Welcome to the CKF/SB6 Newsletter for February 2017

 

Back-to-School Tax Credit
In their 2017 Budget, BC will be introducing a new non-refundable tax credit for BC residents. The amount is $250 per child for each child who is age 5 to 17 on December 31st of the taxation year. This tax credit is retroactive to 2016, so is included in the 2016 tax return. It can be claimed by either spouse, but cannot be split between spouses. No receipts are needed for this credit. More info

Mocassins on the Move Campaign
#MoccasinsontheMove is an empowerment campaign. Its main purpose is to showcase the achievements of Aboriginal peoples everywhere. For campaign goals and how to get involved, visit sway.com 

Have a Ball Together
Give children in your care an early start in active play, and you set them on the path to a happy childhood, and a lifetime of healthy living!  Find information on: why physical activity is so important to health development; tips and ideas to get kids active; activities, games and resources here. 
 
Please Don't Go!
Dealing With Separation Anxiety 
Does your toddler get upset when you try to leave or whenever you are no longer in sight? Chances are he or she is experiencing separation anxiety (also known as separation protest). Separation anxiety usually starts around nine months of age, peaks near 15 months of age, and starts to fade sometime before the third birthday. It begins around the same time that babies develop a sense of "object permanence." This means they are learning that things and people exist even when they can't see them. Unfortunately, at this same stage, children don't understand the concept of time so they get upset because they don't know if or when you'll come back.
 
Even though separation anxiety is perfectly normal, it can be upsetting for both parents and children. There are things you can do to help your child (and yourself) through this challenging time:
  • Be calm and strong when you leave. If your child gets upset, act confident and stay calm even when you don't feel that way. If you are calm and don't make a big fuss, it will become less stressful for your child.
  • Have a goodbye routine. A kiss at the door, saying goodbye to your child as well as his or her favourite stuffed toy, singing a song can all be part of a routine. Sneaking off without saying goodbye might seem like an easy thing to do, but it's not the best thing to do. Children learn to handle separation better if they know and are told it will occur.
  • Let your child get used to you leaving. Try making a few very short trips, such as going for a 20-minute walk, then gradually work your way up to longer separations.
  • Encourage independence. Let your child play independently (while being supervised). Also try letting your child fall asleep on his or her own.
Separation anxiety will pass as children get older and become more independent. For more information on helping your child overcome separation anxiety visit: 

Free Online Resources-The Science of Early Child Development 
The Science of Early Child Development (SECD) is offering current research to anyone interested in learning more about the impact of early experience on lifelong health and well-being. 

From the latest research into brain development and the social determinants of health to topics such as child rights, literacy and the importance of play, SECD shows how nature and nurture interact from conception on to construct a foundation for development.

Regularly updated, online resources bring research and concepts to life with hundreds of readings, videos, links, reflect questions and interactive activities.  To browse the resources, click here.




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CFK Events!

Help Calm an Angry or Anxious Child

Sometimes, even when you know that you shouldn't tell your child to stop crying, it's hard to know what to say instead!  Here are some suggestions.


List of Resources for Parents with Young Children with Anxiety

Looking for information and resources on anxiety and children? We've put together a list that might be helpful.   Check it out.


Check Early, Check Often
The ASQ Regional Project

Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) provides a quick check on your child's development.  
More info

Questions, input, topic ideas?