"Despite all of its challenges, this past year has made me prouder than ever to be an educator. It has been an honor to watch you rise to every occasion and meet every challenge with compassion, creativity, and care for all of your students."—National Education Association President Becky Pringle We are saying 'thank you’ today, this week, and throughout the year, to the extraordinary educators at Starfish Family Services, and the entire education team that supports them. For many, teachers are some of our first heroes. They often inspire us to believe in ourselves in ways we never imagined. They teach us how to shine. Yet, in recent years the job has become so much more complicated. Every day teachers are also asked to be doctors, mental health experts, emergency-readiness experts, technology gurus, referees, chefs, fundraisers, coaches, and advocates. The pandemic demanded that educators show even more grit and determination. And they became even more indispensable to … [Read more...]
Starfish blog: Martin Luther King Jr. Day of service
Monday, January 17 marks 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 Dr. King for advancing civil rights and social justice through nonviolent protest. It has grown beyond a federal holiday honoring Dr. King into a national day of community service. Each year, service projects are planned across the country to reaffirm Dr. King's message of serving others. It's actually not a day off, but a day on! AmeriCorps has a searchable database of MLK Day volunteer opportunities. Simply put in your zip code and click on the "MLK Day" box to find the projects available in your area.Ways to find virtual volunteering opportunities at any time: Search established databases such as VolunteerMatch.org, Catchafire.org, or Points of Light. If there’s a particular organization you would love to help, you can also check the … [Read more...]
Starfish blog: New Year sparks positive beginnings
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 where … [Read more...]
Starfish blog: Celebrating the spirit of the holidays
The holidays belong to us all. Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Los Posadas, Diwali . . . what binds us together is hope, the joy of giving, faith, and family. At Starfish, we celebrate the spirit of the holidays. We celebrate YOU. At the end of another extraordinary year---a year of challenge and change, triumph and tragedy---it's essential to honor the people who have helped make the world better. At Starfish, your support is our greatest blessing. We, like you, seek a better today and an even brighter tomorrow: One in which all children have the opportunity to soar to their highest potential and all families can strive to reach their greatest goals. Because of you, Starfish can confidently remain committed to delivering meaningful work that moves children, families, and all of us forward. Because of your positive partnership, we know anything is possible. From your Starfish Family: Sharing humble gratitude for your trust and collaboration. Wishing … [Read more...]
Starfish blog: Talking turkey about Vax-giving
Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. Last year, during the first wave of the pandemic, many of us drastically limited our gatherings---spending the holiday alone or only with those in our immediate household. In 2021, we are still in the throes of a pandemic, but now we have more protective factors to help make safe decisions for ourselves and families. Many people are calling this Thanksgiving "Vax-giving," a reference to having most (or all) family members who are gathering on Thanksgiving be fully vaccinated (or children 5-11 years old receiving at least 1 shot). Hosting a “Vax-giving” can help protect children and adults in your family who are not yet eligible to receive the vaccine or cannot receive the vaccine due to medical or religious reasons. It can also help reduce anxiety for some. An added layer of protection families can utilize is at-home COVID-19 tests. These tests can be done hours before guests gather and can … [Read more...]
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