March in the Playroom
In the past month, the Playroom has seen a number of changes. Sadly, we had to say good-bye to Senta as she moves forward with her career. She will be missed. Thankfully, the Playroom has been able to welcome both Nadia and Jose-Ann to the team. Although there are new faces and changes to the Playroom, the care and attention that the children receive never falters. These relationships, both old and new, that the children form with the staff are important as they contribute to their sense of security and trust. When children can feel secure in their attachments, they can focus on the important job of learning and growing, which is of course what the Playroom is all about.
Music Circle
On Mondays at 11:30 a music therapist comes and leads parents and children in a ½ hour of singing and stories. Children learn songs, do a little dancing and make a lot of wonderful noise. March dates are the 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th.
Wiggle, Giggle and Munch
Wednesday mornings from 10 – 12 we have Wiggle, Giggle & Munch for children who are into movement. The morning includes physical activities, a craft, circle time and a nutritious snack. March dates are the 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th. All our programs are run on a drop-in basis. You do not have to pre-register. Just come on the days that work for you and your family. For more information, Please call us at 204-788-8055.
Help your child’s teeth grow strong and healthy! (Source: American & Canadian Dental Associations)
At birth people usually have 20 baby (primary) teeth, which start to come in (erupt) at about 6 months of age. They fall out (shed) at various times throughout childhood. By age 21, all 32 of the permanent teeth have usually erupted.
Things you can do for a healthy smile:
- Begin to brush your baby’s teeth as soon as they come in.
- Do not give a bottle in bed unless it contains plain water. Milk and fruit juice can lead to cavities in baby teeth.
- Try using a soother instead of a bottle to comfort your child. Bottle use is linked to cavities.
- Take your child to the dentist for a check up by their first birthday.
Spring into Oral Health Month
(Source: Healthy Smile Happy Child)
- Spring is a great time to replace your old tooth brush! Visit our health educator to get a new one this month!
- For best results brush your child’s teeth at least 2 times a day for 2 minutes.
- Give healthy food and snacks that have low sugar.
- It is recommended that caregivers help brush their kids’ teeth until they are 8 years old.
Thumbs & Soothers
(Sources: Healthy Smile Happy Child & CDA)
- Thumb and finger sucking is normal for babies and helps them relax. Most babies will stop on their own by age 2.
- Of course music, singing, rocking and cuddling are great ways to soothe your baby!
- You can introduce a soother after baby is comfortable with breastfeeding or if you are not breastfeeding.
- Choose a soother that is in one piece. Do not dip the soother in sugar, honey or corn syrup.
- Long term sucking can create crowded, crooked teeth or bite and jaw problems. It is best to stop around age 5 before permanent teeth come in.
- You can replace the soother for toddlers with a small blanket or stuffed animal for comfort.