AL Baby Facts

Have you ever wondered how Alabama's early learning compares to other states? Here is ZERO TO THREE's Alabama Baby Facts for children ages 0 – 5 years old. Alabama is below the nationwide average for parents or family who read to their child each day, but above the nationwide average for parents or family members who sing and tell stories to their children. Our state is below the nationwide average for developmental screenings to detect developmental and behavioral problems. One in four Alabama children are at a moderate or high risk for developmental behavioral problems.

According to ZERO TO THREE, infants and toddlers are always learning whether it's in "the home, child care centers, Early Head Start, family child care homes, and family, friend, and neighbor care. High-quality care that promotes positive early learning can have lasting effects into adulthood, particularly for children who are at risk for starting school behind their peers. For more information on these programs, go to www.zerotothree.org/earlylearning."

Family New Year Resolutions

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Happy New Year! We at Help Me Grow Alabama have big plans for 2016 and we’re excited you’re along for the journey! At the start of the year, many families are considering making positive changes and we have a few resources to help get you started. First, this article from PBS provides recommendations for what you should consider when it comes to planning new resolutions for you and your child. Making New Year’s resolutions can be a beneficial time of reflection and critical thinking; children can learn about self-discipline and the value of setting goals. Here are some things to consider:

1. Make it a family activity. The best way to teach your child the importance of a New Year’s resolutions is by getting the family together and everyone being involved. You can take time to remember the past year’s goals and accomplishments.
2. Make different resolutions for different ages. Resolutions for preschoolers may focus on cleaning up toys, brushing teeth, washing hands and being kind to pets, as suggested by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The AAP also recommends that children ages 5 to 12 commit to drinking more milk and water on a daily basis, always wearing a seat belt, and being friendly to all children However, some parents may already expect these behaviors and may choose to focus more on attitudes than behaviors. Check out these suggestions for teaching gratitude.
3. Lead by example. Just as with everything else you do, your child is watching. No matter what age your child is, he or she is more likely to understand the value of goal setting if you serve as a role model.
4. Celebrate accomplishments. We all know the feeling of meeting a goal and children also relish that thrill, especially when parents acknowledge it. However your family decides to handle New Year’s resolutions, the best part is that you are doing it together and learning how to manage your role in the family and in the world.