Monday, January 18, marks the 35th anniversary of the federal holiday that honors the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (His actual birthday occurs on January 15.) Signed into law in 1983 and first observed in 1986, the holiday is a deserving tribute to King for advancing civil rights and social justice through nonviolent protest. "In 2021, 53 years after King’s death . . . the protests against police brutality and the demonstrations in support of Black Lives are a powerful reminder that the United States has yet to fulfill its promise to Black Americans. King’s closing words at the Bishop Charles Mason Temple the night before his death captures the purpose and meaning of Black protest and sacrifice. 'I might not get there with you, but I want you to know tonight that we as a people will get to the promised land.' On this MLK Day let us all re-dedicate ourselves to building a promised land where Black protest and sacrifice are not a requirement to live in the United States." … [Read more...]
Starfish Blog: Positive New Year’s resolutions for kids
The turning of the calendar to a new year sparks a new beginning. Adults typically take this opportunity to make resolutions for positive change---like being more active, eating more fruits and veggies. But what about kids? Helping your children to embrace positive energy can never start too early. Making resolutions is a great interactive activity to do with your children. If the word "resolution" sounds too intimidating, talk about setting goals---goals that are realistic. And have some fun! Kids love being involved in decision-making and charting their success. Depending on their age, create a sticker chart together or maybe experiment with flavors of vegetable smoothies that everyone can try. Encouraging your child to build healthy skills and habits now will carry well into adulthood. Below find some suggestions for age-appropriate New Year’s resolutions for kids adapted from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Preschool children I’ll pick up my toys and put stuff away … [Read more...]
Starfish Blog: Don’t “table” Thanksgiving because of COVID.
Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for joyous celebrations and coming together of family and friends. This year we're right in the middle of the three-week pandemic pause---and with safe-health distancing, it's going to look very different. Because the safest way to celebrate Thanksgiving 2020 is to celebrate at home with the people you live with. As a result, our stress levels will probably be higher than usual. And that's okay. Below are some tips and tools to help you and your family navigate "a new normal" during during the holidays. (Compiled by Starfish Trauma Informed Care Specialist Alice Santa, MSCP, TLLP. Materials adapted from The National Child Traumatic Stress Network and Connecticut Children's.) Parents & Caregivers: Taking care of YOU will increase your patience with your children & ease their distress. Allow yourself to feel sad, worried, or angry.Do something to take care of yourself.Listen to your favorite song.Take some deep breaths.Go on a … [Read more...]
In Solidarity, Not Silence
Message from Board Chair Janet Lawson & CEO Ann Kalass: In these troubling times, we lean on our Starfish core values of compassion and respect. And we look to our Starfish community for guidance as our hearts cry out for justice. Starfish Family Services stands resolute in our mission of strengthening families to create brighter futures for children. Our beloved founder Ouida Cash built the foundation for an inclusive and humble Starfish community. Ouida believed that staff should walk hand in hand, alongside Starfish families, recognizing we can learn as much from our families as they can learn from us. Never before has it been so important to listen and learn. To feel each other’s hearts. To contribute to healing and creating a community and country where our Black colleagues, friends, and families can thrive without fear and prejudice due to the color of their skin. Our hearts ache for the continued acts of hatred, murder, and violence against the Black … [Read more...]
Starfish Blog: Why are people wearing masks?
As COVID-19 restrictions slowly begin to ease up, many of us are venturing into public spaces. Those public spaces, however, look far from normal. As grownups, we know we're required to wear face coverings for safety and health reasons. But it's unsettling---especially when we're used to small moments of connection we make through a friendly smile. If it's strange for us, what does a child think? And how do we answer their questions? Below find tips from Rebecca Parlakian, senior director of programs at Zero to Three. See original article. For toddlers, it’s important to answer only the questions they ask. Avoid sharing "too much" information that might be confusing (e.g., what does contagious mean). Some common questions might be: Is the mask a costume? (No, sometimes people wear masks when they are sick or to help keep them safe so they won’t get sick.)Can the person still talk? (Yes. The mask covers their mouth, but they can still talk. Just like if I put my hand over my … [Read more...]
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