Center for Children & Families, Inc. (CCFI): 2012

October 02, 2012

Staff Participates in Generational Leadership Training

During our September All Staff meeting we had a fun, interactive training presented by Jan Astani. With a staff of 25+ individuals we have just about every generation on board. Check out what Jan's morning with CCFI was like:

“Who did you see at your first concert” and “What was the most popular girl’s name when you were in grade school?” Those were just two of the fun questions that started off my morning of “Generational Leadership” training recently with the awesome staff at Center for Children and Families in Norman, Oklahoma.

The purpose of the training was to examine the characteristics of each of the four generations and to learn ways to appreciate the differences to create a more peaceful work place.

Traditionalists (born 1927 - 1945) are considered the “silent” generation because they don’t rock the boat or cause conflict in the workplace. They are loyal to the company and don’t question authority.

Baby Boomers (born 1946 – 1964) believe that hard work, long hours and playing nice gets them ahead in the work place. They are honest and ethical.

Generation X (born 1965 – 1981) are resilient, independent and prefer working alone rather than in teams.

Millennials (born 1982 to present) make great team players, possess a global mentality and know technology like the back of their hand. (This group is sometimes called Generation Y.)

Conflicts often arise in the work place when one generation thinks their way is the best. They don’t recognize and appreciate the talents that other generations bring to the table. How can they all get along to create a more harmonious, productive office environment?

1.       Accept your mutual rightness. In other words, each generation’s way is right.

2.       Acknowledge your interdependence. Each generation needs each other.

3.       Appreciate your commonalities. Each generation is more alike than different.

4.       Assume responsibility for making relationships better. We don’t get to choose the people we work with. We do, however, get to choose how we respond to those co-workers.

5. Adopt the Platinum Rule – treat people the way they want to be treated.

For more information on generational leadership, read The Generational Imperative by Chuck Underwood and Generations Working Together by Laura E. Bernstein.

Jan S. Astani
Speaker . trainer . writer
405.476.9138
Enjoy my blog at http://janastani.wordpress.com

September 26, 2012

No act of kindness is too small.

Many stories come to us through our front doors, and for all of those who have helped a little bottom by donating to our Baby Pantry, THIS is your impact:

Dear Center for Children and Families,

Last winter, about every other week, I came to get pull-ups from your Baby Pantry for my grandson. I was out of work and felt really ashamed that I had to do this and I got really down on myself. But, at your agency there is a pretty lady that always greets me and gets me diapers and wipes when I come in for a little help. I told her how embarrassed I was and she assured me that ‘it’s okay, everyone needs help sometimes.’ She has always been nothing but nice to me and even took the time to walk me to the unemployment office one day.

(not an actual client pictured above)

During February of last year, I was really depressed and was ready to give up on life and leave my daughter and her son to get along without me. The lady that sits up front had roses on her desk for Valentine’s Day that I could smell as soon as I walked in the front doors. I commented on how great they smelled and told her no one had ever given me flowers before. She looked me in the eyes, gave me one of her roses and told me I was special. Nobody has ever treated me that nicely before and I really think she was my miracle because that simple act made me feel like it was all worth it.

Some time has passed since then and I go to counseling now. I have come a long way and got through some rough times because of the nice people at the Center for Children and Families. Someday, when I have more money, I am going to bring pull-ups and a flower to repay you guys. In the mean time, thank you for your help. It means the world to me, and others that need it, to have your help.

-D

To learn more about our Baby Pantry services, click here.

August 15, 2012

Bubbles over barriers

I like to listen to audio books during my daily commute. It makes me forget the stresses of my job and pulls me into a story that’s more interesting than my own. Audio books are one of several ways I escape the everyday pressures of life. I also love sitting on my porch swing or taking a long walk. It’s easy to live life in a bubble when the most challenging part of your day is getting caught in rush hour traffic.

Emily Claudé, CCFI Board President

But I’ve recently come to realize that my reality would be a welcome escape for many parents and children in our community. There are countless families right here in Norman who are experiencing daily stressors that are difficult for me to even comprehend. Forget audio books and porch swings, there are parents in this community who don’t have the support necessary to be able to provide a safe, nurturing, loving environment for their children.

A few years ago, my metaphorical bubble was burst when a little boy came into my office on an ordinary summer day. A man carried him in and told us he found him wandering on the road. He called him “Fred.” The boy couldn’t have been more than four years old, and my coworkers and I took turns playing with him. Although he seemed happy, there was something heartbreaking about this little boy. He could only communicate in babbles and gestures. He was soaked in sweat, had a heavy diaper, and had clearly been outside for a long time. When the police arrived, they told us he hadn’t been reported missing. I couldn’t believe it: The parents of this sweet, vulnerable child hadn’t even noticed he was gone.

There are hundreds of children like Fred right here in Norman, but most of them never wander outside the walls of their own home and into the arms of a caring adult. The little boy who walked innocently into my office that day couldn’t speak for himself. And even if he could, would he know what to say? We all have different gifts we can contribute to the cause. You may have contacts in the community with the ability to make change, you may have time to volunteer, or you may have resources you can donate. But we can all speak up for Fred.

Four years ago, the Center for Children and Families, Inc. (CCFI) gave me a chance to invest in its mission and to be a part of something important happening in this community - something life-altering. There are struggles, yes. But there are successes too. And there is no bigger success story than CCFI. The Center for Children and Families isn’t afraid of taking chances, making changes, and investing in the future of this community and all of the little Freds in it.

So I will continue to drive to work every day in my bubble, listening to the imaginary world of my most recent audio-read. But every day I will emerge with hope and growing compassion for those whose escape from reality is through the doors of CCFI. I’m grateful for the opportunity the Centerfor Children and Families has given me to invest my time and resources in such a worthy cause.

I am privileged to be a part of an organization that encourages blowing bubbles, not building barriers.

- Emily Claudé, CCFI Board of Directors President

The gift of summer smiles

Neighborhood Centers aquarium field trip!

Remember your childhood summers? Loading up the car for a family vacation, packing for church camp, spending hours at the pool, riding your bike to your friend’s house... Unfortunately, many of the children we serve at CCFI do not have memories of such carefree summers. Each child we serve deserves a chance to enjoy the summer and it is you — our generous supporters — who help make that possible through your gifts.

Your contributions allowed CCFI’s Neighborhood Centers to provide an enriching six-week camp for more than 100 kids this summer. There were lots of field trips in June and July, from the Oklahoma Aquarium to the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum. Kids cooled off each week at Westwood swimming pool and visited area water parks. The older youth had the chance to give back by volunteering at the Humane Society and the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma while our middle school kids learned new skills such as cooking with the Food for Thought Learning Institute.

Thank you for helping to make the summer what it should be for our kids — fun and enriching!

Summer Smiles Photo Album »

Check out pictures, adventure and smiles from our 2012 Nighborhood Centers summer enrichment services!

July 31, 2012

Be careful what you wish for

In the fall of 2010 I was talking with an old friend who was inquiring on how things were going in my life. I happen to be very blessed because for a day job I get to fly business jets all over the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Alright, it’s not as glamorous as it may sound (at least, that’s what I tell people) but it does keep me from sitting behind a desk and it usually keeps me out of trouble. I told my friend, Mike, that flying was rather slow at the moment and I had been looking for a small project to keep me busy. Mike is not only a Chaplin for Norman Regional Health System but he also sits on the board for the Center for Children and Families, Inc. (CCFI), an organization that sadly, up until that moment, I knew very little about. He told me about a conversation that he recently had with CCFI’s Executive Director Katie Fitzgerald, she had remarked to Mike that one of the needs that they had at the agency was for someone who could help out with a few handyman duties here and there. Well, we’ve all heard the phrase “be careful what you wish for, you might just get it”… and boy, did I get it. I definitely received more than I could have ever expected and my outlook on life will never be the same.

From day one my “Honey Do List” has seemed to just always have a task on it. I have painted doors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, shelves, and the occasional spot on the floor – woops! - along with anything else that would stay still for more than a few minutes. I have hung pictures, photos, diplomas, calendars, paintings, mirrors, bulletin boards, fire extinguishers, clothing rods, curtains, blinds, battery operated lights, fans, Christmas lights, and a giant blue ribbon which I had to designed and built as well. I have spread mulch over the play area, power washed the eves, fixed both gates, built a toy cabinet, repaired numerous desk drawers and children’s chairs, created two large cork boards, built a frame for a bathroom mirror, used enough painters tape to stretch from here to the moon (slight exaggeration), and generally anything else that the wonderful folks at CCFI could come up with. Phew!

This might sound like a long laundry list, but it’s not my intention to paint a bleak picture. The fact is CCFI is a nonprofit organization that has a tremendous task to fulfill and a very tight budget with which to accomplish this undertaking. And within these tight constraints I am continually amazed at the amount energy that the staff at CCFI shows, on a daily basis, to those who are less fortunate and often, overlooked in our society due to no fault of their own. Every time I have the pleasure to visit CCFI, I am continually reminded of the blessings that have been bestowed upon me and these blessings come with an obligation.

Those of us who are blessed have a duty to share those blessings with those who have been less fortunate. On numerous occasions I have been told that the staff has struggled with how they could show their appreciation for the work that I have done. However, they do that very thing, in volumes, with how much care they show for each and every individual that walks through their doors. It’s a job that quite often goes unnoticed and underappreciated, but they do it every day with a song in their hearts and a spring in their step. For me that’s all the thanks that I need. I feel that I am blessed to be a very small part of such a wonderful organization, and on occasion, they even feed me. What else could a single guy ask for?

So, if you find yourself with a little spare time and would like to reach out to those who need it most, by all means give them a call and I guarantee you will be forever changed by the lives that you will touch, or more likely, the lives that will touch you. And who knows, if you’re really lucky, you might even get to work with me. I mean, anything is possible.

- Brian Krause, CCFI 'Handyman' Volunteer

July 24, 2012

Sun Safety Information: Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek & Slide

Here is a fun, short video and catchy guidelines to help your family remember the importance of protecting yourself from the sun. Click here to view the video!

• Slip on a shirt – Put your hand inside the shirt to make sure you can’t see through it to ensure that it will screen out harmful UV rays.
• Slop on sun screen – The American Cancer Society recommends an SPF 15 or higher.
• Slap on a hat – Make it wide-brimmed to cover face, neck and ears.
• Seek shade – Bring your own umbrella or find a nice shady tree.
• Slide on some sunglasses – Make sure sunglasses provide 100% UV protection.

For more information on sun exposure and keeping kids safe, please visit www.kidshealth.org.

July 13, 2012

Healthy kids = happy kids!

Summertime is in full swing, which means kids are out of school and parents often are anxious for ideas on helping their kiddos stay busy. While the Oklahoma heat sometimes makes it tempting to stay inside during the summer months, it’s important to remember that regular exercise is something children need to be happy and healthy.

Benefits of Kids Exercising Regularly:

Have stronger muscles and bones
Maintain a healthy body weight
Reduce the risk of developing type 2 Diabetes
Sleep better
Feel less stressed
Reduce the risk for developing some diseases later in life, like high blood pressure and high cholesterol
Feel more able to focus on other important tasks, like schoolwork
Develop healthy habits that they can continue using as they grow!

On average, children should exercise for 60 minutes daily to receive these benefits. When it’s hot outside, there are lots of ways to be creative about staying active. The month of July provides a unique opportunity to enjoy local attractions as a family, as it is National Park and Recreation month! The City of Norman has many parks that provide play areas for children and shady spots for parents to spend time while watching their kids play. There are also two free splash pads in Norman where families can be active and stay cool. Being active as a family is a great way to build healthy habits for children and fun memories that can last a lifetime!

- Emily Deardorf, MSW; Children's Therapist at the Center for Children and Families, Inc. (CCFI)

June 19, 2012

Bringing “April” to June and July

Kristi McClatchy during Neighborhood Centers field trip

I am the daughter of a preacher and a coach. It’s little wonder that my childhood summers were devoted to sports camps and vacation Bible school. I recall one vacation Bible school I attended in Orlando, Florida when I was 9-years-old; it was the ultimate Bible school experience. The camp was located in a five star hotel with pool-side devotionals, catered meals, and a full day at Disney World. These were events that we believe children dream of having. Interestingly enough, I have almost no recollection of such “impressionable” events. I have a vague memory of seeing Cinderella’s castle, but that’s about it. What I remember most about this Bible school was the time I spent with my counselor. Her name was April, and she had three major interests: staring at the male chaperones, talking about how “dreamy” the male chaperones were and hanging out with me.

April made me feel like I was the coolest kid on the face of the planet. She had a genuine interest in who I was. I vividly remember her introducing herself to me the first day of camp. She shook my hand, looked me in the eye, and told me that she was so excited that I had decided to come to the camp. Throughout the week she took extra time to make sure I felt comfortable and included – I was incredibly shy. Looking back, I realize that she coached me through several social interactions with my peers. Without her help, I honestly doubt I would have made as many friends as I did.

Neighborhood Centers 2011 Summer Youth Enrichment Program

On the last day of Bible school, April gave me a letter telling me that I could do anything, that I was special, and that I was of great value. It is a letter I still have to this day. She was one of the first grownups in my life other than my parents or my teachers who took the time to get to know me. She made an everlasting impression on the person I am today.

Now I am working at the Center for Children and Families, Inc.(CCFI) Neighborhood Centers’ program. As we begin our Summer Youth Enrichment Program this week, I find myself often thinking, “We have to take the children to the Natural History Museum because Sam loves dinosaurs,” or “I need to schedule a rock climbing trip because Trey asked to go again this Summer.” Sometimes I feel myself primarily focusing on providing the children I serve with the most fantastic field trips, the most delicious and nutritious food, and the most educational opportunities.

Indeed, most of the children I serve have had limited experiences such as these. We all want nothing but the absolute best for the children in Neighborhood Centers. They are so precious. They deserve to have the same wonderful opportunities I, and most others, had growing up. However, while I recognize these types of experiences are central to enriching the lives of children, I hope that I never lose sight of how significant building a positive relationship really is.

I only hope that I will be some child’s April during the course of our Summer Youth Enrichment Program.

- Kristi McClatchy, Neighborhood Centers AmeriCorps Member

June 15, 2012

The Power of Dad

I guess it is fitting, as we approach Father’s Day, that I am reminded of the power of Daddy in my children’s lives. A few days ago my husband and son left for some male bonding at Boy Scout camp – a great father/son activity in and of itself. This left me and the girls alone for a few days of girl-oriented fun! Surely the girls would be as excited as I was - painting nails, endless chick flicks (Rapunzel-style) and games of dress-up! Little did I know that Gigi’s (who is my four-year-old) attachment with her Daddy is so strong that this was not a welcome change of pace for her.

Last night’s discussion with Gigi while putting her to bed:

Gigi: “I want my Daddy, I want my Daddy (with big whiny voice)…I don’t want you.”

Katie: “I know, honey. I’m sorry. Daddy will be home tomorrow. How about I get a picture of him for your nightstand?” I proceed to find a picture of me and him to put on her night stand.

Gigi: “I want a picture of Daddy. I want a picture of Daddy…alone…I don’t want you.”

Katie: (now laughing) “Oh…you want just a picture of Daddy.”

Gigi: Yes, Daddy is strong. [long pause] You are weak.” Then, she repeats with a smile on her face (because she is teasing at this point) “You are weak.” She then asks me to show her my muscle, which I do.

Gigi: “Flabby muscle, flabby muscle,” as she bats at my deltoid pointing out my full 40 years to me (with a teasing smile on her face).

Gigi and her Dad

So. What are the lessons here?

Number one: With age and multiple children comes humility. It’s a good thing that I know my daughter loves and needs me – a mom with less experience could easily get her feelings hurt :o)

Number Two: She loves and adores her Daddy - he is irreplaceable! Daddy is her “buddy” in a different way than Mommy. She helps him mow the lawn, wash the cars, plant and keep the garden, and carry the “cycling” out with him for trash day. He is also her favorite playmate. He is the one that wrestles with them, plays soccer in the backyard – he is way more fun than I could ever be. He doesn’t just have her walk up the stairs for bedtime (like I do) – he gives her a piggy-back ride or carries her upside down – always! He will play for hours in the pool with her and her siblings while I get lazy and want to rest and sit in the sun. They bake together and he never cares about the mess. The two of them giggle and play WAY past bedtime. And, he ALWAYS reads her an extra book.

Research on parenthood is clear that Dads play a critical and irreplaceable role in the lives of their children.

Fathers tend to do more stimulating play which is associated with children having greater regulation of their emotions and self-control. Dads tend to promote achievement, independence and an orientation to the outside world, whereas moms tend to emphasize nurturing – all of which are important for healthy child development. It is also the case that children are positively influenced when Dad has a good relationship with Mom (even if they are not married or in a romantic relationship). The good news is that research suggests Dads are spending more time with their children than ever before and are more likely - than ever before - to hug them and tell them they love them. The bad news is that too many children in Oklahoma and in our community are growing up without an involved Dad in their life.

This Father’s Day I hope you will celebrate all the wonderful, unique, and important things Dads bring to the lives of our children. And, for those children needing more of a Dad figure in their lives, I hope families and our community will continue to come together to make sure those kiddos get what they need from other “father-figures” in their lives. Happy Father’s Day!

-Katie Fitzgerald, MSW, Executive Director

50 Rules for Dads of Daughters

With Dad's Day this Sunday we knew we HAD to share this with our followers - be sure to comment below and tell us which 'rule' is your favorite! Enjoy!

1. Love her mom. Treat her mother with respect, honor, and a big heaping spoonful of public displays of affection. When she grows up, the odds are good she’ll fall in love with and marry someone who treats her much like you treated her mother. Good or bad, that’s just the way it is. I’d prefer good.

2. Always be there. Quality time doesn’t happen without quantity time. Hang out together for no other reason than just to be in each other’s presence. Be genuinely interested in the things that interest her. She needs her dad to be involved in her life at every stage. Don’t just sit idly by while she add years to her… add life to her years.

3. Save the day. She’ll grow up looking for a hero. It might as well be you. She’ll need you to come through for her over and over again throughout her life. Rise to the occasion. Red cape and blue tights optional.

4. Savor every moment you have together. Today she’s crawling around the house in diapers, tomorrow you’re handing her the keys to the car, and before you know it, you’re walking her down the aisle. Some day soon, hanging out with her old man won’t be the bees knees anymore. Life happens pretty fast. You better cherish it while you can.

5. Pray for her. Regularly. Passionately. Continually.

6. Buy her a glove and teach her to throw a baseball. Make her proud to throw like a girl… a girl with a wicked slider.

7. She will fight with her mother. Choose sides wisely.

8. Go ahead. Buy her those pearls.

9. Of course you look silly playing peek-a-boo. You should play anyway.

10. Enjoy the wonder of bath time.

11. There will come a day when she asks for a puppy. Don’t over think it. At least one time in her life, just say, “Yes.”

12. It’s never too early to start teaching her about money. She will still probably suck you dry as a teenager… and on her wedding day.

13. Make pancakes in the shape of her age for breakfast on her birthday. In a pinch, donuts with pink sprinkles and a candle will suffice.

14. Buy her a pair of Chucks as soon as she starts walking. She won’t always want to wear matching shoes with her old man.

15. Dance with her. Start when she’s a little girl or even when she’s a baby. Don’t wait ‘til her wedding day.

16. Take her fishing. She will probably squirm more than the worm on your hook. That’s OK.

17. Learn to say no. She may pitch a fit today, but someday you’ll both be glad you stuck to your guns.

18. Tell her she’s beautiful. Say it over and over again. Someday an animated movie or “beauty” magazine will try to convince her otherwise.

19. Teach her to change a flat. A tire without air need not be a major panic inducing event in her life. She’ll still call you crying the first time it happens.

20. Take her camping. Immerse her in the great outdoors. Watch her eyes fill with wonder the first time she sees the beauty of wide open spaces. Leave the iPod at home.

21. Let her hold the wheel. She will always remember when daddy let her drive.

22. She’s as smart as any boy. Make sure she knows that.

23. When she learns to give kisses, she will want to plant them all over your face. Encourage this practice.

24. Knowing how to eat sunflower seeds correctly will not help her get into a good college. Teach her anyway.

25. Letting her ride on your shoulders is pure magic. Do it now while you have a strong back and she’s still tiny.

26. It is in her nature to make music. It’s up to you to introduce her to the joy of socks on a wooden floor.

27. If there’s a splash park near your home, take her there often. She will be drawn to the water like a duck to a puddle.

28. She will eagerly await your return home from work in the evenings. Don’t be late.

29. If her mom enrolls her in swim lessons, make sure you get in the pool too. Don’t be intimidated if there are no other dads there. It’s their loss.

30. Never miss her birthday. In ten years she won’t remember the present you gave her. She will remember if you weren’t there.

31. Teach her to roller skate. Watch her confidence soar.

32. Let her roll around in the grass. It’s good for her soul. It’s not bad for yours either.

33. Take her swimsuit shopping. Don’t be afraid to veto some of her choices, but resist the urge to buy her full-body beach pajamas.

34. Somewhere between the time she turns three and her sixth birthday, the odds are good that she will ask you to marry her. Let her down gently.

35. She’ll probably want to crawl in bed with you after a nightmare. This is a good thing.

36. Few things in life are more comforting to a crying little girl than her father’s hand. Never forget this.

37. Introduce her to the swings at your local park. She’ll squeal for you to push her higher and faster. Her definition of “higher and faster” is probably not the same as yours. Keep that in mind.

38. When she’s a bit older, your definition of higher and faster will be a lot closer to hers. When that day comes, go ahead… give it all you’ve got.

39. Holding her upside down by the legs while she giggles and screams uncontrollably is great for your biceps. WARNING: She has no concept of muscle fatigue.

40. She might ask you to buy her a pony on her birthday. Unless you live on a farm, do not buy her a pony on her birthday. It’s OK to rent one though.

41. Take it easy on the presents for her birthday and Christmas. Instead, give her the gift of experiences you can share together.

42. Let her know she can always come home. No matter what.

43. Remember, just like a butterfly, she too will spread her wings and fly some day. Enjoy her caterpillar years.

44. Write her a handwritten letter every year on her birthday. Give them to her when she goes off to college, becomes a mother herself, or when you think she needs them most.

45. Learn to trust her. Gradually give her more freedom as she gets older. She will rise to the expectations you set for her.

46. When in doubt, trust your heart. She already does.

47. When your teenage daughter is upset, learning when to engage and when to back off will add years to YOUR life. If you succeed in doing this, tell me how.

48. Ice cream covers over a multitude of sins. Know her favorite flavor.

49. This day is coming soon. There’s nothing you can do to be ready for it. The sooner you accept this fact, the easier it will be.

50. Today she’s walking down the driveway to get on the school bus. Tomorrow she’s going off to college. Don’t blink.

The 50 Rules for Dads of Daughters is by Michael Mitchell at lifetoheryears.com.
Bookmark Life To Her Years, follow Michael on Twitter, and “like” him on Facebook for more “rules”.

Photo Credits can be found at the bottom of Michael’s original post.

June 06, 2012

What I've learned from volunteering

Mollie pictured on right

I began volunteering for the Center for Children and Families, Inc. (CCFI) just a few short months ago, and oh has it been a ride! I came into the children’s play group on Tuesday night’s not having a clue what to expect. I was a little apprehensive, but felt immediately comfortable when I met the other volunteers. Everyone was so nice and seemed genuinely passionate about what they were doing. That is when I knew CCFI was special.

I quickly learned that CCFI is an organization that cares so fervently about making a real difference in the community. The entire staff and volunteers love what they do, and it reads so clearly in the manner with which they go about their work. Having the opportunity to contribute just a small portion of my time to the unique mission of CCFI has really humbled me.

I love watching how excited the kiddos are to see us every Tuesday night, and how equally excited we are to see them. These kids remember us and depend on us to be there, and that is why I keep coming back. I know that just the little amount of time I spend with them each week helps bring stability and consistency into their lives, which is something I can be proud of. I learn as much from these kids as I hope they learn from me, and I will continue to volunteer with CCFI for as long as I am able.

I am more than honored to be part of this special organization, and to help support their compassionate mission to improve the lives of children. I feel extremely blessed to have stumbled across CCFI because of the perspective it has brought to my life.

I encourage every person to support the mission of CCFI in any way that they can. I have no doubt it will enrich and touch your life in the way that it has done so to mine.

Mollie Rischard

CCFI Children's Group Volunteer

May 16, 2012

Family Wellness Month

It’s hard to believe that May is upon us, and with it of course comes spring weather. In Oklahoma, however,that actually means warm summer weather! Memorial Day marks the return of family get-togethers which means lots of good food, BBQ, fried chicken, potato salad, and yummy desserts. Which all coincides with something May is a little less well known for -- Family Wellness Month.

Never heard of it? Well Family Wellness Month is a way to publicize healthy family lifestyles and habits. The healthier each individual family is, the healthier an entire community can be overall. And then maybe Oklahoma could break our cycle of being one of the 10 UNHEALTHIEST states in the nation! Yuck!

What is important to remember is that the choices, habits, and activities we make now continue for a long time. Here are some healthy ideas of things you can do with your family to increase your family’s emotional, physical, and mental wellness this month that will hopefully transform into healthier habits that will last the rest of the year!

Take your children or grandchildren to a neighborhood park, swing on the swings or play on the teeter totter. They do still have them, right? Even better, if there is a playground close by, just walk to get a little extra exercise. The key word is “move”. Move off the couch and out into the yard, the park, walk at the mall, just move!

Change your eating habits. Even making a few small changes can make a difference. Eating lean meats, more fruits and veggies results in fewer bulges around the tummy and more energy to do the things you enjoy! It doesn’t mean that you can’t eat a piece of fried chicken or indulge in your favorite dessert…moderation and portions are the key. Watch your portions! Do not supersize your food, rather eat smaller portions which can equal getting into those favorite pair of shorts!

So this May get your family started on the choices that will last them and you a lifetime and embrace Family Wellness Month by making your family just a little healthier!

-Karen Walker, LPC, LMFT, LADC, Director of Service Operations

May 08, 2012

A Child's Wisdom!

First grade students were given the following proverbs and filled in their own wisdom and thoughts, enjoy!

As You Shall Make Your Bed So Shall You........ Mess It Up.
Better Be Safe Than........ Punch A 5th Grader.
Strike While The........ Bug Is Close.
It's Always Darkest Before........ Daylight Savings Time.
Never Under Estimate The Power Of........ Termites.
You Can Lead A Horse To Water But....... How?
Don't Bite The Hand That........Looks Dirty.
No News Is........Impossible.A Miss Is As Good As A........ Mr.
You Can't Teach An Old Dog New........ Math.
If You Lie Down With The Dogs, You'll........Stink In The Morning.
Love All, Trust........Me
The Pen Is Mightier Than The........Pigs.
An Idle Mind Is........ The Best Way To Relax.
Where There's Smoke, There's........ Pollution.
Happy The Bride Who........ Gets All The Presents!
A Penny Saved Is........ Not Much.
Two's Company, Three's........The Musketeers.
Don't Put Off Tomorrow What........You Put On To Go To Bed.
None Are So Blind As........ Helen Keller.
Children Should Be Seen And Not........ Spanked Or Grounded.
If At First You Don't Succeed........ Get New Batteries.
You Get Out Of Something What You........ See Pictured On The Box.
When The Blind Leadeth The Blind........Get Out Of The Way.

April 12, 2012

Infographic: Preventing Costly Child Abuse

This is from the PEW Center on the States post (http://www.pewcenteronthestates.org/report_detail.aspx?id=85899375913)
Some of our nation’s costliest social problems—like child abuse and neglect—are rooted in early childhood. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to recognize the proven policies that help break the cycle of abuse and that promote the social and emotional well-being of children and families.

Voluntary home visiting matches parents with trained professionals to provide information and support during pregnancy and throughout their child’s early years—a critical developmental period. Increasingly, states are turning to evidence-based home visiting programs in an effort to prevent abuse and neglect.

Learn more about how home visiting gives families a solid foundation and helps states save money.

April 02, 2012

Healing Fields

Since the 1980s, millions of people across the country have participated in National Child Abuse Prevention Month activities including the Blue Ribbon Campaign by wearing and distributing blue ribbons, organizing community activities, and showing support for organizations, like the Center for Children and Families, Inc. (CCFI), that help keep kids safe and families together.

CCFI Healing Field

This year, CCFI launched the first annual Healing Field campaign. Intended to sprout awareness, two Healing Fields are located in Norman, OKand both serve as a reminder that each of us can and does have a hand in protecting children throughout our communities.

The larger Healing Field is located in the front of CCFI, at the corner of 12^th and Main Street, and consists of over 800 blue ribbon flags. Each flag represents100 Oklahoma victims of child abuse and neglect from 2011. The second Healing Field surrounds the fountain at Sooner Mall with planted pinwheels. Each pinwheel represents two Cleveland County victims of child abuse and neglect. Cleveland County’s number of victims of child abuse and neglect increased from 240 in 2010 to 293 in 2011.

Sooner Mall Healing Field

Last year 8,110 children were confirmed as being abused or neglected in Oklahoma and most of the children in Cleveland County in this situation would be referred to CCFI to find healing. It then becomes our job to try to mitigate the impact of this often unspeakable trauma and give those children the best possible shot at a happy and productive life. But we also work to stop the abuse before it happens, providing counseling and family support services through our programs and services.

Prevention begins with awareness.

Here are some ways you can help:

Donate Now
By making a donation to CCFI today, you’ll be investing in programs that are proven to stop the cycle of abuse and help provide support to children who have already become victims.

Virtual Blue Ribbon
A blue ribbon is the international symbol for Child Abuse Prevention. Show your support by sharing status updates posted on CCFI’s timeline on Facebook or changing your Profile Picture to a Blue Ribbon for the month of April. Go to www.facebook.com/ccfinorman to download.

Tweet about it
On Twitter? Follow @ccfinorman and retweet the messages we’ll be posting about National Child Abuse Prevention Month throughout April.

Host a Blue Ribbon Event
Organize your own event with a blue ribbon or healing field them during the month of April to benefit the Center for Children and Families, Inc. (CCFI), or attend one of our upcoming events.

Expand our Circle of Support
Share this page with family and friends via email, facebook, twitter, or any other social media site!

For more information about child abuse prevention visit: http://www.childwelfare.gov/preventing/preventionmonth

March 29, 2012

More than 2,000 expected to attend Block Party Saturday

Official CCFI News Release
The Center for Children and Families, Inc. (CCFI) is gearing up for its 12th annual “I Love My Neighborhood Block Party” this Saturday near Wilson Elementary School.

2011 Block Party

Jessica Hutchinson, senior program specialist for CCFI’s Neighborhood Centers after school and summer youth program, said the party will be noon to 2 p.m. Saturday in the parking lot of Trinity Baptist Church, 801 N. Peters Ave. Families can expect live music, games, free food, and crafts.

We’ve received so much support for this event from the community and it has really grown over the last few years, Hutchinson said.

Hutchinson said nearly 2,000 people attended last year’s party and they expect the number to exceed that this Saturday.

2011 Block Party

“We’re just trying to reach out to the community and neighborhood to get everyone together,” she said. “It gives families an opportunity to spend some quality time together without having to worry about finances.”

Families who attend can visit booths hosted by local businesses and also can learn more about CCFI’s Neighborhood Centers program.

Hutchinson said the Neighborhood Centers after school and summer services are available at Kennedy and Wilson elementary schools and Irving and Longfellow middle schools and operate after school until 8:00 pm through out the week.

“We operate every day that they have school and over the summer months,” she said. “Our program is completely free and we offer every child a unique experience through a number of enriching activities from service learning projects and homework help to weekly gender-specific mentoring groups for the older, middle school age groups.”

For information about CCFI’s Neighborhood Centers youth program visit www.ccfinorman.org. To get involved with this years block party visit www.ccfinorman.org/blockparty.

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The Center for Children and Families, Inc. (CCFI) is private, non-profit located in Norman, OK specializing in healing children, empowering youth, and strengthening families.

March 14, 2012

Bottoms up.

CCFI Baby Pantry

Imagine everything it takes to be a parent.
Now imagine it without diapers.

Many families struggle to provide basic needs for their children. In fact, one in three mothers will struggle to provide clean, dry diapers for their babies. Contrary to popular belief, government programs do not assist with paper products, including diapers, and many daycare and child care agencies will only accept disposable diapers. With that said it becomes a difficult situation, and often times a choice, for parents struggling to make ends meet.

However, the Center for Children and Families, Inc.’s (CCFI) Baby Pantry assists parents in being able to meet these essential needs. One of our core organizational beliefs here at CCFI is that all parents need help and should never be ashamed to ask for advice, diapers or support. We see caregivers that seek help in raising their children every day at CCFI and know it is a sign of maturity and hope – never failure.
Anytime you can help lessen stress and assist families in being successful parents you are teaching them valuable skills. Stressed parents do not always make positive decisions. By offering support and hope we are providing the opportunity for parents to have one less stressor in their lives. Sometimes it helps just knowing that someone cares…and is there when you need them the most. Our Baby Pantry serves that role and is there for when parents need it the most.

At CCFI we’ve been fortunate to stock our Baby Pantry entirely on community donations and provided thousands of parents with nearly 40,000 diapers and hundreds of essential items (baby wipes, formula and cereal) in 2011. If we can provide support, encouragement and hope to families by allowing them to focus on the more important areas of parenting, like the relationship with their little ones, then it’s truly a benefit for the parent, child and the family as a whole, all of which transcends into a healthier community.