Welcome to the start of a new school year!
Where has
the year gone? I’ve clearly lost track of time since the last time I posted was
in January. COVID-19 has continued to impact us all in ever-changing ways,
confounding recommendations on how best to contain the spread and manage
outbreaks. Hopefully we are learning how to live with this virus that seems to
be with us to stay. It appears that the Office of Child and Family Services is
no longer posting regular COVID-19 updates on its website but rather referring
providers to the FAQ, which is updated frequently:
https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/infectious-disease/epi/airborne/coronavirus/FAQ.shtml#business
Providers
are also being directed to the U.S. CDC for updated guidance:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/k-12-childcare-guidance.html
Although
this document is the last OCFS update from spring 2022, it is still relevant: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/infectious-disease/epi/airborne/documents/Childcare-COVID-Packet-1.pdf
On another
more positive topic, those of us who provide consultation through private
practices are working on formation of a network to share resources and best
practices. One of my colleagues from northern Maine is hosting several
conferences for early childhood education and care providers.
To sign up for both sessions: https://clearhealthadvising.as.me/?appointmentType=34776457
To sign up individually: https://www.clearhealthadvising.org/courses
Dates: Topic 1 - October
5th and Topic 2 - October 12th
Times: Topic 1:
10/5/2022 6:30-8:30 p.m. =2 hours Continuing education
Topic 2: 10/12/2022 6:30-8:30 p.m. =2 hours continuing education
Topic 1: Behavioral Health in the Early Childhood Setting with child
psychiatrist Julie Balaban, MD.
Topic 2: Understanding and assessing normal childhood speech and language development with SLP Brittany Bubar CCC-SLP
This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about these topics, ask questions, get advice from experts, and hear how other providers handle situations.
Wishing you a smooth, safe, and healthy start to the school year!
Warm regards,
Deb
