During the school year, you probably structure your child’s routine around the time she spends in school. But summer’s coming. What will occupy the hours your child will not be in school?

Guard against filling the time gap with television and other screen-based activities. It is important to limit these activities in summer as well as during the school year because:

Too much TV and computer time rob your child of a great summer gift—nice weather and long days she could spend in active play.
Extra TV and screen time now creates a bad habit you may struggle to break in the fall.
Keep your child’s summer screen time in check with these tips:

• Allow no more than two hours of total screen time per day. Keep track of how much time your child spends in front of the TV or computer with a timer or a chart.

• Give your child a job when you are busy instead of sitting her in front of the TV. Have her sort socks, pick up toys or help you put lightweight groceries away.

• Create an “I’m Bored Box.” With your child, make a list of fun activities that she can do all by herself. Activities can include things such as coloring, sorting items, looking at a book, playing with puppets. Stock all of the items she’ll need for the tasks in the box. The next time your child is bored, pull out the box instead of turning on the television!

Reprinted with permission from the May 2008 issue of Parents make the difference!® (Early Childhood Edition) newsletter. Copyright © 2008 The Parent Institute®, a division of NIS, Inc.

Camp courage is a supportive environment for children who have suffered similar losses from death, divorce or separation. Children participate in recreational activities that promote self-esteem, encourage self-healing, and provide an outlet for unexpressed emotions. In addition, with the help of specially trained counselors, campers develop healthy coping skills as a result of the variety of grief exercises offered, which ultimately help build self confidence, trust, and an understanding of the grief process.

Important dates for Camp Courage 2008:

Camp dates: June 2-5

Parent Information Meeting:
Tuesday, May 27 at 6:30 PM

Who is eligible to attend Camp Courage?

Children, 1st through 12 grade (children going into 1st grade must have completed Kindergarten), who are dealing with loss due to a death, divorce, or other painful transition.

Cost: There is no charge to attend thanks to the generous support of the Children’s Miracle Network and the Kiwanis Clubs of the Texas Midwest.

Where is Camp Courage held?
Camp Butman Methodist Retreat Center Located between Merkel and Bronte, 35 miles south of Abilene.

Get your application here! www.hendrickhospice.org/campcourage/index.htm
Please print and complete one application per child. Applications must undergo a screening process, and participation is limited. Completed application may be mailed to:
Hendrick Hospice Care
Attention: Camp Courage
PO Box 1922
Abilene, TX 79604
To have an application mailed to you, please call Hendrick Hospice Care 1.800.622.8516 or 325.677.8516.

Click here for the

Clyde CISD Guidance and Counseling Program PowerPoint Slide Show.