Have a Safe September!

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Delivering Support to Families with Young Learners

Prioritize Infant Safety This Month

Baby playing with ball toys with parent.

Did you know that September is Baby Safety Month? This month, get familiar with infant safety and injury prevention. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when caring for an infant:

  • Feed young children soft snacks that will lower the risk of choking.
  • Teach children that medicine is not candy and should not be taken when you are not present.
  • Avoid shaking or tossing babies to prevent serious injuries.
  • Look for damage to your child’s toys that could cause harm.
  • Set up baby gates so that your child cannot reach or access household hazards.

Learn more about infant safety.


Children's Healthy Eating Resource

Your child will form and learn eating habits as early as infancy. Feeding your child healthy foods at an early age can prepare them for lifelong wellness. Check out this resource from the Office of Head Start about healthy eating for infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children.

Learn more about early childhood healthy eating.


Child Care Scholarship Homelessness One Pager.

Child Care Scholarship Updates for Families

Parents and family members of children enrolled in the Child Care Scholarship (CCS) Program are invited to a virtual Town Hall meeting on Tuesday, September 22, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Register for the CCS Town Hall here.

At the meeting, the CCS team will provide updates about program eligibility and the waitlist.

Effective July 2026, families experiencing homelessness will no longer be placed on the CCS waitlist. They will be given a scholarship if they meet all other program rules. More information about this program change can be found in a new flyer.


MITP Brochure Cover.

Assisting Families of Children with Special Needs: Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program

If your child or a child you know shows signs of developmental delays or disabilities, the Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program (MITP) can help. Examples include trouble moving, learning, interacting, and participating in everyday activities.

MITP provides free support for families of children aged birth to three with special needs that can affect their development. The program offers a free assessment to see if they are eligible for services.

Anyone can refer a child to MITP if the child lives in Maryland and is under the age of three.

More information is available on the MITP website. You can also review the program brochure in English or in Spanish.


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Reflect on Your Habits This Fall

As you adjust to your school-year schedule this fall, now may be the perfect time to reflect on your habits. Which parts of your routine work well for you and your family? Are there habits that seem to disrupt the flow of your day? If you notice that an aspect of your schedule does not suit your needs, try to rework it.

If you have trouble making time to cook before mealtimes, consider preparing healthy dishes in advance. If you struggle to fall asleep, try putting away your phone and other screens an hour before bedtime. If you want to connect with your family more, set aside time in your day to talk and bond with them.

When your schedule and habits work well, you can reduce stress and better focus your energy to achieve your goals.


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