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Other things may change, but we all start and end with family. | Issue 5, Summer 2018

Supporting Your Child’s Developing Mental Health

Babies and toddlers have many needs that you meet every day. Cuddling, feeding, clothing, bathing and diaper changing are bonding moments with your little one. Think about something else important to nurture, your child’s mental health. Responding to your baby’s needs is the first step in helping him/her develop positive mental health. Read Mental Health America's article for information and activities that support your child’s mental health.  

Resource for Your Family

Information Connections has resources for parents of children with developmental disabilities and chronic diseases. This site is easy to navigate and includes information about organizations, legislation, education, videos and family resources.

If you are looking for resources, have questions about Transitioning out of Early Intervention or have any other needs, please contact the EI Parent Liaison, Melissa Carnes at mcarnes@lakecountyil.gov or (847)377-8923

"You are BRAVER than you believe, STRONGER than you seem, and SMARTER than you think."

- A.A. Milne, author of Winnie-the-Pooh

Video: Every Step of the Journey

At 18 months old, Valerie's son didn't know any words. Valerie felt uncertain when their pediatrician recommended the Early Intervention program, but she soon realized that it was anything but scary. Through every step of the journey, Early Intervention helped Valerie's family succeed. Watch the video.

Things to Know and Places to Go

Farmers Markets in Lake County

Use the Farm Market Locator to shop local and eat fresh food from a farmer’s market close to you.

More info »

SPLASH PADS Around Lake County

Spray Park in Grayslake.  EI playgroup on here on 8/18 at 10:30.

More info »

Little Lake County

Local. Family. Fun! Check out Little Lake County for events in your area.

More info »

Sounds of Summer Concert in Gurnee: Jeanie B and The Jelly Beans

Tuesday, July 31, 10:30 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Viking Park Band Shell
4374 Old Grand Avenue, Gurnee, IL

Bring chairs, blankets, and a picnic to this FREE event!

More info »

FREE School PHYSICALS with Ronald McDonald Care Mobile from Advocate Children's Hospital

Tuesday, July 31, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.  
Mundelein High School
1500 West Hawley Street, Mundelein, IL

All children must be accompanied by a parent. Bring your vaccine records and your medical card. Smile Dentist will offer services as well.

Website Spotlight: Zero to Three Zero to Three has created a list of books for infants, toddlers and kids that can help them navigate feelings and experiences. The list includes books that  specifically deal with anger, grief and divorce. A favorite but lesser known book by Dr. Seuss made the Exploring Feelings list: My Many Colored Days.

FAMILY FUN at Early Intervention Playgroups

Many families participated in the June Kindermusik playgroup in Libertyville. Consider attending one or more of the exciting Summer Playgroups planned by the Parent Liaison, Melissa Carnes.  Siblings are welcome to attend.  Please RSVP for the Playgroups you plan to attend to mcarnes@lakecountyil.gov or (847) 377-8923  The Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods Date: Saturday, July 28 Time: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Address: 21850 N. Riverwoods Rd., Riverwoods Details: Indoor story time followed by a walk on a stroller friendly path. Private story time for EI families only. Cost: FREE Cooking with Toddlers (18 months or older) at Zion Park District Date: Wednesday, August 8 Time: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Address: 2240 Dowie Memorial Dr., Zion (main level) Details: You will make safe-to-eat dough that little ones can squeeze and smash. Ingredients and recipes will be provided. Cost: FREE The Spray Park in Grayslake Date: Saturday, August 18 Time: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. Address: 250 Library Ln., Grayslake Details: Enjoy the spray park and playground. Bathrooms are available. The park is open to the public. Cost: FREE The Round Lake Children's Neighborhood Museum Date: Saturday, September 22  Time: 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Address: 814 Hart Rd, Round Lake (lower level at Round Lake Park District) Details: Play in and explore the neighborhood. Private play for EI families only. Cost: $5 for children 12 months and older. Adults and children under 12 months are FREE.

August is National Breastfeeding Month!

Do you have an infant at home? Breastfeeding is the “Foundation of Life.” It provides food security and helps prevent common illnesses and chronic diseases for both you and your child.  Breastfeeding can be challenging. The Lake County Health Department’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) offers Breastfeeding Peer Counselors and trained staff to help families meet their breastfeeding goals. To schedule an appointment or learn more about WIC, call (847) 377-8420. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

You are invited to the Early Intervention Library Playgroups

Early Intervention is teaming up with local libraries to offer drop-in playgroups for families in EI and library patrons with children under 5. Early Intervention provides sensory stimulating toys and books your child can explore with you and other children. 

Wauconda Library
Date: Friday, August 24
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Address: 801 N. Main St., Wauconda
Cost: Free 

Ela Area Library
Date: Friday, September 21
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Address: 275 Mohawk Trl., Lake Zurich
Cost: Free