1. News You Can Use Winter Break January Reminders
Week of December 18, Southwood Headstart ( )
Winter Break
January Reminders
Winter Break starts Wednesday December 20th thru Tuesday January 2nd, school will resume on Wednesday January 3rd.
Monday January 15th- MLK Holiday- No school
Friday January 19th- Half day school… More Info will follow
Next Parent Meeting is scheduled for… Thursday January 25th
Watch for school closings on TV, radio, and cell phone… due to inclement weather

2. Are you Puzzled about Kindergarten?
Nutrition
Try These Healthy Habits This Month!
7 Breakfasts Every Week allows children to learn and concentrate easier. It can also prevent over eating throughout the day!
6 Home Cooked Meals Every Week – Eaten as a Family allows families to consume more fruits & veggies and fewer calories. It also creates better social skills.
5 Servings of Fruits & Veggies Every Day equals fewer calories over the day and increased fiber. Try to incorporate fruits & vegetables from every color of the rainbow.
4 Ounces of 100% Juice Per Day or Less to avoid increased weight gain and increased caloric intake. Choose water as the best drink option!
3 Servings of Low Fat Dairy Each Day. Choose 1% or fat free for children over 2 years of age.
2 Hour or Less of Screen Time Each Day. This includes TV, video games and computers in your child’s bedroom! Try playing outside instead!
1 Hour or More of Physical Activity Every Day! Try a family walk, bike ride, or play a sport!
Education
Social Services
The Impact of Sleep on Behavior
By: Lauren Byars, ELSS
Why is sleep important your child?
Poor sleeping habits and irregular bedtimes can cause:
 Lack of emotional regulation
 Difficulties with peers
Hyperactivity
Withdrawn, anxious, and depressed behavior
What can you do to promote healthy sleeping habits for your child?
10-13 hours of sleep each day (including naps)
Play calm music
Reading books together
Breathing exercises
Creating a consistent routine
Give reminders about when bedtime
**Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Med, Medical News Today, & National Sleep Foundation
Who: Head Start children entering Kindergarten during fall 2018 and their families
What: Kindergarten Open House – From Preschool to Kindergarten: Putting the pieces together
When: Wednesday, January 17, 2018 from 6: :30pm
Where: Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
11 Sheldon Avenue NE,
Grand Rapids, 49503
Why: Learn about local public and private Kindergarten Programs available. Information provided will include important registration dates, paperwork needed, and any other resources to help choose a Kindergarten Program for your child.
Extra: Free entry to the museum and a chance to win a backpack filled with school supplies
For more information , please talk to your Head Start teacher or call:
Deb Conley at (616) Ext. 2205
Are you Puzzled about Kindergarten?