December 31, 2025

Family Resources Newsletter – January 2026

Dear CDA Families,

As we step into a new year, many of us begin thinking about where we’ve been and what we hope the year ahead will bring. January offers the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and set our intentions, not just for what we want to accomplish, but for how we want to feel and show up in our daily lives. I’ve chosen a word to guide me this year: grounded.

This word reminds me to stay steady and present, even when life feels busy or uncertain. I want to be more rooted in what matters most: family, purpose, quiet moments, and meaningful connections. One way I plan on living out my word for the year is by waking up a little earlier and starting my day quietly, enjoying a cup of coffee, and journaling. In those still moments, without distractions, I always feel more centered and aware of what’s important. This simple routine helps me reconnect with myself and reminds me to carry that calm presence into how I show up for my family, my team, and my goals. Being grounded, for me, means slowing down enough to reflect, reset, and move forward with intention.

Try This at Home: A Word of the Year & Vision Board Activity
Choosing a word of the year is a fun way to reflect on what you want more of in your life. It can guide your decisions, help you stay focused, and bring more meaning to your daily routines. Once you choose your word, try making a simple vision board using magazine cutouts, drawings, or printed photos. Display it somewhere visible as a gentle reminder of your focus.

Not sure where to start? Here are some “word of the year” ideas:

  • Grounded
  • Health
  • Peace
  • Growth
  • Joy
  • Focus
  • Balance
  • Connection

SMART Goals for Your Family
Setting goals as a family can build connection and motivation. Use the SMART formula to create a goal together:

  • S – Specific: What do we want to do?
    Example: We want to eat dinner together three times a week.
  • M – Measurable: How will we know we did it?
    We’ll track how many nights we eat together.
  • A – Achievable: Can we do it together?
    Yes, we can plan ahead and help with meals or setting the table.
  • R – Relevant: Why is this important?
    It helps us stay connected and spend quality time together.
  • T – Time-bound: When will we start or do it?
    We’ll start this week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Celebrate the small wins, maybe with a sticker chart, a special treat, or a simple “great job!” Every step counts.

No matter how you start your year, whether with big plans or simply taking it one day at a time. I encourage you to check in with yourself. What matters most to you right now? What helps you feel grounded and steady as you move forward? Even small steps taken with intention can bring clarity and connection in meaningful ways.

Wishing you and your family grace, strength, and joy throughout 2026.

Warmly,
Jennifer Ordinario
CDA | Family Resources Supervisor

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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:

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