Pa Keys Website

Have you been to the pakeys website? If not, I encourage you to go online and access your information to check it for accuracy. Your first step is to go to the site, click here and you will find yourself there! You will then need to log into their intranet. If you have been there before you should be able to log in with your password. If this is your first visit, click on "other login options" on the bottom left of the page. Follow these directions and you will be able to begin exploring this site. Check and make sure your contact information is correct. I would also encourage you to add an email that you actually check. This will keep you current should instructors try to email you about a class you have registered for. You will also want to make sure that your correct place of employment is listed. You can also check your professional development history for accuracy.

The PaKeys site is a great place to look for professional development opportunities across the state of Pennsylvania. If you are logged onto the intranet you can also register for many of these online. You will still need to mail your payment to the sponsoring organization PRIOR to the class.

Summer reading

I am looking forward to a few days on the beach this summer and of course need a good book. One I have wanted to read and have just added to our library is Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv. I have concerns when I see so many children spending so much time in front of screens instead of outside playing- the way I remember playing as a child. In fact, one of the quotes in the front of the book is from a 4th grader in San Diego, "I like to play indoors better 'cause that's where all the outlets are." What are your thoughts on children and computers and tvs? I know that we set limits in the classrooms but so many children spend so much home time in front of screens. Is there anything we can do to encourage children and families to spend time together outside? I'll let you know more about this book when I have read it. Let me know if you would like to read it too.

Books

We have an extensive library available for you to borrow from. This book is one of the latest additions. Do you have a child in your care that is a real challenge to feed? This book by Lori Ernsperger may help. In it she outlines detailed strategies to encourage children to eat.

From time to time I will highlight resources in our library that may be of use to you. If you are looking for something in particular, give me a call or send me an email.

Special Needs Conference

I hope you saw today's Reading Eagle! There were two pages of the Lifestyle section devoted to our upcoming April 26 Special Needs Conference. If you have not seen the story, you can read about our keynote, Nelson Lauver here.
Rita Miller is also going to be at the conference, helping us to de-stress. You can read about Rita here. All in all this looks like it will be a great day. There are a few spots left if you call before 4:00 today (610-378-1327). The cost is $15 and includes lunch. I can also give you all the details if you get in touch today.

Water Safety Class

Water Safety Classes for Childcare Practitioners

$10 person all classes 6:30 PM-8:00 PM

April 23 in Birdsboro at Aquabilities

April 30 in Blandon at Aquabilities

May 14 in Birdsboro at Aquabilities

May 21 in Blandon at Aquabilities

Bring a bathing suit and towel and be prepared to participate in this fun class!

Register on line at PA Keys or by calling 610-378-1327

Week of the Young Child

We are nearing the end of Week of the Young Child. I would love to hear what you have done this week and if you allow me to, I would like to include your events and activities in the next issue of the East Penn AEYC newsletter. Add them to the comments section below. You can also email me photos!