferred learning style, but this doesn’t mean he can’t and won’t learn any other way. The auditory learner will enjoy listening to tape-recorded songs; the visual learner will enjoy reading the words as he hears them sung; the kinesthetic-tactile learner will enjoy dancing or acting as the music conductor. Attention to learning styles when your child is young will help to make learning positive and enjoyable.

“

At any age, your child will learn more easily using his preferred learning style, but this doesn’t mean he can’t and won’t learn any other way.

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

more moregreat greatarticles articlesatat

parentguide.ca parentguide.ca

EDUCATION |

UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT WAYS WE LEARN

“

When parents know their child’s best way to learn, they can help their child learn more effectively. People learn in different ways. Some learn best by seeing, others by hearing, and others by touching. Knowing our preferred learning style helps us learn and remember new things. When parents know their child’s best way to learn, they can help their child learn AUDITORY LEARNERS OFTEN: more effectively. It is just as important for you to know your own learning style. Parents enjoy oral discussion by • remember usually• teach in their preferred learning style, talking out loud need to have things • which may be different from the child’s. explained orally • have trouble with written instructions to themselves • talk At any age, your child will learn more easily something a • repeat usingwhile his learning preferred learningnew style, but this telephone orderwon’t to remember it doesn’t meannumber he can’tin and learn any other way. The auditory learner will enjoy listening to tape-recorded songs; the visual learner will enjoy reading the words as he hears them sung; the kinesthetic-tactile learner will enjoy dancing or acting as the music conductor. Attention to learning styles when your child is young will help to make learning positive and enjoyable.

VISUAL LEARNERS OFTEN:

• remember visual details • prefer to see what they are learning • like to have paper & pens handy • doodle while listening instructions • have trouble following lectures • like to write down instructions or telephone numbers

KINESTHETIC-TACTILE LEARNERS OFTEN:

• prefer activities • want to actually do whatever is being talked about or learned • like to move around while listening or talking • often “talk” with their hands • like to touch things in order to learn about them • remember things by recalling who did what rather than who said what

READ MORE ON THIS TOPIC: CANADIAN CHILD CARE FEDERATION

www.cccf-fcsge.ca

parentguide.ca

| EDUCATION

“

2000 WORDS TO GROW

From the minute they’re born, we want our children to be everything they can be. The moment we first look into their little eyes, we believe they will change the world. AND THEY CAN! Maybe they will be the first in the family to go to college or they’ll hitch a ride on the first manned mission to Mars. It’s a big job raising kids who are confident and resilient, and who know that you love them to the moon and back. That’s where 2000 words come in. Research shows that the number of quality, positive words a child hears in an hour can dramatically impact their future success. Some kids get 500-600 words an hour and others get more than 2000! And 2000 is where you want to start. 2000 words an hour may sound like a lot but consider how many words you can share on the bus or a car ride to child care and school, just talking about what’s out the window. Whether cooking or counting, playing games or singing songs, or having a great conversation while walking the dog, making words a priority is a simple way to make a huge impact on your child’s future – and it’s never too late to start! It all starts with simple, beautiful words. Learn more at 2000wordstogrow.ca

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

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For your peace of mind… Dear Parents, Are you looking for a new school for your child? The School Age Resource Guide you’re holding is a good place to start. With more than a 100 pages of information, advice, resources, tips, pitfalls to avoid, etc., this guide is an essential resource in helping you make the best decisions possible about your child’s education. There are so many things to consider when choosing a school that one may feel a bit overwhelmed. We, at Conseil scolaire catholique Providence, know how you feel and want to help. All parents want academic success for their children, but also want to be reassured that they will receive help if needed. The Csc Providence has implemented specific strategies to ensure that no child is left behind and that all of our students have the essential tools to succeed. Frequently achieving above average EQAO results in our schools are testimonials to our commitment. Naturally, you want your child to thrive in a nurturing school community. Catholic education is inclusive and person-centered. It promotes self-esteem, respect and full development of each person, as well as a culture of tolerance where people of diverse identities are welcomed and respected. Parents often tell us that they want to give their child the best start for a bright future. In our Catholic French-language schools, students master both official languages as only French is used throughout the day, except, of course, during English courses which are taught by qualified professionals. High-level bilingualism brings multiple benefits that last a lifetime. The Catholic, French-language schools of the Csc Providence give your child the gift of two languages in a safe and respectful environment where everyone is committed to student success. We believe that our programs and services set out the path to achieve this goal. Please visit our website CscProvidence.ca to learn more about our schools and the admission criteria. Joseph Picard Director of Education

CscProvidence.ca

MyFrenchSchool.ca

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

My future starts here! Academic excellence Francophone environment Full bilingualism Rooted in Catholic values Daycare / Childcare 1st choice of francophone parents

French Catholic school: my first great success!

MyFrenchSchool.ca

Come visit our Catholic elementary schools! Frère-André

Saint-Jean-de-Brébeuf

Sainte-Jeanne-d’Arc

Sainte-MargueriteBourgeoys

400 Base Line Road West London | 519 471-6680 35 Fallons Lane London | 519 457-3141

270 Chelton Road London | 519 963-1219

700 Bristol Street Woodstock | 519 539-2911

CscProvidence.ca

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| EDUCATION

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PARENT INVOLVEMENT POLICY

“

"PICs are an important advisory body to the school board. They support student achievement and well-being by getting parents more involved in their children’s learning." SUPPORTING PARENT ENGAGEMENT IN THEIR CHILDREN’S LEARNING What is a Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) and what does it do? All school boards in Ontario are required to have a Parent Involvement Committee (PIC). PICs are an important advisory body to the school board. They support student achievement and well-being by getting parents more involved in their children’s learning. They do this by: • providing information and advice to the district school board on parent engagement and ways to communicate with parents • developing ways the board could use to help more parents support their children’s learning at home and at school • sharing information with and supporting the work of school councils. Each PIC decides how best to achieve these goals, depending on the specific needs of its board and community, its organization and members. How are PICs different from school councils? School councils focus on an individual school; PICs provide advice at the board level. PICs actively support the school councils of their board by supporting their role in fostering parent engagement in their children’s learning and sharing information.

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

Who can be on a Parent Involvement Committee? PICs are led by parents and most of their members are parents. The director of education at the school board and a trustee are also members, so parents have a direct link to the school board. The PIC appoints up to three community members. PICs decide whether to include other members, such as principals, teachers and support staff to meet local needs. Parent members serve for a term of one or two years. Each parent member must be the parent or guardian of a student enrolled in a school that is part of the board that established the PIC. Where can I learn more? Visit ontario.ca/EDUparents to learn more about: • Parent Involvement Committees and parent engagement in Ontario schools and school boards •Parents in Partnership: A Parent Engagement Policy for Ontario Schools • Ontario Regulation 612/00: School councils and Parent Involvement Committees

EDUCATION |

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“

TUTORING

Did you know that kids care more about their work when they know their parents care? This doesn’t mean your child should spend hours hunched over a desk with you by their side. Parents can be supportive by explaining good study habits and organization skills, and being there to help their child through tough questions.

If there are continuing problems with homework, get help from an outside source such as: a teacher, tutor or ask about programs at your local library. Some kids, have trouble seeing the board and may need glasses; others might need an evaluation for a learning problem or attention disorder, while others are just learning at their own speed.

Here are our top 10 tips to help: 1.

Set up a homework-friendly area.

Schedule a regular study time.

Keep distractions to a minimum.

Know the teachers — meet with them and find out what they’re looking for.

Make sure kids do their own work.

Be a motivator and monitor – but don’t do their work for them.

Set a good example.

Help them make a plan.

Encourage their work without over praising.

efforts

10. Use the agenda to communicate with their teacher. parentguide.ca

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Visit parentguide.ca for additional resources and articles

| HEALTH & WELLBEING HEALTH AND WELLBEING RESOURCES ALLERGIES AND ASTHMA

DIETITIANS

ALLERGY AND ASTHMA INFORMATION ASSOCIATION NATIONAL OFFICE

EATRIGHT ONTARIO

P.O. Box 100, Etobicoke ON (519) 284-4222 or 1-888-250-2298 www.aaia.ca ANAPHYLAXIS CANADA 2005 Sheppard Ave. E., Ste. 800, Toronto ON (416) 785-5666 or 1-866-785-5660 www.anaphylaxis.ca ASTHMA ACTION HELP LINE 1-800-668-7682

DENTISTRY CINOT (CHILDREN IN NEED OF TREATMENT) 1-866-797-0000 or your local health unit www.healthyontario.com DR. ZHENG DENTAL OFFICE

141 Wharncliffe Rd. S. (South of Robert Q), London ON (519) 680-1880 www.drzhengdentistry.com see ad on page 53 PEDIATRIC ORAL HEALTH & DENTISTRY

389 Hyde Park Rd., London ON (519) 679-9860 www.dentistryforkids.ca see ad on page 52 ONTARIO DENTAL ASSOCIATION FIND A DENTIST - SEARCH BY LOCATION OR SPECIALTY

www.youroralhealth.ca/find-a-dentist24

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

(416) 325-0510 or 1-877-510-5102 www.eatrightontario.ca

HEALTH AND WELLNESS ABOUTKIDSHEALTH www.aboutkidshealth.ca FAMILY CENTRES FAMILY CENTRE ARGYLE

1990 Royal Cres., London ON (519) 455-2791 FAMILY CENTRE CARLING-THAMES

335 Belfield St., London ON (519) 432-0488

FAMILY CENTRE WESTMINSTER

Coming Soon!

FAMILY CENTRE WESTMOUNT

1019 Viscount Rd., London ON (519) 473-2825

FAMILY CENTRE WHITE OAKS

HEALTH & WELLBEING | HEALTH UNITS/PUBLIC HEALTH ELGIN ST. THOMAS PUBLIC HEALTH (519) 631-9900 or 1-800-922-0096 www.elginhealth.on.ca

• symptoms of substance use withdrawal and needing support • suicidal thoughts • Crisis resulting from a gaming/internet disorder or problem gambling

MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT (519) 850-2280 www.healthunit.com see ads on pages 15,17,48,50,54,71,105, inside back cover

Walk through our doors at 648 Huron St., London, ON to receive immediate crisis assessment, intervention, stabilization and links to community resources.

OXFORD COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH & EMERGENCY SERVICES (519) 539-9800 or 1-800-755-0394 www.oxfordcounty.ca/health

If you are under the age of 16, contact the Children’s Crisis Intake Team, available 24/7 at (519) 433-0334 or visit www.vanier.com/ programs–services/crisis-intake-team.aspx.

MENTAL HEALTH

MENTAL HEALTH HELPLINE 1-866-531-2600 www.mentalhealthhelpline.ca

CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION 180 Dundas St. W., Ste. 2301, Toronto ON (416) 484-7750 www.cmha.ca MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTIONS CRISIS CENTRE 648 Huron St., London ON (519) 434-9191 Crisis Line: (519) 433-2023 or 1-866-933-2023 www.cmhamiddlesex.ca/crisis-services If you, a family member or friend (over the age of 16) are experiencing: • a serious mental health or addictions problem • a situational crisis • psychosis • risk of self-harm or harm to others • emotional trauma • agitation and sleeplessness • severe depression or anxiety

MENTALHEALTH4KIDS.CA (519) 474-5617 www.mentalhealth4kids.ca MIND YOUR MIND www.mindyourmind.ca VANIER CHILDREN’S SERVICES 871 Trafalgar St., London ON (519) 433-0334 www.vanier.com

PERSONAL CARE LICE SQUAD CANADA (519) 473-4078 or 1-866-838-5423 www.licesquad.com Lice Squad is a professional head lice removal company offering fast and effective services and pesticide-free products. Parent and teacher-trusted since 2001. see coupon on page 127 parentguide.ca

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FEVER AND ILLNESS FEVER READING & TAKING TEMPERATURE When your child is sick with an infection (caused by either bacteria or a virus), it is common to have a fever. A fever will not hurt your child. Usually, it goes away after 72 hours (3 days). WHAT CAN I DO IF MY CHILD HAS A FEVER? The degree (or height) of a fever does not tell you how serious your child’s illness is. How a child acts is usually a better sign. A child with a mild infection can have a high fever, while a child with a severe infection might have no fever at all.

CONTACT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF YOUR CHILD: • Has a fever and is less than 6 months old. • Has a fever for more than 72 hours. • Is excessively cranky, fussy or irritable. • Is excessively sleepy, lethargic or does not respond. • Is persistently wheezing or coughing. • Has a fever and a rash or any other signs of illness that worry you.

Keep your child comfortable, and offer plenty of fluids. Sponging your child with tepid (lukewarm) water, alcohol baths and rubs are not recommended.

WHAT IS A NORMAL TEMPERATURE? MEASUREMENT METHOD Rectum Mouth Armpit Ear

NORMAL TEMPERATURE RANGE 36.6°C 35.5°C 34.7°C 35.8°C

to to to to

38°C (97.9°F to 100.4°F) 37.5°C (95.9°F to 99.5°F) 37.3°C (94.5°F to 99.1°F) 38°C (96.4°F to 100.4°F)

CONVERTING CELSIUS TO FAHRENHEIT

Multiply the Celsius figure by 9, divide by 5, and add 32. CONVERTING FAHRENHEIT TO CELSIUS Subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit figure, multiply by 5, and divide by 9.

A child or teenager with a fever should not be given aspirin. [acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)] If the fever is due to chickenpox, influenza or certain other viral infections, taking aspirin can increase the risk of Reye’s syndrome. This is a very serious condition that can damage the liver and brain. For More Information Visit: www.caringforkids.cps.ca

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

TRANSMISSION

Bacteria spread from person to person via droplets. Incubation period 1-3 days.

Strep Throat

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Virus is in respiratory secretions. Spread person to person by direct contact with contaminated secretions or indirect contact with contaminated hands, objects, and surfaces. Frequent cause of illness in children under 2 yrs. Incubation period 2-8 days.

Fever, runny nose, cold-like symptoms that may develop into more serious symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, rapid breathing and wheezing.

Begins as cold with profuse runny nose and cough. Cough gets progressively worse and occurs in paroxysms, or spasms. Face red or purple during coughing spells and child may vomit. Fever uncommon.

Up to 8 days after onset of symptoms.

From onset of runny nose until 3 weeks after onset of paroxysms or whooping.

Until 24 hours after treatment begun. If untreated 10-21 days.

24 hours before symptoms have developed until 5-7 days after onset of symptoms.

Not infectious

1 day before to 7 days after onset.

INFECTIOUS PERIOD

Report to Public Health.

Exclude until 5 days after start of antibiotics or 3 weeks if no treatment given.Contacts may need antibiotics and/or vaccine.

Not reportable to Public Health.

Exclude until 24 hours after treatment begun Exclude for 2-3 weeks after onset of illness if untreated.

Exclude until well enough to participate â&#x20AC;&#x201C; usually 3-8 days.

Report to Public Health.

Not reportable to Public Health.

REPORTING

Exclude until well enough to participate. Usually 5-7 days.

Do not exclude unless too ill to take part in the activities.

RECOMMENDED ACTION

* HAND WASHING: REMEMBER HAND WASHING IS THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT PROCEDURE WE CAN FOLLOW TO PREVENT THE TRANSMISSION OF DISEASE. FOR ALL DISEASES, HAND WASHING IS ALWAYS A RECOMMENDED ACTION.

R.S.V. (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

Whooping Cough (Pertussis)

Bacteria in respiratory secretions. Spread from person to person, via droplets. Very infectious. Incubation period 6-20 days

Sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, generalized aches and pains, loss of appetite, cough. Weakness and cough can last several days to weeks. Influenza can result in serious complications for the elderly and those with chronic health problems.

Virus spread person to person via droplets or by indirect contact with contaminated hands, objects, surfaces. Incubation period 1-4 days.

Influenza

Scarlet Fever

Earache or irritability, fever and cold symptoms.

Complication of cold

Ear Infections (Otitis Media)

Fever, sore throat. General discomfort and tender glands on the neck. Rash on neck, back, chest and inner surface of the thighs. Face looks flushed. Rash feels like fine sandpaper and is not itchy. Skin peels 2-3 weeks after the rash disappears.

Runny nose, sore throat, cough, decreased appetite occasionally fever

Spread person to person via droplets; indirect spread via contaminated hands, objects, surfaces.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Common Cold (Rhinovirus, corona virus)

RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS

DISEASE

HEALTH & WELLBEING |

CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES CHART

TRANSMISSION

Bacteria excreted in stool. Poultry, beef, unpasteurized milk or other contaminated food may be source of infection. Infected pets may be a source. Incubation period 1-10 days.

Parasite excreted in stool of infected persons and animals. Spread person to person and in contaminated food or water. Incubation period 2-25 days.

Microorganism excreted in stool of infected persons. May be viral, bacterial or parasitic. Spread directly from person to person; indirectly from hands of staff and children, objects, surfaces, food, or water contaminated with microorganisms

Bacteria excreted in stool of infected persons. Poultry, beef, unpasteurized milk or other food and farm animals may be a source of infection. Incubation period 12-60 hours.

Parasite in stool of infected persons. Spread person to person. Common in child care settings. Incubation period 1-4 weeks.

Virus excreted in stool of infected persons. Spread person to person; may also be spread in contaminated food or water. Incubation period 15-50 days

Campylobacter

Cryptosporidium

Gastroenteritis

E.coli (Escherichia coli)

Giardia

Hepatitis A

GASTROINTESTINAL INFECTIONS

DISEASE

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017 Most children have no illness. May have fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, jaundice (yellow colour in skin and eyes).

Most children have no symptoms. May have loss of appetite, vomiting, cramps, diarrhea, mushy stool, excessive gas.

Only verotoxigenic or VTEC strains cause illness in humans. Fever, diarrhea, blood in stool, cramps. Children and elderly are at most risk of serious complications.

Increase in frequency of stools and/or change to unformed, loose or watery stool. Fever, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, mucus or blood in stool may also occur. Diarrhea may be dangerous in infants and young children because the loss of fluid may cause dehydration.

Watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, headaches and sometimes vomiting. Symptoms may last 1-2 weeks or as long as a month. Symptoms can come and go over time. Immunocompromised people are at risk of serious complications

Diarrhea, cramps, abdominal pain, fever, nausea and vomiting, sometimes blood in stool.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

2 weeks before to 1 week after onset of jaundice.

Until 24hrs after diarrhea has resolved and no longer excreting cysts.

For duration of the diarrhea.

From onset of diarrhea until several weeks after symptoms stop.

For duration of diarrhea. If untreated 2-7 weeks.

INFECTIOUS PERIOD

Exclude until treated and no diarrhea for 24 hours. Proper hand hygiene and food handling is important. Treatment is prescribed by a physician.

Exclude until no diarrhea or other symptoms for 24 hours.

RECOMMENDED ACTION

Report to Public Health.

Report to Public Health if a group of people are experiencing the same symptoms.

Report to Public Health.

REPORTING

| HEALTH & WELLBEING

CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES CHART

TRANSMISSION

Bacteria acquired mainly from food, especially eggs and egg products, beef, poultry, unpasteurized milk. Incubation period 6-72 hours.

Bacteria excreted in stool of infected persons. Spread occurs person to person, through contaminated food, water or milk, and by flies. Incubation period 1-7 days.

Salmonella

Shigella

Bacteria excreted in stool of infected persons.Transmitted through consumption of contaminated food (especially pork),and water, contact with infected people and animals, especially pigs. Incubation period 3-10 days.

Virus excreted in stool of infected persons. Spread person to person. Most common cause of diarrhea in child care settings. Incubation period 2 days.

Rotavirus

Yersinia

Virus spread person to person in the stool and by vomiting. Incubation period 1-2 days.

Norovirus (Norwalk)

GASTROINTESTINAL INFECTIONS

DISEASE

For duration of diarrhea or other symptoms. If untreated, 2-3 months

For duration of diarrhea. Highly infectious. If untreated up to 4 weeks.

Diarrhea, fever, blood and/or mucus in stool, cramps.

Watery diarrhea, cramps, abdominal pain, fever, headaches, nausea and vomiting. Diarrhea is more severe in children.

While having diarrhea.

For duration of diarrhea. Usually up to 5 days.

Duration of illness and up to 72 hours after symptoms resolve

INFECTIOUS PERIOD

Sudden onset of headache, vomiting, fever followed by diarrhea

Fever and vomiting precede watery diarrhea. Dehydration may occur rapidly in infants. Children and elderly are most at risk of serious complications.

Nausea, vomiting, watery diarrhea, cramps.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Report to Public Health.

Report to Public Health. Exclude until treated and no diarrhea for 24 hours. Additional precautions are necessary for foodhandlers, childcare providers and health care providers.

Exclude until symptomfree for 24 hours.

Report to Public Health.

REPORTING

Exclude until treated and no diarrhea for 24 hours. Treatment is not always recommended

Exclude until no diarrhea and/or vomiting for 48 hours.

Exclude until no diarrhea and/or vomiting for 72 hours.

RECOMMENDED ACTION

HEALTH & WELLBEING |

CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES CHART

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TRANSMISSION

Spread person to person. Requires close, direct contact. Infested hats, clothes may also be involved in spread.

Spreads person to person in saliva and infected sores. Incubation period 2-12 days

Bacteria spread person to person by direct contact.

Spread person to person through close direct contact or undergarments or bed clothes that have recently been contaminated. Incubation period 4-6 weeks in persons without previous exposure.

Head Lice

Herpes Simplex

Impetigo

Scabies

SKIN AND SCALP INFECTIONS

DISEASE

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

Very itchy rash. In infants under 2 years, rash may occur anywhere on body. In older children, rash usually appears on fingers, elbows, armpits, abdomen. Mite burrows under skin leaving eggs and faeces in black-red bumps.

Fluid-filled vesicles, pustules and crusted rash on face or exposed parts of body (arms and/or legs).

Many initial infections occur without any symptoms. May cause high fever, many painful ulcers in mouth. May recur as cold sores.

Most children have no symptoms. Some will have itching of scalp. Nits (eggs) are seen attached to hairs near scalp.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Until mites and eggs are destroyed by treatment. Usually after 1 or occasionally after 2 courses of treatment a week apart.

From onset of rash until 1 day after start of treatment with antibiotics.

For 2-7 weeks during first infection; 5 days during recurrent infections Antiviral medication will shorten the duration of illness.

Until treated and lice and nits (eggs) are removed.

INFECTIOUS PERIOD

Exclude until one treatment completed. Treatment of contacts may be necessary to control outbreak.

Not reportable to Public Health.

Wash hands after contact with children with illness Exclude those with severe illness. Exclusion not indicated for recurrent cold sores.

Exclude until antibiotic treatment has been taken for 1 full day.

Not reportable to Public Health.

REPORTING

According to organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policy, exclude until treated with a product that contains an active ingredient that kills head lice and all nits (eggs) are removed. Check all children and staff for presence of lice and nits and exclude accordingly.

RECOMMENDED ACTION

| HEALTH & WELLBEING

CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES CHART

TRANSMISSION

Virus spread person to person and via air. Very infectious. May develop following contact with person having shingles. Incubation period 14-21 days.

Virus spread person to person. Requires intimate contact. Virus in urine, saliva

Virus spread person to person by direct contact with nose and throat discharges, saliva, fluid from blisters or from stool. Incubation period 3-7 days

Virus spread person to person through contact with respiratory secretions. Exposure may pose a concern to pregnant women in their first trimester.

Virus found in blood, semen, vaginal fluids and saliva. Can be spread by unprotected sex, blood contact, bites and from infected mother to newborn at time of birth. Incubation period 4-25 weeks.

Chickenpox (VaricellaZoster)

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease (Coxsackie A)

Fifth Disease (Parvovirus B19)

Hepatitis B

OTHER INFECTIONS

DISEASE

This infection targets the liver. Symptoms may include flu-like illness, nausea and vomiting, joint and muscle pain, rash and jaundice. Many people do not experience any symptoms. May lead to liver disease or liver cancer.

Mild fever, very red rash begins on cheeks (slapped face appearance) followed in 1 to 4 days by a lace-like rash on the trunk and extremities which fades but may come and go for 1 to 3 weeks.

Fever, sore throat, lack of energy, sores in the mouth, and a rash with blisters usually located on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet and sometimes on the buttocks

Fever and fatigue but without any other symptoms

Small red pimples which develop into blisters, then become encrusted. Usually affect face, hands, neck and extremities.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

From weeks before onset to months or years after recovery from illness. May be infectious for life

No exclusion required. Immediately report any bites that cause bleeding. Hepatitis B vaccine and/or Hepatitis B immune globulin may be indicated (under special circumstances).

Do not exclude if well enough to take part in activities.

Report to Public Health.

Not reportable to Public Health.

Do not exclude unless too ill to participate. Emphasize proper handwashing between diaper changes.

Most contagious during first week of illness. Can continue to transmit virus in stools for weeks. Most common in summer and fall. Greatest before onset of rash. Probably not communicable after onset of rash.

Not reportable to Public Health.

Report to Public Health.

REPORTING

No exclusion required. Able to return to school/work as soon as well enough to participate in normal activities

Exclude children until lesions are dry and crusted over Ensure handwashing. (Varicella-Zoster Immune Globulin (VZIG) may be indicated under certain circumstances)

RECOMMENDED ACTION

Virus may be present in urine and saliva for many months.

1-2 days before start of rash, to until lesions are dry and crusted over (about 5 days after start of rash)

INFECTIOUS PERIOD

HEALTH & WELLBEING |

CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES CHART

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TRANSMISSION

Virus in respiratory secretions. Spread from person to person, through the air. Very infectious. Incubation period 7-21 days.

Spread from person to person, requiring close direct contact. Can be viral or bacterial

Virus in respiratory secretions. Spread from person to person through the air and through direct contact with the saliva of an infected person. Incubation period 14-25 days.

Bacteria spread person to person by contact with secretions from eye. Incubation period usually 24-72 hours.

Red Measles (Measles)

Meningitis

Mumps

Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis)

OTHER INFECTIONS

DISEASE

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

Redness, itching, pain, discharge from eye. After sleep the discharge forms dry, yellowish crusts on eyelashes.

Enlargement of salivary glands causing swelling of cheeks and face. May have fever, headache, abdominal pain. Many children have no illness.

Fever, marked fussiness, sleepiness, vomiting, stiff neck, severe headache, pinpoint rash, coma, seizures. Bacterial infections can be very severe.

Fever, cough, runny nose, inflamed eyes for 1 to 3 days before onset of rash. Raised red, blotchy rash starts on face and spreads rapidly over body. Illness lasts 5 to 10 days

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

For duration of illness or until 24 hours after treatment started.

Exclude only if discharge is pus (yellow, thick) and then until the antibiotic has been taken for one full day

Exclude for 9 days after onset of swelling. Ensure all children are vaccinated.

Not reportable to Public Health.

Report to Public Health immediately.

Exposed children and staff may need antibiotics or vaccine.

Until treated with antibiotics for 24 hours (if caused by bacteria).

7 days before to 9 days after onset of swelling

Report to Public Health immediately. Speed is essential in limiting outbreaks of measles.

REPORTING

Exclude all cases until at least 4 days after onset of rash. All contacts born after 1970 without proof of immunization should be immunized. Exclude all children who lack proof of immunization from school/daycare until vaccinated or until 2 weeks after last case in a facility. Immune Globulin may be indicated.

RECOMMENDED ACTION

4 days before onset of rash until 4 days after onset of rash

INFECTIOUS PERIOD

| HEALTH & WELLBEING

CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES CHART

TRANSMISSION

A fungal infection spread by direct or indirect contact with lesions of infected persons or animals. Incubation period 10-14 days.

Ringworm

Spreads person to person,through contact with nasal secretions or direct contact with infected person. There is risk of severe damage to fetus if a pregnant woman gets rubella during the first trimester. Incubation period 14-23 days.

Spread is not clearly understood. Common in children 6-24 months of age. Incubation period is about 10 days.

Roseola (Sixth Disease)

German Measles (Rubella)

Spreads person to person by hand from anus to mouth or indirectly through clothing, bedding, food, dust (in heavily contaminated areas/ households), toys or other egg contaminated articles. Incubation period 2-6 weeks

Pinworm

OTHER INFECTIONS

DISEASE

Many children infected have no signs of illness or rash. May have mild fever, sore throat, swollen glands in neck and behind the ears. Rash consists of small red spots which start on scalp and face and spread rapidly over entire body.

7 days before until at least 4 days after onset of rash. Highly communicable .

While lesions are visible

One or more circular lesions on skin, scalp or nails. It is slightly raised with red edges and is scaling and itchy. It spreads outward on the skin.

Exclude for 7 days after onset of rash. All contacts should be vaccinated or have blood test to prove immunity.

While under treatment, exclude from gymnasiums, swimming pools and activities that may expose others.

Do not exclude unless too ill to participate. Wash hands well to prevent spread.

Not highly infectious. Difficult to diagnose until rash appears. Infectious during fever up to 24 hours after fever breaks.

Starts with fever. Once fever resolves small red spots start on the middle of the body and spreads to arms, legs neck and face. (ncbi website) Rash lasts up to 2-3 days. Occasionally child will have high fever. Febrile seizures are the most common complication

RECOMMENDED ACTION

Treat infected individual. Examine members of family or institution. Reinforce handwashing and personal hygiene. Wash toys, bedding and clothes. Vacuum sleeping and living areas.

INFECTIOUS PERIOD

As long as the worms are laying eggs. Eggs remain infective in environment for about 2 weeks once outside the host.

Intensely itchy anal area, especially at night. Disturbed sleep, irritability.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Report to Public Health.

Not reportable to Public Health.

REPORTING

HEALTH & WELLBEING |

CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES CHART

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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and the HPV Vaccine

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common group of viruses that can cause cervical cancer in females and genital warts in both males and females. The Gardasil vaccine provides protection against the 4 types of HPV, which cause 70 percent of cervical cancers and 90 percent of genital warts. Gardasil vaccine is available free of charge for female students in Grades 7-12 and male students in Grade 7. Immunization clinics are held at schools for female students in Grades 7 and 8 and male students in Grade 7.

the Middlesex-London Health Unit, Vaccine Preventable Disease Team at 519-663-2330 or email shots@mlhu.on.ca

Immunization Reporting Did you know... Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the responsibility of parents and guardians to notify the Health Unit when their child has been immunized? Keep us informed: call fax online walk-in 48

519-663-5317, ext 2452 519-663-0416 www.healthunit.com/immunization 50 King Street

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

Rotavirus

Meningococcal Conjugate

Meningococcal conjugate A, C, Y, W135

** These vaccines are given in school.

Measles, Measles, Mumps, Mumps, Chickenpox Rubella, (Varicella) Rubella Chickenpox (MMR) (MMRV)

Hepatitis B

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (Tdap) Seasonal

Mandatory vaccinations

HPV

Canadian Immunization Guide – Evergreen Edition (2012). Retrieved from http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/publicat/cig-gci/p04-dip-eng.php

Diphtheria, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Pertussis, Pneumococcal Tetanus, Polio, Conjugate Tetanus, Haemophilus Polio

SCHEDULE 1. Routine Schedule for Children Beginning Immunization in Early Infancy (starting 2 months of age)

June 2014 Proof of Immunization: Parents need to provide proof of immunization or exemption directly to public health. Failure to notify public health could result in suspension from school. For more information, contact your local health unit or health care provider (see page 10), or go to Canadian Paediatric Society: www.cps.ca or Ministry of Health and Long Term Care: www.ontario.ca/vaccines.

You

Every year (in autumn)

14–16 years old (10 years after 4–6 year old booster

Grade 8 female students

Grade 7 students

4–6 years old

18 months old

15 months old

12 months old

6 months old

4 months old

2 months old

Age at vaccination: Completed months and years

Publicly Funded IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE for Ontario

HEALTH & WELLBEING |

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HOW WELL CAN YOUR CHILD SEE? DON’T GUESS HAVE THEM CHECKED!

“

Fact: Over 80% of a child’s learning is based on vision. Fact: 1 in 6 children have some form of vision problem severe enough to interfere with learning. CHILDREN WHO HAVE VISION PROBLEMS MAY NOT DEVELOP TO THEIR FULLEST POTENTIAL. CHILDREN WITH VISION PROBLEMS MAY:

EYE SEE EYE LEARN:

This program was developed to detect, diagnose and treat children with vision problems as they start school so that every child can see and learn to the best of their ability. • Local Doctors of Optometry provide eye exams to junior kindergarten students in participating school regions. The eye exams are covered under provincial health insurance (or OHIP) when you show your child’s health card. If the child requires a pair of glasses, they will also receive them FREE of charge.

•

Experience blurred vision at distance or near, particularly after reading or close work.

•

Rub eyes frequently.

•

Have an eye that turns in or out, up or down.

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Experience frequent headaches, double vision or eye strain.

•

Move their head excessively when reading.

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Avoid close work or other visually demanding tasks.

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Have difficulty copying from one place to another.

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Have difficulty recognizing letters and numbers.

•

Make letter and word reversals when reading or writing.

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Lose place, skip lines when reading or use finger to keep place.

•

Have difficulty concentrating.

•

Use excessive effort to complete schoolwork.

• The program is a partnership of the Ontario Association of Optometrists with local school boards, health units, industry partners and the Government of Ontario. FOR MORE INFORMATION See www.EyeSeeEyeLearn.ca or call toll free 855-424-ESEL (3735). Children 19 years of age and under are eligible for annual eye exams with a valid Ontario health card.

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| HEALTH & WELLBEING DENTAL HEALTH

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“

Did you know?... If your child is not old enough to tie their shoes, they are probably not old enough to brush their own teeth! Every child should have their first dental visit at age 1. Reduce Your Child’s Sugar Intake Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that feed on sugar from foods and produce acid that harms teeth. All foods and drinks, except water, can contribute to tooth decay in this way. Here are a few tips to cut down on sugar: • Make unsweetened, unflavoured milk or water your first choices • Try fresh or unsweetened canned fruits and vegetables; whole grain crackers and breads when selecting a snack • Limit carbonated drinks and sweetened fruit juices, as they contain sugar and acids that cause tooth decay. • Choose fruit for dessert • Save sweets for mealtimes, when they are less likely to harm your child’s teeth and when saliva flow is greater • Offer smart snacking between meals (see recommended snacks on page 51) f

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

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“

HEALTH & WELLBEING | DENTAL HEALTH

A healthy lunch and snack should definitely be part of your child’s regular eating habits. Your Checklist for Healthy Mouths

Brushing Techniques Brushing your teeth properly at least twice a day helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Here are tips to proper brushing: • Brush your teeth for two to three minutes

Recommended Smart Snacks • Real cheese (not processed) • Vegetables sticks with humus or tzatziki dip • Celery sticks filled with cream cheese or peanut butter • Nuts or roasted chick peas • Yogurt, mini-go, pudding or fruit cup • Milk, chocolate milk or milkshakes • Fresh fruit, can be dipped in yogurt • Muffins • Cold pizza slices • Popcorn sprinkled with parmesan cheese • Bagel with cheese, peanut butter, tuna or salmon spread • Hard-boiled or deviled egg • Peanut butter and banana rolled in a soft tortilla Yogurt mixed with plain cereal

• Avoid hard scrubbing • Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and gently brush in short strokes from where the tooth and gum meet to the top of the tooth • Brush all outside and inside surfaces • Clean the pits & crevices on the chewing surface of your teeth with short sweeping strokes • Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath • Talk to your dentist about proper brushing techniques

FOR MORE INFORMATION The Ontario Dental Association at: www.youroralhealth.ca DID YOU KNOW? You should ask your dentist for a Risk Assessment!

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SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

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HEALTH & WELLBEING | THE FACTS ABOUT LICE

"Lice are not a sign of being unhygienic or dirty – lice simply like hair – clean or dirty!" • Head lice is common – there are an estimated 2.4 million cases per year in Canada. • Head Lice are the second most communicable affliction next to the common cold in school-aged children. • Lice do not discriminate – any person of any background or income level can get lice. • Lice are not a sign of being unhygienic or dirty – lice simply like hair – clean or dirty! • Live lice will die within 24 to 48 hours without a blood meal (when they are removed from the head).

• Lice do not hop jump or fly, but they crawl very quickly. • You cannot get lice by standing near someone who has lice. And you can’t catch eggs or nits! • Lice can only be transferred by direct head-to-head or item-to-hair contact. • The most effective way to eliminate lice is to manually remove them. • You do not need a pesticide to get rid of head lice. Natural options are readily available. • Most people don’t tell the school, family or friends about a lice case because of the shame and stigma associated with it. This practice enables a cycle of repeated lice outbreaks.

• Head lice don’t live on animals, they don’t live in the house, and they don’t live in other hairy parts of the body. • Lice eggs are not white. Viable eggs are brown in colour and nits (empty egg casings) are pale and appear silvery in the hair. • Eggs and nits don’t fall off and can’t be flicked off the hair - they are firmly cemented with a special bond. • Lice only live for 30 days. Females can lay 3 to 5 eggs per day and the eggs take 7 to 10 days to hatch.

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HELP AND SUPPORT

Visit parentguide.ca for additional resources and articles

| HELP & SUPPORT HELP AND SUPPORT RESOURCES ABUSE ASSAULTED WOMEN’S HELPLINE Mobile #SAFE (#7233) 1-866-863-0511 www.awhl.org CHANGING WAYS OF LONDON INC. 388 Dundas St., London ON (519) 438-9869 www.Changingways.on.ca CHILDREN’S AID SOCIETY Elgin – (519) 631-1492 London/Middlesex – (519) 455-9000 Oxford – (519) 539-6176 DOMESTIC ABUSE SERVICES OXFORD (DASO) 975 James St., Woodstock ON (519) 539-4811 or 1-800-265-1938 www.daso.ca INGAMO HOMES 432 Springbank Ave. N., Unit 20, Woodstock ON (519) 421-0383 ext 223/221 www.ingamohomes.com LONDON ABUSED WOMEN’S CENTRE 69 Wellington St., London ON (519) 432-2204 www.lawc.on.ca REGIONAL SEXUAL ASSAULT & DOMESTIC VIOLENCE TREATMENT PROGRAM St. Joseph's Health Care London 268 Grosvenor St., London ON (519) 646-6100 ext. 64224 www.sjhc.london.on.ca/sexualassault

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

SEXUAL ASSAULT CENTRE LONDON 255 Horton St. E., Ste. 5, London ON The following 24 hour crisis lines are available: • 24Hr Sexual Assault Crisis and Support Line, (519) 438-2272 or 1-877-529-2272 • 24Hr Support Services for Male Survivors, 1-866-887-0015 • 24Hr Abused Women’s Helpline, (519) 642-3000 or 1-800-265-1576 • 24Hr Toll Free Helpline in Middlesex County, 1-800-265-5390 • 24Hr Provincial Assaulted Women’s Helpline, 1-866-863-0511 www.sacl.ca ST. THOMAS-ELGIN SECOND STAGE HOUSING 15 Golding Pl., St. Thomas ON (519) 637-2288 or 1-877-396-2288 THE SALVATION ARMY - LONDON CENTRE OF HOPE 281 Wellington St., London ON (519) 661-0343 www.centreofhope.ca VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN SERVICES - ELGIN COUNTY EMERGENCY SHELTER & COUNSELLING FOR ABUSED WOMEN 76 Wellington St., St. Thomas ON (519) 633-0155 or 1-800-265-4305 www.vawsec.on.ca WOMEN’S COMMUNITY HOUSE & SECOND STAGE HOUSING 101 Wellington Rd., London ON (519) 642-3000 or 1-800-265-1576 www.shelterlondon.org

For Mental Health Resources see page 69. For Financial Support see page 82

HELP & SUPPORT |

WOMEN’S RURAL RESOURCE CENTRE 145 Beech St., Strathroy ON (519) 246-1526 or 1-800-265-5390 www.wrrcsa.org ZHAAWANONG SHELTER 109-343 Richmond St., London ON (519) 432-0122 (Crisis Line) or 1-800-605-7477 www.atlohsa.com

ADDICTION SUPPORT ADDICTION SERVICES OF THAMES VALLEY 200 Queen’s Ave., Ste. 260, London ON (519) 673-3666 www.adstv.on.ca CENTRE FOR ADDICTION AND MENTAL HEALTH (519) 858-5110 or 1-888-495-2261 DRUG AND ALCOHOL HELPLINE 1-800-565-8603 24 hours/7 days a week www.drugandalcoholhelpline.ca HOPE’S GARDEN (EATING DISORDERS SUPPORT AND RESOURCE CENTRE) 379 Dundas St., Ste. 210, London (519) 434-7721 www.hopesgarden.org

PARENT ACTION ON DRUGS CHALLENGES, BELIEFS & CHANGES (CBC) (416) 395-4970 www.parentactionondrugs.org SMOKERS’ HELPLINE - CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY 1-877-513-5333 www.smokershelpline.ca THE SALVATION ARMY - LONDON CENTRE OF HOPE 281 Wellington St., London ON (519) 661-0343 www.centreofhope.ca TURNING POINT INC. (519) 659-2250 www.turningpointinc.ca

BEREAVEMENT BEREAVED FAMILIES OF ONTARIO www.bereavedfamilies.net COPING BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS OF ONTARIO INC. 1740 Blair Rd., Cambridge ON (519) 650-0852 or 1-877-554-4498 www.copingcentre.com PREGNANCY & INFANT LOSS NETWORK 1-888-301-7276 www.pailnetwork.ca

MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTIONS CRISIS CENTRE 648 Huron St., London ON (519) 434-9191 Crisis Line: (519) 433-2023 or 1-866-933-2023 www.cmhamiddlesex.ca/crisis-services

BULLYING/AGGRESSION

ONTARIO PROBLEM GAMBLING HELPLINE 1-888-230-3505 www.opgh.on.ca

THE CANADIAN SAFE SCHOOL NETWORK 111 Peter St., Ste. 617, Toronto ON (416) 977-1050 or 1-877-337-0336 www.canadiansafeschools.com

CHILDREN’S AID SOCIETY ELGIN – (519) 631-1492 LONDON/MIDDLESEX – (519) 455-9000 OXFORD – (519) 539-6176

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| HELP & SUPPORT COUNSELLING

FOOD BANKS

FAMILY SERVICE THAMES VALLEY 125 Woodward Ave., London ON (519) 433-0183 www.familyservicethamesvalley.com Individual, couple and family counselling to assist with a broad range of life stresses and difficulties. Credit counselling for assistance with financial and debt management difficulties. Planning assistance for families of children with developmental disabilities. see ad on this page

THE HEALTH LINE (519) 641-5519 www.thehealthline.ca

OXFORD-ELGIN CHILD & YOUTH CENTRE Front Door Walk-In Counselling WOODSTOCK LOCATION - Tuesdays

912 Dundas St., Woodstock ON ST.THOMAS LOCATION - Thursdays

99 Edward St., St. Thomas ON (519) 539-0463 or 1-877-539-0463 www.ocyc.on.ca TALK-IN CLINICS (519) 433-0334 One cost-free, confidential counselling session for children and youth from ages 0-18 and their families. Call for times and locations. VANIER CHILDREN’S SERVICES 871 Trafalgar St., London ON (519) 433-0334 www.vanier.com

Family Service Thames Valley

Individual, Couple, Family Counselling Credit & Debt Counselling Community Integration Program mindyourmind.ca (519) 433-0183 www.familyservicethamesvalley.com

125 Woodward Ave., London ON N6H 2H1 60

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

HELP LINES KIDS HELP PHONE 1-800-668-6868 LONDON & DISTRICT DISTRESS CENTRE (519) 667-6711 www.londondistresscentre.com MENTAL HEALTH HELPLINE 1-866-531-2600 www.mentalhealthhelpline.ca TELEHEALTH ONTARIO 1-866-797-0000

SEPARATION AND DIVORCE MERRYMOUNT CHILDREN’S CENTRE 1064 Colborne St., London ON (519) 434-6848 www.merrymount.on.ca

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HELP & SUPPORT | SUICIDE

“

Suicide was a taboo subject for a very long time. Even talking about it is still difficult for most people. But being able to talk about suicide can help save a life. Learning about suicide is the first step in the communication process. Suicide is about escape. Someone who thinks seriously about suicide is experiencing pain that is so crushing, they feel that only death will stop it. TALK TO YOUR KIDS Adolescence is a time of dramatic change. The journey from child to adult can be complex and challenging. Young people often feel tremendous pressure to succeed at school, at home and in social groups. At the same time, they may lack the life experience that lets them know that difficult situations will not last forever. WHAT CAN YOU DO The only person who can stop a person from considering suicide is the suicidal person. YOU CAN HELP BY: • really listening, without judging not challenging, or becoming angry and shocked • finding ways to break through the silence and secrecy • asking if they have plans or have made prior attempts • helping them find ways to lessen their pain • helping them see positive possibilities in their future • guiding them to other sources of help as soon as possible, such as a counsellor or other trusted adult, or community crisis lines listed in this guide under “Mental Health” and “Help Lines” • No one can solve another person’s problems. But sympathy and support can help; knowing that someone else has faced similar tough times and survived can help a suicidal person see a light at the end of a very dark tunnel.

CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION Read the entire article at: www.cmha.ca

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| HELP & SUPPORT

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BULLYING

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Bullying happens when someone says or does hurtful things to someone else on purpose (it’s not an accident). These mean things don’t just happen once, they happen a lot and the bullying may go on for a long time. Sometimes bullying happens between two people, but bullying can also involve a group. Bullying involves a power difference: the person who bullies uses power to control and upset or distress another. People who bully may have an advantage over those who are victimized: they may be bigger, stronger, or older; they may be more popular, or they may know something sensitive or hurtful about the other person. Because of the power difference, it is hard for the person being bullied to defend him or herself. PHYSICAL BULLYING Physical Bullying means using your body to cause harm. Here are some examples of physical bullying: • Hitting or punching • Kicking • Shoving • Spitting • Stealing • Breaking someone else’s belongings, such as school work, clothing, or equipment ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

VERBAL BULLYING Verbal Bullying means using your words to hurt someone. Here are some examples of verbal bullying: • making fun of someone because of their family • name calling • teasing in a hurtful way • put downs • threatening • making fun because of a difference • calling someone racist or sexist names ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

SOCIAL BULLYING Social Bullying means using your friends and relationships to hurt someone. Here are examples of social bullying: • spreading rumours • excluding others from a group • making others look foolish or unintelligent • talking about others in a mean way behind their back • breaking up friendships on purpose ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

CYBER BULLYING Cyber Bullying means using technology (using a cell phone or computer) to hurt someone. Here are some examples of cyber bullying: • sending mean and hurtful emails, text messages and instant messages • posting embarrassing photos on the internet • developing websites that make fun of others • setting up websites to rate others’ appearances • pretending you are someone else by using their name

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HELP & SUPPORT |

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BULLYING Three other types of bullying are of concern in adolescence and into adulthood: racial bullying, sexual harassment and dating aggression.

• touching someone who doesn’t want to be touched

RACIAL BULLYING Racial Bullying means saying or doing something that hurts because it refers to a person’s racial, ethnic or cultural background in a negative way. Here are some examples of Racial Bullying:

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

• making fun of someone’s clothes, food or habits • making fun of someone’s different name or way of talking • making someone feel embarrassed because they are different • leaving someone out because they are different ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

SEXUAL HARASSMENT Sexual harassment is when someone says something about another person’s sexuality or does something that makes another person feel uncomfortable about his/her sexuality. The sexual comments are unwanted and unwelcome. It is sexual harassment even if the person says it was just a joke. Here are some examples of Sexual Harassment:

• forcing someone to do a sexual act (e.g. kissing) DATING AGGRESSION Dating aggression occurs when a boyfriend or girlfriend is hurtful to the other in a physical, verbal, social or sexual way. Because they are close, boyfriends and girlfriends learn about the others weaknesses and can target those weaknesses to hurt. Here are some examples of Dating Aggression: • making fun of a boy/girlfriend’s weaknesses • talking about private information with friends • hitting, punching, slapping • forcing someone to do something he/she doesn’t want to do.

• commenting negatively on or rating a person’s appearance • commenting negatively on sexual characteristics or reputation • using homophobic slurs that make being Gay or Lesbian seem like a bad thing

KIDS HELP PHONE www.kidshelpphone.ca 1-800-668-6868 parentguide.ca

| HELP & SUPPORT

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CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND DEPRESSION

“

It’s important that we remind ourselves that while their problems may seem unimportant to us, they can feel overwhelming to young people. While we may think of low mood or other challenges as adult problems, they can affect people at any age. Children and teens can experience mental illnesses like depression. Sometimes it can be difficult for adults to understand how difficult children’s problems can be because we look at their problems through adult eyes. But the pressures of growing up can be very hard for some children. It’s important that we remind ourselves that while their problems may seem unimportant to us, they can feel overwhelming to young people. It’s important to take depression in young people seriously. WHAT IS DEPRESSION? Depression is a type of mental illness called a mood disorder. Mood disorders affect the way you feel, which also affects the way you think and act. With depression, you may feel ‘down,’ hopeless, or find that you can’t enjoy things you used to like. Many people who experience depression feel irritable or angry. And some people say that they feel ‘numb’ all the time. Recognizing depression in young people can be more difficult than recognizing depression in adults because young people experience so many changes. You may wonder what is ‘normal’ and what might be a problem. Also, many children and teens may not want to talk about their feelings, or may have their own explanation for their experiences. However, you may still notice the following changes.

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

CHANGES IN FEELINGS: Your child may show signs of being unhappy, worried, guilty, angry, fearful, helpless, hopeless, lonely, or rejected. CHANGES IN PHYSICAL HEALTH: Your child may start to complain of headaches or general aches and pains that you can’t explain. They may feel tired all the time or have problems eating or sleeping. Your child may unexpectedly gain or lose weight. CHANGES IN THINKING: Your child may say things that indicate low self-esteem, self-dislike or self-blame—for example, they may only talk about themself negatively. They may have a hard time concentrating. In some cases, they may show signs that they’re thinking about suicide. CHANGES IN BEHAVIOUR: Your child might withdraw from others, cry easily, or show less interest in sports, games, or other fun activities that they normally enjoy. They might over-react and have sudden outbursts of anger or tears over small incidents. Some of these changes may be signs of mental health problems other than depression. It’s important to look at the bigger picture: how intense the changes are, how they impact your child’s life, and how long they last. It’s particularly important to talk to your child if you’ve noticed several changes lasting more than two weeks.

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HELP & SUPPORT |

WHO DOES IT AFFECT? Depression often starts between the ages of 15 and 30, but it can affect anyone—even teens and younger children. While we don’t know exactly what causes depression, many factors are likely at play. These include family history, personality, life events, and changes in your child’s body. Certain medications and physical illnesses can also contribute to depression.

Support for a young person who experiences depression may come from several different people and places. Your family doctor is often the first place you start, but you may also find support through people like psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors, social workers, or peer support workers. Many communities offer programs that support healthy children and build social connections—these are also helpful in preventing depression.

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT IT? Depression is very treatable. Children, teens, and adults can all recover from depression. For children and teens in particular, early treatment is important so they can get back to their education and other goals as quickly as possible.

Do you need more help? Contact a community organization like the Canadian Mental Health Association to learn more about support and resources in your area. www.cmha.ca

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PARENTING

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| PARENTING PARENTING RESOURCES ADOPTIONS/FOSTERING CHILDREN’S AID SOCIETY OF LONDON AND MIDDLESEX 1680 Oxford St. E., P.O. Box 7010, London ON (519) 455-9000 51 Front St. E., W-6 Kenwick Mall, Strathroy ON (519) 245-4330 www.caslondon.on.ca see ad on page 78 CHILDREN’S AID SOCIETY OF OXFORD COUNTY 712 Peel St., Woodstock ON (519) 539-6176 or 1-800-250-7010 www.casoxford.on.ca FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S SERVICES OF ST. THOMAS AND ELGIN 410 Sunset Dr., St. Thomas ON (519) 631-1492 or 1-800-260-6960 www.caselgin.on.ca see ad on page 79

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS LONDON CHILDREN’S CONNECTION Administrative Office, 346 Wonderland Rd. S., London ON (519) 471-4300 www.lcc.on.ca OXFORD COMMUNITY CHILD CARE SCHOOL AGE PROGRAMS (7 LOCATIONS) www.oxfordccc.ca YMCA OF WESTERN ONTARIO CHILD CARE SERVICES (30 LOCATIONS) (519) 451-3743 ext. 694 www.ymcawo.ca/child-care YWCA ST. THOMAS - ELGIN (519) 631-9800 www.ywcastthomaselgin.org

PARENTING | CHILD CARE Visit www.ontario.ca For information on finding child care, types of child care and subsidies. For a full list of child care please visit: www.parentguide.ca or LA RIBAMBELLE DAYCARE www.CscProvidence.ca Frère-André 400 Base Line Rd. W., London ON (519) 471-6680 Sainte-Jeanne-d’Arc 35 Fallons Lane, London ON (519) 457-3141 Saint-Jean-de-Brébeuf 270 Chelton Road, London ON (519) 963-1219 see ads on pages 30,31 LONDON AND MIDDLESEX CHILD CARE WAITLIST www.familyinfo.ca/waitlist LONDON CHILDREN’S CONNECTION Administrative Office, 346 Wonderland Rd. S., London ON (519) 471-4300 www.lcc.on.ca MERRYMOUNT CHILDREN’S CENTRE 24 HR EMERGENCY AND RESPITE CARE 1064 Colborne St., London ON (519) 434-6848 www.merrymount.on.ca NEXT TO MOM INC. 231 College St., Belmont ON (519) 644-0201 www.nexttomom.ca see ads on pages 68

OXFORD COMMUNITY CHILD CARE Sainte-Marguerite-Bourgeoys 700 Bristol St., Woodstock ON (519) 539-2911 www.CscProvidence.ca see ads on pages 30,31 PRESCHOOL OF THE ARTS & MUSIC TOGETHER® 111 Wortley Rd., London ON (519) 657-3342 www.preschoolofthearts.ca see ad on page 98, back cover see coupon on page 127

CHILD CARE - SUBSIDY CITY OF LONDON - NEIGHBOURHOOD & CHILDREN’S SERVICES – CHILD CARE SERVICES 151 Dundas St. 4th Flr., P.O. Box 5045, London ON (519) 661-4834 www.london.ca/childcare

COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX - CHILD CARE SERVICES 399 Ridout St. N., London ON (519) 434-7321 ext. 2289 www.middlesex.ca ONTARIO WORKS - ST. THOMAS-ELGIN 423 Talbot St., St. Thomas ON (519) 631-9350 www.city.st-thomas.on.ca OXFORD COUNTY SOCIAL SERVICES AND HOUSING Ontario Early Years Centre, 21 Market Square, P. O. Box 1614, Woodstock ON (519) 539-9800 ext.3360 or Apply online for childcare subsidy www.oxfordcounty.ca

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| PARENTING FAMILY AND EARLY YEARS CENTRES

PARENTING EDUCATION/ SUPPORT

FAMILY CENTRES

Family Centre Argyle 1990 Royal Cres., London ON (519) 455-2791 Family Centre Carling-Thames 335 Belfield St., London ON (519) 432-0488 Family Centre Westminster Coming Soon! Family Centre Westmount 1019 Viscount Rd., London ON (519) 473-2825 Family Centre White Oaks 565 Bradley Ave., London ON (519) 685-1400 www.familyinfo.ca Family Centres are designed to make life easier for all families by offering a single door to the many opportunities in their neighbourhoods and across London. Everyone is welcome. See what we have to offer and get connected to your community! Family Centres are being developed in neighbourhoods by London’s Child and Youth Network. Don’t waste a minute! Find one in your neighbourhood and hurry over to check us out!

see ad on page 75

ONTARIO EARLY YEARS CENTRES For locations visit: www.ontarioearlyyears.ca

see ad on page 75 LONDON PUBLIC LIBRARY (519) 661-4600 www.lpl.ca see ad on page 16 MERRYMOUNT CHILDREN’S CENTRE

1064 Colborne St., London ON (519) 434-6848 www.merrymount.on.ca MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT

(519) 850-2280 www.healthunit.com 15,17,48,50,54,71,105, inside back cover ONTARIO EARLY YEARS CENTRES

www.ontarioearlyyears.ca

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

PARENTING |

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| PARENTING

“

SET A GOOD EXAMPLE Children learn by watching how we behave. Does your behaviour reflect the expectations you have for your child? Take time to think about how you can role model the behaviours you would like to see in your child. Example: Do you keep calm during a stressful situation? Do you tidy up after yourself? PRAISE Everyone feels good when they receive a positive comment or compliment. When your child receives praise for positive behaviour, they are more likely to repeat the positive behaviour. When you praise your child, make sure it is specific and describes the behaviour you like. This helps your child know exactly what they’ve done that you approve of. Example: Your child has set the table without being asked. Instead of saying, “Great Job!”, you could say, “Thank you for setting the table. I appreciate your help”. |

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PARENTING STRATEGIES

As parents, we often use the parenting approaches that our parents used with us. There are, however, many tools and strategies that we can use as parents. Positive parenting strategies can be effective for encouraging positive behaviour, and for managing misbehaviour. Here are some positive parenting strategies… give them a try!

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CLEAR COMMUNICATION It’s important that your child hears and understands your instructions in order to behave appropriately. • Get your child’s attention • This works best if you are close to your child – preferably at eye level • Use a calm voice • Be specific • Say exactly what you would like your child to do Example: Your child has come in from outside and left their coat and boots on the floor. Instead of saying, “Clean up your mess”, you could say, “Hang up your coat and put away your boots” LOGICAL CONSEQUENCES Using logical consequences can be an effective strategy to deal with misbehaviour and help your child learn about responsibility. • Logical consequences should be connected to the misbehaviour • Explain the consequence to your child • Help them see the connection between their behaviour and the consequence • Be firm, and calm • Do not debate or argue the point with your child • After the logical consequence, give your child an opportunity to behave appropriately • Praise them if they behave appropriately • Use another consequence if necessary

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Example: Your 3-year old child colours on the wall with crayons. A logical consequence would be to have them help you clean the crayon off the wall. You could say, “We colour on paper, not on the wall. Colouring on the wall makes a mess. Get a cloth and help me clean it up.” After cleaning the mess, you return the crayons to your child with paper and remind them that crayons are for colouring on paper and not the walls. Example: You catch your 10-year old child riding their bike home from school without a helmet. A logical consequence would be to put the bike away for a few days and have your child walk to school. You could say, “You know it’s dangerous to ride your bike without a helmet. Since you have chosen not to ride safely, now you must walk until Monday”. On Monday, explain to your child that if they are willing to wear the helmet, they may have their bike back. REWARD SYSTEM Sometimes, children need a little extra motivation to change their behaviour. A reward system can be an effective technique to encourage positive behaviour. One of the most powerful things about a reward system is that you notice and praise your child for behaving well. • The first step to using a reward system is to decide which behaviour you want to encourage • Pick one or two behaviours to start with • The next step is to set up a chart • Take some time to think about how long it will take your child to earn a reward and what the reward might be • Make it easy at first and then gradually increase the amount of time it takes for your child to earn a reward • Introduce the chart to your child

PARENTING | • Explain that the chart is to help them improve their behaviour • Let them know they can earn a stamp or sticker for their chart for behaving well or following rules • Be very clear with your child which behaviours will earn a stamp or sticker • Explain how many stamps or stickers will be needed to earn a reward • Be sure to tell your child what the consequences will be for misbehaviour or not following rules (and make sure you follow through with the consequences if they misbehave) TIME OUT Time out is a helpful technique for parents to use with children aged 2 to 10 years. Time out means moving your child away from the place where unwanted behaviour has happened and having them be quiet for a short time. • Talk to your child about time out before you use if for the first time. Explain which misbehaviours will lead to a time out, what is expected of your child while they are in time out and how long the time out will last. Explain that the time out will not start until they are in the time out location and are sitting quietly. • Time out should last 1 minute for every year of the child’s age, to a maximum of five minutes. • What you do after the time out is also important. Do not discuss or dwell on the unwanted behavior. Looking for more info on this topic? Visit www.iparent.net

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| PARENTING

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BABYSITTING BASICS

Babysitting is often a young person’s first paid employment, & a wonderful way for youth to help family friends and neighbours while earning a bit of pocket money on the side. As a parent, how can you be sure your local teenager is a good babysitter? And what can you do to be a good employer?

• Let the babysitter know where you will be.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A BABYSITTER? A good babysitter enjoys interacting with children, is mature enough to handle the responsibility, and possesses good judgement. Even if your babysitter has come recommended, or is the child of a friend or neighbour, don’t hesitate to interview him or her about any past experience and training they may have. Does he know how to handle a baby who won’t stop crying? Does she know what to do in an emergency? If hiring a younger teen, communicate directly with the babysitter’s parents too – will they be home while you are out?

• Make sure the babysitter knows when to use 9-1-1 if it applies in your area.

If this is your first time hiring a new babysitter, consider first doing a “dry run”. Perhaps you can hire the babysitter to watch your children while you do tasks around the house and yard. This will help you assess the young person’s abilities before leaving your children with them for the first time.

• making someone feel embarrassed because they are different

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES AS THE EMPLOYER • Arrange for the babysitter to arrive at least 10 minutes before you have to leave so you have time to introduce the him or her to your children and pets, and give a tour of your home. 74

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• Leave emergency telephone numbers, including neighbours who can provide assistance, and the number at which you can be reached. • Brief the babysitter about allergies or other medical information.

• Show where the first aid supplies are kept. • Indicate what TV programs, music or computer games are allowed. If you connect to the Internet through a telephone modem, don’t allow the Internet to be used while you are away.

• leaving someone out because they are different

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• Establish rules regarding visitors, whether it be the babysitter's or the children's friends.

PARENTING | • Ensure the babysitter has transportation to and from home.

• If required, explain how to use certain appliances.

• Let the babysitter know what time to expect you home, and phone if that changes.

• Outline the routines of your household, like bedtimes, snacks, chores, activities and homework.

• If leaving for more than an hour, call the babysitter at least once while you are out to check on how things are going.

DO YOU HAVE A CHILD INTERESTED IN BABYSITTING? Find a Babysitter Training Course near you: Canada Safety Council www.safety-council.org Canadian Red Cross www.redcross.ca St. John Ambulance www.sja.ca

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HOW TO PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR SECONDARY SCHOOL Starting secondary school is a milestone for both teens and parents. Though this transition can be met with excitement and eagerness, it can also trigger anxiety and fear that might at times feel overwhelming, even for the most prepared teen. Secondary school is about learning and academics but it also involves so much more. New friends, experiences, challenges and opportunities will help them gain fresh insights, provide direction and learn more about who they are and who they want to become. All of this happens at a time of tremendous physical, emotional and social growth. Luckily, secondary school also provides a valuable and necessary bridge between the relatively protected environment of elementary school and the world of higher education or work. To make the most of this new transition, here are some practical tips for a successful start to a memorable four years for both parents and teens.

FOR PARENTS 1. Attend Student/Parent Orientation sessions with your teen at the secondary school. Sessions provide an excellent opportunity to familiarize both of you with the course curriculum, the school culture and learning environment. They also enable both of you to meet staff and tour the school. 2. Support, listen and guide them as they begin this new transition. Monitor how your teen is feeling about school. You may reflection your own secondary school experience and it is important to stay positive and remember that every teen’s experience is different. Sending them off with a positive outlook can go a long way to easing fears and worries. 3. Continue to have clear expectations for home routines and school work. This will acknowledge your teen’s growing ability to think about their actions and possible consequences. 4. Be an involved parent and get to know your teen’s friends and teachers. Attend school functions like parentteacher interviews, BBQ’s, sporting events, music/ theatre productions. Join the school council to keep informed.

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FOR TEENS 1. Get involved in secondary school. There are many opportunities to volunteer, join a club, sports team, band, student government or theatre group. It’s also a great way to meet new friends, learn about yourself, gain new skills and develop new interests. 2. Be open to meeting new people. A smile or friendly “hello” will go a long way to feeling more comfortable and making new friends. 3. Be organized and keep up with homework and studying. Use your agenda/planner book to keep track of assignments and tests. If you are having difficulty with a course, support is always available. Talk with your teacher or guidance counsellor as soon as possible. They can help you to get back on track.

PARENTING | 4. Sometimes school can become overwhelming or you may feel very stressed. Sharing your anxieties or concerns with a parent or friend can help. You can also speak with your guidance counsellor, a teacher, support staff or the public health nurse in your school. 5. Take care of yourself. To keep energy levels up and stress levels down, fuel your body and mind. Get at least 9 hours of sleep a night. Always eat a healthy breakfast and participate in some type of physical activity either during or after school every day. 6. Have fun. Four years goes by fast. Make the best of it!

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YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIFE OF A CHILD OR YOUTH There are many opportunities for people who want to become foster parents or adopt through the Children’s Aid Society of London and Middlesex. We are looking for people from all walks of life to help us provide the families our kids need. We need care providers for all ages of children and for a wide variety of needs. Our greatest need is for care givers who can take sibling groups, or teens, and care givers who are home full-time for infants.

DID YOU KNOW THAT FOSTER AND ADOPTIVE CARE PROVIDERS CAN BE: • All ages. For example, we have foster parents who are retired and enjoy providing short term care to infants. We also have young couples who are experiencing parenting for the first time, as well as families with birth children who are interested in making a difference in the life of a child. • Childless families, families with children or empty-nesters • Home owners or renters • Single people • Stay at home adults or people who work outside of the home • Same sex couples or people from the LGBTQ community There’s a child waiting for a family just like yours. For more information about how you can help, contact CHILDREN’S AID SOCIETY OF LONDON AND MIDDLESEX (519) 455-9000 ext. 777 www.caslondon.on.ca CHILDREN’S AID SOCIETY OF OXFORD COUNTY (519) 539-6176 or 1-800-250-7010 www.casoxford.on.ca FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S SERVICES OF ST. THOMAS AND ELGIN (519) 631-1492 or 1-800-260-6960 www.caselgin.on.ca

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PARENTING | NOTES: ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ _________________________________

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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| PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RESOURCES FINANCIAL 211 www.211ontario.ca Information and referral helpline to community, government, and social services CHILD CARE SUBSIDY: CITY OF LONDON NEIGHBOURHOOD & CHILDREN’S SERVICES – CHILD CARE SERVICES 151 Dundas St. 4th Flr., P.O. Box 5045, London ON (519) 661-4834 www.london.ca/childcare COUNTY OF MIDDLESEX - CHILD CARE SERVICES 399 Ridout St. N., London ON (519) 434-7321 ext. 2289 www.middlesex.ca

OSAP (807) 343-7260 or 1-877-OSAP-411 (1-877-672-7411) www.osap.gov.on.ca The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) offers two kinds of money: • grants: money you don’t have to pay back • a student loan you need to repay Both the Ontario government and federal government provide this money. SOCIAL ASSISTANCE www.mcss.gov.on.ca The Online Application for Social Assistance allows residents of Ontario to find out if they might be eligible, and to start the application process, for:

ONTARIO WORKS - ST. THOMAS-ELGIN 423 Talbot St., St. Thomas ON (519) 631-9350 www.city.st-thomas.on.ca

Ontario Works can help you with the cost of food and housing if you are in temporary financial need.

OXFORD COUNTY SOCIAL SERVICES AND HOUSING Ontario Early Years Centre, 21 Market Square, P. O. Box 1614, Woodstock ON (519) 539-9800 ext.3360 or Apply online for childcare subsidy www.oxfordcounty.ca

Temporary Care Assistance can help if you are looking after a child in financial need and you are not the child’s birth or adoptive parent.

FAMILY SERVICE THAMES VALLEY 125 Woodward Ave., London ON (519) 433-0159 www.familyservicethamesvalley.com see ad on page 60

Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities can help with some of the extra costs of caring for a child who has a severe disability.

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

Ontario Disability Support Program can help you with the cost of food and housing if you have a disability and are in financial need.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES | INSURANCE BARBARA MOORE - SUN LIFE FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS & INSURANCE SOLUTIONS 1 Commissioners Rd. E., London ON (519) 641-0202 www.sunlife.ca/barb.moore Helping clients make informed financial choices to build savings and protect themselves against unexpected life events. BROCKMAN & ASSOCIATES INSURANCE BROKERS - PETER R. BARNES 630 Wharncliffe Rd. S., London ON (519) 681-9525 www.brockman-ins.com see ad on page 90

PHOTOGRAPHY KIMMIK PHOTOGRAPHY (519) 933-5491 www.kimmikphotography.ca see ad on page 91 see coupon on page 127

TRAVEL ELGIN TRAVEL & CRUISES 417 Wellington St., Elgin Mall, St. Thomas ON (519) 633-6300 www.elgintravel.ca see ad on page 86

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REGISTERED EDUCATION SAVINGS PLANS

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Selecting the right RESP: It is very important to choose the right type of RESP. Your financial institution can help you. You can open an RESP at a bank, a credit union, a mutual fund company, an investment dealer, or a group plan dealer. Group plans are offered and administered by organizations that offer group scholarship plans.

WHAT IS AN RESP? A Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) is a special savings account for families who want to save for their child's education after high school. WHO CAN OPEN AN RESP? Anyone—parents, grandparents, other family members and friends—can open an RESP for a child. RESPs can be opened by one person, or opened jointly by spouses or common-law partners. They can also be opened by childcare agencies. Individuals can also open an RESP for their own use.

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

THERE ARE THREE TYPES OF PLANS: 1. FAMILY PLAN

A family plan is ideal if you have more than one child. The advantage of a family plan is that earnings can be shared among the children, and the Canada Education Savings Grant may be used by any beneficiary named in the RESP, to a maximum of $7,200. The Additional Canada Education Savings Grant and the Canada Learning Bond can be paid only if all the beneficiaries in the plan are siblings. 2. INDIVIDUAL (NON-FAMILY) PLAN

This type of plan is ideal if you are not related to the child you are saving for. In this type of plan, only one beneficiary is named in theRESP, and the beneficiary doesn’t have to be related to you. You can open this type of RESP for yourself or for another adult; however, the Canada Education Savings Grant and the Canada Learning Bond can be paid only to eligible beneficiaries. 3. GROUP PLAN

A group plan is for one child only, and the child does not have to be related to you. For more details about RESPs in Canada, visit the Canada Revenue Agency website at: www.cra-arc.gc.ca

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES |

OPENING AN RESP Follow these two easy steps:

1. Get a Social Insurance Number (SIN) for your child, and get one for yourself if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t already have one. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no fee; however, certain documents, such as birth certificates, are required. 2. Choose an RESP provider that best suits your needs. Most financial institutions (such as banks and credit unions), as well as certified financial planners and group plan dealers, provide RESPs.

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100 YEARS OF

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Elgin Mall, 417 Wellington Street, St. Thomas ON N5R 5J5 Book Online with us! www.elgintravel.ca or call us at

519-633-6300 â&#x20AC;¢ Toll Free 1-888-849-2789 sales@elgintravel.ca 86

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TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN

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Have a plan to meet up in case you get separate. Always have a plan to meet or contact each other if you get separated. Make sure the children know who is safe to go to and where to get help if they get lost. INVOLVE THE CHILDREN Depending on your child’s age, include them in the planning of your trip. Give them the responsibility to research and plan out your stay. What activities will you do, what museums will you visit, how will you get around the city? 100% guarantee that it will not include time on the internet. DON’T LET THE CHILDREN PACK THEIR OWN BACKPACK If you don’t want a backpack full of candy, plan on overseeing this task. Until the kids get to be teenagers, this is one job you will want to do yourself. Plus, you can add in some surprises for the kids that will keep them entertained while waiting in the airport or on the plane. KEEP THE ACTIVITIES COMING On a recent trip, we drove to Florida. To pass the hours and keep the kids from arguing, we handed out one new activity each hour. These were all inexpensive dollar store items. Some of the items were to use right away, some were to give to other kids they meet and others were games they could play together.

ENCOURAGE THEM TO KEEP A TRAVEL JOURNAL Get your kids drawing and listing things they’ve seen and people they have met. Collecting postcards from places you visit and asking them to write themselves a message on the back means they can reach adulthood with a library of memories all their own. REMEMBER THE MEDICINE Our kids have specific medication that works best for them. Make sure to pack all the essentials and a few more just in case! Keep a small first aid kit on you at all times; you can never have enough bandaids when you have kids! REMEMBER THE HAND SANITIZERS AND BABY WIPES They’re useful for washing hands, cleaning toilet seats, airplane tables, and wiping down restaurant tables. If you are flying, check with your airline to see how large the hand sanitizer container can be. BE FLEXIBLE AND HAVE FUN This is by far the best advice I can give you. When travelling with children be prepared for all your plans to go astray. Be flexible and keep a great sense of humour. It is times like these when favourite memories are made.

HAVE A NUMBER OF FAMILY GAMES READY IN CASE OF DELAY Who doesn’t love the Alphabet game when you are on the road??? I also love the game where you try to find a license plate from each province/state, depending on where you are travelling. parentguide.ca

| PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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1. KNOW WHERE YOU STAND FINANCIALLY Figure out your net worth; everything you and your partner own less everything you owe. 2. LIVE WITHIN YOUR MEANS Arguably, the most important lesson you can teach your kids is to spend less than you make and save the difference. 3. SAVE/PAY YOURSELF FIRST Take a set amount of money each month and have it automatically transferred from your pay cheque into a separate savings account. 4. UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOOD DEBT & BAD DEBT When used responsibly, credit can be a wonderful tool. Building a good credit history enables you to make big purchases, such as a car or house, at a reasonable interest rate. Incurring debt for the purpose of buying an asset – something that adds to your net worth and has the potential to go up in value, such as a house—is an example of good debt. The flip-side is bad debt. Examples include borrowing to buy consumption goods with little resale value, such as furniture and appliances, TVs and clothes. It is always best to save for these types of purchases.

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FINANCIAL LITERACY

Raising money-smart kids starts with developing healthy financial habits and then modeling them for your kids. Here are simple guidelines to help keep a family’s affairs in order. They can also open the door to discussions about money with children or teenagers.

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5. SET UP A FINANCIAL SAFETY NET Every family should be prepared for a financial emergency. A good rule of thumb is to have three to six months of living expenses saved in cash reserves. 6. KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NEEDS AND WANTS Help your kids understand the difference between needs and wants by asking them the following question: “Do you really need this, or would it just be nice to have? Would you spend your own money on it?” 7. TEACH DELAYED GRATIFICATION AND SET FINANCIAL GOALS Strong will-power and impulse control are important life skills that will help you manage your money effectively.

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8. TRACK YOUR SPENDING Keeping close track of how you spend your money can be a great reality check. 9. SAVE NOW FOR YOUR CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EDUCATION Take full advantage of tax-assisted programs offered by the government to help save for your childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s post-secondary education. The government created the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) for exactly this purpose. 10. PRESENT A UNITED MONEY FRONT Parents should endeavor to present a united front when it comes to financial behaviour. If children or teenagers sense an opportunity to get what they want by exploiting the fact that their parents are not on the same page, they will take full advantage The CICA (Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants) guide helps to remove the guess work involved in teaching money matters in the home. It is available in e-book and hard copy formats and can be obtained by visiting www.castore.ca/ moneysmartkids.

TIPS TO HELP YOUR CHILD BECOME FINANCIALLY LITERATE AGES 3-5: Start talking about money and showing them how much things cost. Have them start making choices about buying small items.

AGES 6-7: Introduce an allowance. Give them money every week and help them to start setting short-term goals.

AGES 8-10: Take a trip to the bank and help them open up a chequing account. Explain the power of interest and saving for the future. Think about setting up a savings matching plan to help them achieve their goals quicker.

AGES 11-14: Help them find paying odd jobs outside the home. Help them set longrange goals. Explain taxes and the law of supply and demand. Incorporate the media into their lessons, such as newspapers, magazines, Internet and TV.

AGES 15-18: Help teens develop more independence. Support their savings strategies with their jobs. Teach economic lessons. Help them assess job opportunities, standards of living and major life purchases. Show them financial planning software.

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES |

TIPS TO KEEP YOUR DIGITAL PHOTOS ORGANIZED Having professional photos done throughout your child’s life is a must, but there are many other opportunities for you to capture those precious moments. Here are some tips to help keep you organized and have your photos ready when the grandparents visit! Over the years, you will take thousands of photos of your sweet bundle of joy(s). You will move, purchase new computers, software, phones and so on. Who knows how we will be taking and storing photos in the future. If you don’t stay on top of your photo storage, it will be easy to lose track and miss out on some special moments. Fortunately, organizing your digital photos has become easier and easier, thanks to new automation tools.

FOLLOW THESE STEPS AND KEEP UP-TO-DATE WHEN NEW OPTIONS BECOME AVAILABLE.

1) Set your camera to the correct date and time 2) Delete the bad photos as soon as you take them 3) Know where your photos go – such as the “Pictures” folder 4) Use a sub-folder system 5) Backup your photos – in at least two spots! 6) Use image management software to tag and find photos 7) Print an annual photo book or fill an album of your favourite photos from the last year - I do this for my kids and they love to get this personalized gift of memories each year! parentguide.ca

PROGRAMS, SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

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| PROGRAMS, SPORTS & ACTIVITIES PROGRAMS, SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES RESOURCES In this section you will find a small selection of programs in our community. For a full list visit: www.parentguide.ca

ARTS AND CRAFTS ARTVENTURE ART STUDIO 1438 Aldersbrook Rd., London ON (519) 471-4278 www.artventure.ca see ad on page 99 LONDON PUBLIC LIBRARY (519) 661-4600 www.londonpubliclibrary.ca see ad on page 16

BIRTHDAY PARTIES PRESCHOOL OF THE ARTS & MUSIC TOGETHERÂ® 111 Wortley Rd., London ON (519) 657-3342 www.preschoolofthearts.ca see ad on page 98, back cover see coupon on page 127

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CAMPS - DAY CAMPS EASTER SEALS CAMP 1-800-668-6252 ext. 325 www.easterseals.org ONTARIO CAMPING ASSOCIATION 250 Merton St., Ste. 403, Toronto ON (416) 485-0425 www.ontariocamps.ca ONTARIO PARKS 1-888-668-7275 www.ontarioparks.com TGA PREMIER JUNIOR GOLF LONDON 1-866-394-4774 www.playtga.ca/London see ad on page 101 see coupon on page 127 WWW.CAMPSITE24.CA 1-888-ONT-PARK or (668-7275) 1-888-ONTARIO (for va www.Campsite24.ca

PROGRAMS, SPORTS & ACTIVITIES | FAMILY AND EARLY YEARS CENTRES FAMILY CENTRES FAMILY CENTRE ARGYLE 1990 Royal Cres., London ON (519) 455-2791 FAMILY CENTRE CARLING-THAMES 335 Belfield St., London ON (519) 432-0488 FAMILY CENTRE WESTMINSTER Coming Soon! FAMILY CENTRE WESTMOUNT 1019 Viscount Rd., London ON (519) 473-2825 FAMILY CENTRE WHITE OAKS 565 Bradley Ave., London ON (519) 685-1400 www.familyinfo.ca Family Centres are designed to make life easier for all families by offering a single door to the many opportunities in their neighbourhoods and across London. Everyone is welcome. See what we have to offer and get connected to your community! Family Centres are being developed in neighbourhoods by London’s Child and Youth Network. Don’t waste a minute! Find one in your neighbourhood and hurry over to check us out! see ad on page 75 ONTARIO EARLY YEARS CENTRES For locations visit: www.ontarioearlyyears.ca

MUSIC PRESCHOOL OF THE ARTS & MUSIC TOGETHER® 115 Askin St., London ON (519) 657-3342 www.preschoolofthearts.ca see ad on page 98, back cover see coupon on page 127

SPORTS See pages 8-9 for a list of municipal offices that can direct you to sports in your community. BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF LONDON 184 Horton St. E., London ON (519) 434-9114 www.bgclondon.ca Offering children, from pre-school to young adulthood, a safe, affordable, enriching and fun place to go after school. Types of programs offered: • Physical activities, sports and games • Homework help • Computer and technology skills training • Nutrition counselling & cooking programs • Creative arts • Environmental awareness & stewardship JUMPSTART - CANADIAN TIRE 1-844-YES-PLAY www.jumpstart.canadiantire.ca Jumpstart’s core purpose is to enrich the lives of kids (from 4 to 18) in need through sports and physical activity. We assist with the costs associated with registration, equipment and/ or transportation. KIDSPORT LONDON 316 Rectory St., London ON (519) 438-7203 ext 370 www.kidsportcanada.ca KidSport™ is a grass roots Canadian non-profit organization that provides support to underresourced children and youth 18 years of age and under in London by removing financial barriers that prevent them from playing organized sport. YMCA OF WESTERN ONTARIO www.ymcawo.ca With health and fitness branches, camps, child care centres, community programs and newcomer services across the region, YMCA of Western Ontario is committed to the development of healthy communities. parentguide.ca

| PROGRAMS, SPORTS & ACTIVITIES PLANNING A BIRTHDAY PARTY

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Planning a birthday is easy….just keep it simple! (and don’t forget the cake!) Can you think of anything more important to a child than their birthday? My kids would start talking about their big day at least six months before it arrives. They would plan out their guest list, what they wanted, and where they wanted to go. And surprisingly to me, they have always had an uncanny way of recalling every birthday and every moment of their birthday. So, how as a parent can we not feel the pressure to get it right? Here are some tips to help you plan a lowcost and simple party... • Keep the guest list small – that’s right, you don’t have to invite the whole class • Choose a theme – with the help of your child • Venue…have a party at home or make it really easy by choosing a party package somewhere that does it all for you… invites, activity, meal, cake, and grab bags • Limit the length of time according to the child’s age. A younger child would be best suited for a 2-3 hour birthday, where as an older child may want to incorporate a sleepover • Make the cake or cupcakes yourself and don’t forget the ice cream • Plan out fun games that are easy to implement (and safe) • Get crafty – if planned out carefully, the craft can be the take-home gift • Involve your child in the planning and don’t forget to have fun! 96

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PROGRAMS, SPORTS & ACTIVITIES | BIRTHDAYS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE! We all strive to make a difference in the world, and starting from the young age of four a very special young woman, Eden, does this by collecting and donating items to those in need. This annual tradition began from a simple conversation Eden had with her mom about the difference between “wanting” something and “needing” something. From there, the idea of birthday donations was born, as Eden focuses on helping those around her who can use a helping hand. When choosing her donations, Eden looks into local and global issues and how they affect kids of all ages. Her birthday contributions have always been collected by kids and given to kids, making the whole experience meaningful to all those who are involved.

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PENNIES, AGE 9: TO REFOREST A PARK

MOVIES, AGE 10: BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS

When asked how the whole thing makes her feel, Eden normally replies “I love coming up with ideas and knowing that all my friends will help me help others.” Some of her donations over the years include:

INSTRUMENTS, AGE 11: VANIER CHILDREN’S SERVICES

HATS, AGE 4: RADIATION & CHEMOTHERAPY TREATMENT

CARE PACKAGES, AGE 12: CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

With every year, the amount donated and the reception and involvement of our local community becomes larger and more heartwarming. Her interests in local and global issues drive her donation decisions and she is already planning her next initiative for her 13th birthday! TEDDY BEARS, AGE 6: FOR KIDS IN HAITI

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| PROGRAMS, SPORTS & ACTIVITIES THE BENEFITS OF ART When was the last time you sat down to draw? How did it make you feel? These creative, artistic activities not only make us happy, they play a vital role in our childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development. Children are able to express themselves, work through problems and become more confident in the world around them.

111 Wortley Road London, ON N6C 3P2

519-657-3342 | www.preschoolofthearts.ca

Half day and jk programs. Birthday parties and Music Classes for ages 4-7

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PROGRAMS, SPORTS & ACTIVITIES |

The following are just some of the life skills that are developed through art:

COMMUNICATION SKILLS: Children are able to communicate through art long before they even have words for it. PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS: Helps children feel willing to try new ideas, to experiment, and to solve problems. SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL SKILLS: Helps children come to terms with themselves and the control they have over their efforts. FINE MOTOR SKILLS: Fine motor skills enable a child to do things like delicately turn the page of a book or carefully cut with scissors along a line. SELF-EXPRESSION AND CREATIVITY: An experience that requires freethinking, experimentation, and analysis - all part of creativity. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think that every piece of art has to be perfect. Let your child express themselves at their own pace; it is through their self-expression and creativity that your child's skills will develop naturally, and their ability to create will soar. parentguide.ca

| PROGRAMS, SPORTS & ACTIVITIES THE IMPORTANCE OF SPORTS

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You know how important physical activity is these days, especially with the increase use of fast food, video games and cell phones. Sports offer children a number of benefits in addition to physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle. • Sports help children make friends and learn social skills as they work with their teammates to achieve a common goal. • Sports also help children develop healthy self-esteem as they work hard to reach goals they set for themselves. • Though sports and academics can often compete for a child’s time, playing sports actually helps a child’s academic performance. CHOOSING THE RIGHT SPORT Choosing the right sport for a child is easy when the child is already interested in a particular one. If the child does not seem interested, however, it may be up to the parents to come up with a few good options. Here are a few guidelines to help parents find the best sports for their children: • Take the child’s interests and abilities into account; • Take the child’s age into account; • Give children a chance to try out a sport before committing to it; • Consider the commitment: Each sport has varying levels of commitment in terms of money and time. 100

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HOW TO HELP CHILDREN SUCCEED IN SPORTS Once children find a sport they are interested in, there are many ways parents can help their children succeed in their particular sport of choice. Parents should make sure children have all the necessary equipment for the sport and that the equipment is in good shape and up to current safety standards. They should make sure they bring their children to all practices and games on time so the children will have a chance to play and improve their skills and show respect to the coach. Parents should also make sure their children eat a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep so they are in top condition to play the sport. With all of the benefits sports offer to children, it should come as no surprise that so many families stay busy involving their children in so many different sports. Finding and playing the right sport is a great way for children to stay happy, healthy and active.

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SAFETY

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| SAFETY SAFETY RESOURCES FIRST AID TRAINING CANADIAN RED CROSS FIRST AID PROGRAMS 5700 Cancross Crt., Mississauga ON 1-888-307-7997 www.redcross.ca ST. JOHN AMBULANCE 741 King St., London ON (519) 432-1352 or 1-877-726-9928 www.sja.ca

POISON POISON INFORMATION CENTRE (416) 813-5900 or 1-800-268-9017 www.ontariopoisoncentre.com

SAFETY CANADIAN FOOD INSPECTION AGENCY 1-800-442-2342 www.inspection.gc.ca CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY HEALTH CANADA 1-866-662-0666 www.hc-sc.gc.ca ELGIN ST. THOMAS PUBLIC HEALTH (519) 631-9900 or 1-800-922-0096 www.elginhealth.on.ca HEALTH CANADA (613) 957-2991 or 1-866-999-7612 www.hc-sc.gc.ca

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LONDON CHILDREN'S CONNECTION - I'M HOME PROGRAM - FOR CHILDREN 10-12 YRS Various Locations, London ON (519) 685-1400 www.lcc.on.ca MARKETPLACE - CANADAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INVESTIGATIVE CONSUMER PROGRAM www.cbc.ca/marketplace MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT (519) 850-2280 www.healthunit.com see ads on pages 15,17,48,50,54,71,105, inside back cover OXFORD COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH & EMERGENCY SERVICES (519) 539-9800 or 1-800-755-0394 www.oxfordcounty.ca/health PARACHUTE 1-888-537-7777 www.parachutecanada.org TRANSPORT CANADA INFORMATION CAR SEAT SAFETY AND RECALLS 1-800-333-0510 www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety

SAFETY |

Improve physical and mental health? Improve traffic and safety around your school? Improve air quality and help the environment? Have students arrive at school alert and ready to learn? Feel more connected to your community? If YES, Active & Safe Routes to School (ASRTS) programs may work for your school! parentguide.ca

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BICYCLE HELMETS

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Are they worth the fight? Absolutely! Helmets can prevent up to 85% of head injuries

REPLACE YOUR HELMET IF... • You are in a crash • You drop it hard on the ground • The straps loosen when you are wearing it • It has a crack in it • The foam inside is falling apart • It is 5 years old - even if it looks fine • Stickers can cover cracks and weaken the plastic shell so keep them off.

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ENCOURAGE THE "HELMET HABIT" • Explain to children that a helmet protects the head. • Make sure the helmet is the correct size and that it fits properly. • Teach children to check the helmet fit every time the helmet is worn. • Insist that a helmet be worn on every ride. • Praise children for wearing a helmet. • Be a role model – adults should also wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. HELMETS FOR CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS OLD • It is recommended that you buy a helmet that is specifically made for the child’s age and that it fits correctly. • Helmets for children under 5 years old are designed to give more protection for the back of the head.

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SAFETY |

HOW TO FIT A HELMET • Adjust the side straps so that they meet in a “V” shape below the ears. • Adjust the chinstrap so that just one finger can fit comfortably between the chin and the strap when the strap is fastened. • Make sure the helmet is level on the head. The helmet should cover the top of the forehead, 1-2 finger widths above the eyebrows. • Bike helmets come with foam pads that attach to the inside of the helmet. Try different pads until the helmet is snug and comfortable. • Take off or adjust anything that could change the way the helmet fits, such as baseball caps, big hair clips, headphones or a high ponytail. • Ask the child to nod and shake his or her head. The helmet should not move around.

BIKE HELMETS ARE THE LAW UNDER THE AGE OF 18 BE SAFE. BE SEEN.

READ MORE ON THIS TOPIC: MIDDLESEX-LONDON HEALTH UNIT www.healthunit.com/bicycle-helmet-safety MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION www.mto.gov.on.ca PARACHUTE www.parachutecanada.org HELMETS ON KIDS www.helmetsonkids.ca

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STOCKING YOUR FIRST AID KIT

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According to the Canadian Red Cross, this is what you should have available in your first aid kit. Store it in a dry place and replace used or outdated contents regularly. A first aid kit should contain the following: • Emergency telephone numbers for EMS/9-1-1, your local poison control centre, and your personal doctors • Home and office phone numbers for family members, friends, or neighbours who can help • Sterile gauze pads (dressings) in small and large squares to place over wounds • Adhesive tape • Roller and triangular bandages to hold dressings in place or to make an arm sling • Adhesive bandages in assorted sizes • Scissors • Tweezers • Safety pins • Instant ice packs • Disposable non-latex gloves, such as surgical or examination gloves • Flashlight, with extra batteries in a separate bag • Antiseptic wipes or soap • Pencil and pad • Emergency blanket • Eye patches • Thermometer • Barrier devices, such as a pocket mask or face shield • Coins for pay phone • Canadian Red Cross first aid manual 108

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EMERGENCY SUPPLIES KIT

Have supplies ready for an emergency. Store them in a backpack or a duffle bag so you can take them with you if you have to evacuate the area. • Four litres of water per person per day (use sealed, unbreakable containers and replace the supply every six months) • Packaged or canned food that won’t go bad, and a can opener (replace the food once a year) • Walking shoes, rain gear, and a change of clothing • Blankets or sleeping bags • A first aid kit and prescription medications (check the medications every six months to make sure they haven’t passed their expiry date) • Toilet paper and other personal supplies • An extra pair of glasses • A battery-powered radio and flashlight, along with extra batteries • Spare cash • An extra set of car keys • A list of your family doctors • Important family information such as a list of any medical conditions or medical devices, such as pacemakers • Photocopies of all important identification for you and your family, including health card numbers • Special items for babies, elderly, or disabled household members • Cell phone and contact information for family and friends

SAFETY |

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EMERGENCY CAR KIT Keep an emergency kit in your car that includes: • A battery-powered radio and flashlight, with extra batteries • A blanket • Booster (jumper) cables • A fire extinguisher • A Canadian Red Cross first aid kit and manual • Bottled water and high-energy foods that won’t go bad (replace the water every six months and the food once a year) • Maps of the area • A shovel • Flares • A tire repair kit and pump • Matches and a “survival” candle in a deep can that will burn for many hours For more information on the different models of Canadian Red Cross first aid kits that are available, please contact your local Red Cross office or visit shop.redcross.ca.

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CREATING SAFE SCHOOL CLIMATES Do you have concerns about the safety at your child’s school? I remember the first time my daughter came home from school crying when someone in her class was being mean. I wanted to drive right over to the school and make sure this did not happen again. We can’t protect our kids from everything in the world, but we can make a choice to talk to our kids, teach them right from wrong, and to be involved in the school so that we know what is happening on a daily basis.

BULLYING The Middlesex-London Health Unit states that, “Addressing bullying is one component to creating a safe school climate. It is important for parents to be educated about bullying because they may not recognize or know how to respond to bullying.”

According to the Middlesex-London Health Unit, “Parents can play a very important role in the creation of a safe school climate and they need to be strongly engaged in this process. Involving parents in the wholeschool approach to safety and belonging has an enormous impact on the school climate and on students’ relationships with each other. The relationship between positive school climate and family involvement is reciprocal: each builds on the other.” (Manitoba Education, Citizenship and Youth, 2005)

2. Get involved in your child’s life and keep up to date on their school activities. Talk to them about their school life.

WHAT IS THE “WHOLE SCHOOL APPROACH”? The whole-school approach offers meaningful involvement for students, parents, & school staff to develop & maintain a safe and caring school climate. I want my children to feel safe at school and not fear the ride on the bus or their time in the schoolyard at recess. In our family, we try and keep an open line of communication going, not only with our inner family, but also with our extended school family. We make an effort to keep in touch with the teachers, volunteer when we can, and attend all school events. 110

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BELOW IS SOME GENERAL INFORMATION FOR PARENTS: 1. Learn as much as you can about bullying among children and youth.

3. Talk with children in your family about bullying and your expectations about their behaviour. Children and youth should know that you expect that they: • Do not bully others. • Are helpful and kind to children and youth who are bullied, and • Report bullying that they experience or witness to you or another adult. • Remember that actions sometimes speak louder than words.

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4. Be watchful for possible signs of bullying among children in your family. Talking openly with children and youth in your home is important, but often children are reluctant to talk with adults about bullying that they have experienced or take part in. Be watchful for behaviours and other signs that your child might be involved in bullying. If you learn that your child is bullying others, sit down and talk with your child. It is important to take the problem seriously, because children and youth who bully others are at a greater risk for serious problems later in life. 5. Take immediate action if you suspect bullying. Contact the school administration and talk to them about how your child is being bullied. Follow up with the school to ensure the issue has been dealt with.

SAFETY | GET THE KIDS INVOLVED Student leadership can be an important factor to creating safe school environments. Students need opportunities to contribute to the well-being and vitality of their school community. Given opportunities, youth make significant contributions to the development of a whole-school approach to safety and belonging. To enable this partnership to happen, students need to be offered specific activities—both within and beyond the classroom—connecting them to the school plan in ways that benefit the wider community. All students in the school can be powerful agents in changing the attitudes and actions of their peers. While the majority of students do not bully others, they often inadvertently encourage bullying as onlookers. The whole-school approach to safety and belonging offers an opportunity for students who do engage in harmful behaviours to learn and practise pro-social skills.

6. Work with school personnel and other adults in your community to prevent and reduce bullying.

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INTERNET SAFETY SET RULES FOR INTERNET USE IN THE HOME. With young kids, set clear rules for Internet use. Remember that not all rules are against something: we have rules on how to do something as well. For example, if your child hears about a new game or website from a friend, you should have a rule in place that makes clear how you will decide if the child is allowed to try it. Also, remind your children that the same rules we follow offline still apply online: they shouldn’t say or do anything to online friends that they wouldn’t do or say offline.

BOOKMARK APPROPRIATE SITES FOR YOUR KIDS. Before your child goes online, find some sites you’ve already checked out and bookmark them in your browser. This helps limit accidental exposure to inappropriate content.

SUPERVISE KIDS IN ONLINE PLAYGROUNDS. Kids’ virtual worlds have just as many issues with bullying, name-calling and conflict as offline playgrounds. You don’t have to hover over their shoulders, but you should keep an eye on what they’re doing.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR PARENTS OF YOUNG CHILDREN WHO ARE TAKING THEIR FIRST STEPS ON THE INTERNET: Consider your child’s total screen time. Don’t forget to count time using computers and tablets towards your child’s screen time, along with TV and movies.

TEACH KIDS THE VALUE OF PRIVACY – THEIR OWN AND OTHERS’. Lots of games and online spaces aimed at kids feature surveys and contests that are designed to collect demographic data from kids. Teach your children not to give out any information they don’t have to – even if there’s a reward for doing it – and that they should never give out details about their friends or family online either.

START TALKING TO YOUR KIDS EARLY. The most important thing is to make sure that your children see you as a resource for dealing with things that go wrong online. Tell them that it’s easy to stumble onto things that are scary or unpleasant and that if that happens they should come and tell you right away. Reassure them that it’s not their fault and that telling you won’t get them in trouble.

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KEEP THE CONVERSATION GOING. As kids get older, the issues that they face change and become more complex. You should talk to your kids often about what they’re doing online. MediaSmarts has a wide range of resources to help you get informed about the issues facing kids at different ages, including educational computer games for kids starting at age five and continuing all the way to high school.

SAFETY |

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ONLINE RULES FOR YOUR CHILD'S SAFETY With WiFi everywhere, and the use of ipads, ipods, phones, computers and even TV’s with internet access on the rise, keeping a close eye on your child’s online activity can be difficult, but not impossible. Here is a sample contract from that you can discuss and fill out with your child/ren so they understand the importance of online safety and so they also understand that you, as a parent, should have open access to their online accounts. This, of course, will not work with older teens, but if you start an open communication now, hopefully they will learn safe habits at a young age. 1. I will not give out personal information such as my address, telephone number, parents’ work address/telephone number without my parents’ permission.

2. I will tell my parents right away if I come across something that makes me feel uncomfortable. 3. I will never agree to get together with someone I “meet” online without first checking with my parents. If my parents agree to the meeting, I will be sure that it is in a public place and bring a parent along.

4. I will talk with my parents about posting pictures of myself or others online and not post any pictures that my parents consider to be inappropriate.

5. I will not respond to any messages that are mean or in any way make me feel uncomfortable. It is not my fault if I get a message like that. If I do I will tell my parents right away.

6. I will talk with my parents so that we can set up rules for going online and using a mobile phone. We will decide upon the time of day that I can be online, the length of time I can be online and appropriate areas for me to visit. I will not access other areas or break these rules without their permission.

7. I will not give out my passwords to anyone (even my best friends) other than my parents. 8. I will check with my parents before downloading or installing software or doing anything that could possibly hurt our computer or mobile device or jeopardize my family’s privacy.

9. I will be a good online citizen and not do anything that hurts other people or is against the law. 10. I will help my parents understand how to have fun and learn things online and teach them things about the Internet, computers and other technology. _________________________________________ Child’s signature

______________________________________ Parent’s signature

_________________ Date

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SPECIAL NEEDS

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| SPECIAL NEEDS SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCES WHERE TO BEGIN COMMUNITY CARE ACCESS CENTRES www.healthcareathome.ca Community Care Access Centres (CCACs) are local agencies that provide information about care options in your area. They help people to: • live independently at home • apply for admission to a day program, sup portive housing or assisted living program, or certain chronic care or rehabilitation facilities • apply for admission to a long-term care home. CCACs also provide information about local community support service agencies and can link people to these agencies to arrange services. COMMUNITY SERVICES COORDINATION NETWORK (CSCN) 171 Queens Ave., Ste. 750, London ON (519) 438-4783 or 1-877-480-2726 www.cscn.on.ca CSCN staff work with families to coordinate access to various services and supports for children and adolescents who have complex multiple needs. The agency is the single point of access to residential based services that are funded by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services, for children and adolescents with complex needs. CPRI - CHILD AND PARENT RESOURCE INSTITUTE 600 Sanitorium Rd., London ON (519) 858-2774 • www.cpri.ca The Child and Parent Resource Institute (CPRI) provide voluntary services to children & youth with complex mental health and/or developmental challenges. 116

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DRI - DEVELOPMENTAL RESOURCES FOR INFANTS

779 Base Line Rd. E., London ON (519) 685-8710 www.tvcc.on.ca/resource/developmentalresource-infants-dri Developmental Resources for Infants is a combination of resources from four different organizations working together to provide easyto-access, family-centred services. DRI offers information, intake and service coordination for children 2 years and under with developmental concerns. It is a partnership of CPRI, Home Visiting Program for Infants, Thames Valley Children's Centre, Children's Hospital and the Developmental Follow-up Clinic at Children’s Hospital. THAMES VALLEY CHILDREN’S CENTRE

779 Base Line Rd. E., London ON (519) 685-8700 www.tvcc.on.ca Thames Valley Children’s Centre (TVCC) works to support children and their families to achieve the highest possible quality of life. Clients range in age from birth to 19. Services offered support a range of special needs including physical disabilities, communication disorders, developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders. TYKETALK (THAMES VALLEY PRESCHOOL SPEECH AND LANGUAGE ALLIANCE)

50 King St., London ON (519) 663-0273 Intake Coordinator: (519) 663-5317 ext. 2224 www.tyketalk.com

SPECIAL NEEDS |

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SPECIAL NEEDS FUNDING All children and youth deserve to have a healthy, happy childhood and a chance to be the best they can. Some need extra help because they have one or more problems relating to their: • physical health • emotional health • behaviour • development • mental health The Ontario government provides and funds many special programs and services to help these children and their families.

HOW TO APPLY FOR HELP There are many programs and services to help children with special needs and their families. Each program has its own eligibility requirements. FOR DETAILS CONTACT: Ministry of Children and Youth Services 217 York Street, Suite 203, P.O. Box 5217, London, ON N6A 5R1 Tel: (519) 438-5111 Fax: (519) 672-9510 Toll Free: 1-800-265-4197 TTY: (519) 663-5276

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: Ministry of Children and Youth Services www.children.gov.on.ca

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PLANNING FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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Research shows that effective entryto-school planning for children with special needs occurs both at the community level and at the level of the individual child. PLANNING AT THE COMMUNITY LEVEL School boards need to work with community partners to develop procedures that will ensure a smooth school-entry process for children with special education needs. The actions school boards can take include, but are not limited to, the following: • establishing and maintaining links with community partners • encouraging parental involvement • encouraging early notification • developing a detailed protocol • reviewing the entry-to-school process The following sections provide details about each of these actions. ESTABLISHING & MAINTAINING LINKS WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS • School boards identify and establish links with community agencies that provide services to preschool children and their families. • Collaboration between school boards and community partners is initiated and supported at the senior levels of all participating organizations.

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• All individuals involved with the entry-toschool process make a commitment to work together. • Schools, school councils, and community agencies have regular, ongoing communication on a formal or informal basis. ENCOURAGING PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT • School board staff invite parents to participate in the entry-to school planning process and establish systems to allow their meaningful involvement throughout the process. • School boards host parent information nights. • School boards set up procedures for ensuring that parents have access to the information they require. ENCOURAGING EARLY NOTIFICATION • School boards encourage community partners and parents to notify the board well in advance of a child’s entry to school. • Nine to twelve months before a child enters school, a community agency or the parent notifies the school board about the child, including information about any specific needs. This allows the school board and school to begin the planning process. • School boards provide registration opportunities at the beginning of the planning process.

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DEVELOPING A DETAILED PROTOCOL • School boards work with community agencies to develop a written protocol for the school-entry process, with timelines, outlining the roles and responsibilities of parents and the various organizations. • School boards share the protocol with staff of the board and the various community agencies.

SPECIAL NEEDS | PLANNING AT THE LEVEL OF THE INDIVIDUAL CHILD It is important for school boards and schools to ensure that each child is adequately prepared for and supported during the school-entry process. Actions that boards and/or schools can take include, but are not limited to, the following: • appointing a lead person • holding a case conference

REVIEWING THE ENTRY-TO-SCHOOL PROCESS

• gathering information

• School boards or entry-to-school planning teams initiate regular evaluations of the entry-to-school process at the district or the local level to identify effective practices and assist in improving the process as needed.

• providing training for school staff

• providing orientation opportunities

• reviewing the entry-to-school process

Want more information? Visit: www.edu.gov.on.ca

• School boards (including their Special Education Advisory Committees) and community agencies formally review the entry-to-school protocol, as part of the school board’s Special Education Plan, and make changes to the protocol, as required. • School boards conduct informal reviews, as required.

NIPISSING DISTRICT DEVELOPMENTAL SCREEN endds™ is a developmental checklist that follows your child from one month of age to six years. It provides a snapshot in time of your child's development, and a starting point for discussion with a health/child care professional. More info at: www.endds.ca

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| INDEX 211.................................................................................... 1,8,14,82

Bullying/Aggression....................................................................59

24 hr emergency and respite care........................................69

Business and economy.............................................................14

AboutKidsHealth.........................................................................38

Byron Branch...............................................................................16

Abuse.......................................................................................15,58

Camps - Day Camps..................................................................94

Activities........................................................................................93

Campylobacter ...........................................................................42

Addiction Services of Thames Valley.....................................59

Canadian Food Inspection Agency...................................... 104

Addiction Support......................................................................59

Canadian Mental Health Association....................................39

Adoptions/Fostering..................................................................68

Canadian Red Cross First Aid Programs............................ 104

Alcohol and other drugs...........................................................15

Canada Revenue Agency..........................................................84

Allergies and Asthma.................................................................38

The Canadian Safe School Network......................................59

Allergy and Asthma Information

Canada Safety Council........................................................74,75

Anaphylaxis Canada...................................................................38

Canadian Child Care Federation.............................................27

Anxiety.....................................................................................64,65

Canadian Institute of

Alzheimer support........................................................................ 1

Chartered Accountants.......................................................88,89

Arts and Crafts............................................................................94

Canadian Mental Health Association.........................................

Arts and culture..........................................................................14

............................................................................................ 61,64,65

ArtVenture Art Studio........................................... 94,99

Canadian Paediatric Society....................................................40

Assaulted Women's Helpline ............................................10,58

Canadian Red Cross......................................... 75,104,108,109

Association National Office......................................................38

Cancer...........................................................................................15

Asthma Action Help Line..........................................................38

Car Seat Safety and Recalls.................................................. 104

Auditory learners........................................................................27

Carson Branch............................................................................16

Aylmer............................................................................................. 8

CAS London/Middlesex............................................... 78

Babysitting Basics.................................................................74,75

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health..............................59

Barbara Moore - Sun Life Financial -

Changing Ways of London Inc................................................58

Investments and Insurance Solutions..................... 83

Cherryhill Branch........................................................................16

Beacock Branch..........................................................................16

Chickenpox...................................................................................45

Beauty and body art..................................................................15

Child Care - Subsidy...................................................................69

Before/After School Programs................................................68

Child Care.............................................................................. 8,9,68

The Benefits of Art...............................................................98,99

Child Care Services....................................................................69

Bereaved Families of Ontario..................................................59

Childhood Illnesses Chart.............................................................

Bereavement...............................................................................59

..................................................................................................41-47

Bicycle Helmets................................................................ 106,107

Children, youth, and depression............................................64

Birthday Parties.....................................................................96,97

Child, youth and family counselling......................................... 1

Breastfeeding..............................................................................15

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aid Society....................................... 10,58,78

Brockman & Associates Insurance Brokers................

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services.....................................................................69

................................................................................. 83,90

Choosing the Right Registered

Brushing Techniques ................................................................53

Education Savings Plan ............................................................84

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INDEX | Choosing the Right Sport...................................................... 100

Dentistry.......................................................................................38

CINOT (Children In Need of Treatment)...............................38

Depression.............................................................................64,65

City of London............................................................................... 8

Dietitians.......................................................................................38

City of St. Thomas ....................................................................... 8

Disability support programs...................................................... 1

City of Woodstock........................................................................ 9

Diseases........................................................................................15

CMV ...............................................................................................45

Divorce..........................................................................................60

Common Cold.............................................................................41

Domestic Abuse Services - Oxford........................................58

Communication Skills................................................................99

Do you have a child interested

Community ........................................................................ 8,14-19

in babysitting.........................................................................74,75

Community Care Access Centres........................................ 116

Drinking water.............................................................................15

Community Resources..............................................................14

Driving and roads.......................................................................14

Community Services Coordination

Dr. Zheng Dental Office........................................ 38,53

Network (CSCN)........................................................................ 116

DRI - Developmental Resources for Infants

Concussion Policy .....................................................................33

..................................................................................................... 116

Conjunctivitis...............................................................................46

Drug and Alcohol Helpline.......................................................59

Conseil scolaire catholique Providence.......................

E.coli...............................................................................................42

......................................................................... 9,22,30,31

Ear Infections (Otitis Media).....................................................41

Conseil scolaire Viamonde........................................9,20,30,31

Easter Seals Camp.....................................................................94

Construction...............................................................................8,9

East London Branch..................................................................16

Consumer Product Safety -

EatRight Ontario.........................................................................38

Health Canada.......................................................................... 104

Education............................................................................ 9,21-35

Consumer Program...................................................................98

Education and training..............................................................14

Converting Celsius to Fahrenheit...........................................40

Education Quality and

Coping Bereavement Support Groups

Accountability Office..................................................................22

of Ontario Inc..............................................................................59

Education Resources.................................................................22

Coupons............................................................................. 127,128

Education Savings Plans...........................................................84

Coxsackie A..................................................................................45

Elgin County................................................................................... 8

CPRI - Child and Parent Resource Institute...................... 116

Elgin County Library...................................................................14

Creating safe school climates.............................................. 110

Elgin County - Emergency Shelter ..............................................

Crisis services................................................................................ 1

......................................................... 10,37,39,41,43,45,47,49,53,

Crouch Branch............................................................................16 Cryptosporidium ........................................................................42

Elgin St. Thomas Public Health....................................................

Cyber Bullying..............................................................................62

............................................................................ 10,15,39,104,105

Cytomegalovirus.........................................................................45

Elgin Travel & Cruises............................................ 83,86

Dating Aggression......................................................................63

Emergency....................................................................................15

Davis Dyslexia CorrectionÂŽ Program....................................22

Emergency Car Kit................................................................... 109

Dental Health................................................................... 15,52,53

Emergency Services............................................... 10,15,39,104

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121

| INDEX Emergency shelters for homeless........................................... 1

Glanworth Branch......................................................................16

Emergency Supplies Kit......................................................... 108

Good debt and bad debt.........................................................88

Emergency utility assistance...................................................... 1

Government.................................................................................14

Environment................................................................................15

Government Resources............................................................14

Environment and energy..........................................................14

Head Lice................................................................................44,55

Escherichia coli............................................................................42

Health.................................................................................................

Events...........................................................................................8,9

Health and Wellbeing..........................................................37-55

Execulink Telecom............................................... 23,112

Health and wellbeing Resources............................................38

Eye See Eye Learn......................................................................51

Health and Wellness............................................................14,38

The facts about lice....................................................................55

Health Care Options..................................................................10

Family and Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Services of

Health Canada.............................................................................49

St. Thomas and Elgin............................................. 59,68

The Health Line.....................................................................10,60

Family and Early Years Centres.................................. 70,75,95

Health Units/Public Health.................................................15,39

Family Centre Argyle................................... 10,38,70,95

Healthy schools...........................................................................15

Family Centre Carling-Thames......................................

Help and Support............................................................................

....................................................................... 10,38,70,95

............................................................................................10,57-65

Family Centres............................................. 10,38,70,95

Help and support Resources............................................58-60

Family Centre Westmount.......................... 10,38,70,95

Help lines......................................................................................60

Family Centre White Oaks.......................... 10,38,70,95

Hepatitis A....................................................................................42

Family Info....................................................................................10

Hepatitis B....................................................................................45

Family Service Thames Valley.............................. 60,82

Herpes Simplex ..........................................................................44

Fever and illness.........................................................................40

Home and community..............................................................14

Fever reading and taking temperature.................................40

Hopeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden............................................................................59

Fifth Disease................................................................................45

How to fit a helmet................................................................. 107

Financial........................................................................................82

How to prepare your child for

Financial literacy....................................................................88,89

secondary school.......................................................................76

Financially literate.................................................................88,80

How Well Can Your Child See?................................................51

Fine Motor Skills..........................................................................99

Housing help centres.................................................................. 1

First Aid Training...................................................................... 104

I'm Home Program.................................................................. 104

Food and Beverage Policy........................................................33

Immunization...............................................................................15

Food and Eating Healthy..........................................................15

Impetigo........................................................................................44

Food banks............................................................................... 1,60

The Importance of Sports..................................................... 100

Food safety...................................................................................15

Do you have a child interested

Garbage.......................................................................................8,9

in babysitting?..............................................................................75

Gastroenteritis ...........................................................................42

Infectious diseases.....................................................................15

German.........................................................................................47

Influenza.......................................................................................41

Giardia ..........................................................................................42

Ingamo Homes............................................................................58

122

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

INDEX | Insurance......................................................................................83

mentalhealth4kids.ca................................................................39

Internet Resources.....................................................................23

Mental Health Helpline................................................. 10,39,60

Internet Safety.......................................................................... 112

Merrymount Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centre.........................................60,70

Investments and Insurance Solutions...................................83

Middlesex-London Health Unit.....................................

Jalna Branch.................................................................................16

15,17,48,50,54,71,129 inside back cover

Jobs and employment...............................................................14

Middlesex County......................................................................... 8

Kids Help Phone............................................................. 10,60,63

Middlesex County Library........................................................14

Kimmik Photography..................................... 83,91,127

Mind Your Mind..........................................................................39

Kinesthetic-tactile learners......................................................27

Mouth Disease............................................................................45

Lambeth Branch.........................................................................16

Ms. Money....................................................................................89

Lambton Public Health.......................................................41-47

Mumps .........................................................................................46

Landon Branch............................................................................16

Municipal contacts ....................................................................14

Law and safety............................................................................14

Municipality of Adelaide Metcalfe............................................ 8

Learning Style Checklist............................................................27

Municipality of Bayham............................................................... 8

Letter From the Publisher.......................................................... 3

Municipality of Central Elgin...................................................... 8

Libraries........................................................................................14

Municipality of Dutton Dunwich............................................... 8

Lice Squad Canada.......................................... 37,55,127

Municipality of Lucan Biddulph................................................ 8

Literacy....................................................................................26,27

Municipality of Middlesex Centre............................................. 8

Live within your means.............................................................88

Municipality of North Middlesex.............................................. 8

London/Middlesex.....................................................................14

Municipality of Southwest Middlesex...................................... 8

London/Middlesex County......................................................... 8

Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc........................................... 8

London Abused Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centre..........................................58

Municipality of Thames Centre................................................. 8

London and District Distress Centre...............................10,60

Municipality of West Elgin.......................................................... 9

London and Middlesex Child Care Waitlist..........................69

Music.............................................................................................95

London Children's Connection - ...................................68,104

Next to Mom Inc.................................................... 68,69

London District Catholic School Board............................. 9,22

Non-emergency police number................................................ 1

London Public Library................................. 14,16,70,94

Normal temperature range.....................................................40

London public library locations................................ 16

Norovirus......................................................................................43

London Waldorf School.............................................. 23

Norwalk.........................................................................................43

Lyme disease...............................................................................15

Online Rules for your child's safety.................................... 113

Masonville Branch......................................................................16

Ontario Association of Optometrists....................................51

Meals on Wheels.......................................................................... 1

Ontario Camping Association..................................................94

Measles.........................................................................................46

Ontario Dental Association................................................52,53

MediaSmarts ........................................................................... 112

Ontario Early Years Centres..............................................70,95

Meningitis.....................................................................................46

Ontario Government.................................................................14

Mental Health..............................................................................39

Ontario Ministry of Education ..................................... 118,119

Mental health help....................................................................... 1

Ontario Parks...............................................................................94

parentguide.ca

123

| INDEX Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline.....................................59

Poison Information Centre................................................... 104

Ontario Works - St. Thomas-Elgin..........................................69

Pond Mills Branch......................................................................16

Ontario Works.............................................................................10

Pregnancy.....................................................................................15

Ontario’s Guide to School Councils.......................................33

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Network.....................................59

Opening an RESP..................................................................84,85

Preschool of the Arts & Music Together®...................

Oxford Community Child Care................................................69

...................................................... 69,94,127,back cover

Oxford County....................................................................9,59,68

Present a united money front.................................................89

Oxford County Library...............................................................14

Problem-Solving Skills................................................................99

Oxford County Public Health &

Professional Services...........................................................81-91

Emergency Services.....................................................10,15,104

Professional services Resources............................................82

Oxford County Social Services

Programs, Sports and Activities..................................... 93-101

and Housing.................................................................................69

Provincial and local helpline phone numbers...................... 1

Oxford Learning Centre............................................. 22

Public Health.......................................................................1,10,15

Parachute.................................................................. 104,106,107

R.S.V. (Respiratory Syncytial Virus).........................................41

Parent Action on Drugs............................................................59

Rabies............................................................................................15

Parent Guide Inc. ...........................................................

Racial Bullying..............................................................................63

................................................ 11,79,94,105,109,126,127

Recommended Smart Snacks.................................................53

Parenting...........................................................................................

Red Measles.................................................................................46

10,15,67,68,69,70,71,72,74,75,76,77,78

Reduce Your Child’s Sugar Intake..........................................52

Parenting Education/Support..................................................70

Resources...............................................................................93,94

Parenting programs..................................................................... 1

Rhinovirus, corona virus...........................................................41

Parenting Resources..................................................................68

Ringworm ....................................................................................47

Parent involvement policy........................................................34

Road safety...................................................................................15

Parking..........................................................................................8,9

Roads............................................................................................8,9

Parks and recreation................................................................8,9

Roseola..........................................................................................47

Parvovirus B.................................................................................45

Rotavirus.......................................................................................43

Pediatric Oral Health & Dentistry.................. 38,52,53

Rubella...........................................................................................47

Permits.........................................................................................8,9

Rural and north...........................................................................14

Personal Care..............................................................................39

Safe Schools ...............................................................................33

Pertussis.......................................................................................41

Safekids.com................................................................................46

Photography................................................................................83

Safety..................................................................................103-113

Physical activity............................................................................15

Safety Resources..................................................................... 104

Physical Bullying..........................................................................62

Salmonella ...................................................................................43

Pinkeye..........................................................................................46

The Salvation Army - London Centre

Pinworm .......................................................................................47

of Hope...................................................................................58,59

Planning for Children With

Save now for your children’s education...............................89

Special Needs .................................................................. 118,119

Scabies .........................................................................................44

Poison......................................................................................... 104

Scarlet Fever................................................................................41

124

SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

INDEX | School Boards......................................................................... 9,22

Thames Valley Children’s Centre......................................... 116

Secondary school.......................................................................76

Thames Valley Parent Involvement

Self-Expression and Creativity.................................................99

Committee........................................... 24, 25, 32, 33, 34

SeparatIon....................................................................................60

Thames Valley District School Board....................... 22

Service Ontario...........................................................................14

Tips for travelling with Children..............................................87

Services for domestic violence victims................................... 1

Tips to help your child become

Set up a financial safety net....................................................88

financially literate........................................................................88

Settlement help for newcomers............................................... 1

Tips to Keep Your Digital

Sexual Assault Centre London................................................58

Photos Organized.......................................................................91

Sexual Harassment....................................................................63

Tips to make the school year

Sexual health...............................................................................15

run smoothly…............................................................................11

Sherwood Branch.......................................................................16

Tourism........................................................................................8,9

Shigella..........................................................................................43

Town of Ingersoll.......................................................................... 9

Sixth Disease ..............................................................................47

Town of Tillsonburg..................................................................... 9

Social & Emotional Skills ..........................................................99

Township of Blandford Blenheim............................................. 9

Social Bullying..............................................................................62

Township of East Zorra-Tavistock............................................ 9

Social supports...........................................................................8,9

Township of Malahide................................................................. 9

Special needs....................................................................115-119

Township of Norwich................................................................... 9

Special Needs Funding........................................................... 117

Township of South-West Oxford.............................................. 9

Special needs Resources....................................................... 116

Township of Southwold.............................................................. 9

Sports......................................................................................... 100

Township of Zorra........................................................................ 9

St. John Ambulance............................................................75,104

Transport Canada Information............................................ 104

St. Thomas-Elgin Second Stage Housing..............................58

Transportation...........................................................................8,9

St. Thomas/Elgin County....................................................... 8,14

Travel.............................................................................................83

St. Thomas Public Library.........................................................14

Travel and recreation................................................................14

Stocking your First Aid Kit...................................................... 108

Turning Point Inc........................................................................59

Stoney Creek Branch.................................................................16

Tutoring...................................................................................22,35

Strep Throat.................................................................................41

tykeTALK.................................................................................... 116

Suicide...........................................................................................61

Understand the difference between

Sun safety.....................................................................................15

good debt and bad debt..........................................................88

Sylvan Learning Centre.............................................. 22

Understanding which government

Table of contents.......................................................................... 4

service might help or assistance.............................................. 1

Taking Temperature..................................................................40

Vanier Children’s Services..................................................39,60

Talk to your kids..........................................................................61

Varicella-Zoster..........................................................................45

Taxes and benefits.....................................................................14

Verbal Bullying.............................................................................62

Telehealth Ontario............................................................1,10,60

Village of Newbury....................................................................... 8

TGA Premier Junior Golf London................. 94,101,127

parentguide.ca

125

| INDEX Violence Against Women Services - Elgin County - Emergency Shelter & Counselling for Abused Women.........................................58 Visual learners.............................................................................27 Walk in clinics................................................................................ 1 Welcome......................................................................................... 3 Westmount Branch....................................................................16 What can I do if my child has a fever? .................................40 What is a Normal Temperature?............................................40 What is depression?..................................................................64 What to look for in a babysitter?............................................74 What you need to know about bullying................................62 Where to Begin...............................................................7-11,116 Where to Begin Resources..................................................8-10 Who can open an RESP?..........................................................84 Whooping Cough........................................................................41 Women’s Community House & Second Women’s Rural Resource Centre...........................................59 Woodstock/Oxford County.................................................. 9,14 Woodstock Public Library.........................................................14 Yersinia..........................................................................................43 YMCA of Western Ontario Child Care Services...............................................................................69 You Can Make a Difference in the Life of a Child or Youth.....................................................................78 Your Checklist for Healthy Mouths........................................53 Your Guide to School Councils...............................................24 Your Responsibilities as the Employer..................................74 Youth drop in programs............................................................. 1 YWCA St. Thomas - Elgin...........................................................68 Zhaawanong Shelter..................................................................59

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SCHOOL AGE RESOURCE GUIDE 2017

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