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November 2018 – Elementary School E-Bits

For Educators

The Language Express Referral Deadline for JK students is almost here! The new deadline is NOVEMBER 30. Language Express can provide assessment, intervention and resources to support children in developing speech, language, social communication, and literacy skills. Watch for these warning signs: stuttering, has trouble following directions, hard to understand, does not use adult-like grammar, cannot retell a story coherently, is struggling to learn letter names, or unusual voice quality (hoarse or breathy).

We ask that Chickenpox illnesses are reported. The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is required to report the total number of chickenpox cases by age each month to the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. Details for reporting are included on the Chickenpox reporting form at our website www.healthunit.org. Thank you for assisting in this data collection.

Head Lice Factsheet. Visit us at our website www.healthunit.org for our most updated factsheet on lice and their management.

For Families

Did you know 80% of learning is done through vision? Excellence in school starts with healthy vision. Eye exams are now covered by OHIP for all children under 19. Special programs exist to cover cost of glasses in a child’s junior kindergarten year (2014 birth year). Act now and find an optometrist near you: optom.on.ca.

The deadline for speech and language referrals for JK students is November 30. The Language Express Preschool Speech and Language Program provides FREE assessment and therapy services for children from birth to the end of Junior Kindergarten in Lanark, Leeds, and Grenville. Check the speech and language milestones for your child’s age on our website at www.language-express.ca and contact us or talk to your child’s teacher if you have any concerns. We can help you to be sure your child is on track and ready for school. JK children born in 2014 must be referred before November 30, 2018. Call 1-888-503-8885 for information or to refer your child.

Let’s talk about income! Income is a social determinant of health. People at lower income levels report higher chronic diseases & self-reported poor physical and mental health. A living wage is the hourly wage a worker needs to earn to cover their family’s basic expenses within their community. A living wage is a practical tool for reducing poverty through paid work. The living wage in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark is $17.07. How can you help reduce poverty? Learn about the root cause of poverty, have a conversation with your elected officials about your support for a local living wage and health in all government policies, be compassionate towards other people experiencing life challenges, and share what you have, helping out a family member, neighbour, or friend. For more information on income-based solutions for poverty reduction visit www.healthunit.org or call 1-800-660-5853.