Ready for Learning 2016 Calendar

Early Learning in Muskoka
The early years of development from conception to age six, set
the foundation for competence and coping skills that will affect
learning, behaviour and health throughout life. The Ontario
Early Years System includes a number of programs, services
and organizations that work to improve the growth and
development - physical, cognitive, social, emotional, creative
and spiritual - of our children. These include:
1. The Muskoka Best Start Network
3. Licensed Child Care Programs
The network is a collaboration of the different
partners that work together to give the children of
Muskoka the best start in life and help them achieve
success in school through early learning initiatives.
The Ministry of Education is the new provincial lead
for early learning and child care. Locally the District
Municipality of Muskoka manages the child care
system and administers the Child Care Fee Subsidy
program. Licensing of centres is the responsibility of
the provincial Ministry of Education. Licensed child
care programs include:
2. The Ontario Early Years System
The Ontario Early Years System serves children from
conception to the age of 6. They are a place where
parents & caregivers can:
• take part with their children in a range of
programs and activities.
• get answers to questions.
• get information about programs and services that
are available for young children and their families.
• talk to early years professionals, as well as other
parents and caregivers in the community.
• For more information and a schedule
for Muskoka see page 28.
• Child Care Centres: These programs provide
programs and services for children ages 0-6 and
facilitate the development of physical, emotional,
intellectual and social skills through play
experiences.
• Licensed Home Child Care: These programs
provide children from birth to age 12 with a safe,
fun and nurturing learning environment from
the comfort of a home. Play-based learning
experiences encourage the development of social,
cognitive, fine motor and gross motor skills in a
small group setting.
• School Age Programs (Before/After School):
These programs provide a fun, safe place for
children from Junior Kindergarten to age 12,
through before school programs, after school
programs and full day programs during Christmas &
March break, professional development
days and during summer holidays.
Each program participates in the Muskoka Quality
Assurance Program which monitors and measures the
quality of each program. Child Care Fee Subsidy may
be available to eligible parents to assist with cost of
child care in licensed programs. For a list of licensed
child care programs available in Muskoka please go to
www.muskokachildcare.ca or call 705-645-2412 ext. 321.
4. School’s Cool
School’s Cool is a six week, 72 hour school readiness
program which may be offered throughout Muskoka in
July and August for children ages 3 1/2 to 5 years.
The curriculum and design of this program helps build
a foundation for success in school through fun, playbased learning activities. For more information go to
www.muskokafamilyfocus.com or call Muskoka Family
Focus at 705-645-3027.
2
Kindergarten opportunities in Muskoka:
Montessori School of Bracebridge
265 Maple Street, Bracebridge, ON P1L 1K3
705-645-1443
[email protected]
www.montessoriofbracebridge.com
Muskoka Christian School
2483 Old Muskoka Road, Box 150, Utterson, ON P0B 1M0
705-385-2847
www.muskokachristianschool.com
[email protected]
Muskoka Montessori School
Kindergarten Registration
Children starting Junior Kindergarten must be 4 years of age before
December 31, 2015 and children starting Senior Kindergarten must be 5
years of age before December 31, 2015. Depending on the school your
child attends, registration may be ongoing throughout the year but
generally begins in January and February. The earlier you register your
child, the sooner the school can start preparing for their arrival. You may
require the following documents to register your child:
1. Child’s birth certificate.
2. Record of immunization.
3. Ontario health card number.
In addition, the Catholic School Board requires:
4. Parent or child’s Roman Catholic baptismal certificate.
5. Copy of tax assessment notice.
6. Proof of Canadian citizenship and/or landed immigrant status.
228 Chub Lake Road, Huntsville, ON P1H 1S4
705-788-3802
[email protected]
www.muskokamontessori.ca
Near North District School Board
963 Airport Road, Box 3110, North Bay, ON P1B 8H1
1-800-278-4922 or 705-375-2720
(MacTier Public School)
Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
46 Alliance Boulevard, Barrie, ON L4M 5K3
705-722-3555
www.smcdsb.on.ca
Tawingo College
1844 Ravenscliffe Road, Huntsville, ON P1H 2N2
705-789-5890
www.tawingo.net
[email protected]
Trillium Lakelands District School Board
This calendar was adapted from and used with permission of the Halton Transition to
School Committee and the Sudbury Countdown to Kindergarten working group.
Muskoka Education Centre
1271 Cedar Lane, Bracebridge, ON P1L 1W9
705-645-8704
www.tldsb.on.ca
3
Literacy Development
‘Emerges’…
“Children are miracles. Believing that every child is a
miracle can transform the way we design for children’s
care.” - Anita Rui Olds
“Many studies have shown that when children start school
with higher levels of early literacy skills, they have greater
academic success later on.” – Janice Greenberg & Elaine Weitzman Literacy skills for children to learn before starting school include:
“Early Literacy”
= the knowledge and skills
children learn before they
begin to read and write.
Early Literacy skills do not
develop in a certain order;
actually, they are developing
at the same time!
For more info contact:
Sandy Inkster, Early Literacy
Specialist for Muskoka and
Southeast Parry Sound
Hands TheFamilyHelpNetwork.ca
Phone:705-645-7478 ext. 3231 ~
1-800-668-8555
Email:[email protected]
• Conversation – is about the ability to speak and understand speech.
Tips: Choose a book that is of interest to your child. Read the same
book many times. Follow the lead of the child – they will make
comments during the story. Respond with interest and ask related,
open-ended questions.
• Vocabulary – is about increasing the number of words known and to
understand their meaning and to use those words in speech.
Tips: Books provide new words. Read with your child. Emphasize the
new words. Give meaning or description of the new words to build
understanding. Repeat the new words and use frequently during and
after the book reading. • Story comprehension – is about looking for the meaning in the
book’s words and pictures as well as looking for the meaning “between
the lines”.
Tips: To help your child have meaning about the story; while reading,
talk about the characters in the story, where the story takes place
(setting), what problem arises and needs to be resolved, what actions
the characters take to try to solve the problem and how it works out, or
resolves.
• Print knowledge – is about understanding how print works; that
print is made up of letters of the alphabet, that letters combine to make
words and that print is read from left to right.
Tips: Show your child that print is everywhere. Point it out. When
reading a book, show the title, author, illustrator, reading from left to
right and from top to bottom. Explain that speech balloons have the
words that the characters are saying, and that it is the print that we read,
not the illustrations.
• Sound awareness – is the ability to understand that letters correspond
to certain sounds and that words can be broken down into syllables and
smaller sounds.
Tips: Play rhyming games – pick a word they know and share another
word that rhymes. Stretch some letter sounds (like /s/ in “ssssoap”) or
repeat some letter sounds (like /b/ in “b-b-b-bat”).
Early Literacy Muskoka and
Southeast Parry Sound
4
January
SUNDAY
MONDAY
2016
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
December
“Reading should not be presented to children as a chore
or duty. It should be offered to them as a precious gift.”
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- Kate DiCamillo
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- New Year’s Day -
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- Family Literacy Day -
31
lmmunization…
ls Your Child Fully Protected?
Schools, school-age programs and child care
centres require proof of immunization at the
time of registration.
“Choosing to immunize your
children is just as important as
ensuring they wear a seatbelt
or bicycle helmet, eat healthy
foods and stay active”
-Dr. Colin Lee Father and Associate Medical Officer of Health Simcoe
Muskoka District Health Unit
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health unit documents
and reviews immunization records in the provincial
system for all students registered in school and child
care settings. Help us to protect your child by letting
us know when your child receives a vaccine.
Your child’s immunization record can be updated
online by using the secure web form at
www.simcoemuskokahealth.org/immsonline.
Immunization records can also be updated by sending
a copy (mail/fax) to the health unit or by calling Your
Health Connection at 1-877-721-7520.
An immunization record or “Yellow Card” is an
important way to keep track of your child’s vaccinations.
Immunized students reduce the risk of outbreaks
in schools and improve the health and safety of all
Ontario students. Immunizations can be received at
your health care provider, or by appointment at a
local health unit office. If your child(ren) is missing
required immunizations, a suspension from school is
possible. Contact us to talk about your options, and to
work out a plan to fully protect your child(ren).
Discover the ImmunizeCA app!
This free app provides Canadians with the ability to easily
record, store and manage vaccine information.
For more information call Your Health Connection at
1-877-721-7520 or visit www.simcoemuskokahealth.org
6
February
2016
SUNDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
3
4
5
6
MONDAY
TUESDAY
1
January
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FRIDAY
SATURDAY
- Groundhog Day -
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- Valentine’s Day -
- Family Day -
Immunization protects your children today & tomorrow, wherever they go.
Packing a Nutritious
School Lunch
A nutritious school lunch
could look like these:
Encourage your children to get involved in planning and
preparing their lunch. They may be more likely to eat it if
they have helped make it! Remember to keep food safety
in mind. Keep foods cold with mini ice packs or frozen
water bottles. Keep foods hot by putting them in a thermos.
A school lunch should give children the energy and nutrients
they need to get them through an active afternoon. Life is
busy and often it is easy to rely on pre-packaged foods - which
are usually high in fat, sugar and sodium - to fill school lunches
as a time saver. Swap these foods for nutritious lunch choices
to help your children be healthy and stay energized.
A nutritious lunch includes at least one choice from each of
the four food groups in Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide
- Vegetables and Fruit, Grain Products, Milk and Alternatives
and Meat and Alternatives.
When making school lunches, try these steps:
1. Start with a choice of Meat or Alternative. Examples: sliced
meat such as turkey, ham or roast beef, cubes of leftover ham,
chicken, turkey or beef, hard-cooked egg, hummus or bean
dip, sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
2. Add a Grain Product to go with it. Examples: whole grain
bread, buns, crackers, tortillas, bagels, or pita, brown rice,
whole wheat pasta, whole wheat couscous, whole wheat
English muffins.
3. Include a Vegetable or Fruit Choice (the more the better).
Examples: baby carrots, celery sticks, strips of sweet pepper,
slices of cucumber, cherry or grape tomatoes, broccoli or
cauliflower florets.
• Mini carrots
• Yogurt
• Banana
• Water
2 • Split pea soup
• 100% reduced-
• Chocolate
3 • Hummus and
• Chocolate milk
• Apple
• Cheese cubes
• Canned
1
4. Add a choice of Milk or Alternative. Examples: low-fat white or
chocolate milk, fortified soy beverage, cheese cubes, strings or
slices, yogurt.
5. Finish up with a healthy dessert. Examples: unsweetened
fruit cup, pudding made with milk, whole grain cookies such
as oatmeal or fig, homemade baked goods such as banana
bread or mini muffins.
• Whole wheat
English muffin
with tuna salad
with whole
wheat crackers
• Bran muffin
vegetables in
whole wheat
tortilla wrap
sodium
vegetable juice
• Grapes
pudding made
with milk
peaches in
own juice
Sandwich suggestions:
BASE
(Grain product)
FILLING
TOPPER
Whole grain mini pita pockets
Hummus
Whole grain bagel or bread
Egg salad or tuna salad
Lettuce, cucumber
Cucumber slices, spinach leaves, grated
Monterrey Jack cheese
Bean spread or grilled chicken slices
Grated cheddar cheese, chopped tomato
or salsa, sweet pepper, and lettuce
(Meat or Alternative)
Whole grain or flavoured wraps
Rye bread
Shaved black forest ham
Whole grain roll or mini submarine bun
Chicken salad, turkey or roast beef
(Milk Product and/or Vegetable & Fruit)
Swiss cheese slice, sliced tomato
Chopped tomato, lettuce leaf, grated cheese
For more information call Your Health Connection at
1-877-721-7520 or visit www.simcoemuskokahealth.org
8
March
2016
SUNDAY
TUESDAY
MONDAY
February
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WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
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18
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25
26
- Daylight Savings Begins -
20
- St. Patrick’s Day -
21
22
23
24
- Good Friday -
27
- Easter Sunday -
28
- Easter Monday -
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30
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“The early years are when you
give your child a foundation for
establishing a proper diet. If kids
learn about the importance of eating
healthy early in their lives, they will
not have to relearn as an adult.”
A Smile Can Last
a Lifetime!
Good oral health is important for overall
good health. The Health Unit may be able
to help your family access free dental care.
Call us to find out.
When Teeth
“Come In”
When Teeth
“Fall Out”
7-12 months
6-8 years
hold the spaces for the permanent teeth to come in.
9-13 months
7-8 years
can become infected and cause pain if decayed.
16-22 months
10-12 years
help your child to chew properly and to speak clearly...
and make that adorable smile possible.
13-19 months
9-11 years
25-33 months
10-12 years
20-31 months
10-12 years
12-18 months
9-11 years
16-23 months
9-12 years
7-16 months
7-8 years
6-10 months
6-8 years
Primary Teeth…
•
•
•
•
may still be in a child’s mouth until 12 to 14 years of age.
Upper
Primary Teeth are lmportant!
Steps to keep your child’s teeth healthy:
Be a smart snacker
• Choose healthy sugar-free
snacks.
Brush every day
• Brush twice a day and always
at bedtime with help from
mom or dad.
Visit your dentist
• Go for regular dental check-ups.
Lift the lip
• Look closely at your child’s
teeth monthly.
Lower
For more information call Your Health Connection at
1-877-721-7520 or visit www.simcoemuskokahealth.org
10
April
SUNDAY
2016
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
Week of the Young Child April 10 – 16th
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Celebrating Our Youngest Learners!
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Please go to https://www.naeyc.org/woyc for more information.
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Ready for
Kindergarten
Gravenhurst
705-645-2412 x 321
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
29
30
Ready for
Kindergarten
Huntsville
705-645-2412 x 321
24
25
26
27
- Earth Day -
28
May is Speech and
Hearing Month
The Muskoka Parry Sound
Pre-school Speech and
Language Program provides:
• information about Speech,
Language and Hearing.
• assessments with a SpeechLanguage Pathologist.
• a range of interventions with a
Speech-Language Pathologist
and/or a Communicative
Disorders Assistant.
• educational sessions on child
development.
• referrals to other
Developmental Services:
Audiology, Physiotherapy,
Occupational Therapy,
Therapeutic Recreation.
By 1 Year
By 2 Years
By 3 Years
By 4 Years
Follows simple one-step
directions, e.g. “sit down”.
Follows two-step directions,
e.g. “Go find your teddy bear
and show it to Grandma”.
Understands ‘who’, ‘what’,
‘where’, and ‘why’ questions.
Uses 100 to 150 words.
Creates long sentences,
using five to eight words.
Follows directions of three
or more steps, e.g. “First get
some paper, then draw a
picture, last give it to Mom”.
Forms words and sounds
easily and effortlessly.
Correctly uses ‘k’ (as in cat)
and ‘f’ (as in fish).
Uses adult-type grammar in
full sentences.
People understand his/her
words 50-60% of the time.
People understand his/her
speech 75% of the time .
Correctly uses most speech
sounds and speech is
understood 90% of the time.
Consistently uses three to
five words.
Combines lots of sounds as
though talking, e.g. “abada
baduh”.
Uses gestures to
communicate, e.g. waves
“bye-bye”.
Shows interest in simple
picture books.
Turns or looks up when you
call his/her name.
Holds books the right way up Is aware of the function
and “reads”.
of print and has a
beginning interest in,
Listens to simple stories,
and awareness of, rhyming.
songs and rhymes.
Can generate simple rhymes,
e.g. “cat-bat”, and matches
some letters to their sounds,
e.g. “T says ‘tuh’”.
Continues to notice all
Hears the TV audio as the
environmental sounds
(e.g. phone ringing, knocking, same loudness as other
family members.
banging sounds).
For more information call Your Health Connection at
1-877-721-7520 or visit www.simcoemuskokahealth.org
12
May
SUNDAY
2016
MONDAY
1
2
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
3
4
THURSDAY
5
Ready for
Kindergarten
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
6
7
Bracebridge
705-645-2412 x 321
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
- Mother’s Day -
- Victoria Day -
29
30
31
April
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Children’s Mental Health Week: May 1-7, 2016: An opportunity to work together to bring child and youth mental health to centre stage. Best estimates say that
one in five children and teens will experience a mental health problem before age 18. Left untreated, mental health problems can lead to school failure, family conflicts, drug/alcohol abuse,
violence and even suicide. The good news is that help is available and treatment works. Contact Simcoe Muskoka Child, Youth & Family Services for information and support 705-645-4426.
Kids Are Unpredictable,
lnjuries Don’t Have to Be
Creating a safer environment for children to play and learn.
“INJURY kills more Canadian children than all other causes combined.” Buckle up
• It is safest to keep your child in each stage
as long as possible.
• Putting a child in a correctly installed car seat reduces the
chance of serious injury or death by as much as 70%.
• Booster seats provide up to 60% more protection
than seat belts alone.
- Parachute, 2015
Get a Helmet
Stay Within Arm’s Reach
• Teaching your child to wear a helmet when biking,
• Actively supervise children when they are in
• You are your child’s role model. Parents who “wear
• Put young children and weak swimmers in lifejackets.
• Children’s swimming lessons can help prevent drowning.
• Learn CPR and First Aid.
skateboarding, skating or skiing decreases the risk of head
injuries and permanent disabilities.
the gear” support their child’s understanding of
safety messages.
and around water.
For more information call Your Health Connection at
1-877-721-7520 or visit www.simcoemuskokahealth.org
14
June
SUNDAY
2016
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
May
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8
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- Infant Development Day -
19
20
- Father’s Day -
26
21
22
23
29
30
24
25
- National Aboriginal Day -
27
28
“Of course our most important role as a
parent is to have our children know that
they are loved and worthy. Even more
importantly, it’s to help them discover,
and fan the flames of whatever it is that
they are enthusiastic about!
@ your library
“You can find magic wherever you look.
Sit back and relax, all you need is a book!”
- Dr. Seuss
Borrow books, attend special programs and go
to special events @ your library.
Call for hours open to the public then visit a
Public Library in Muskoka:
Bala705-762-1086
Baysville705-767-2361
Bracebridge705-645-4171
Dwight705-635-3319
Gravenhurst705-687-3382
Honey Harbour
705-756-8851
Huntsville705-789-5232
MacTier705-375-5430
Port Carling
705-765-5650
Port Severn
705-756-8851
Rosseau705-732-4231
Wahta Mohawk Territory
705-762-2354
“There is no substitute for
books in the life of a child.”
– Mary Ellen Chase
Reading Tips:
1. Bring the book alive by using different
voices for the different characters.
3. Little Green
by Keith Baker
2. Change the volume level of your reading voice (quiet, whispering, normal volume
and loud).
4. Noisy Frog Sing-Along
by John Himmelman
3. When the characters in the story jump, you
should jump too! Become the characters!
The above strategies will increase the enjoyment
of the book for your child (and you!).
Find these books @ your library
to borrow and read to your children:
1. Peekaboo Baby
by Margaret Miller
2. Jazz Baby
by Lisa Wheeler
5. The Bear Ate Your Sandwich
by Julia Sarcone-Roach
6. The Turn-Around, Upside-Down
Alphabet Book
by Lisa Campbell Ernst
7. The Squiggle
by Carole Lexa Schaefer
8. Do You Know Which Ones Will Grow?
by Susan Shea
9. Dreaming Up: A Celebration of Building
by Christy Hale
10. Jo MacDonald Saw a Pond
by Mary Quattlebaum
This page was composed by Sandy Inkster, Early Literacy Specialist
for Muskoka and Southeast Parry Sound [email protected]
16
COGNITIVE
LANGUAGE
This Child Developmental Chart lists some of the developmental skills that
your child should learn as he/she develops and grows. It is meant to be used
as a guide to monitor your child’s development and to help ensure that your
child has the appropriate opportunities to support his/her development.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL
• Responds to own mirror image.
• Recognizes mother from others.
person when upset.
• Smiles at others.
• Can be comforted by a familiar
• Laughs out loud.
• Responds to own name - turns and looks.
• Uses “I or Me” to refer to self. (i.e. “I do it”)
(i.e.”Get your teddy and bring it to me”).
• Follows two part instructions
picture books.
• Names a few familiar objects in
(i.e. Truck go down).
• Consistently combines 2-4 words in sentence
well as “off & on”.
• Points to several body parts on self.
• Understands the concepts of “in & out” as
always be clear).
• Uses at least 20 words (words may not
to simple questions.
• Responds with words or gestures
or objects (i.e. hug the baby or teddy bear).
• Demonstrates some pretend play with toys
words (i.e. Ba for ball, ba ba for bottle).
• Understands phrases like “all gone”.
• Consistently uses 3 - 5 sounds that represent
“come here”.
• Shows interest in simple books.
• Brings object/toy to show caregiver.
• Follows simple directions like “sit down”,
tone of voice like uh uh.
• Responds to being told “no” or different
(i.e. da-da, ma-ma, ba-ba).
sounds like - ah, eh, bah.
• Cries in a special way when hungry.
• Watches your face when you talk.
• Imitates coughs or other
• Coos, chuckles, gurgles when happy.
• Recognizes familiar voices.
• Explores hands & objects by mouthing.
• Eyes move to inspect surroundings.
• Looks at more distant objects.
• Eyes move to look for source of sound.
• Babbles and imitates sounds,
through facial gestures.
• Expresses emotions
and objects.
• Recognizes familiar surroundings
• Identifies familiar objects &
people by pointing.
• Imitates gestures and simple actions.
(i.e. Pat-a-cake)
• Reaches for familiar people.
• Pushes things away he/she
doesn’t want.
• Uses gestures to communicate, waves
“Bye-Bye”, shakes head no.
• Looks to caregiver for reassurance
in new or unfamiliar situations.
and effect toys.
• Shows early understanding of cause
• Seeks comfort when upset.
such as “bring me your shoes”.
• Begins to develop shape and size
awareness. (shape sorter).
• Begins to match similar objects.
• Uses skills already learned and develops
new ones.
• Judges depth.
for objects with vision.
• Coordinates reaching & grasping
and climbing.
• Looks where he/she is going when walking
• Understands and follows simple requests
• Points using one finger to a specific
object they want.
• Looks and points to pictures in books.
• Participates in games using objects
and directions: (i.e. find the ball on, in,
under the cup).
• Looks for dropped toy.
at several feet.
• Tries to get something by making sounds.
• Attends to small objects.
• Makes eye contact with adults
• Looks at you in play.
• Begins to show independence.
• Challenges limit setting.
• Likes to watch and imitate others.
interfered with.
• Sometimes says “no” when
tries to comfort them.
• Shows sympathy to other children,
similar greeting.
• Usually responds to correction - stops.
• Meets people with “hi” or
With loving, nurturing early relationships, your
baby is beginning to understand his physical
and social surroundings and is learning to
discover his world. He knows who you are and
who he can trust to respond to his needs.
This is the start of the attachment relationship
and will be dependent on how well you provide
consistent, responsive and appropriate care.
In the early years, a healthy brain develops when
it receives information that is patterned and
repetitive from a safe, nurturing environment.
When a child experiences frequent changes,
danger, neglect or if a child is not exposed
to normal developmental experiences like
language for example, there may be a serious
impact on brain development - and, also
the way the brain functions. Impact on brain
development can include: physical growth and
health, the ability to calm oneself when feeling
difficult emotions, memory, problem-solving
and planning, the ability to control behaviour or
feel empathy, for example.
As your baby continues to learn about his world
and to make sense of the things around him,
you need to continue to provide loving and
responsive relationships to help guide him
through those experiences.
Where to go for help:
If you have any concerns regarding your
child’s speech, language or motor skill
development contact:
‘One Kids Place’, Children’s Treatment Centre:
705-789-9985 or 866-232-5559
Hands TheFamilyHelpNetwork.ca:
705-645-3155 or 800-668-8555
Family Youth & Child Services of Muskoka:
705-645-4426 or 800-680-4426
** Used with permission from Infant Mental Health Promotion (IMHP), The
Hospital for Sick Children, 2012. Website:
http://www.imhpromotion.ca/ParentResources/CPTAgesandStages.aspx
0-3 MONTHS
Gaze at your face and look
in the direction of your
voice.
Bring your face close so that baby can see your
features and expressions. Baby may not initially
make eye contact since her vision has not fully
developed, but she will enjoy looking up and
seeing your face.
Smile spontaneously.
By 2 - 3 months, your baby’s social smiles are
signs that she knows who you are.
Recognize a familiar voice.
For months before your baby was born,
mother’s voice was what she heard most. She
will follow that voice, turning her head in that
direction, and will prefer it over others.
Make cooing sounds.
Be soothed when picked
up and comforted (most
of the time).
Express emotions and
needs through cries and
actions.
Your baby will find a way to let you know that
she needs attention when hungry, tired or
uncomfortable, e.g., in need of a diaper change.
4-6 MONTHS
lntentionally express
emotions.
He will cry or get agitated when he wants
attention, e.g., he may laugh and smile while
interacting with you or he may show that he is
excited by quickly waving his arms and
legs around.
Recognize primary
caregivers.
Your baby feels safest around his primary
caregivers and seeks a familiar presence.
He knows who you are and that you will
respond to his needs.
Make eye contact.
Your baby will begin to focus for longer periods
of time as his vision has developed more since
birth and he can now see things more clearly
and farther away. When you sing, babble or
imitate the sounds your baby makes, your baby
will look at you and make eye contact.
He engages by cooing and babbling back.
Read facial and vocal
expressions and learn
what different forms of
interaction mean.
When you engage with him, e.g., talking,
singing, cooing or babbling, your baby will
respond and make eye contact. When he hears
you getting angry and speaking in a voice that
is louder than normal, he might become scared
and cry. He will know something is not right
and may become agitated and seek
your attention.
Form an attachment with
his primary caregivers.
When you respond to your baby’s needs
especially when he is distressed, your baby will
know he can trust and depend on you. With
positive, consistent care, he will form secure
attachments with you.
Social/Emotional Milestones
7-12 MONTHS
Become more confident
and have a greater sense
of self.
13-18 MONTHS
Begin to learn about the
feelings of others and the
concept of empathy.
19-24 MONTHS
Ages 0-24 months
Begin to intentionally tell
you what she wants.
Your baby has more likes and dislikes when it
comes to what he plays with, who he wants to
play with and when he wants to interact
with people.
Your baby will make gestures or point at objects
that she wants. She will begin to put her arms
out or up when she wants to be picked up. She
will begin to babble more and may even say a
couple of words to interact and communicate.
Begin to miss you when
you are not around.
Begin to take ownership of
objects belonging to him,
such as toys.
Your baby will have a difficult time with sharing
since his toys right now belong to him. You will
hear him using words like “no,”“mine,” etc.
Notice his peers.
Your baby is becoming interested in what others
are doing or what they are playing with. He may
not join in and play with them but rather sit
beside them and play on his own. He will watch
his friends but may not initiate any interaction
with them.
Express his emotions to
you.
Your baby will still feel a lot of emotions, so
you should comfort him and help him label his
feelings. Labeling feelings will give your baby
responsibility for his emotions, and with time
he will learn how to express them.
They may not share or be doing the same
activity but they will play next to
each other.
Parallel play starts with
toddlers playing next to
each other.
By the age of two, your baby’s communication
will evolve from using simple two word
sentences to more complex complete sentences.
Have more words that she
uses to express herself and
to get what she wants.
Begin to develop a sense
of imagination as she
takes on different roles
and engages in pretend
play.
Your baby is becoming more independent as she
masters doing things on her own. She will still
look for assistance from you when she needs
help. She is still dependent on you and knows
you will comfort her and respond to her
when needed.
Want to make her own
choices and decisions
about how she does things.
Your baby is aware of her friends and is
beginning to understand they have feelings just
like she does. When someone takes a toy away
from a friend or hits a friend, it hurts her and
she may cry too. She is beginning to develop
empathy for the people she cares for and
realizes other people also get sad. Your baby is
developing the ability to take another
person’s perspective.
When you leave the room your baby will notice,
become upset and may begin to cry. She misses
you when you’re not there and looks for you.
Begin to seek comfort
from you.
When your baby gets upset or hurt she will
want and need to be comforted by you. It is
important to respond to your baby’s distress by
comforting her and giving her words to help her
label her feelings.
Show you her emotions.
When your baby gets scared she will want to be
near you and may cling to you. When she gets
mad she might make a frustrated face. Or when
she feels shy she may hide behind you or try to
cover her face.
Begin to show affection
towards you.
Your baby will want to be hugged and kissed
and in return she will hug and kiss you back.
She will begin to understand the words “hug”
and “kiss” and do these things spontaneously.
Develop a sense of herself
as a separate person with
her own likes and dislikes.
Your baby is starting to have dislikes and likes
about her experiences, her toys and the people
around her. She will let you know what she
enjoys doing and being around, and what she
does not like to do.
Child Development Chart
SELF-HELP
GROSS MOTOR
FINE MOTOR
The First Two Years
AGE
• Looks at and reaches for
one at a time.
• Writes with a stick in sand.
• Builds towers of five or more blocks.
• Turns pages of picture books,
• Stacks two or more blocks.
• Scribbles with crayon.
• Attempts to turn pages of a book.
(i.e. may turn more than one
page at a time)
• Points with index finger.
• Releases objects willingly.
• Takes things out of container.
thumb and finger grasp.
• Picks up small objects - using
large objects.
• Uses two hands to pick up
the other.
faces and toys.
• Lifts head and chest when
• Picks up toy with one hand.
• Brings toy to mouth.
• Reaches with both hands for toy.
without support.
position on own.
• Gets up into sitting
crawling position.
• Moves from sitting to
• Sits alone - steady,
forward on tummy.
lying on stomach.
• Turns around when lying on stomach.
• Sits with support.
• Rolls over from back to stomach.
6
By
Months
• Sucks well on nipple or breast.
• Reacts to sight of bottle or breast.
• Indicates desire for food by watching
spoon, opening mouth, may start
closing lips over spoon and swallowing.
• Transfers toy from one hand to
adult.
brings it to mouth.
and knees.
• Crawls around on hands
crib while holding on.
• Walks around furniture or
standing position.
• Picks up a toy from a
self such as feeding.
• Plays in a squatting position.
• Walks down stairs
backwards.
holding hand.
but may lose some during chewing.
• Feeds self with spoon.
• Swallows without loss of food or saliva
• Attempts to crawl upstairs.
• Walks sideways and
• Lifts cup to mouth and drinks.
• Insists on doing things by
• Licks food from lower lip.
• Picks up a spoon by the handle.
• Picks up food with fingers and
• Feeds self cracker.
• Begins chewing.
• Drinks from a cup held by an
• Crawls or moves self
By 9
Months
12
By
Months
18
By
Months
24
By
Months
without help.
• Eats with a spoon spilling little.
• Eats with a fork.
• Takes off own shoes, socks, hat
with adult supervision.
• Kicks a ball forward.
• Beginning to run.
• Jumps on the spot.
• Walks up and down stairs alone,
**Adapted from Best Start Network with the City of Greater Sudbury - Calendar Committee (8/13/2012)
Cross-indexed using: Nipissing District Developmental Screen, Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Portage Project- Growing Birth to Three
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“Libraries allow children to ask questions about the world and find the answers. And the wonderful
thing is that once a child learns to use a library, the doors to learning are always open.” - Laura Bush
What Parents Can Do to Help
Prepare their Child for School
In young children a great deal of variability exists in their development and
skill levels. It is normal for children to learn different skills at different rates.
Kindergarten programs provide engaging learning environments that cater
to each child’s individual development, abilities, strengths and needs. Every
child should have the opportunity to enjoy a successful school experience.
The first day of school can be scary for
some children and all children are unique in
how they transition into Kindergarten. The
following are some tips to help prepare your
child for that exciting first day.
1. Make sure your child is familiar with the school. Arrange to
visit the school with your child to see their new classroom and
meet their new teacher before school officially starts. Point
out the positive aspects of starting school to your child, such
as meeting new friends.
2. Take advantage of any orientation opportunities such as
Ready For Kindergarten and the School’s Cool program.
3. Let your child choose their own school supplies.
4. Practice opening lunch and snack containers that you will
be using for your child’s food. Make it fun and engaging by
making a picnic outside during the summer months.
6. Teach your child to sit for a story circle by providing a spot for
them to sit a short distance away from you as you read a book.
7. Play games that involve turn taking. Encourage your child
to allow others in the game to have their turn. So often
as parents we let our child make the move for us but it is
important for children to understand that other children may
want to do it for themselves.
8. Standing in line can be a new concept for some children but
it is important to learn for school. Practice by playing games
such as ‘Follow the Leader’ and ‘Stop and Go’.
9. Teach your child how to enter into play activities by modeling.
Your example will teach them not to be too physical. If this is an
area of concern a perfect opportunity for this is at a Parry Sound/
Muskoka Early Years Centre, a park or with siblings and friends.
11. Provide the school with any strategies that you use at home
or in their pre-school setting such as one-page profiles,
likes / dislikes, visuals, assessments, etc.
12. Practice saying goodbye. If your child is beginning school for
the first time and has not had previous preschool experience,
your child’s biggest challenge may be saying goodbye to you.
Orchestrate small separations to practice saying goodbye.
Develop a parting routine, such as a hug and a saying like,
“I love you. Have a good day and I will see you after school.”
13. Get your child back on an early bed schedule well before
school starts to prepare them for the earlier wake up time.
A way to do this is to read to your child in bed before lights out.
14. For extra helpful tips please see the following link:
www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/parents/planningentry.html
10.Try and have your child meet a classmate before that first day
of school so they will already have a friend when school starts.
5. Make time for structural table top activities which last for at
least 10 minutes. The focus is to stay with the same activity. If
your child has a difficult time, then start with 5 minutes and
increase the time gradually.
Community Living
South Muskoka
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TUESDAY
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- Civic/Provincial Day -
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Nipissing District Developmental Screen explores
your child’s skills in vision, hearing, speech,
language, communication, gross motor, fine motor,
cognitive, social/emotional and self-help. Sign up
your child at www.endds.ca.
Positive Parenting Can
Help Your Child Succeed…
ln School and ln Life!
Fill your “Parenting Toolbox” with positive
communication and discipline tools.
Sign up for a workshop to learn new “tools” and discuss your experiences with other parents! Workshops
are available throughout Muskoka during the day in Ontario Early Years Centres, and in the evening you can
register for Triple P Seminars and Groups or Strengthening Families. Free transportation, child care and dinner
may be available. Workshops for parents can also be arranged at the request of school councils or groups
of five or more parents.
Tools to Help Your
Child Succeed
1. Ask your child to describe his/her
favourite/least favourite part of the day,
rather than asking “how was your day?”
2. Use a timer to prepare your child for a
transition. Tell your child that when the
timer goes off, it will be time to have
breakfast, go to the bus stop, get ready
for bed, etc.
4. Build time into each day to play with
your child even if it’s only for a few
minutes; nothing says “I love you”
like the gift of your time!
For more information and current schedules please
visit the Muskoka Family Focus and Children’s Place
website at: www.muskokafamilyfocus.com, “like” us on
Facebook, follow @MuskokaFamFocus on Twitter, call
the office at 1-800-461-7404 or visit an Ontario Early
Years Centre near you.
“It’s my mission to make parent
education as acceptable and
accessible as prenatal classes.”
- Alyson Schafer
5. Establish routines for mornings, dinner
and bed time so your child knows what
to expect next. You can even put up a
picture schedule like at school.
3. Pick your battles. Do you really care if
your child’s clothes do not match or
they have bed head?
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“Your children need your presence
more than your presents.” – Jesse Jackson.
4
5
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7
- Labour Day -
FRIDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
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2
3
8
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- International Literacy Day -
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Mental Health in Children
Children and youth will experience brief problems
throughout their early lives. However, when problems start
to interfere with school, family or everyday functioning it
may require more attention. Sometimes, this is an indicator
of a mental health concern.
Counselling Walk-ln Clinic (CWlC)
The clinic provides access to confidential therapy services for children
and youth 0 to 18 years and their families. Meet with trained therapists
for immediate problem solving and helpful, supportive conversation.
For many, a single session is enough but the clinic may be used more
than once if needed and is the entry point for all other child and youth
mental health services in Muskoka. We encourage the entire family
or all those living in the home to attend the session. Any youth, 12
years of age or older, can come in on their own and receive service. The
reasons to visit the counselling walk-in clinic may be new problems or
difficulties that have been present for a longer period of time.
Mental Health Concerns May lnclude:
• Extreme moods not typical for their age group
(i.e. overwhelming sadness, anger, etc.).
• Extreme anxiety that would not be considered ‘normal’ for
the situation.
• Significant difficulties paying attention.
• Behavioural problems that may include aggression/violence,
self-harm, extreme hyper-activity, or absolute defiance
or withdrawal.
• Often responding to a situation in a manner that would be
considered extreme or unusual.
• Sudden changes in behaviour.
• Changes in mood and behaviour due to events (i.e. loss,
accidents, medical procedures) or ongoing stressors (i.e.
witnessing violence, abuse, separation, emotional neglect or a lack of a
stable or safe home).
What Can A Parent Do?
• Lead by example: as frustrating as your child’s behaviour may
be, don’t forget the importance of consistently demonstrating
the behaviours that you expect from your child.
• Consider other things that may be affecting your child’s
behaviour (i.e. family conflict, change of schools, loss of a loved one
or pet, etc).
• Monitor and keep a record of when your child has the most/
least difficulties and what things seem to help him/her.
• Talk to teachers, day care providers and other parents to see
a) how your child is functioning in those settings and b) how
your child is functioning compared to the majority of their
peer group.
• Seek medical attention to a) ‘rule out’ medical concerns and
b) ask about the appropriateness of a referral to a specialist
(i.e. paediatrician, psychologist, counsellor, etc.).
• Attend the Counselling Walk-In Clinic (CWIC).
CWIC Hours
September through June
Huntsville Office
Tuesday 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
with last appointment at 5:30 p.m.
Bracebridge Office
Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
with last appointment at 5:30 p.m.
July and August
Huntsville Office
Tuesday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
with last appointment at 4:00 p.m.
Bracebridge Office
Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
with last appointment at 4:00 p.m.
Simcoe Muskoka Child,
Youth & Family Services
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October is Child Abuse Prevention Month: go to
www.useyourvoice.ca for more information.
SATURDAY
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- Thanksgiving -
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- Halloween -
Natural
Choose foods, household and personal
care products that contain safe
and natural ingredients
Personal care products, air fresheners and
some of the foods we eat may contain
harmful chemicals. These chemicals can
be inhaled, absorbed through the skin or
consumed during eating.
When considering personal care products
for yourself or children, or when purchasing
consumer products or food items for your
home -Go Natural!
• Choose low-fat meats and dairy.
Higher fat foods can accumulate
chemicals.
• Choose low mercury fish like char,
herring, mackerel, salmon, trout
and canned light tuna.
• If possible choose a variety of
unprocessed foods. Ensure all fruits
and vegetables are washed prior
to eating.
• Fragrance-free is the best choice!
• Substitute commercial air fresheners
with fresh cut or dried flowers.
• Reduce the use of antibacterial soaps
and lotions. Plain soap and water is
best for hand­washing.
• Choose cleaning products made with
non-toxic ingredients.
• Select only insect repellents
intended for children and follow
instructions carefully.
• Do not use pesticides.
For more information call Your Health Connection at
1-877-721-7520 or visit www.simcoemuskokahealth.org
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November
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- Daylight Savings Ends -
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
- Remembrance Day -
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- Universal Children’s Day -
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November is
Adoption Awareness Month
- Everyone benefits from adoption.
There can be nothing as rewarding as providing a child with a permanent home.
For more information go to www.oacas.org/childwelfare/adopt.htm
Be Active with Your Child!
Movement is an important part of the child’s physical,
mental and emotional development and one of the
important mediums through which young children form
impressions about themselves and their surroundings.
Here are some activities to help ensure
optimal growth and development:
• Go for a walk - walk slowly, quickly, with long strides, or tiny steps!
• Go tobogganing - pull your infant around so they can experience
the snow.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Have your toddler push the toboggan back up the hill.
Have your preschooler pull their friends on the toboggan.
Spray paint the snow using squirt bottles and water squirters.
Run, skip, hop, step, jump, and dance!
The best time for basic movement
development is during the early years!
Parents who have concerns regarding their child’s motor development can call
‘One Kids Place’ at 1-866-232-5559 or 705-789-9985.
Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy Services through ‘One Kids Place’ are
free to families under the Provincial Ministry of Children and Youth Services.
Doctor referrals are not required.
Pinch snowflakes as they fall.
Make snowballs big and small.
26
December
SUNDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY WEDNESDAY
WEDNESDAYTHURSDAY
TUESDAY
THURSDAY
November
Getting out and being physically
active is a great and fun way to
spend time together as a family.
- Christmas -
2016
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- Boxing Day -
LOCATION
Ontario Early
Years System
In Muskoka
For more information and current schedules
please visit the Muskoka Family Focus and
Children’s Place website at: www.muskokafamilyfocus.com
“Like”us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter @MuskokaFamFocus
Call the office at 1-800-461-7404
or visit an Ontario Early Years program near you.
FREE transportation may be available.
Please call 705-645-3027 x 202
Parry Sound/Muskoka Ontario Early Years System are drop-in type programs that
offer parents, caregivers, children and their families a warm and friendly spot to
meet and share with one another. Your children have the opportunity to explore
different toys, to develop social skills, and to take part in special events. You have
a chance to relax, play with your child, enjoy friendly chats and make use of many
parent resources.
Please call to reserve your spot for dinner programs. Thank you.
MARCH BREAK - All programs closed.
CHRISTMAS – All programs closed from Dec. 19 to Jan 3 inclusive
MON
TUES
WED
THURS
Bala Community Centre
10:00am-12:30pm
Baysville Community Centre
9:30am-1:00pm
Bracebridge
St. Thomas Anglican Church
Saturday program will be closed if
either Friday or Monday is a holiday
9:00am-3:00pm
Soup Day
9:00am-3:00pm
Baby Talk
9:00am-12:30pm
Bracebridge Public
School Children’s Place
SAT
9:00am-3:00pm
10:00am-12:30pm
Dinner Program
5:00pm-7:30pm
*705-645-2229
Dwight Community Centre
9:30am-12:30pm
Gravenhurst
St. James Anglican Church
9:30am-1:30pm
Soup Day
Huntsville Active
Living Centre
In the Canada
Summit Centre
9:30am-3:00pm
Baby Talk
10:30am-12:00pm
MacTier Memorial Arena
9:30am-12:30pm
Moose Deer Point First Nations
9:30am-3:00pm
9:30am-2:15pm
Dinner Program
5:00pm-7:30pm
*705-687-6664
9:30am-3:00pm
Soup Day
9:30am-3:00pm
This is a Parent Education based site. Please call 1-705-375-5209 for dates and times.
Port Carling Community Centre
10:00am-1:00pm
Port Sydney Community Centre
9:45am-1:15pm
Soup Day
Port Severn-Baxter Ward
Community Centre
9:00am-12:00pm
Raymond Community Centre
Dinner Program
5:00pm-7:30pm
*705-645-3027
Riverside Public School
Saturday program will be closed if
either Friday or Monday is a holiday
Dinner Program
5:00pm-7:30pm
*705-645-3027
The Nest 10 Armstrong St.,
Bracebridge
FRI
9:00am-12:30pm
9:45am-12:30pm
9:00am-12:30pm
10:00am-12:30pm
9:00am-11:30am
28
Community Support and Assistance
Food Banks
Baysville Food Bank, Operates bi-weekly from the beginning of November
until the end of March. Must pre-register by calling Chris at 705-767-3640
Child Care Fee Subsidy
The District of Muskoka Community Services Department provides child care
subsidy to eligible families. Applications are completed for parents who are
employed, in school, or have children with a demonstrated special need.
For information call 705-645-2412 ext. 321.
Children’s Foundation of Muskoka
The foundation provides grants for recreational, educational, cultural, medical
and emotional needs for Muskoka children up to the age of 18.
Leave a message at 705-644-5225.
Community Housing
Affordable housing options are available to those who meet qualifying
conditions through the District Municipality of Muskoka. Please call
705-645-2412 ext. 280 or 1-800-461-4215 to learn more.
Community Worker for Homelessness
For information call the District Municipality of Muskoka at
705-645-2412 ext. 276 , ext. 340 or 1-800-461-4215 to learn more.
Dental Care Assistance
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit may be able to assist with the
cost of your child’s dental care up until their 18th birthday. Please call
Your Health Connection, 1-877-721-7520.
Dinner Programs
Bracebridge Out of the Cold
Dinner Programs (continued)
www.thetablesoupkitchen.com
- Mondays 5:00 - 6:30 pm at Trinity United Church
33 Main St E, Huntsville (Please enter rear door facing theatre)
- Thursdays 5:00 - 6:30 pm at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
1 High St, Huntsville (Please use entrance on Princess St)
MacTier Food Bank, Royal Canadian Legion, MacTier, 705-375-5572
For MacTier residents, October to April on Tuesdays from 7 – 8 PM
Manna Food Bank, 345 Ecclestone Dr, Bracebridge (PREMIERE Self-Storage the old DURA building), Tuesday & Friday 1:00 - 4:00 pm, 705-646-0114
295 Taylor Rd, Bracebridge (corner of Taylor Rd & Pine St)
Mondays beginning in November. Bus Available.
The Table Food Bank, 9 Hanes St, Huntsville 705-783-5827
Tuesdays & Fridays 12:00 - 3:00 pm, Saturdays 10:00 am – 1:00 pm,
Saturday Breakfast - Pentecostal Church
38 Wellington St, Bracebridge, 7:30 - 9:00 am beginning October 18, 2014
Domestic Violence
Shelter and outreach services for abused women, with or without children.
Bracebridge 705-645-4461 or 1-800-461-1740
Chrysalis Shelter and Supportive Housing,
Fresh Food Baskets
705-762-1727 or 705-726-5446
Baysville
705-767-2361
Bracebridge
705-645-3027
Tuesday Night Dinner - Bracebridge United Church, 705-644-3761
46 Dominion St, 5:00 - 7:00 pm (beside the seniors centre and library)
Open October 13, 2015 to May 10, 2016
Georgian Bay Township
Huntsville
General Housing Support
Housing Info. & Supports
Huntsville 789-8488 or 1-866-789-8488
Bala
West Muskoka Food Bank - First Muskoka Congregational Church
3852 Muskoka Rd 169, Glen Orchard (Just north of Mortimers Point Rd)
Every Friday year round from 9:00 - 11:00 am, 705-765-7180
People may apply for one time funding to avoid eviction or secure permanent
housing. Call the District Municipality of Muskoka at 705-645-2412 ext. 363
or 1-800-461-4215 to learn more.
Muskoka Interval House,
Gravenhurst
Gravenhurst Supper Club - Trinity United Church, 705-641-0293
Huntsville Salvation Army, 4 Mary St E, Huntsville, 705-789-3398
Sharing Supper - Pinegrove Fellowship Baptist Church 705-645-4771
Dwight
Thursdays, 5:00 - 7:30 pm
Gravenhurst Salvation Army, 155 Muskoka Rd N, Gravenhurst, 705-687-2131
The Table Soup Kitchen - Huntsville, 705-783-5827
Tuesday Afternoon Drop-In - St. Joseph’s Catholic Church
118 McMurray St. (next to B.P.S.) 1:00 - 4:00 pm
Thursday Night Dinner - Bracebridge Royal Canadian Legion, 705-644-3761
168 Muskoka Rd, 5:00 - 7:00 pm (close to Cedar Lane & OPP Station)
Open October 15, 2015 to April 14, 2016. (Closed for holidays on December 24 &
31.) Call 705-644-3761 for any cancellations. Bus routes will be posted on 211.
Bracebridge Salvation Army, 456 Manitoba St, Bracebridge, 705-645-2602
706-635-3319
705-538-2337 ext. 261
705-641-0293
705-645-2412 ext. 333
Port Carling
705-765-1117
Ryde
705-687-2406
Walker’s Point
705-684-9331
Anyone in Muskoka who is in an emergency situation or needing help
with their housing search can call Salvation Army Family Services Staff for
assistance in each of the 3 towns:
Huntsville - 4 Mary St E, 705-789-3398
Bracebridge - 456 Manitoba St, 705-645-2602
Gravenhurst - 620 Muskoka Rd N, 705-687-2131
Income Assistance: Ontario Works
Provides income and employment supports to families in financial need
through the District Municipality of Muskoka. Please call 645-2412 ext. 275
or 1-800-461-4215 ext 275 to learn more.
McConnell Foundation
Provides financial assistance for various needs such as dental work, medical
problems and housing issues. Please call voicemail 705-645-2412 ext. 190
or applications can be picked up at the District of Muskoka Community
Services offices.
29
Discover Your Child in Muskoka…
Through Regular Developmental Screening
All children should be monitored regularly from birth to make sure they are achieving
milestones appropriate for their age. Areas to monitor include vision, hearing, communication,
gross and fine motor, cognitive, social/emotional and self-help skills.
An easy way to monitor and better understand your child’s
development is by using a parent-friendly screening tool called
the Nipissing District Developmental Screen, which can be found
at www.endds.ca. Screens are available for a range of ages: 1
month, 2 months 4 months, 6 months,
9 months, 12 months, 15 months, 18 months,
2 years, 30 months, 3 years, 4 years, 5 years and 6 years. At
this website you will also find age-appropriate tips and activities to
encourage your child’s development.
Go to www.endds.ca and Register Your Child. The process takes
about one minute and you will receive reminders by email when
it’s time to do the next developmental screen on your child. You
can also get paper versions of the Nipissing District Developmental
Screens at any Parry Sound/Muskoka Early Years Centre or licensed
child care centre in Muskoka.
When should I reach out for
help for my child?
Book an 18-month Enhanced
Well Baby Visit for your Child
If, when you conduct a Nipissing District Developmental Screen on
your child, you answer NO to ONE question, you should seek another
opinion. Getting support for your child as soon as possible is very
important and since many children’s treatment services in Muskoka
involve waitlists, calling sooner is definitely better. The chart below
will help you decide where to call if you have a concern. Children’s
treatment agencies in Muskoka do not require a doctor’s referral
and have a NO WRONG DOOR POLICY. So if you call the wrong place,
they will direct you to where you need to go.
The important thing is that you make that first call!
If your child is 18-months or younger, it is
important to book an 18-month Enhanced
Well Baby Visit with your doctor. If you
do not have a family doctor, you can
also request this visit through a walkin clinic or a nurse practitioner’s office.
Eighteen months is a milestone in a child’s
development and doctors are paid by
the government to ensure all children
are screened thoroughly for healthy
development. Be sure to talk to your health
practitioner about booking an 18-month
Enhanced Well Baby Visit for your child.
Remember, one NO is enough!
30
Communication:
Speech, Language or
Hearing Concerns
One Kids Place
Preschool Speech and Language
Program helps children achieve
their highest potential in the
areas of speech, language and
communication, cognition and
swallowing.
705-789-9985
1-866-232-5559
www.onekidsplace.ca
Fine, Gross Motor or
Sensory Concerns
One Kids Place
Physiotherapy supports children to
enhance mobility, improve physical
function and positioning and use
adaptive equipment.
Occupational Therapy supports
children so they can function
at their best in activities of
daily living.
705-789-9985
1-866-232-5559
www.onekidsplace.ca
Social or Emotional Concerns
Simcoe Muskoka
Child, Youth & Family
Services
The Counselling Walk-in Clinic
(CWIC) provides quick access to
services for families with infants
and children who are experiencing
social and emotional difficulties.
The CWIC creates opportunities for
immediate problem solving, as well
as an opportunity to connect to
other SMCYFS services
as required.
705-645-4426
1-800-680-4426
www.fycsm.ca
Parenting Concerns
Simcoe Muskoka
District Health Unit
Triple P Parenting program
supports parents by enhancing
knowledge, skills and confidence to
support behaviour, emotional and
developmental problems
in children.
Healthy Babies, Healthy Children
involves home visits with a public
health nurse and family home
visitors for parenting support,
service coordination
and linking to other
community resources.
1-877-721-7520
www.simcoemuskokahealth.org
Muskoka Family Focus
MFF offers a wide range of supports
for parents of children from
newborn through the teen years.
705-645-3027
800-461-7404
www.muskokafamilyfocus.com
Simcoe Muskoka
Child, Youth & Family
Services
The Counselling Walk-in Clinic
(CWIC) provides quick access to
services for families with infant
and children who want to increase
their parenting capacity. The CWIC
creates immediate opportunities
for problem solving as well as an
opportunity to connect to other
SMCYFS services as required.
705-645-4426
1-800-680-4426
www.fycsm.ca
Developmental or other
Progress Concerns
HandsTheFamilyHelp
Network.ca
Infant and Child Development
Program provides services to
families of infants and young
children with developmental
concerns.
This may include growth and
development, physical and mental
health, social and emotional
aspects, and parenting support and
education. The program provides
community based prevention, case
management when appropriate,
and an emphasis on early
identification and intervention.
705-645-3155
1-800-668-8555
www.thefamilyhelpnetwork.ca
The Growing Up Program is aimed
at parents with children
up to 6 years old.
Community Living
Huntsville
Resource Teacher Program provides
support to families whose children
are 2 to 6 years old and who have a
developmental delay or are at risk
of delay. Resource Teachers provide
support to families, including
developmental screenings, home
programming and helping families
advocate for children in school
settings.
705-645-3155
1-800-668-8555
705-789-4543 ext 208
HandsTheFamilyHelp
Network.ca
Great Beginnings Prenatal Nutrition
Program provides support and
information for women who are
pregnant and with infants up to 6
months old.
Community Living
South Muskoka
Children’s Services encompasses
a Resource Teacher Program, as
outlined under Community Living
Huntsville, with the exception that
the support and programming
occurs in licensed child care settings
and in a Parry Sound/Muskoka Early
Years Centre.
As well, Community Living South
Muskoka offers a Family Support
Program servicing families with
school-aged children who have
a developmental disability and
assisting families with identifying
appropriate services, school
advocacy and financial
co-ordination.
705-645-5494
www.clsm.on.ca
North Simcoe
Community Care
Access Centre
Provides a range of medical and
rehabilitation services to help
school-age children attend school
and reach an optimal level of health
and independence.
705-721-8010
1-888-721-2222
www.ccac-ont.ca
www.thefamilyhelpnetwork.ca
31
Additional Contacts & Services
After School Programs
Macaulay Tree House Day Nursery (programs at various schools)
Muskoka Family Focus and Children’s Place (programs at various schools)
Muskoka Lakes Preschool YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka-Muskoka Falls Child Care Services
Child Care Fee Subsidy
Community Facilitator 705-645-1953
705-645-3027
or 800-461-7404
705-765-2067
705-646-7105
705-645-2412 x 321 or 800-461-4215
705-645-2412 x 467
Financial Supports
Community Resources pg. 29
Canada Child Tax Benefit
800-387-1193
Child Care Fee Subsidy
705-645-2412 x 321 or 800-461-4215
Children’s Foundation of Muskoka
705-644-5225
National Child Benefit
800-622-6232
Ontario Child Benefit
800-387-1193
Ontario Child Care Supplement
866-668-8297
for Working Families
Ontario Works
705-645-2412 x 275 or 800-461-4215 x 275
Services for Children with
800-387-1193
Special Needs Child Disability Benefit
Universal Child Care Benefit
800-387-1193
Health
Birth Certificates
Community Care Access Centre
Muskoka Pre-School Speech and Language Program One Kids Place: Children’s
Treatment Centre
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit
Health Connection
Telehealth Ontario
Trillium Drug Program
800-461-2156
800-263-2805
705-789-9985
or 866-232-5559 x 5800
705-789-9985
or 866-232-5559
877-721-7520
877-721-7520
866-797-0000
800-575-5386
For more information about services and programs for children and families in
Muskoka, please visit www.communityinformationmuskoka.ca
Education
Montessori School of Bracebridge Muskoka Christian School
Muskoka Montessori Elementary Tawingo College
Near North District School Board MacTier Public School Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board Monsignor Michael O’Leary
Our Lady of Mercy Saint Mary’s Trillium Lakelands
District School Board Bracebridge Public School Glen Orchard Public School Gravenhurst Public School
Honey Harbour Public School Huntsville Public School Irwin Memorial Public School K.P. Manson Public School Macaulay Public School Monck Public School Muskoka Beechgrove Public School Muskoka Falls Public School Pine Glen Public School Riverside Public School Spruce Glen Public School V.K. Greer Memorial Public School Watt Public School Licensed Child Care Programs
Binoojii House Bracebridge Public School Children’s Place
Bracebridge Children’s Place Gravenhurst Children’s Place Huntsville Cooperative Nursery School & Day Care Macaulay Tree House Day Nursery 705-645-1443
705-385-2847
705-788-3802
705-789-5890
800-278-4922
705-375-2720
705-722-3559
705-645-8759
705-756-2330
705-789-6481
705-645-8704
or 888-526-5552
705-645-5209
705-765-3144
705-687-2011
705-756-2433
705-789-2318
705-635-2232
705-689-2612
705-645-5410
705-645-9986
705-687-2162
705-645-2463
705-789-4791
705-789-2282
705-789-4591
705-385-2200
705-769-3643
705-375-3029
705-645-2229
705-645-3362
705-687-6664
705-787-1010
705-645-1956
Muskoka Family Focus and Children’s Place Muskoka Home Child Care Agency
Muskoka Lakes Preschool Serendipity Day Care Centre YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka-Muskoka Falls YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka Home Child Care
Mental Health
705-645-3027
or 1-800-461-7404
705-645-2412
705-765-2067
705-789-6649
705-646-7105
705-646-7105
Simcoe Muskoka Child, Youth & Family Services
Canadian Mental Health Association, Muskoka-Parry Sound
Bracebridge office
Huntsville office
Muskoka & Area Crisis Line
705-645-4426
or 800-680-4426
800-245-5036
705-645-2262
705-789-8891
1-888-893-8333
Ontario Early Years Programs (Muskoka)
705-645-3027 or 866-850-8855
Recreation/Day Camps
Bracebridge Culture and Recreation Gravenhurst Recreation & Community Services
Huntsville Recreation Macaulay Tree House Day Nursery Muskoka Family Focus Township of Georgian Bay Township of Lake of Bays Township of Muskoka Lakes YMCA Gravenhurst Specialized Services for Children
Community Living Huntsville Community Living South Muskoka
Hands TheFamilyHelpNetwork.ca
Muskoka Pre-School Speech and Language Program
One Kids Place: Children’s
Treatment Centre 705-645-3037
705-687-6774
705-789-6421
705-645-1953
705-645-3027
705-538-2702
705-635-2272
705-765-3156
705-687-9899
705-789-4543
705-645-5494
705-645-3155
or 800-668-8555
705-789-9985
or 866-232-5559 x 5800
705-789-9985
or 866-232-5559