August 5, 2024

Family Resources Newsletter – August 2024

Dear CDA Families,

As the summer comes to an end and the new school year approaches, families everywhere are preparing for the transition back to school. Whether your child is starting school for the first time or returning for another year, getting ready for the new school year can be both exciting and stressful. Here are some tips to help your family prepare for a smooth transition back to school.

Tips and Strategies for a Successful School Transition

Planning and Organization
  • Create a calendar: set up a family calendar with important dates, such a school events, holidays, and extracurricular activities.
  • School supplies: Make a list of school supplies your child needs and get them ready before school starts.
Set Routines
  • Morning routing: develop a consistent morning routine that includes time for breakfast and getting ready without rushing.
  • Evening routine: Set a regular schedule for homework, dinner, and bedtime to ensure children get enough rest.
Talk about School
  • Family talks: Have regular family talks about school, schedules, and any concerns or achievements.
  • Share feelings: Talk with your child about their feelings regarding the new school year. Discuss any worries they may have.
  • Positive outlook: Focus on the fun parts of school, like seeing friends and learning new things.
Healthy Habits
  • Healthy meals: Plan nutritious meals to help your child feel energized and ready to learn.
  • Exercise: Encourage your child to stay active with activities like playing outside, biking, or sports.
Encourage Independence
  • Self-responsibility: Teach your child to pack their backpack and organize their schoolwork.
  • Problem solving: Encourage your child to solve problems on their own to build confidence.
Stay Connected
  • Introduce yourself: At the start of the school year, introduce yourself to your child’s teacher and any relevant staff members. Share any important information about your child that might help them support your child better.
  • Talk with teachers:  Don’t wait for issues to arise. Stay in touch with teachers to discuss your child’s progress and any concerns.
  • Stay informed: keep up with school newsletters, websites, and other communications to stay informed about school events and important dates.
Setting Goals
  • Setting school and personal goals: Schedule time to talk about what everyone wants to achieve this school year.
  • Create a simple goal list: Create a simple list with two parts: school goals (like getting better at math or reading) and personal goals (like making new friends or trying a new hobby).
  • Support: Discuss how everyone can support each other to reach their goals.
Make Learning Fun
  • Reading together: Set aside time for reading each day to help your child enjoy learning.
  • Everyday learning: Use everyday activities like cooking or shopping to teach your child new skills and concepts.

These simple tips can help your family get ready for a successful school year. Remember, being prepared and staying positive can make a big difference!

 

Here’s a fun, easy, and healthy back-to-school treat recipe: Apple “Donuts”

Ingredients:
  • 2 large apples (any variety you prefer)
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter (or any nut-free alternative)

Toppings of your choice:

  • Granola
  • Raisins or dried cranberries
  • Shredded coconut
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • Chia seeds
Instructions:
  1. Prepare the Apples:
  • Wash the apples and slice them horizontally into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
  • Use a small cookie cutter or knife to remove the core from each slice to create a “donut” shape.
  1. Spread the Topping: Spread a thin layer of peanut butter or almond butter over one side of each apple slice.
  2. Add the Fun Toppings: Sprinkle your choice of toppings over the peanut butter-covered side of the apple slices. Mix and match to create different combinations.
  3. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the apple “donuts” on a plate and serve them as a fun, healthy snack.

These apple “donuts” are not only fun to make and eat but also packed with nutrients and energy to keep kids fueled for their school day. Enjoy!

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CDA Reimbursement Schedule
Family is authorized with a variable schedule

Variable schedules are reimbursed for the actual care hours provided that are within the hours authorized. The reimbursement will not exceed the amount billed by the provider or the full-time (FT) or part-time (PT) RMRC listed on the certificate for child care services. CDA will not reimburse for child absences, provider holiday or closure days on a variable schedule. If the full billed/invoiced amount is not paid, the parent is responsible for the difference directly to the provider.

Reimbursement of provider non-operation days/holidays

The number of reimbursable provider holidays and/or non-operation days is limited to a maximum of 10 days per fiscal year. Once these allowable limits are exceeded, reimbursement will be prorated for future closure days.

Reimbursement of registration fees, material fees, insurance fees

Fees for registration, material and/or insurance may be reimbursed if the current reimbursement amount does not exceed the Regional Market Rate Ceiling (RMRC). Reimbursement of these fees is limited to one (1) per child, per fiscal year and will be made in a single payment when requested on the child’s attendance record.

Note: For providers with programs that have multiple fees in one year or where it has been determined that the reimbursement amount exceeds the RMRC, the excess fees will be the responsibility of the parent.

License-Exempt Providers

When child care is authorized for a total of 25 or more hours per week the Full Time Weekly RMRC will be used. When child care is authorized for a total of less than 25 hours per week the Part Time RMRC will be used.

View the State’s RMRC by County See the full Program Guidelines

Congratulations! You may be eligible for CDA’s program.

Let’s get started:

We’re sorry, you may not be eligible for CDA’s program.

If you would like to receive a personal eligibility screening, please complete the form below:

We’re sorry, it appears you may have different need for child care services than those listed.

To receive a personal eligibility screening, please call us at: (619) 427-4411 ext. 1400