LITTLE PEOPLE’S NETWORK The Newsletter of the Calvert County Family Day Care Association, Inc. Winter 2011 President’s Message

Dear Providers, Start getting geared up for our annual Professional Appreciation Day! This year's special day will be titled, “A Home Away From Home...A Quest For Quality Care”. As providers, we work hard at giving the children in our care a place with the comfort of home, hugs, love and a learning environment. This year's special day will train us to be the best we can be and reassure parents they made the right choice when leaving their child in Family Child Care Homes. Calvert has almost 100% of their providers as members of this great association. If you are reading this and are one of the few that has not joined this fantastic group of ladies, please consider doing so. All trainings are free and held right here in the county, so traveling is easy for all. You would also be added to the daily informative e-mails from me that will benefit you as a provider. You will receive a list of recent recalls, reminders of upcoming classes, daily inspirations, handy tips, and even childcare leads from parents needing care. We welcome you to join us and become part of the best Child Care Association around. As always Calvert, thanks for another great year! We have worked hard at getting our name out in the county and many know who we are. Our website is being hit daily and I get many calls from parents with questions or who need care. It is so nice to hear them say, "My friend told me I should call you, because you helped them find care and made it so easy." That's what it's all about. We are helping our community and the community is so supportive.

"LET'S MAKE 2011, THE BEST YEAR YET" Inside This Issue:

Board of Directors

CPR/First Aid Schedule

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Provider Corner

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Professional Appreciation Day

President, Welcoming, & Newsletter Committee Vice President Secretary to the President Secretary to the Committee’s Treasurer State Director

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Training Calendar

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Membership Application

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Newsletter Editor & Website admin Newsletter Committee Training Hospitality Sunshine Donation Committee Fundraiser

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Bonnie Drayer Ely Elter Vickie Jackson Deb Shaffer Laura Watkins Committees Rene Vaughn Debbie Shaffer Barbara Eubanks Connie Lilly Lucy Murphy Kristina Ganyon Jaime Campbell

410-535-3749 410-535-1099 410-586-2432 410-414-3973 301-855-6734

410-257-5991 410-414-3973 training@ calvertdaycare.org 443-295-7294 410-535-6968 410-586-8009 410-535-8956

PLEASE KEEP THIS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE Below is useful information that Bonnie receives questions about on a daily basis. Please keep this sheet handy so that you will have the information when needed. Bonnie Drayer 410-535-3749 6040 Dusk Drive Prince Frederick, Md. 20678 [email protected]

CPR & FIRST AID Jill Buck [email protected]

TRAINING COORDINATOR Barbara Eubanks [email protected]

CALVERT COUNTY FAMILY DAY CARE ADDRESS CCFDCA P.O. Box 2704 Prince Frederick, MD 20678 Membership for CCFDCA runs from June 1 to May 31 of each year

410-586-3467

ASSOCIATION WEB SITE Rene Vaughn 410-257-5991 www.calvertdaycare.org

American Heart Association CPR/First Aid Classes Jill Buck will be offering the following American Heart Association CPR/First Aid classes in the coming months. All of the classes are combination certifications but you are still able to take one certification if that's all you need...simply let her know which certification you need and she’ll let you know what time to be at her house for that portion of the class.

Tues., February 8, 6:30 pm Sun., February 27, 4 pm Wed., March 16, 6:30 pm Sun., March 27, 4 pm Wed., April 13, 6:30 pm Sun., April 17, 4 pm Wed., May 11, 6:30 pm Sun., May 22, 4 pm Thurs. June 9, 6:30 pm Sun., June 26, 4 pm Cost is $45 for one certification or $75 for both certifications taken in the same month. Cards are valid for 2 years. Please contact Jill at 410-586-3467 or [email protected]. Classes must be paid for in advance.

NEW Address:

4149 School Rd. Broomes Island, MD 20615 2

PROVIDER CORNER Do you know of a fellow provider that offers you a great deal of support with your child care? What are some things you enjoy about being a member of our Association? Why not share your experiences with the Association by writing a brief article? We welcome your input in making this newsletter better to fit your wants and needs. Share your ideas and suggestions with Debbie Shaffer or Rene Vaughn, CCFDCA Newsletter Editors. I have been a licensed childcare provider for almost 10 years in Calvert County. I decided to become a childcare provider after giving birth to my twins and having to pay almost as much in childcare as I made in a week at my full time job. It was a very difficult decision for me to make giving up my job to start a new career. But since giving up my job, I became a member of the Calvert County Family Daycare Association. Becoming a childcare provider has been very beneficial for my family and me. I have been able to attend free classes, receive daily updated emails that pertain to the association, grow my own business as well as being able to raise and be available to my family. I never thought about running my own business until I became part of this great association and being encouraged by the wonderful people in it. It is an honor to be a part of such a special group of people. Thanks to everyone!! --Linda Obijiski __________________________________________________________________________________________

I am a Family Daycare Provider in Prince Frederick and have been in business for 14 years. I joined the Calvert Family Daycare Association when my family moved to Calvert County from Prince George's County. Joining the association has allowed me to grow my daycare with leads that are received as well as networking with ladies in my profession who are not only a lot of fun, but are there to support me at times when business is not great or I am wondering "why am I doing this". The advice and idea exchange that we receive during classes is priceless! I would have closed my business a million times if it hadn't been for the stern but sympathetic push from Bonnie saying "It's your business don't let someone else run it" or the venting session of my fellow providers who can understand the frustrations and the joys of our everyday events with children and parents. My business is now full after 18 months of only having 2 children and I know that it would not have been possible without the help and encouragement of members of this association. To all you special ladies...Thanks! --Cindy Prince _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Hi there! My name is Nikki and I run a home daycare in St. Leonard. I am so thankful that I found the CCFDCA when I first opened my business. I enjoy reading Bonnie's daily emails, her tips, encouragement and humor! Of course, what I look forward to the most these days as with every provider in these poor economic times, are the daily leads! I have successfully interviewed and signed on a handful of families through our association leads. I am quick to tell any and every expecting parent that I come across how wonderful and helpful the association is to parents. When you belong to such an amazing group, it's easy to boast about it every chance you get :) CCFDCA not only is an imperative tool to running a home daycare business, it is a sisterhood. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, the women of the association were the very first ones to aid my family in everyday challenges such as baking dinner! My entire family and I were awestruck with the generosity. If you are thinking about becoming a Southern Maryland daycare provider or if you have just joined our association, you will quickly learn for yourself that the CCFDCA is unbeatable!--Nikki Stevenson

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TRAINING EMAIL Many providers that check their email online are unable to use the training email LINK that is provided on our website. These providers can register by creating a new email within their email software and manually typing in the address: [email protected].

MEMBERSHIP We have had a drop in the number of providers we have in Calvert. Because of the economy, several have gone back to work or closed their business. We now have about 150 providers that are doing active child care in Calvert County. This has not hurt our membership as we still have 186 members in our association. Several providers have come to join us from other counties. We welcome all providers in the state of Maryland. Did you know that even parents of the children in your care can join us? If they can benefit from the things we do as an association, they are welcome to join us.

EARN A DEGREE FOR FREE! The Childcare Career and Professional Development Fund provides funding towards tuition, books and college fees to any licensed childcare providers to pursue their educational career goals. To date, 475 child care providers across the state have been approved to participate in the program. Interested Yet? To qualify you must be credentialed at a level one, the college or university you wish to attend must have a contract with MSDE and you must have at least one year childcare experience, center staff or family childcare providers both qualify. Deadlines for applications, a list of colleges and additional information may be found at MSDE Childcare Credentialing website. -- Debbie Shaffer

EARLY RENEWAL REMINDER

If you pay your 2011 dues early (before Appreciation Day), You will be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate from Wal-Mart. So that we can have the drawing ready for Appreciation Day, the cutoff date for early dues is February 28th. Mail your membership application (located on the last page of this newsletter) to: Bonnie Drayer 6040 Dusk Drive Prince Frederick, MD 20678 Please make you check out to CCFDCA.

We are on the web! Visit us at: www.calvertdaycare.org

Please remember to visit our web page frequently for updates on tons of information including upcoming training classes, latest news, and craft and recipe ideas. There are also links to licensing forms, how to obtain a tax ID number, and the Maryland Committee for Children vacancies update page.

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IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CREDENTIALED AND ACCREDITATION? Isn’t credentialed and accredited the same thing? Well, no. The credential program is a voluntary program endorsed and subsidized by MSDE to encourage providers and center staff to continue pursuing educational trainings above and beyond the minimum training standards required for licensure or staffing requirements. Accreditation represents providers who have been identified as having exemplary practices in the field of family childcare by the National Association of Family Child Care. NAFCC sponsors the only nationally recognized accreditation system designed specifically for family childcare providers. In states where Quality Rating Systems have been implemented, NAFCC Accreditation is often the “top” level in the rating system. NAFCC accreditation is awarded to family childcare providers who meet the eligibility requirements and the quality standards for NAFCC Accreditation. It reflects the highest level of quality through a process that examines all aspects of the family childcare program. Calvert County Family Daycare Association is proud to announce we have four providers who currently hold NAFCC National Accreditation: Kathy Bevard, Bonnie Drayer, Barbara Eubanks, Mary Joachim and Debbie Shaffer. Joy Briggs is anxiously awaiting to join them upon the arrival of her accreditation certification, after submission of all necessary paperwork and her program observations and evaluations. If you’re interested in taking your business to the next level, please feel free to contact any of these providers for more information. -- Debbie Shaffer

MORE MONEY IN YOUR POCKET As an incentive, did you know that Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) offers achievement bonuses to family childcare providers who are at a credential level two or higher? Bonuses are available annually to providers who are credentialed at a level four plus or higher. Providers who are credentialed at levels two or higher are also eligible to receive training vouchers or reimbursements for training up to $400.00 each credentialing year. First time applicants will complete an application, a brief essay and send in copies of their training certificates, college transcripts, documentation of current license and prior experience, along with your professional activity units. Applied in the past? Not sure if your credential is current or not? Providers must reapply annually to maintain their credential by resubmitting a renewal application along with documentation of training, professional activity units and proof of license or employment in childcare for the previous 12 month period. Still unsure and have questions? It’s super easy, just ask any Calvert County Family Daycare Board Member to help you get more money in your pocket. -- Debbie Shaffer

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PROFESSIONAL'S APPRECIATION DAY March 5, 2011

THE BEST DAY OF THE YEAR FOR PROVIDERS!! Before we know it, January and February will be behind us and Day Care Appreciation Day will be upon us again. Where does the time fly? Are you ready for a GREAT day of fun?? We will have one 3 hour class and also a 2 hour one. 5 hours of training in one day. That is almost half of what is required for you to have in a year, just in one day. You don’t want to miss the networking with all the other providers, the breakfast, super lunch, desserts and many fun surprises. Everyone walking in the door is receiving a gift worth more than what you paid to attend. That means your food and training are free. The raffles are amazing and the thrift store is so much fun. Bring the toys that you no longer use or want for your daycare and take home some fun new ones. This is always one of the biggest hits of the day. Don't miss this great day of fun. Fill out your registration below and get it in today.

REGISTRATION FORM FOR APPRECIATION DAY SATURDAY, MARCH 5, 2011 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF CALVERT COUNTY Cost: $25.00 Member/$35 NonMember NAME:_______________________________ ADDRESS:___________________________ PHONE______________________________ Please make checks payable to CCFDCA and send registration to me at: Bonnie Drayer 6040 Dusk Drive Prince Frederick, MD 20678

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PROFESSIONAL'S APPRECIATION DAY DETAILS LOCATION: FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF CALVERT COUNTY. 155 GERMAN CHAPEL ROAD Located at the corner of Rt. 4 and German Chapel Rd., Across from Sunoco Gas Station. WE WILL START BREAKFAST AT 7:30 AND EVERYONE MUST BE SEATED AND READY FOR OUR DAY BY 8:15. PARKING: PARK ANYWHERE IN THE PARKING LOT. THERE IS ALSO A PARKING LOT ACROSS FROM THE CHURCH IF LOT IS FULL. PLEASE ENTER AT THE DOUBLE GLASS DOORS AT THE TOP OF THE PARKING LOT. SMOKE BREAKS: IF YOU GO OUT FOR A SMOKE BREAK, PLEASE GO TO YOUR CARS. SINCE WE ARE MEETING AT A CHURCH, WE NEED TO RESPECT IT. MEALS PROVIDED: BREAKFAST INCLUDES BAGELS, DOUGHNUTS, YOGURT, FRESH FRUIT, MUFFINS, COFFEE, and WATER & JUICES. LUNCH WILL INCLUDE PIZZA, PASTA SALADS, GREEN SALAD, CAESAR SALAD, AND ROLLS. WATER AND SODA'S WILL ALSO BE PROVIDED. THERE WILL ALSO BE A GREAT SELECTION OF DESSERT!! IF YOU CANNOT EAT ANY OF THE ABOVE, PLEASE PACK A LUNCH. TOY EXCHANCE: PLEASE BRING BAGS OF TOYS THAT YOUR CHILDREN NO LONGER PLAY (OR THE ONES THAT GET ON YOUR NERVES). YOU CAN EXCHANGE THEM FOR DIFFERENT ONES THAT OTHER PROVIDERS BRING. THIS IS ALWAYS A HIT!!! PLEASE BRING BAGS TO HAUL YOUR GOODIES BACK HOME!! AFTER YOU HAVE PICKED TOYS THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO TAKE HOME, PLEASE TAKE THEM TO YOUR CAR SO THAT WE ARE NOT TRIPPING OVER THEM AT THE TABLES. NEW THIS YEAR: ITEMS FOR SALE: WE WILL HAVE A ROOM SET ASIDE FOR YOU THAT YOU MAY BRING ITEMS TO SELL. THESE ITEMS MUST BE BIG ITEMS AND IN GOOD CONDITION SUCH AS PLAYPENS AND STROLLERS, ETC. YOU MUST PRICE THEM AND REMOVE WHAT DOES NOT SELL AT THE END OF THE DAY. THERE WILL BE PEOPLE IN CHARGE OF THIS ROOM AND WILL SELL THE ITEMS FOR YOU. YOU MUST PRICE YOUR ITEM. ECHO HOMELESS SHELTER: WE WILL BE COLLECTING FOR ECHO, (MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN). PLEASE BRING AN ITEM OR MORE TO SHARE. THEY CAN USE TOILETRIES SUCH AS TOOTHPASTE, SHAMPOO, CREAM RINSE, TOOTHBRUSHES, PILL BOXES, SANITARY PRODUCTS OF ALL SORTS, BRUSHES, COMBS, MOUTHWASH AND ANY OTHER ITEM YOU CAN THINK OF. THE DOLLAR STORE IS A GREAT PLACE TO GET ITEMS. IF EACH ONE OF US SPENT $5.00, WE COULD HELP A LOT OF NEEDY PEOPLE. RAFFLES: DON'T FORGET TO BRING SOME MONEY FOR OUR GREAT RAFFLES. KRISTINA GANYON, WHO IS OUR DONATION COMMITTEE, HAS BEEN HARD AT WORK LIKE ALWAYS AND HAS A GREAT DONATION FOR OUR $1.00 RAFFLE. ALL RAFFLES WILL BE $1.00 EACH. GOOD LUCK !!! VENDORS: BOOKS ARE FUN WILL BE THERE WITH ALL THEIR GREAT BUYS. YOU CAN NEVER BEAT THEIR PRICES. THINK BIRTHDAY'S AND CHRISTMAS. CHECKS ARE ACCEPTED AND DEBIT & CHARGE CARDS TOO!! STORY TIME FELTS ALONG WITH MANY OTHER VENDORS. BE PREPARED TO CHECK OUT ALL THE BOOTHS. IF YOU BRING ADDRESS LABELS, IT MAKES IT EASY TO LEAVE YOU NAME IN THE DRAWINGS AT THE BOOTHS. WE HAVE 16 VENDORS COMING. WEATHER: LAST YEAR, SOME PEOPLE WERE COLD AND OTHERS WERE HOT. PLEASE BRING A SWEATER WITH YOU OR DRESS WHERE YOU CAN TAKE SOMETHING OFF IF YOU ARE TO HOT. WE DO NOT KNOW HOW THE WEATHER WILL BE THAT DAY. BE PREPARED. REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT THERE WILL BE NO PAYING OR REGISTERING AT THE DOOR. IF YOU ARE NOT ON THE LIST, YOU WILL NOT BE ADMITTED AS THE MEAL COUNT WILL HAVE ALREADY BEEN TURNED IN. TRAINING CERTIFICATES: TRAINING CERTIFICATES FROM PAST CLASSES WILL BE THERE AND READY FOR YOU. PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE WITHOUT YOUR CERTIFICATES AND PLEASE DO NOT LOSE THEM.

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CALVERT COUNTY FAMILY DAY CARE ASSOCIATION 2011 TRAINING CALENDAR Date

Title & Information

Cost Members

Non-Members

Cost

January 18

Health, Safety and Nutrition (2 Hours Health and Safety)

FREE

$20.00

February 8

“Preparation and Practice, Never Perfect!”

FREE

$20.00

$25.00

$35.00

(2 Hours Child Development) March 5 (SATURDAY)

Day Care Appreciation Day (5 Hours)

“Keep The Flame Burning Without Burning out” (3 Hours Professionalism) (2 Hours other)

April 12

Community

FREE

$20.00

May 10

(1 Hour Community) (1 Hour Professionalism)

FREE

$20.00

June 14

(2 Hours Special Needs)

FREE

$20.00

September 13

To be announced

FREE

$20.00

October 11

To be announced

FREE

$20.00

November 9 (Wednesday)

To be announced

FREE

$20.00

December

Christmas Party

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CALVERT COUNTY FAMILY DAY CARE ASSOCIATION

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

Cut out and mail to:

P.O. Box 2704 Prince Frederick, MD 20678-2704

ANNUAL DUES: $25.00 – All memberships run from June 1st through May 31st of the next year. PLEASE MAKE ALL CHECKS PAYABLE TO C.C.F.D.C.A. AND REMEMBER TO INCLUDE YOUR PHONE NUMBER ON ALL CHECKS. NAME: __________________________________________________________________________________ NEW MEMBER: ______

RENEWAL: ________

CURRENT MEMBERSHIP NO: ______________

ADDRESS:_______________________________________________________________________________ STATE: __________ PHONE: ___________________________________

ZIP CODE: _______________

E-MAIL: ___________________________________

Will you help us make your association grow, such as making telephone calls, or serve on a committee, etc.?__________ Name of Committee ____________________________

CCFDCA P.O Box 2704 Prince Frederick, MD 20678-2704 CALVERT COUNTY FAMILY DAYCARE ASSOCIATION, INC.

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