December 20, 2023

Family Resources Newsletter – January 2024

Dear CDA Families,

In a time where it seems as though there is so much adversity and division in the world, the support of family is always crucial. As we jump into the New Year, I invite you to embrace the power that resides within our own families. Global Family Day is a great way to come together to highlight and celebrate the importance of family, unity, and shared values.

Established in 1994, Global Family Day is an initiative that is observed on January 1st, symbolizing the start of a new year and a fresh beginning for families worldwide. Since its creation, Global Family Day has been observed by individuals, families, and communities around the world as a time to come together, celebrate the diversity of families, and reflect on the principles of love, understanding, and unity that bind us all as one big family.

Celebrating Global Family Day holds special importance:

Fosters Emotional Resilience: In times of adversity, the support of family is crucial. Global Family Day offers an opportunity for families to come together, share their experiences, and strengthen emotional bonds. This, in turn, contributes to emotional resilience, helping individuals and families navigate challenges more effectively.

Inspires Gratitude: Reflecting on the presence and support of family members during hardships can foster a sense of gratitude. Celebrating Global Family Day encourages individuals to appreciate the positive aspects of family relationships, which can be a source of comfort and encouragement.

Strengthens Support Systems: During challenging times, families are a foundational support system. On Global Family Day, individuals are encouraged to strengthen their support networks. This can involve having open communication, active listening, and providing mutual encouragement. Developing a strong support system is essential during times of adversity.

Encourages Acts of Kindness: Challenging times often bring out the best in humanity. Global Family Day encourages families to extend their social support beyond their immediate family members. Acts of kindness within the family and the broader community contribute to a positive shared outlook.

Promotes Well-Being: Strong family bonds have been linked to better mental and emotional well-being. Celebrating Global Family Day provides a platform for families to engage in activities that promote happiness, laughter, and a sense of belonging, all of which are essential for well-being.

Family engagement tips:

Virtual Reunion: In a world where distances often separate us, use technology to connect with family members far and wide. Coordinate a virtual reunion, sharing stories, laughter, and love through video calls.

Family Empowerment: Talk about the strengths and unique qualities of each family member. Encourage and support each other’s endeavors, creating an environment where everyone feels empowered and valued.

Family Storytelling: This is by far, my personal favorite! Gather around and share family stories. Whether it’s stories from the past or dreams for the future, storytelling strengthens bonds and builds a sense of shared identity. I love hearing stories from my elders and learning about my history.

Cultural Potluck: Celebrate diversity by organizing a cultural potluck. Each family member can contribute a dish, creating a feast that reflects the richness of your collective heritage.

Family Legacy Project: Engage in a project that celebrates your family’s unique history and values. Create a scrapbook, record family stories, or work on a project that highlights the legacy you want to pass down through generations.

Shared Family Goals: Discuss and set family goals for the year ahead. Encourage children to contribute their ideas and dreams, fostering a sense of collective purpose and motivation.

Nature Exploration: Spend quality time outdoors as a family. Whether it’s a nature walk, a picnic, or a day at the park, reconnect with each other and with the beauty of the world around you.

Acts of Unity and Kindness: Engage in activities that promote unity within your community. Volunteer together, organize a neighborhood clean-up, or support a cause that resonates with your family values.

As we celebrate Global Family Day, let’s be reminded that we are all part of a larger group facing similar challenges. Let’s appreciate the ties that bind us and commit to promoting positivity, love and understanding, and unity within our families and communities.

Happy New Year and Global Family Day!

Events & Resources:

Click the link below to get some ideas of activities to celebrate the Global Family Day:
Family Engagement (FE) Calendar.

Upcoming Workshops

We have FREE workshops all year round. Click the button below for more information and register today:

Workshops

We’re Here to Help

For individualized assistance with resources or referrals, please contact our Family Resources Team via the contact form on our workshops page:

Contact Form

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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

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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:

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