When temperatures drop, children need extra attention to stay warm, safe and healthy. Young children are less likely to recognize when they are cold and more likely to lose body heat quickly due to their smaller size. Here are some tips to protect children when the thermometer dips:
Sources: Save the Children, American Academy of Pediatrics, University of Michigan Health System http://www.savethechildren.org/site/c.8rKLIXMGIpI4E/b.8953697/
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TV, interactive video games, and the Internet can be excellent sources of education and entertainment for kids. But too much screen time can have unhealthy side effects.
That's why it's wise to monitor and limit the time your kids spend playing video games, watching TV, and using the Internet. What's Recommended? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) issued these guidelines for screen time:
Screen Time Here are some practical ways to make kids' screen time more productive:
Talking Is Important Talk to kids about what they see on screens, and share your own beliefs and values. If something you don't approve of appears on the screen, turn off the screen and use the opportunity to talk with your child. Here are some suggestions:
http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/tv-habits.html?WT.ac=ctg#
It takes confidence to be a kid. Whether going to a new school or stepping up to bat for the first time, kids face a lot of uncharted territory.
Naturally, parents want to instill a can-do attitude in their kids so that they'll bravely take on new challenges and, over time, believe in themselves. While each child is a little different, parents can follow some general guidelines to build kids' confidence. Self-confidence rises out of a sense of competence. In other words, kids develop confidence not because parents tell them they're great, but because of their achievements, big and small. Sure, it's good to hear encouraging words from mom and dad. But words of praise mean more when they refer to a child's specific efforts or new abilities. When kids achieve something, whether it's brushing their own teeth or riding a bike, they get a sense of themselves as able and capable, and tap into that high-octane fuel of confidence. Building self-confidence can begin very early. When babies learn to turn the pages of a book or toddlers learn to walk, they are getting the idea "I can do it!" With each new skill and milestone, kids can develop increasing confidence. Parents can help by giving kids lots of opportunities to practice and master their skills, letting kids make mistakes and being there to boost their spirits so they keep trying. Respond with interest and excitement when kids show off a new skill, and reward them with praise when they achieve a goal or make a good effort. With plentiful opportunities, good instruction, and lots of patience from parents, kids can master basic skills — like tying their shoes and making the bed. Then, when other important challenges present themselves, kids can approach them knowing that they have already been successful in other areas. Stay on the Sidelines Of course, supervision is important to ensure that kids stay safe. But to help them really learn a new skill, it's also important not to hover. Give kids the opportunity to try something new, make mistakes, and learn from them. For instance, if your son wants to learn how to make a peanut butter sandwich, demonstrate, set up the ingredients, and let him give it a try. Will he make a bit of a mess? Almost certainly. But don't swoop in the second some jelly hits the countertop. In fact, avoid any criticism that could discourage him from trying again. If you step in to finish the sandwich, your son will think, "Oh well, I guess I can't make sandwiches." But if you have patience for the mess and the time it takes to learn, the payoff will be real. Someday soon he'll be able to say, "I'm hungry for lunch, so I'm going to make my own sandwich." You might even reply, "Great, can you make me one, too?" What a clear sign of your faith in his abilities! Offer Encouragement and Praise Sometimes, kids give up when frustrations arise. Help by encouraging persistence in the midst of setbacks. By trying again, kids learn that obstacles can be overcome. Once kids reach a goal, you'll want to praise not only the end result but also their willingness to stick with it. For instance, after your son has mastered making that peanut butter sandwich you might show your confidence by saying, "Next time, want to learn how to crack an egg?" Sandwich-fixing and egg-cracking might not seem like huge achievements, but they're important steps in the right direction — toward your child's independence. Throughout childhood, parents have chances to prepare kids to take care of themselves. Sure, it's great to feel needed, but as kids steadily gain confidence and independence, their relationship with you can be even richer. You can be bonded, not just by dependence, but by love and shared pride in all they've achieved. Eventually, your grown-up kids just might say thanks for how prepared they feel for the road ahead — a road they can take with confidence.
http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/confidence.html?WT.ac=ctg#
"As your Sheriff, I know the importance of providing our students the proper tools to identify drugs and alcohol and know how to say no. D.A.R.E., or Drug Abuse Resistance Education, aims to help students avoid drugs or other high risk
behaviors." -Sheriff Leon Lott After State funding for DARE was discontinued in 2003, the SC Criminal Justice Academy no longer had the ability to teach and certify officers in the DARE program. Starved of its funding, the program seemed destined to end. Sheriff Leon Lott, however, refused to let the program die in South Carolina and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department became the state training center for DARE. The DARE Training Center acts as the liaison between the State DARE Officers and D.A.R.E. America. The job of the training center is to disseminate national updates, concerns, and to recommend qualified D.A.R.E. Officers to be trained as Mentors. The Training Center also maintains officer certification records and agencies' statistical records to assure correct data collection. It is also the mission of the Training Center to train law enforcement officers in the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) Curriculum while adhering to the guidelines and upholding the integrity standards set by D.A.R.E. America Training will also involve certifying officers in South Carolina's School Resource Officer Program course while following the guidelines set forth by law. The Training Center reports all of its data to the Executive Director, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott. The two week DARE Officer Training (D.O.T.) will be delivered as often as needed based on statewide demand. What the DARE Training Center does: 1. Develop raw talent into effective instructors of the D.A.R.E. Curriculum. 2. Familiarize officers with teaching techniques, classroom management skills and public speaking skills. 3. Instill the importance of being prepared in order to be an effective instructor and enjoy being a certified DARE Instructor/School Resource Officer. 4. Develop belief in oneself and ability to impart knowledge to students, enabling them to “Take Charge” of their life by making wise decisions about drug use and avoiding violence. Knowledge is POWER! 5. Hold in-service training for the state DARE Officers on any supplemental lesson plans or restructuring of the current D.A.R.E. Program. 6. Critique trained D.A.R.E. officers in their schools to maintain the quality of the D.A.R.E. curriculum and give corrective criticism when needed to maintain the integrity of D.A.R.E. 7. Promote the D.A.R.E. program to all law enforcement agencies, educators, and government agencies by sharing the scientific base delivery strategy for students. This strategy allows the student to “Take Charge” of him/herself. Having knowledge of consequences that stems from their decisions making skills is strong. Also understanding how it will impact them, their families, their friends and future endeavors will make a lasting impression. The D.A.R.E. program is taught at schools throughout Richland County. There are several community events where you can lend your support for the life changing curriculum. For more information about D.A.R.E. please contact Deputy Arlene Sharpe at the SC D.A.R.E. Training Center, (803) 309-1626 or [email protected]. http://www.rcsd.net/dare/index.html * Stay alert. * Always be aware of your surroundings, who's in front of you and who's behind you. Don't get distracted. * Walk purposefully, stand tall, and make eye contact with people around you. * TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS. If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, leave. * Make yourself a "tough target." * Don't think that it can't happen to you. * Should you resist? Everyone and every situation is different. * If being followed or stalked, call 911 or drive directly to a police station. IF YOU'RE ATTACKED * Keep you head. Stay as calm as possible and evaluate your options and resources. * It may be more advisable to submit than to resist and risk severe injury or death. You will have to make this decision based on the circumstances. But, don't resist if the attacker has a weapon. * Keep assessing the situation as it is happening. If one strategy doesn't work, try another. Possible options include negotiating, stalling for time, distracting the assailant and fleeing to a safe place, verbal assertiveness, screaming, and physical resistance. * You may be able to turn the attacker off with unusual behavior such as throwing up, acting crazy, or stating you have a sexually transmitted disease. AFTER A SEXUAL ASSAULT * Go to a safe place and call the police. * The sooner you report the crime, the greater the chances your attacker will be caught. * DO NOT shower, bathe, douche, or destroy any clothing you were wearing. Do not disturb any physical evidence. * Go to a hospital emergency room for medical care. * Call someone to be with you. You should not be alone. Contact a rape treatment or crisis center to help you deal with the consequences of the assault. WHILE DRIVING * Keep your car in good condition with the gas tank at least half full. * Park in well-lighted areas and lock your doors, no matter how long you'll be gone. * Put valuables out of sight or in the trunk. * Check front and rear seats, and floorboards before entering your car. * Drive with all doors locked and windows rolled up. * Never pick up hitchhikers. If your car breaks down, put the hood up, lock your doors, turn on the flashers, and move to the passenger seat. Do not leave your car. If someone stops to help, roll down the window slightly and ask them to call the police or a tow truck. * Avoid underground and enclosed parking garages if possible. * When parking or returning to your vehicle, carry your keys and be aware of your surroundings. * Consider investing in a cellular telephone. Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott invites you to attend “Rock the Lott” a FREE Trunk or Treat event! Come have fun with us on Tuesday, October, 31st at 1701 Westchester Drive (Columbia High School Parking Lot) 6:00-8:00pm. Bring your children to this is fun filled, family friendly, and safe environment with lots to do for the entire family. Meet the mascots, Cocky from the University of South Carolina, Dave, from Clemson University, The Tiger from Benedict College, Spike from South Carolina State, Chic Fil A Cow, and Rushy from Rush’s. We’ll have vendors on hand, fun and games for the children, and your favorite RCSD Live PD deputies! Children will be able to visit deputies vehicles with tons of candy for fun Trunk or Treating! It’s the Sheriff’s way to continue to Build Unity in the Community! NEW
South Carolina Child Passenger Safety Laws ▪Rear-Facing Car Seat An infant under 2 MUST be secured in a rear-facing car seat in a rear seat of the vehicle until the child exceeds the height or weight limit allowed by the manufacturer of the car seat. ▪Forward-Facing Car Seat A child at least age 2 or under 2 who has outgrown the manufacturer’s height or weight limits for a rear-facing car seat MUST be secured in a forward-facing car seat in a rear seat of the vehicle until the child exceeds the highest height or weight requirements of the forward-facing car seat. ▪Booster Seat Children at least age 4 who have outgrown their forward-facing car seat MUST be secured by a booster seat in the rear seat of the vehicle until the child can meet the height and fit requirements for an adult safety seat belt. Lap and shoulder belts must be used. ▪Seat Belt A child at least age 8 or at least 57 inches tall may be restrained by an adult safety belt IF the child can be secured properly by an adult safety seat belt. *To view the complete text of the new law, visit the Buckle Up, South Carolina website at: buckleupsc.com/safety_seat_law.asp With all the issues in the news lately in regards to attempted child abductions I wanted to pass along these excellent tips as well. ▪THROW OUT YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED BACKPACKS, BARRETTES AND LUNCH BOXES. When strangers know your child’s name – your child is much more likely to trust them. Don’t make it easy for a stranger by plastering your children’s names all over their bodies. ▪HAVING A CODE WORD IS USEFUL IN MANY SCENARIOS Make up a family code word. Try not to use a common word – but don’t pick something that is so bizarre it is hard to use naturally. You can use the code word in the following ways: If you send someone to pick up your child – they should know the code word. If the person doesn’t know the code word – your children shouldn’t go with them. No matter what. If your children are at a friend’s house and something is making them feel unsafe, they can call you and use the code word. If you are in public and there is a safety threat – you can use the word to warn your children to exit quickly or get down. Okay – let’s move on to the kids. First the obvious. Tell your child that anyone your child doesn’t know – is a stranger. Ask them what they think a stranger looks like and then correct any misperceptions. Children often think a person is only unsafe if they have a rough appearance. Telling kids simply to not talk to strangers doesn’t help. It is more important to highlight that no matter what a stranger says, they should never leave or get into a car with them. Role play these ideas with your kids. Use various scenarios to test your kids. Teach your kids to trust their gut instincts. Teach yourself how to assess the safety around you and develop your own effective gut instinct. ▪IF FOLLOWED, RUN IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION OF THE CAR Tell your children that if they are being followed or chased start running in the opposite direction of the car. This can buy them some time as the car turns around. ▪WHEN IN TROUBLE – LOOK FOR A MOM WITH KIDS Desperate times call for desperate measures. Tell your children that if they are lost or are feeling unsafe – find a mom with kids. Often a police officer or a friendly shop clerk are not at your children’s disposal. Helping them delineate who might be safe beforehand can save critical seconds when they are in danger. I know just because you have kids doesn’t mean you are necessarily safe. But in a time crunch beggars can’t be choosers. ▪TEACH YOUR CHILDREN TO SCREAM, “WHO ARE YOU?” How many times have you seen kids struggling in an adult’s arms and walked past them? Kids have tantrums all the time and we are immune to them. Teach your children to scream out things that would alarm others. Some good ones might be: Who are you? Help! Leave me alone! I don’t know you! Where’s my mom and dad? Help! ▪TEACH YOUR KIDS TO BE DESTRUCTIVE IN ORDER TO DRAW ATTENTION Tell your children that if a stranger tries to take them – all manners are out the window. Tell them that they are allowed to hit, scream and make a scene. Give them some suggestions. If they are in a store, tell them to knock things off the shelf. Knocking things over will get the attention of more people who will then take a closer look at what is going on. You might think all this talk about doom and gloom is unnecessary. You might think that the chances are so small it isn’t even worth talking about. You are right. The chances are small. And perhaps it isn’t worth talking about. But, what you can teach your kids in 30 minutes – might make the difference between life and death. And for that – it’s worth it. https://www.anxioustoddlers.com/stranger-danger/ Greetings Bridge Creek Parents & Care Givers, As the excitement of all the October festivities approach I decided to pass along some great safety tips for trick-or-treating. Walk Safely
Trick or Treat With an Adult
Keep Costumes both Creative and Safe
Drive Extra Safely on Halloween
https://www.safekids.org/tip/halloween-safety-tips |