introducing new foods

HealtH issue: Hand, foot, and moutH disease

tax obligations for cHild care

Providers

featured reciPes:

Heart HealtHy

february 2015volume 41 l issue 2

herbs and sPices: Curry powder

ON THE COVER Henry is six months old and is the first child for his parents and first grandchild for both sets of grandparents. Henry is a happy baby, constantly showered with love and affection. Henry instantly charms everyone he meets with his joyful disposition, wide smile, and infectious giggle.

nutrition notes

The Association for Child development educates parents and caregivers about nutrition to promote the development of children and establish healthy eating habits to last a lifetime.

web: www.acdchilds.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/acdchildsorg

Twitter: www.twitter.com/acdchildsorg

Michigan p.o. Box 1491east Lansing, MI 48826139 w. Lake Lansing rd., Suite 120east Lansing, MI 48823phone: 800.234.3287 or 517.332.7200Fax: 517.332.5543e-mail: Michigan@acdchilds.org

Illinoisp.o. Box 7130westchester, lL 60154-71304415 west Harrison St., Suite 535Hillside, IL 60162phone: 800.284.5273 or 708.236.0863Fax: 708.236.0872e-mail: Illinois@acdchilds.org

Chief Executive OfficerBillie wimmer

Design, Writing, and LayoutAimee Klevorn

Recipes and Recipe Evaluations Amanda piccolo

Staff ContributorsVal Crafts, Amanda piccolo, and eduardo Guizar-Alvarez

potpourri is published monthly by the Association for Child development (ACd), a sponsor of the Child and Adult Care Food program (CACFp). Child care providers sponsored by the ACd for participation with the CACFp receive potpourri free of charge. No portion of potpourri may be reprinted without the consent of ACd.

The u.S. department of Agriculture prohibits discrimination against its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the bases of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, and where applicable, political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, sexual orientatio, or all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or in any program or activity conducted or funded by the department. (Not all prohibited bases will apply to all programs and/or employment activities.) If you wish to file a Civil rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the uSdA program discrimination Complaint Form, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, or at any uSdA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. you may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at u.S. department of Agriculture, director, office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.w., washington, d.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact uSdA through the Federal relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). uSdA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. (rev. 6/2013)

Curry powder is a spice mix whose key ingredients are coriander,

turmeric, cumin, fenugreek, and chili peppers. The composition of this condiment mix varies greatly and can range from mild to spicy.

HeALTH BeNeFITSTurmeric, one of the main ingredients of curry, has many health benefits. It is used as an anti-inflammatory and helps relieve muscle and joint aches.

Coriander, another curry spice, has been shown to help destroy food-borne bacteria which helps fight food poisoning.

SeLeCTIoN ANd STorAGeStore curry power in a cool, dark cupboard away from direct heat or sunlight in a tightly sealed container. do not freeze.

Curry powder stays fresh for about six months before it begins losing nutrients and flavor.

prepArATIoNCurry powder is a traditional part of Indian cuisine and is used universally to flavor meat, vegetables, and fish.

The cancer fighting properties of the spices in curry powder are most efficiently released through cooking, so it is often used in marinades, soups, and stews.

Sources: www.cookforyourlife.org, www.stilltasty.com, www.healthyeating.com.

ReciPe: eASy CHICKeN Curry

1 tablespoon olive oil1/2 cup onion, diced1 garlic clove, minced1 cup red bell pepper, cubed1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed2 teaspoons curry powder1/2 teaspoons salt2 tablespoons tomato paste1 cup carrots, sliced into coins1 1/2 cups potato, cubed1 14-ounce can light coconut milk1/2 cup frozen peas

Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat and sauté the onions. Add garlic and bell peppers for an additional minute. Add the cubed chicken and sauté 2 minutes. Stir in the curry powder, salt, tomato paste, carrots, and potatoes. pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer for 10 minutes. remove lid, add the peas, and simmer 15 minutes. Serve over rice. Makes 11 servings for 3-5 year olds at lunch/dinner.

Vegetables/Fruits Meat/Meat Alternates

Source and photo: weelicious.com

featured recipesnutrition notes

Association for Child Development Potpourri • February 2015 e

Heart Healthy RecipesFebruary is National Heart Healthy Month. Help protect your

cardiovascular system with these yummy recipes.

MedITerrANeAN CouSCouS SALAd

1 3/4 cups whole-wheat couscous 1 1/2 cups cucumber, peeled, quartered, and sliced 1 1/2 cups grapes, halved 1/4 cup green onions, chopped 1/3 cup olives, sliced1 15.5 ounce can garbanzo beans, drained, rinsed 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried)1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon lemon juice4 tablespoons reduced-fat feta cheese

Cook couscous according to package directions. Add cucumbers, grapes, and green onions into a large bowl. when couscous is cooked, fluff with a fork and add to the bowl along with the olives, garbanzo beans, parsley, oil, and lemon juice. Stir to combine. Top the salad with feta cheese. Makes 20 servings for 3-5 year olds at lunch/dinner.

Vegetables/Fruits Grains/Breads

photo and source: www.heart.org

Tex-Mex pINTo BeANS ANd rICe

1 cup bell pepper, diced1/2 cup onion, chopped1/2 cup carrots, matchstick-cut or thinly sliced3 garlic cloves, minced1 14.5-ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes, undrained 1 15.5 ounce can pinto beans, rinsed, drained4 1/2 cups hot cooked brown rice1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar jack cheese 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Cook bell pepper, onion, carrots, and garlic in a large saucepan coated with cooking spray over medium heat 8 minutes. Add tomatoes; return to a boil. reduce heat; simmer 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Stir in beans; heat through, about 5 minutes. Serve mixture over hot cooked rice topped with cheese and cilantro. Makes 18 servings for 3-5 year olds at lunch/dinner.

Vegetables/Fruits Grains/Breads

Source and photo: /www.sargento.com

LeMoN BLueBerry oATMeAL

1 cup low-fat milk or water1/2 cup regular rolled oats 1/2 cup banana, mashed3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or 1/2 teaspoon lemon extractPinch of salt1 cup fresh blueberries

Bring milk or water to a boil, add oats, and reduce heat to medium. Stir the banana into the oatmeal. once more of the liquid has absorbed, add lemon juice/extract and salt. Stir. Cook until the oatmeal reaches desired consistency. Serve topped with blueberries and a splash of milk. Makes 3 servings for 3-5 year olds at lunch/dinner.

Vegetables/Fruits Grains/Breads

Source and photo: theoatmealartist.blogspot.com

CACFP Requirements and a Week’s Worth of Ideas

requIreMeNTS Monday Tuesday wednesday Thursday Friday

BREAkFASt1. Vegetables/Fruits2. Grains/Breads3. Milk

1. Bananas 2. oatmeal3. Milk

1. Blueberries2. wheat Flakes3. Milk

1. Mandarin oranges2. Toast3. Milk

1. Cantaloup2. Muffins3. Milk

1. Applesauce2. english Muffin3. Milk

LuNCH/DINNER1. Meat/Meat Alternates2. Grains/Breads3a. Vegetables/Fruits3b. Vegetables/Fruits4. Milk

1. Turkey2. Biscuit3a. Corn3b. oranges4. Milk

1. Meat Sauce (homemade)2. Spaghetti Noodles3a. Apples3b. Kiwi4. Milk

1. egg2. Toast3a. Mixed Vegetables3b. Fruit Cocktail4. Milk

1. Chicken2. rolls3a. Tater Tots3b. peaches4. Milk

1. Tuna2. pasta3a. Tomatoes3b. peaches4. Milk

SNACkSFor each snack, choose one food from two of the following food groups:1. Meat/Meat Alternates 2. Vegetables/Fruits3. Grains/Breads4. Milk If serving a liquid at snack, the second component must be a solid.

1. wheat Crackers

2. Cheese

1. Cereal Snack Mix

2. Apple

1. Animal Crackers

2. Carrots

1. Granola Bars

2. Milk

1. Bread Sticks

2. Cucumber

1. Graham Crackers

2. Milk

1. pineapple

2. Cottage Cheese

1. Vegetable Kabob

2. Cheese

1. Bananas

2. yogurt

1. pretzels

2. Carrots

r February 2015 • Potpourri

Children's favorites: strawberry yogurt Cones

tips and menus

1 cup strawberries, sliced1/2 cup non-fat yogurt (flavor of your choice) 2 waffle conesColored sprinkles or granola (optional)

Gently mix together strawberries and yogurt in a bowl, reserving 2-3 slices for garnish. Spoon mixture into waffle cones, dividing the mixture equally. If desired, garnish with sprinkles or granola and remaining strawberry slices. Serve with spoons. Makes 2 servings for 3-5 year olds at snack.

Vegetables/Fruits Meat/Meat Alternates

Source and photo: www.californiastrawberries.com

Making nutrition eduCation funuse the game idea below to teach children about nutrition and get them excited to make healthy food choices.

Food Scavenger Hunt Gather fruits and vegetables or pictures of healthy foods and hide them throughout the house. Make a scavenger hunt to find the different foods. Have clues that describe the certain food and where to find it. on each clue write an activity the children must do before going to the next clue. For example, have the children sing "Head, Shoulder, Knees, and Toes" before finding the next clue.

Association for Child Development

Potpourri • February 2015 t Association for Child Development

childhood challengestips and menus

use “food art” (such as a face or flower) to create something fun with the new food.

Have a food of the week and try cooking it in different ways. Ask the children which preparations they prefer.

Make it fun by having the children taste the new food using a blindfold. often children gauge the food by what it looks like.

research the food with the child. Find out where and how it grows and interesting facts about the food.

Let the children pick which food they want to try.

Have everyone put their hands behind their back and try to eat the new food without their hands. This is a fun way to try new foods.

eat with the children to encourage good eating habits. Make positive comments about the way the food smells, looks, and tastes.

Try the food at a time of day when the child is most likely to accept the new food. The child may be sleepy or unpleasant in the morning, so try the new food at lunch time.

Have children make up a name for a certain food or dish. For instance, peas become power balls and carrots are rocket ships.

Allow the child to help prepare the food.

Let the children be the enforcers of you trying a food you don’t like or have never tried.

pair new foods with old favorites.

Try dips or cutting the food into fun shapes.

Mix unfamiliar flavors or foods with familiar ones and talk about what you are eating.

Try it again. It takes several exposures to new foods for a child to accept and enjoy the food.

Make mealtime stress-free. Talk about fun and happy things. Children are more likely to try something new in a safe, happy environment.

Children are great learners and will easily learn to love any food if given the opportunity to try it. In fact, familiarity is one of the most important factors for children's acceptance of foods, which means the How is more important that the wHAT when it comes to introducing foods.

Creativity is a great way to help introduce new foods to skeptical children.

It is recommended that parents and caregivers introduce solid foods to infants between the ages of 4 and 6 months. Before 4 months of age, infants' digestive systems are not mature enough to handle solid foods and they lack the physical maturity to chew and swallow anything other than breast milk or formula. Regardless of when solid foods are introduced, it is important that infants are still breast or formula fed until age 1.

Here are some tips to follow when introducing new foods to infants and toddlers:

Start at the right time. Feed infants and toddlers a new solid food when they are calm and alert. Make sure children are hungry, but not so hungry that they are upset and crying.

Be patient. Start off by offering a small amount of food. If infants and toddlers seem reluctant to eat a new food, let them smell, explore, and taste the food to become familiar with it.

try, try again. There is a good chance young children will grimace and reject a new food immediately after trying it. This rejection does not necessarily mean children do not like the food, rather they may be reacting to the unfamiliar flavor, texture, or smell.

Infants and toddlers may need to try a new food up to 20 times before they will accept it, so offer a small portion of the new food every day and watch as they learn to accept each new food they encounter.

It is important to watch for allergies when introducing new foods!

Introducing New Foods Introducing New Foods to Infants and toddlers

Sources: www.uvahealth.com and www.keepkidshealthy.com

Children are often reluctant and sometimes even stubborn when it comes to trying new foods. Experiment with some of these ideas to help the little ones you serve be courageous and try that mysterious green vegetable.

Parent & Provider Page

healthy habits: deCreasing sugar

y February 2015 • Potpourri Association for Child Development

Why should I limit sugar?when you eat too many foods high in added sugar, you crowd out the more nutritious foods that provide the nutrients you need to stay healthy. Foods high in added sugar are also often high in calories and fat. This can lead to eating too many calories and cause weight gain.

How much sugar is too much?The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar to 25 grams (6 teaspoons) per day. one package of peanut m&m’s or 8 ounces of lemon-lime soda are examples of 25 grams of sugar.

What counts as an added sugar? Sugar added in cooking or at the table Sugar added to processed and prepared foods Sugar added in beverages

Where is the all the sugar coming from?The average child consumes 23 teaspoons of sugar a day. That equals 92 grams of sugar. Almost half the sugar children consume comes from sweetened beverages, such as sodas, fruit drinks, and sports drinks. one fourth comes from sweet desserts like candy, cookies, cake, ice cream, and sweetened breakfast cereal. The remaining fourth is from sugar added in cooking and in processed and packaged foods.

Ways to decrease sugar in your diet Buy fresh fruits or fruits canned in natural juice. Add fruit instead of sugar to cereal or oatmeal. Cut the sugar by one-forth to one-third when baking cookies, brownies, or cakes. use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for sugar in recipes. Make your own oatmeal instead of using oatmeal packets. Limit flavored beverages such as juices and other sweetened beverages. Skip sugary and frosted cereals. Choose fruit for dessert instead of cakes, cookies, and other sweets. Snack on vegetables, fruits, low-fat cheese, and whole grain crackers. Some spices and flavorings have a sweet taste and can help eliminate the need for added sugar(e.g. cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, almond extract).

Watch out for these common names of added sugars: agave nectar fructose high-fructose corn syrup honey rice/corn/maple/malt/ golden/palm syrup

corn sweetener maltose sucrose glucose molasses juice concentrate dextrose

Parent & Provider Page

Potpourri • February 2015 u

Craft Corner

tHEME OF tHE MONtH:kINDNESS

Recommended Books

Association for Child Development

healthy reCipe: asian suCCotash1 cup frozen shelled edamame, defrosted1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed1 cup red bell pepper, diced1/2 teaspoon sesame oil2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce

place all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Makes 10 servings for 3-5 year olds at lunch/dinner.

Vegetables/Fruits

Source and photo: weelicious.com

ItEMS NEEDED:red, pink, and black construction paper red paintred pipe cleanerGlueScissorsTwo googly eyes

DIRECtIONS:1. Cut out a black circle from construction paper for the body and a small oval for the ladybug's head.2. Cut a heart out of the red paper as big as the body part. Turn it upside down and glue it on to make the ladybug's wings. 3. Cut out and add a smaller pink heart in the middle. 4. Glue on the googly eyes and a pipe cleaner for the antennas.5. use red paint for the ladybug's spots.

Lovebug

HAVE yOu FILLED A BuCkEt tODAy?By Carol McCloud Through simple prose and vivid illustrations, this heartwarming book encourages positive behavior as children see how rewarding it is to express daily kindness, appreciation, and love.

kINDNESS IS COOLER, MRS. RuLERBy Margery Cuylerwhen Mrs. ruler asks five of her kindergartners to miss recess, she's got a special plan up her sleeve. She's about to teach a new golden rule.

DRAGON MAkES NEW FRIENDSBy Michael yudrake just wants to play with all the other kids, but he has a bit of a problem: drake is a dragon. How can he show them that he'd be a good friend? or maybe he's just too scared to try. poor drake. Find out what happens to him in this fun story told in rhyme, accompanied by beautiful illustrations.

LEt'S BE kINDBy P. k. HallinanA delightful story that shows young children how to be kind at home and at play. Here are ways to be kind, from picking up toys to feeding the dog.

Parent & Provider Page

i February 2015 • Potpourri Association for Child Development

About Elizabeth Tax Tips

Tax season can be a stressful time, especially for those who run a business from their home. The following are tips to help ease the stress and clear the confusion of claiming taxes as a Child Care provider.

Caring for children in your home gives you the opportunity to claim several tax deductions. Any expenses or purchases that relate to your child care business are potential tax deductions. Believe it or not, your house itself gives you a possible deduction under the Internal revenue Service (IrS) provision for business use of your home. Maintaining accurate records of all child care expenses will help maximize your tax deductions.

BuSINESS uSE OF HOMEIf you own your home and it is used for your business, you are able to deduct a certain portion of your home as business use. Although most home-based businesses are only able to claim the portions of their home that are used solely for business purposes, home child care providers are able to deduct the portions of their home that are used for both day care and personal use. The requirement for this deduction is that you must possess a license or registration from the state designating you as a home child care. you must then calculate the area of the home that is used for your child care. Is it just the basement or is it the entire house? If you also use that portion of the house for personal use, you are only able to deduct a portion of the amount based on how much you use it for your child care.

SuPPLIESdo you keep the receipts for any supplies purchased for your child care? If not, you should start! All supplies purchased for your business (e.g. diapers, wipes, crayons, toys, folders, paper towels, etc.) are considered deductible expenses. This includes any office supplies purchased to run your day care. Keep receipts for all business related transactions and purchase the supplies for your child care separately from your personal purchases.

BuSINESS ExPENSESKeep track of any business expenses that relate to your business. These expenses are potential tax deductions. Any fees paid during the tax year, such as licensing fees or costs, can be deducted. Keep track of costs associated with classes or training related to your business that you attended during the tax year. Legal fees for business purposes, insurance, and advertising costs, are other potential tax deductions.

MILEAGEAny driving you do related to the business is subject to the standard mileage rate for tax deductions. This amount changes each year and is a certain amount per mile you drive. This includes transporting children while they are under your care or driving to handle business matters. document your mileage throughout the year to have an accurate record of how much you drove for child care purposes.

keep in mind that any supplies or services that are used to benefit your business can be at least partially deducted. Include the following items: electric bills, propane or natural gas, water bills, home security system fees, cable or satellite television, internet service, and garbage and/or recycling pickup.

All of these services are necessary for running your business and are potential deductions.

to deduct, calculate the total amount spent in a year for a service and then multiply it by your time/space formula* calculation to get a total deduction.

*the time/space formula calculates how much time you spent doing child care in a year compared to the number of hours in a year, and also calculates the amount of space in your home that is used for your business.

Sources: www.smallbusiness.chron.com and www.runningasuccessfulhomechildcare.blogspot.com

this information is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute or imply legal or professional advice.

If you need insurance, tax or legal advice, please contact a qualified professional.

Here is yet another reason to teach children to wash their hands well and often: it can help prevent the spread of hand, foot, and mouth (HFM) disease. Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common contagious illness caused by viruses from the enterovirus family, most commonly the coxsackievirus.

These viruses live in the body's digestive tract and spread from person to person, usually on unwashed hands and surfaces contaminated by feces (poop). Children 1 to 4 years old are most at risk for the disease, as infections are common in childcare centers, preschools, and other places where children are in close quarters. The illness typically lasts 3-5 days.

outbreaks are most common during the warm summer and early fall months, but can happen year-round in tropical parts of the world.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is not the same as hoof and mouth disease, which is an unrelated illness that affects barnyard animals and livestock.

SignS and SymptomSHFM causes painful blisters in the throat, and on the tongue, gums, hard palate, or inside the cheeks. Blisters are red with a small bubble of fluid on top. They often peel, leaving an ulcer, which is a sore with a reddish base. The soles of the feet and the palms of the hands may have a rash that can look like flat red spots or red blisters. occasionally, a pink rash may be seen on other parts of the body, such as the buttocks and thighs. However, some children will have no problems other than sores in the back of the throat.

It can be hard for parents to tell if a child (especially a very young one) has HFM disease if sores are only inside the mouth or throat. Very young children might not be able to communicate that they have a sore throat, but if a child stops eating or drinking, or wants to eat or drink less often, it's a sign that something is wrong.

A child with HFM also might: have a fever, muscle aches, or other flu-like symptoms become irritable or sleep more than usual begin drooling (due to painful swallowing) only want to drink cold fluids

treatmentIf your child is very irritable or refusing food or drink, it's time to see the doctor. while there is no medical cure for HFM disease (the illness needs to run its course), the doctor can recommend home care to make your child more comfortable during recovery.

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be given to help a child who is achy or irritable, or to ease painful mouth sores or discomfort from fever. But do not give aspirin to children or teens, as it may cause a rare but serious illness called reye syndrome.

A child who has trouble swallowing might be prescribed "magic mouthwash"— a mixture made by pharmacists that can be dabbed onto sores to ease pain. Cold foods like ice cream and popsicles also help by numbing the area, and will be a welcome treat for children who have trouble swallowing (and even those who don't!).

Children with blisters on their hands or feet should keep the areas clean and uncovered. wash the skin with

lukewarm soap and water, and pat dry. If a blister pops, dab on a bit of antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection and cover it with a small bandage.

Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Call your doctor if your child remains very irritable, can't be comforted, is sluggish, or seems to be getting worse. your child also may need to see the doctor if he or she looks dehydrated, with signs like a dry tongue, sunken eyes, or decreased urine output.

HFM disease usually clears up within several days to a week and children recover completely. Very rarely, it can lead to complications such as viral meningitis (infection of the fluid around the brain and spinal cord) or encephalitis (infection and inflammation of the brain).

preventing the SpreadThere is no vaccine to prevent HFM disease or other similar infections. HFM is contagious and can spread through contact with feces, saliva, mucus from the nose, or fluid from the blisters. keep children home from school and childcare while they have a fever or open blisters on the skin and in the mouth.

even after children recover, they can pass the virus in their stool for several weeks, so the infection still can spread to others.

Hand washing is the best protection. remind everyone in your family to wash their hands often, especially after using the toilet or changing a diaper, and before preparing or eating food. Shared toys in childcare centers should be cleaned often with a disinfectant because many viruses can live on objects for a few days.

Association for Child Development Potpourri • February 2015 o

Health issues

Hand, Foot, and Mouth DiseaseBy Healthy kids

a February 2015 • Potpourri Association for Child Development

February 2015Provider information

Online training through ACDdo you need extra training hours? Here is a great way to

get them without ever leaving your home!

Earning online training credits from home Child Care providers sponsored by the Association for Child development may now earn training credits working from a computer at home.

To enroll in this online training opportunity, simply log in to the self-study website and set up an account using your agency identification code: ACd.

upon successful completion of each course, you will receive: one training credit for a one-hour class and two training credits for a two-hour class.

Self-study topics include the following:Ages and StagesAnger Management AutismAvoiding Stress and BurnoutBipolar diseaseBitingCommunicating with young Childrendeveloping responsibility and Independence development in Childrendo's and don't's of disciplineearly Brain development Food and Infant Health Food and AllergiesHelping a Child Grieve

Frequently asked questions regarding online training creditsHow much does it cost? $10 per class

How many credits will I earn? one training credit for a one-hour class and two training credits for a two-hour class

What is my agency identification "number?" ACd

Steps to beginning a self study program1. Type www.ccdsmetro.org into your web browser.

2. In the orange banner at the top of the page, select "Self Studies."

3. Select "Create An Account/Log In."

4. on the next page, select "Create an account" once more.

5. using your e-mail address, a password of your choice, and your agency identification code: "ACd," create an account.

6. you may browse a list of topics. If you click on any, you will be directed to buy credits to use toward purchasing classes. each topic is $10.

7. you may purchase as many credits as you like, after which you can select any topic.

Keep in mind that once you have purchased credits, clicking on a class topic will open it, and a $10 credit will be applied to that topic.

8. After selecting a class, you will be required to read and study the material and then take a test.

9. After completing the test, click submit, and your test will be graded instantly.

10. If you pass with a score of 85% or higher, you will be able to print out your certificate immediately.

activities calendar

February 2015w e r t y

o 1) 1! 1@ 1#

1^ 1& 1* 1( 2)

2# 2$ 2% 2^ 2&

MONDAy tuESDAy WEDNESDAy tHuRSDAy FRIDAy

dental Health weatherrosa parks day Groundhog dayJoke of the day

Kindness dayT-shirt paintingumbrella dayHeart MonthHeart Biscuits

Love your pet dress up Make a Holiday Kabob day

Joke of the dayBackward daypancake MonthSay Something

Cherry Month

polar Bear day

Help the children find their pulse and feel their heartbeat. Talk about the importance of physical activity and eating nutritious foods to keep their heart healthy

Mix up the dough for your favorite biscuits, add red food coloring, and cut into heart shapes before baking. Top with strawberries

paint coffee filters with watercolors. when dry, turn coffee filters upside down to create an umbrella. place a pipe cleaner through the coffee filter for the handle

Allow the children to use red and white paint to decorate white t-shirts for Valentine's day. Allow the children to mix the paint to get the color they want

Make a poster for the children to read with a slogan reminding them to practice random Acts of Kindness

Have the children draw pictures of today's weather, and then take turns pretending to be a weatherperson and talk about the weather today

discuss ways to keep your teeth healthy

what has teeth but cannot eat?

A comb

Let the children take turns making hand shadows in front of the wall or behind a hanging sheet with a light source

Help the children learn about rosa parks by reading books about her and researching the internet

Make your own fruit kabobs. These are tasty and healthy treats that the children can help make

Take out some old clothes and accessories from the closet and play dress up

Ask the children to talk about the pets they have at home

practicing saying nice things to each other

Stack pancakes on a plate and top them with a variety of fresh fruit

wear all your clothes backwards. Say Hello for Goodbye, Goodbye for Hello. Have fun with the children saying the ABC's backwards

what do cats call mice on skateboards?

Meals on wheels

Have the children draw pictures of polar bear. Glue cotton balls on the beard to add texture to their picture

Learn facts about cherries. They are a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium and they are related to plums and peaches

Have the children make up a holiday to celebrate their favorite book, animal, movie, food, color, flower, or other item

Association for Child Development Potpourri • February 2015 d

acd news

News from IllINoIs

deanna Bruce Sylvia Fennell Hamilton Ladeana Mcpeak Angela riemann Jenny rankin Shaney Hall Cheryl Flowers

Gerline Fisher Kara Boone Tammy Holloway Takahya Nelson Shantai prince quanita Gonnigan Tara Stank

Shantanna Fann Lisa Skeate

tax InformationTax Summary Statements for 2014 were mailed in January 2015 to providers who claim using scannable forms.

If you have signed an online web disclaimer Form, whether claiming online or using scannable forms, you can view your Tax Summary Statement online.

please note that your Tax Summary Statement will include reimbursement received in calendar year 2015.

Follow these steps to access your tax Summary Statement:1. open your Minute Menu program.2. enter your Login Id and password.If you do not have your Login Id and password, call the ACd office at (800) 284-5273 and we can provide it.3. Select reports > Claim > Tax report.4. Choose the year 2014.5. your Tax report will appear on your screen.Click the “print” button at the bottom of the page.

If you have any further questions about your tax Summary Statement, please contact a tax professional or an IRS representative.

Monthly Reimbursement Reminders The last day to accept December 2014 claims for reimbursement is February 27, 2015.

The last day to accept January 2015 claims for reimbursement is March 28, 2015.

Have an idea for Potpourri?one of the greatest things about ACd providers is their willingness to share incredible ideas with their fellow childcare professionals. To better serve you through potpourri, we would love to hear what topics affect you most as a day care provider. Send your topic ideas or suggestions to acdpublications@acdkids.org or call (800) 234-3287 (ext.102).

'tis the Season for Snow Days!It’s the time of year for children to be unexpectedly out of school. whether they are out due to illness, the weather, or school closings, be sure to let us know!

If you claim using the Minute Menu Kids program, please remember to select the “school out” or “child sick” button when the children are home from school.

For those who claim using the bubble forms simply write the day, the child’s name, and the reason for staying home on the back of your Claim Information Form. our customer service specialists will make sure you receive your reimbursement!

Welcome, New Providers

Association for Child Development Potpourri • February 2015 1#

acd news

News from mIchIgaN

Welcome, New Providers Amanda palmer Heather upright-Solomon Tanee ross dawn Herig ruth Gamble Stephanie Axe Angela westermeyer Angela Maddox

Sheila edmiston Joseph Brooks Karen Seibly Katherine roberts Larry Strong Vivian Seabron Holly Tyler Katherine Thomas

Shirley dutton erin doty darlene Shoaff raven Barrett Tarra Ade Shantell Taylor Shalrron Beard Amie dennison

'tis the Season for Snow Days!It’s the time of year for children to be unexpectedly out of school. whether they are out due to illness, the weather, or school closings, be sure to let us know!

If you claim using the Minute Menu Kids program, please remember to select the “school out” or “child sick” button when the children are home from school.

For those who claim using the bubble forms simply write the day, the child’s name, and the reason for staying home on the back of your Claim Information Form. our customer service specialists will make sure you receive your reimbursement!

Monthly Reimbursement Reminders The last day to accept December 2014 claims for reimbursement is February 27, 2015.

The last day to accept January 2015 claims for reimbursement is March 28, 2015.

acd news

tax InformationTax Summary Statements for 2014 were mailed in January 2015 to providers who claim using scannable forms.

If you have signed an online web disclaimer Form, whether claiming online or using scannable forms, you can view your Tax Summary Statement online.

please note that your Tax Summary Statement will include reimbursement received in calendar year 2015.

Follow these steps to access your tax Summary Statement:1. open your Minute Menu program.2. enter your Login Id and password.If you do not have your Login Id and password, call the ACd office at (800) 234-3287 and we can provide it.3. Select reports > Claim > Tax report.4. Choose the year 2014.5. your Tax report will appear on your screen.Click the “print” button at the bottom of the page.

If you have any further questions about your tax Summary Statement, please contact a tax professional or an IRS representative.

tiering updateper the Michigan department of education, the ACd Michigan office has received new Census data and have re-tiered providers effective on the december 2014 claims. This has allowed many Tier II providers to move into Tier I and receive a higher reimbursement rate. If you have any questions regarding your tiering status, please contact emily Vandamme at (800) 234-3287 (ext. 111).

February 2015 Nutrition quiz1. Which of the following is a key ingredient in curry powder?a. Corianderb. Turmericc. Both A and B

2. Curry Powder is always spicy.a. True b. FALSe

3. What is a health benefit of turmeric? a. Serves as an anti-inflammatory b. Aids in digestionc. Kills bacteria

4. Store curry powder tightly sealed in a container.a. True b. FALSe

5. How long does curry powder usually stay fresh for?a. Three weeksb. 6 monthsc. Indefinitely

6. Children are often reluctant and sometimes even stubborn when it comes to trying new foods. a. Trueb. FALSe

7. What is one good approach to introducing a new food to a child?a. only try the food onceb. Make it func. do not introduce new foods to children

8. Do not try the same food twice. It should only take one exposure to a new food for a child to accept it.a. Trueb. FALSe

9. Why should you limit sugar?a. Causes weight gainb. All types of sugar are badc. Limiting sugar is unnecessary

10. What is added sugar? a. Sugar added in beveragesb. Sugar added when cookingc. Both A and B

11. What is a good way to prevent the spread of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease? a. wash hands regularlyb. Clean toys regularlyc. Both A and B

12. Where does the Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease live in a humans?a. digestive Tractb. Skinc. Mouth

13. If a child is very irritable or refusing food or drink, it's time to see the doctor.a. Trueb. FALSe

14. When should children be kept home from school and/or child care? a. one weekb. They should not stay homec. when they have a fever or open blisters on the skin and in the mouth

15. Which of the following is a symptom of Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease?a. A fever, muscle aches, or other flu-like symptomsb. drooling (due to painful swallowing)c. Both A and B

The u.S. department of Agriculture prohibits discrimination against its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the bases of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, and where applicable, political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, sexual orientation, or all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or in any program or activity conducted or funded by the department. (Not all prohibited bases will apply to all programs and/or employment activities.) If you wish to file a Civil rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the uSdA program dis-crimination Complaint Form, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, or at any uSdA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. you may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at u.S. department of Agriculture, director, office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.w., washington, d.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact uSdA through the Federal relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). uSdA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. (rev. 6/2013)

Michigan Office139 w. Lake Lansing rd., Suite 120 • east Lansing, MI 48823

Telephone: (800) 234-3287 • FAx: (517) 332-5543

Illinois Office4415 w. Harrison St., Suite 535 • Hillside, IL 60162

Telephone: (800) 284-5273 • FAx: (708) 236-0872

www.acdchilds.org