CeilidhOnTheRun

Here on Earth - a review - #tbr2012 #50bookpledge

This year I have taken on a few challenges to help me meet a few of my goals, as I posted previously one of them is the 2012 To Be Read challenge. I am reading 12 books this year that have been on my to be read shelf(ves) for more than a year.

I completed my first one this week! I am so excited. This has also allowed me to complete book number 4 of the 50 book pledge!

Here On Earth by Alice Hoffman was one of Oprah’s picks on her show. I’ve been told of mixed reviews of it, but I truly enjoyed reading this book. There is something a little dark about it that reminded me of Steinbeck’s East of Eden (my all time favourite book). The portrayal of domestic violence/woman abuse was pretty eye-opening for those who may not have thought about it much. Without giving the story away, I felt the ending was appropriate in that this could have gone on and on, if she wanted it to mirror real life scenarios (where women leave (and return) an abusive relationship an average of 7 times before leaving for good).

A fairly quick read of a dark romance.

United States child care laws and regulations

Knowing a little about child care laws is one of the ways that we can ensure our children are in safe and stimulating environments. As parents, we may not be trained early childhood educators. We may not know what are the best ways for caregivers to promote our children’s progress in their development best. The regulations help to ensure a minimal standard so that we can all have some confidence

Child care is generally regulated by each province, territory or state.

United States, Government links:

Alabama

Colorado

Louisiana

Massachusetts

Missouri

Nebraska

Pennsylvania

Wyoming

For additional info see: National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education

What would mom say? And a small #12er update

I thought about mom so much today. And yet, I felt I had very little time to think of her at all.

I screwed up my baking and knew mom would have a good laugh with me about it. Reminding me that I usually prove to her that I did not get my baking skills from her. That it was likely just a hiccup in an otherwise wonderful talent.

There is so much happening that I wish I could talk with her about, from challenges with family, to my plans to get back into a good state of health. I’d love to share all the little details of the business I am considering, to hear her thoughts of what I could do to make it my own.

I want her to walk through the door with her exaggerated exclamations at all of the progress we’ve made in settling into our new home. She’d ask after my 12in12 challenge, and how my quest for greater joy in the big picture of life is going. She’d offer me encouragement at my set-backs and bad pain days, and she’d share with me how she feels/felt the same way sometimes. Mom would find the little celebrations, like how I’ve managed to walk everyday (yippee, today is day 25!), and she’d wonder at how fortunate it is that we bought that treadmill.

Mom would remind me, as if I might have forgotten, of what a good man I have found in Ian. How she knows he only wishes for my happiness, and that I only have to ask and he’ll do everything in his power for me. She’d point out all of the things she’s noticed about how he’s taking care of me, of us, of our family. She’d share again her happiness at our marriage and assure me that she was there with me cheering us on.

She just couldn’t hold on any longer.

She’d be saddened at how some things have unfolded since her passing. But she’d assure me that one can only do so much, and that I have to take care of myself, so that I can take care of those precious not-so-little-anymore girlies. She’d remind me that she’s here in all the wonder of life around us. She’s watching over and keeping an eye on dad out there all by himself.

Mom would ask after the books I am reading, and whether I’m still enjoying the book club. She’d ask after my friends. She’d tell me how much she’s enjoyed my photo projects and the annual family photo calendar I created and gave them again. Mom would have so much to say and ask of me, while as always sharing very little about herself.

The one thing she’d tell me of herself is how much she’s aware of my heartache and that she wishes she could take it away for me. She’d tell me that she remembers how hard it was when she too lost her mom far too young. When she’d had to comfort her children who’d lost their Nanny too soon, and look out for her dad on behalf of everyone, including her mom. She’d want me to be comforted in knowing that she eventually grew to accept her loss, and that I too would come to live on in her absence – finding joy in all of the little things and even more in all of the big things.

Mom would remind me that she’ll be here with me/us in every new dawn.

And for that, I thank you, mom.

Canadian childcare laws and regulations

Government links to Canadian childcare laws & regulations:

Alberta child care page

Alberta Licensing Act

Newfoundland and Labrador child care page

Newfoundland & Labrador Child care services act

Prince Edward Island early childhood page

Prince Edward Island Parents guide

Prince Edward Island Child Care Licensing and Certification

British Columbia child care page

British Columbia Legislation

Nova Scotia child care page

Nova Scotia guide for parents

Nova Scotia Day care act and Day care regulations

Nova Scotia Facility search (includes licensing compliance reporting)

Quebec child care page

Manitoba child care page

Manitoba child care regulation

Nunavut early childhood page

Nunavut Legislation

Saskatchewan child care page

Saskatchewan Legislation

New Brunswick daycare page

Ontario early childhood page

Ontario Standards

Yukon territory child care services page

Yukon Child care act & regulations

Northwest Territories Early Childhood page

Free rewards - Swagbucks

I just signed up with Swagbucks to check them out. The process was easy and I really did start earning points right away. I haven’t perused the store for redeeming points much yet, but if you remember the old Club Z program (for all you Canadian Zellers shoppers out there) it seems similar. collect points, redeem for prizes in an online catalogue. How hard can it be? You vote in a daily poll, search through their search engine, and check out some deal offers. Worth a look.

This post contains my affiliate link. This does not influence or change my opinion.

Family child care checklist

*Adapted from Jennifer McMillen, Corner Playhouse Child Care
The Family Child Care Provider

Does the Caregiver…

_____ have a current license from the Department of Human Services?

_____ seem to be someone that both my child I would enjoy?

_____ create an atmosphere where children feel loved and cared for?

_____ interact with children in a kind and gentle manner?

_____ listen to, talk and play with the children?

_____ have time to give each child special and personal attention?

_____ use age appropriate discipline techniques?

_____ participate in child development related training opportunities?

_____ have Infant/Child CPR training?
The Family Child Care Daily Schedule

Does the Schedule…

_____ allow time for children to play both quietly and actively?

_____ allow time for children to play both indoors and out?

_____ allow time for children to play both independently and cooperatively?

_____ allow time for planned activities such as singing, listening to stories, playing

games, cooking and so on?

_____ limit TV time to an amount that I am comfortable with for my child?
The Family Child Care Environment

Do I See…

_____ a home that is safe, clean and comfortable?

_____ a special place for my child’s personal belongings?

_____ a home that looks fun and inviting to children?

_____ a selection of toys and equipment that are appropriate for the age of my child and

that are in good condition?

_____ adequate space for children to play both indoors and out?

_____ a selection of toys and materials that interest and stimulate children?

_____ a menu, complete with meals and snacks, that is nutritious and includes food that

children like to eat?

_____ appropriate and clean eating, diapering and napping areas?
Personal Feeling and Impressions

As a parent, am I comfortable with…

_____ the person who will be caring for my child?

_____ the other children in the home?

_____ the home atmosphere?

_____ the caregiver’s open door policy? (For example: Am I free to stop in and visit my

child any time?)

_____ the caregiver’s contract or policies?

_____ the caregiver’s pets?

_____ the caregiver’s smoking preference?

_____ the daily routine my child will follow?

_____ the location and convenience of the caregiver’s home?

_____ the hours and days care is provided?

_____ the provider’s flexibility in meeting my family’s needs?

_____ the fees and payment schedules?

_____ the arrangement for when the caregiver is sick or on vacation?

_____ the arrangement for when my child is sick?

_____ the amount of time, if any, my child will spend being transported in the

caregiver’s car?

*Thanks to Jennifer McMillen, Corner Playhouse Child Care for permission to publish this

checklist on childcarequality.com & familyfirstchildcare.com. For more forms and info

about her home child care centre (link now broken, but I cannot find a current site to

refer back to presently) go to www.cornerplayhouse.com

**After reading this in its entirety, please adapt it to meet your personal needs

Family child care - is it for you?

What exactly is family child care?

I’ve found that this can vary greatly. Some dayhomes, are exactly that – children being cared for in someone else’s home. They receive the same care as the children of the caregiver – in many cases a nurturing, relaxed, environment much like days off at home with their parents. There are also a large number of settings (both licensed and unregistered) that are set-up much like a group child care centre. They may have designated a separate space of their home (i.e the basement) to the child care space. Some are licensed for dayhome purposes, while some are even licensed for a small (single caregiver in most cases) group license.

Not all regions require licensing or registration. In my home province of Nova Scotia individuals can care for up to six children under the age of six without a license, but there is a voluntary registration program for those who choose to participate.

Group child care licensing would apply for any group larger than this maximum.

Some home child care providers are early childhood educators who have chosen to remain at home with their own children and wish to continue their trade in an environment that they have more control over. Many home child care providers are parents without early childhood training, who love spending the day with their children, and have chosen to contribute to the household income by opening their home to other children. They may have a good awareness of child development from personal experience.

Is there a “best” type of family child care? That is a very personal choice. The main thing that licensing and registration provide are some minimal standards and external monitoring of them.

Many parents prefer a structured setting for their children that incorporates all of the traditional preschool programming, while others choose family child care specifically for its flexibility in that their children can feel as much like they’re at home as possible. You can only know by getting out to visit the caregivers and getting a feel for what they have to offer. Use the family child care checklist to prompt questions. Visit the centre on more than one occasion and go with what feels right for you, your child and your family.

Group child care centers

Group child care centers are required by law to be licensed. Licenses allow for additional accountability that give many parents peace of mind. Minimum standards are set for health & safety and child development/programming for both indoors and outdoors that are then enforced by government departments. Results of licensing inspections must be posted and can be viewed on-site, and in many cases the results can even be viewed online.

Most group facilities have separate rooms for different age ranges, for instance: infant room, toddler room, preschool, and school-age. Within each age group are specific standards regarding things like teacher to child ratios, types of equipment and toys, and programming expectations.

Infant centers will be connected to separate nap-rooms where cribs are kept in a quiet, darkened area accessible at anytime throughout the day. Toddlers and preschoolers often have to become accustomed to sleeping on a set schedule, as the playroom will be turned into the nap area each day with cots, nap music and the lights being turned down.

Group child care centers generally have designated outdoor green space, fenced in and secluded from public access, with outdoor toys appropriate for the group.

While some parents will choose to enroll their children in an additional preschool program that meets specific needs (i.e. a particular program philosophy or enrichment available, or offered in another language), it should not be necessary. Group child care centers standards require that all developmental needs be met, with a program that encourages appropriate growth and development.

Most licensed facilities operate according to a particular philosophy of learning. The latest trend is emergent curriculum, which has been touted as the most responsive to each child’s unique needs and strengths. (Check back for updates to learn more about various program philosophies here.)

It must be stated that while licensing ensures that a minimum standard is expected it does not guarantee quality of care. It is still vitally important that parents get to know the caregivers & program and monitor closely the care that children receive. It can also be said that license-not-required care, while not held up to the same minimum standards can still provide high quality care.

Making the right child care choices for you and your family

I have had many people ask me how to go about finding childcare. “What are my child care choices?” “What questions should I ask?” And even what type of care I would recommend.

I worked in most different capacities of early childhood, prior to having my first child. One thing that cemented my decision to stay home with my children is the challenge of finding quality care.

There are basically three options to consider: licensed group care; home-based care (licensed and unlicensed); and in-home care (Nannies).

Questions to consider:

What age will your child(ren) be when they require care? Space is often limited for children under two years of age.

How many children do you require care for? Financially this may almost determine your child care choices for you. Once you have 3 or more children in care, it is often more economical to consider hiring in-home care.

Do you require ‘full-time’childcare (typically Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm)? Any flexibility required will affect availability of childcare space.

What are your children’s temperaments? Will they thrive in a large group of same-age children? Are they flexible and able to adapt to new routine easily? Do they require an intimate, mixed age-group setting? Do they need their familiar environment and routine to cope well? The child care program of choice will be one that suits their temperament best, if possible.

Once you have determined the type of child care that works best for your family, how do you secure and maintain quality childcare? There are some obvious and some subtle things/questions to help you determine if the child care option you are considering is one of good quality – you can visit Child care options: Top 10 Questions to Ask a Prospective Child Care Provider and Child care choices: 5 Steps To Choosing Quality Child Care for some suggestions.

The bottom-line is that licensing does not equate quality. While it should give you piece of mind that your child care program has met the minimum standards set by licensing, it is ultimately up to the parents to monitor quality of care. I am a huge advocate for childcare licensing, however it is my opinion that the standard set by licensing is 1) difficult to enforce, and 2) a minimum standard that any quality childcare programs should strive to not only meet, but to exceed.

I cannot stress enough: if anything about child care choices do not sit right with you, go with your gut. This is a very personal decision, and one of the most important you’ll ever make in your child(ren)’s formative years. Taking the time to strive toward a long-term arrangement for your family will benefit your child(ren) to the utmost.

Most importantly, observe your children in care! Even after all arrangements have been finalized, be sure to re-evaluate how the arrangement is meeting the needs of your family!

Check back for updates as I add more articles related to some of the specific topics mentioned above!

Click below for information on different types of child care options:

Family child care

Licensed group child care

Preschool

Nannies

Child care laws and regulations

Knowledge of child care laws and regulations provides one of the ways that we can ensure our children are in safe and stimulating environments. As parents, we may not be trained early childhood educators. We may not know what are the best ways for caregivers to promote our children’s progress in their development best. The regulations help to ensure a minimal standard so that we can all have some confidence.

Child care legislation regulates such things as minimal standards for health, safety and nutrition; how many children can be cared for and the ratio of caregivers to children; who can provide child care and what qualifications they are required to have; and minimal educational program standards.

Child care is generally regulated by each province, territory or state.
Check back here for updates to our growing list of links to child care regulations and related information.

Government links to Canadian child care laws & regulations

United States child care Government links

My name is Trish. Blogging for Change... inspiring you to make change: in your own life and for social good.

I am interested in the pursuit of bettering our lives. I like to write about issues & activities of interest to me, sometimes doing advocacy work, sometimes to express myself personally. I also post samples of my amateur photography.

My two beautiful school-aged girlies and I live in Nova Scotia since July of 2006, after having moved around Canada. I have a broad range of interests, but some of the things you’ll see me post about include: diabetes; cancer; early learning & care, family, and women; scrapbooking; reading; running; social justice; parenting; and life balance…

I am currently a registered Social Worker Candidate, previously an early childhood educator, child care centre director, and interim director of two not-for-profit agencies.

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