Hello and welcome to the 2021-2022 school year! First and foremost, we are so thankful for the flexibility our families showed our program in the wake of changes made necessary by the ongoing COVID pandemic last year. Connecting with our community is more important than ever. Our Parent Educators will continue to assist parents with resources, curriculum-based activities and information regarding developmental milestones, and developmental screenings. We will continue with the great services we have always offered and look forward to serving the community of our littlest learners here in LSR7.

That being said, the big question on everyone's mind this year is:

WHAT WILL VISITS LOOK LIKE???

We plan to begin this year with a hybrid model. Some will be outdoor in-person visits, some will be virtual, and we will continue to offer phone visits for those unable (due to connectivity or other circumstances) to participate in either outdoor in-person or virtual. You and your parent educator will work together to decide which visit type will work best for your family. Just know that no matter how or where you are meeting, our parent educators are working hard to provide the same high-quality connections and support they always have! As always, we appreciate your support.

If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to contact me at tracy.halphin@lsr7.net

• Both vaccinated and unvaccinated family members should wear a mask while both indoors and in public. Vaccinated persons who do get Covid-19 are likely to experience no symptoms or only mild symptoms, but can pass the virus to others. Children under the age of 2 should not wear masks. Some older children with developmental delays or medical issues may not be able to wear masks.

• Create a “cocoon of safety” around your child. Family members and caregivers 12 and over can be vaccinated which reduces the risk of transmission.

• Move playdates outdoors. Socialization is important for all ages. Meet friends for a walk, bike ride or go to the park.

• Develop healthy lifestyle habits as a family. Exercise together, cook and eat healthy meals together and get plenty of rest. All of these will help improve immune function if somebody in the family does get sick.

• Make sure to stay home when sick to keep from spreading illnesses to others.

• Seek help when needed. This is a stressful time for everyone. If you or a loved one is experiencing an emotional or behavioral health crisis, there is help available. The CommCare Crisis line can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-279-8188. https://dmh.mo.gov/behavioral-health/treatment-services/specialized-programs/behavioral-health-crisis-hotline

• Continue to see your primary care providers for check-ups to identify potential health

issues early.

https://pat.lsr7.org/

Use the links below to get a library card and to check out the virtual storytimes they offer.

Conscious Discipline

Family Fitness

Game Night

Infant Massage

and more!

Your parent educator will give you more information as it becomes available - or you can check out our website at pat.lsr7.net

If you have any questions about Parents as Teachers, please feel free to call our Lead Parent Educator at 986-2471.