family resource guide live, learn, &...

Family Resource GuideFamily Resource Guide

Live, Learn, & PlayLive, Learn, & Play Find Great Local Resources for Families/Children Find Great Local Resources for Families/Children

Child Care Check List: Child Care Check List: A Guide to Choosing A Guide to Choosing

Quality Child CareQuality Child Care

Did you know?Did you know? 80% of the brain develops by age 3 80% of the brain develops by age 3

Quality child care matters!Quality child care matters!

August 2015, Volume 2August 2015, Volume 2

FamilyConnectionsMT.org

A Message from Family ConnectionsA Message from Family Connections

At Family Connections, we believe children deserve At Family Connections, we believe children deserve a successful future. We created this resource guide a successful future. We created this resource guide to help families access local services and programs to help families access local services and programs so they can be successful. In this guide, you will find so they can be successful. In this guide, you will find resources that offer valuable services and provide resources that offer valuable services and provide enriching experiences for children and families. enriching experiences for children and families. Family Connections and our partner, Benefis Health Family Connections and our partner, Benefis Health System, worked extremely hard to create a guide System, worked extremely hard to create a guide that was user friendly and captured the services that was user friendly and captured the services essential to the success of children and families. essential to the success of children and families.

Whether you are a parent, family member, friend, or coWhether you are a parent, family member, friend, or co--worker; we encourage worker; we encourage you to share this guide with others. Our goal was to provide a comprehensive you to share this guide with others. Our goal was to provide a comprehensive guide, but we understand that our community may have additional resources guide, but we understand that our community may have additional resources that have been overlooked.that have been overlooked. If you have services to add or information to share, If you have services to add or information to share, please email us at [email protected] email us at [email protected]

Services for Families and ChildrenServices for Families and Children

Table of ContentsTable of Contents

Benefis Health System 2Benefis Health System 2 Early Childhood Education 3Early Childhood Education 3 Adult Education Adult Education 44 Out of School Programs 4Out of School Programs 4 RecreationRecreation 55 Health CareHealth Care 66 Special NeedsSpecial Needs 77 Child Protection Services 11 Child Protection Services 11 Family Support ServicesFamily Support Services 1212 School Readiness School Readiness 1414 Child Care ChecklistChild Care Checklist 1515

Early Childhood Education

Family Connections 202 2nd Ave S Suite 201, Great Falls 59405 761-6010 FamilyConnectionsMT.org Scholarships: Help income-eligible families pay for quality, licensed child care. Referrals: Help families make the best child care decisions with free referrals and education. Trainings: Help child care facilities provide quality child care by assisting in starting and managing a child care business. School Readiness: Help families and providers prepare children with the skills necessary to enter kindergarten ready to learn.

Great Falls Public Schools 1100 4th St S, Great Falls 59403 268-6001 gfps.k12.mt.us Young Parents Education Center (YPEC) 268-6665 2400 Central Ave Great Falls 59401 Preschool 3300 3rd St NE, Great Falls 59404 268-6400 Little Buddies: Free interactive play group for parents and children 2-4 years old. Meets monthly, call 268-6775 for locations. Home Start: Free program to help children 4-5 years old transition to kindergarten. Backpack & School Pantry Program

Child Care Referral 1-800-696-4503

Opportunities, Inc. – Head Start: Prenatal to 5 Years 1120 3rd Ave S, Great Falls 59405 453-5415 gfoppinc.org Quality comprehensive preschool and early childhood services for prenatal mothers and children from birth to 5 years. Free program for low-income families. Part-day, full-day, and home-based services. School Readiness Evidence-based curriculum Age appropriate approaches to learning Preparing the child and the family Cultural and linguistic responsiveness Parents as Teachers (PAT) program Family Services Family advocates assist families and children Referrals for assistance Family well-being and positive parent-child relationships Parent, family, and community engagement Health Services Promoting physical development and acquiring providers Disability and Mental Health Services Nutrition Services Nutrition and cooking classes Special diet and accommodations for children Parent Involvement Activities Fatherhood/male involvement activities Parent Leadership/Policy Council Parent meetings and education Transportation Services To and from school for part-day services Monthly field trips

Adult Education

GFPS Adult Education GFCMSU 2100 16th Ave S, Great Falls 59405 771-5108 gfps.k12.mt.us/content/great-falls-adult-education

Great Falls College MSU 2100 16th Ave S, Great Falls 59405 771-4300 gfcmsu.edu

University of Great Falls 1301 20th St S, Great Falls 59405 564-1575 ugf.edu

Park University Malmstrom Campus Center 341 MSS/DPH 7521 4th Ave N, Malmstrom AFB 59402 761-7540 park.edu/great-falls/

Out of School Programs

Boys & Girls Clubs 600 1st Ave SW, Great Falls 59404 761-1330 bgc-cc.org Serves youth 5-18 years at minimal to no cost. Education, development of character & leadership, health, and prevention. After school program includes Power Hour which provides space, time, assistance, and incentives for the completion of members’ school work. $20.00 per school year. Transportation available for additional cost. Summer Safari program: separate fee; scholarships

available.

Community Recreation Center 801 2nd Ave N, Great Falls 59401 727-6099 greatfallsmt.net/recreation/community-recreation-center Parent-Tot play group, Tues. & Thurs. 10-11 am Afterschool care School’s Out Fun Days & all day summer camps Art camps and sports camps (half day) Fitness center and Noon basketball Dance classes for children through adults Home school P.E.

HANDS 3800 1st Ave S Room 8, Great Falls 59405 268-6932 gfps.k12.mt.us/Departments/Hands Hands offers before and after school child care and summer programs for children ages 5-12 years old in the Great Falls elementary schools. Hours are 6-8:30am and 3–6pm Monday–Friday.

Rescue Mission 311 2nd Ave S, Great Falls 59405 761-2653 gfrm.org After school programs during the school year and Camp Life Light during the summer.

Did you know?Did you know? Children in quality child care Children in quality child care

perform better in math, language and readingperform better in math, language and reading

Recreation

Big Brothers & Big Sisters 18 6th St N Suite 26, Great Falls 59401 453-5521 bbbs-gf.org Children 5-18 FREE, no income requirements. Provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives. Community-based program: meet with prescreened adult volunteer for 8 hours a month, 1 year commitment. School-based program: meet with prescreened adult/

high school volunteer at the child’s school for the school year.

Boy Scouts 820 17th Ave S, Great Falls 59405 403-5675 montanabsa.org Making a difference through civic service, scouting provides quality youth programs that build good character and better communities through hands-on activities. Cub Scouting: 7-10 year old boys Boy Scouting: 11-17 year old boys Varsity Scouting: 14-17 year old boys Venturing: 14-20 year old boys and girls Learning for Life/Exploring: 14-20 year old boys and girls

Camp Fire 1925 2nd Ave S, Great Falls 59405 452-8543 [email protected] Camp Fire is a youth agency that provides opportunities for youth to develop positive self-esteem and basic life and leadership skills. Pre-School Group meets weekly for 1 hour during the

school year. School Age Programs: weekly club meeting and other

trainings for youth Pre-K - 12th grade. Summer Day Camp: 10 week day camp for children

completing Kindergarten - 5th grade.

Children’s Museum of Montana 22 Railroad Square, Great Falls 59401 452-6661 childrensmuseumofmontana.org The Children’s Museum of Montana exists to ignite a

lifelong passion for learning through hands-on exploration of science, math, and culture through play. Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:30-5:00. Play groups, summer

camps, and special free admission days. Birthday party and rental rooms available.

Girl Scouts of Montana and Wyoming 4930 9th Ave S, Great Falls 59405 800-736-5243 gsmw.org The Girl Scout Leadership Experience engages girls (K-12) in discovering themselves, connecting with others, and taking action to make the world a better place. Discover the fun, friendship, and power of Girl Scouts in one, some, or all of the ways to be a Girl Scout!

CAMP. Learn about nature and the environment. Girls can choose a day camp or an overnight resident camp.

EVENTS. Most girls have more than one passion. Maybe storytelling, acting, and/or dancing. Choose events centered on your favorite activities throughout the Girl Scouting year.

TRAVEL. Want to go places? Girl Scouts do. When they see and experience new things, it’s always an

adventure they’ll never forget. TROOPS. Meeting regularly, girls can share amazing experiences, learn to make a difference in their community, and have lots of fun! Troops can be all year long or condensed into shorter periods of time. VIRTUAL. Girl Scouting via the internet. As a virtual Scout,

girls can join in exciting interactive activities with girls their age.

Great Falls Gymnastics Academy 815 1st Ave N, Great Falls 59401 727-8782 greatfallsgymnastics.com Preschool, summer day camps, recreational and competitive gymnastics for boys and girls. Tumbling, Revelation Wellness (adult fitness), Holy Yoga, classical ballet, and birthday parties.

Great Falls Ice Plex 4001 29th St SW, Great Falls 59404 866-0247 gficeplex.weebly.com The Great Falls Community Ice Foundation provides affordable hockey, figure skating, and recreational skating for young or old of all skill levels. Public skating Men’s, women’s, and youth hockey Sled hockey with Eagle Mount Figure skating

Great Falls Parks & Recreation 1700 River Dr. N, Great Falls 59401 771-1265 greatfallsmt.net Aquatics – swim lessons for those 6 months-adults, open swim, Junior Life Guard and CPR/First Aid. Special Events – Ice Breaker Road Race, Easter Egg Hunt, and the Pet and Doll Parade.

Great Falls Public Library 301 2nd Ave N, Great Falls 59401 453-0349 greatfallslibrary.org Story Time: Kid’s Place, Wed. and Thurs., 10:30am - 11:00am, 30 months – 5 years. Busy Fingers: Kid’s Place, Wed. and Thurs. the first full week of each month, 10:30am – 12:00pm. Toddler Time: Basement, Friday, 10:30am – 11:15am, birth – 30 months.

Heisey Memorial Youth Center 313 7th Street N, Great Falls 59401 453-1211 [email protected] Recreational activities for youth: basketball, volleyball, dance, cheer, tutoring, and summer camps.

Know Dice Games 512 Central Ave, Great Falls 59401 315-1166 www.knowdicegames.com [email protected] Know Dice Games is Great Falls’ premiere Friendly Local Game Store. We strive to create a gaming experience that’s fun and welcoming for all. We love to teach games of all types and have an extensive library of games to try before you buy. We want to share our great enthusiasm for all types of gaming with our local community. • Weekly Events: board game demos, MTG events, Warhammer leagues, Star Wars game day, Chess Club, Dungeons & Dragons, and more! • Wednesday Night: Free Board Game Demo night, games rotate each week • Open Gaming: Large play area for open gaming. Choose a game from the library to play or have us teach you. Free table space on a first come, first served basis. Over 200 board game titles: Family, Party, War, European style games and everything in between.

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Central Assembly: 2001 Central Ave, Great Falls 59405 453-5524 mops.org Meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday at 9:15am to 11:30am September-May.

Peak Health and Wellness Center 1800 Benefis Ct, Great Falls 59405 727-7325 www.peakclub.com The Peak Health and Wellness Center offers: Over 140 different classes Racquetball, squash, pickleball, and basketball courts Pools Weight machines and free weights Injury screenings and physical therapy Day Spa Kid’s classes

Salvation Army Youth and Family Center 1000 17th Ave S, Great Falls 59405 453-0391 The Salvation Army Youth and Family Center offers the following: 1st-5th grade flag-football 3rd-6th grade basketball 3rd-4th grade basketball clinic Summer day camps June-August Adult volleyball league Church softball league

4-H 3300 3rd St NE, Great Falls 59404 454-6980 msuextension.org/cascade/4h.html Provides education in over 60 different projects such as robotics, interior design, citizenship, home arts, nature and ecology, photography, dog obedience, leadership, and so much more. 4-H is available for ages 6-18.

Health Care

City County Health Department 115 4th St S, Great Falls 59401 454-6950 chdmt.org Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program: Nutrition education to pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, and children from birth to 5 years. Provides healthy, supplemental foods. 454-6953 Breast Feeding Support: Breastfeeding counseling to mothers during pregnancy. Our Certified Lactation Counselors assist mothers and babies to successfully breastfeed. No appointment is necessary. 454-6953 Developmental Screening: FREE developmental screening for children birth through 5 years. 268-6446 Public Health Home Visitation: Visits in the parent’s home by a nurse, social worker, and/or dietitian for Medicaid- eligible pregnant women, babies, and children up to age 5. 791-9296 Parents as Teachers (PAT): Helps families give their children a solid educational foundation during their preschool years. 791-9296

Did you know?Did you know? According to the CDC, the simple act of hand wash-ing is the single most important means of preventing

the spread of viral and bacterial infections

Poison Control #1-800-222-1222

City County Health Department (continued) Immunizations: Provides vaccinations for children and adults of all ages on a walk-in basis. Immunization Clinic accepts insurance and all payment types, though no one will be denied service due to an inability to pay. 454-6950 Safe Kids Car Seat: The Safe Kids Cascade County Coalition’s focus is on the proper use of car seats and seat belts. 452-0881 ext. 304 Montana Asthma Program: Children with asthma ages 0-17 years who have problems with their asthma, including activity limitations, or emergency department visits for asthma. Home visits from registered nurses are provided. 761-9888 Safe Care Parenting Home Visit: 18 week home visit parenting program for pregnant women, young children, and families. 791-9262. Circle of Security Parenting Classes: Available to any caregiver of young children regardless of income. 791-9262.

ECHOZ Pregnancy Care Center 1323 9th Ave S, Great Falls 59405 727-1850 echoz.org or pregnancydecisiononline.org Echoz Pregnancy Care Center services include FREE pregnancy testing and pregnancy verification via ultrasound. We offer an Earn While You Learn Program where moms and dads earn Mommy Money by reading books or watching DVDs from our educational library and completing homework. Patients may spend their “Mommy Money” to purchase everything they need for their baby free of charge, including cribs, mattresses, playpens, diapers, wipes, etc.

Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies hmhb-mt.org Support for mothers & babies age zero to three. Text4baby: a free mobile information service. text: BABY to 511411

Healthy Montana Kids dphhs.mt.gov/hmk Free or low cost health coverage for kids.

Indian Family Health Clinic 1220 Central Ave Suites 1 & 2B, Great Falls 59401 268-1587 (Administration & Behavioral Health) 268-1510 (Clinic) indianfamilyhealth.org Our services target American Indians and Alaska

Natives. Health care for all ages, immunizations, sports physicals, diabetes care, laboratory services, limited pharmacy services, and transportation to IHS in Browning and Rocky Boy. Health and addiction counseling services, mental

health referrals, and culturally focused activities. Fitness Center with strength and cardio equipment,

classes, personalized fitness plans and nutrition and weight loss programs.

Education services in health promotion, diabetes management, hypertension, weight loss, tobacco cessation, and nutrition counseling. Marketplace Healthcare enrollment.

Special Needs

AWARE 1220 3rd Ave S, Great Falls 59405 aware-inc.org Erin Kalanick: 771-8182 ext. 2624 [email protected] Andrea Savage, LCPC: 868-1958 [email protected] AWARE Successful Starts provides a variety of Early Childhood services to families that are focused on mental health with an emphasis on social/emotional development. Services include Outpatient Therapy, Home Support Services, and Community Support to children ages 0-5. Outpatient Therapy includes individual, family, and

group sessions. Home Support Service provides support and skill

building to families in the home environment.

Benefis Pediatrics Physicians Professional Building 1300 28th St S Suite 6, Great Falls 59405 731-8865 benefis.org/pediatrics Benefis Pediatrics is medical care for children, from birth

to young adulthood. Well-child care, immunizations, assessment of growth and development, and screening of mental and social well-being. Hearing and vision screening and routine screening lab work. Camp, sports, and employment physicals are also available.

Our office welcomes children with special health care needs. Comprehensive assessment and management to include disorders of the respiratory and GI systems, the endocrine and neurological systems, disorders of the skin, disorders of the musculoskeletal systems,

disorders of the ears, eyes, and mouth, including congenital and infectious causes. We perform minor Surgeries; diagnosis and management of sprain and strains, as well as simple fracture care; and treatment for pediatric mental health or behavioral issues.

Benefis Pediatric Therapy Center Benefis West Campus 500 15th Ave S, Great Falls 59405 (flagpole entrance) 455-2661 Physical, Occupational, and Speech Language Therapy Service: Evaluations to determine developmental levels, evaluations for augmentative or alternative communication devices, assistive technology assessments, treatment of fine and gross motor delays, treatment of swallowing, feeding, and/or eating problems, treatment of cognitive and communication delays, visual-motor and sensory integration therapy, adaptive equipment, and orthotics.

Benefis Pediatric Specialty Clinic Physicians Professional Building, 1300 28th St S Suite 4, Great Falls 59405 455-4300 Cleft/Craniofacial: Provided at no cost for children with

cleft palate and craniofacial disorders in Great Falls, Browning, and Wolf Point.

Cystic Fibrosis: Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited disorder that affects many body systems, including the airways, pancreas, sweat glands, and intestinal tract. Children are evaluated by a team that includes a pediatric

pulmonologist, nurses, respiratory therapist, nutritionist, and social worker at no cost to the patient. Development and Behavioral Pediatrics: Children with conditions and disabilities that affect their development, such as autism, developmental delay, prenatal drug effects, premature birth, and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder. Specialist: Laura Nicholson, MD 281-8700. Endocrine: Children with endocrine conditions including

diabetes, growth disorders, puberty disorders, thyroid conditions, and others. Specialist: Sharon Zemel, MD 237-5300.

Gastroenterology: Children experiencing problems of the esophagus, stomach, gallbladder, pancreas, liver, and small and large intestines are evaluated and

treated at this clinic. Specialist: Thomas Flass, MD 237-5300. Genetic: Patients of any age suspected or known to

have a genetic disorder. Diagnosis and evaluation, proper diet, and tendency for this disorder to recur in future pregnancies. Specialists: Shodair Hospital

444-7530. Hematology: Children with blood disorders are evaluated and treated at this clinic. Including problems with red blood cells, platelets, bone marrow, and the blood’s ability to clot when needed or clots forming when and where they aren’t needed. Specialist: Carrie Neuhardt, MD 237-5340. High Risk Infant Follow-Up Clinic: For children who

spend their first days in the Newborn Intensive Care Nursery(NICU). A neonatalist, speech therapist, physical

therapist, and social worker screen for developmental delays and offer parents resources for promoting their child’s development. Metabolic: Children receive diagnosis and evaluation

of a variety of metabolic conditions. Assistance for long-term management of dietary, developmental, social, and other issues while having a metabolic condition. This team includes a metabolic specialist, a geneticist, a nutritionist, a nurse, and a social worker. No charge to the patient. Specialists: Shodair Hospital 444-7530.

Orthopedic: Children with conditions affecting their bones, muscles, ligaments, and spine are evaluated at this clinic. A pediatric orthopedist, a physical therapist, and a nurse make up this team. Specialist: Joshua Klatt, MD 721-4436.

Telemedicine Clinics: To facilitate follow-up specialty care and on-going patient evaluation and

communication. Clinics are offered in many of the specialty areas. These are facilitated by a nurse coordinator. Family Advocates: Our specialty clinics provide family

advocates as a resource to our patients and families. Family advocates are trained personnel who have raised a child with special health care needs. They

consult with families and assist with navigating resources when caring for a child with special needs.

Please call Benefis Pediatrics for same day Please call Benefis Pediatrics for same day appointments for all your child’s needs at 731appointments for all your child’s needs at 731--88658865

Big Sky Therapeutic Services 1601 2nd Ave N, Great Falls 59405 240-2045 bigskytherapy.com Provides counseling services for families, children, and individuals in the office, home, or community setting. Services include: Applied Behavioral Analysis Services Parent-Child Interaction Therapy Family Therapy Behavior modification Functional behavioral assessments and programming Trauma-focused therapy Special education programming and consultation Parent and professional training and education Parenting and individual education classes Parenting classes

Center for Mental Health 915 1st Ave S, Great Falls 59401 761-2100 center4mh.org Youth Crisis Diversion: A 24 hour per day/7 days a week

program designed to help youth & families during a crisis or a life challenging event. A case manager gives recommendations to community resources to assist youth and families. Youth Case Management: Connects the needs of the

youth and their families with community resources. Helps make informed choices, timely access to needed

assistance, encouragement in developing realistic, attainable life goals, and preservation of families in our community. In-Home Family Care: Therapeutic and psycho-educational services, individual and family counseling, education regarding child’s mental health, mood, behaviors, and development, and therapeutic teams in the home and school. Comprehensive School and Community Treatment (CSCT): A program that promotes student’s positive involvement in their community, school, and home while receiving specialized mental health services in the least restrictive environment possible on a daily basis. Community Based Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Support (CBPRS): A program that teaches skills such as symptom management, coping strategies, communication strategies, participating in the community, attending appointments, health and exercise, socialization skills, and recreational skills in group or individual settings. Family-Based (In-Home) Services: Provide intensive

services to families in danger of having a child removed from the home by the Department of Family Services or Youth Court. The goal is to stabilize the family situation and begin correcting the problems in the home in order to keep the family together.

Eagle Mount PO Box 2866, Great Falls 59403 454-1449 eaglemount.net Provides therapeutic and recreational activities for children and adults with physical, mental, or behavioral challenges, striving to improve the quality of life for them and their families. The Eagle Mount Great Falls target population is anyone in our community from the age of 6 weeks old to 102 years old with a doctor-diagnosed disability.

Easter Seals Goodwill 425 1st Ave N, Great Falls 59401 761-3680 esgw.org Day habilitation, supported living, and job training, coaching, and placement assistance for adults with disabilities. Easter Seals-Goodwill also provides home health care, personal care, and adult day services for individuals needing extra assistance to maintain their independence.

Full Circle Counseling Solutions 527 18th Ave NE, Great Falls 59404 403-6710 facebook.com/pages/Full-Circle Full Circle offers therapeutic supports and services to help improve the lives of children and their families. We believe in maintaining and preserving families through connecting with community resources and developing the skills for families to be independent. We follow the family’s lead and encourage them to own the process in partnership with the appropriate level of support. Facilitation of treatment team meetings Individual and/or family therapy Communication skills Conflict management & resolution treatment plan design based on your needs and strengths to help children and families build skills Center-based interventions Focus on individual and family strengths Children ages 2-18 served (19 if still enrolled in school) Family Based In-Home Support Youth Case Management: Referral and linkage to other

service providers and community resources Community Based Psychiatric Rehabilitation & Support

Great Falls Clinic Pediatrics 1400 29th St S, Great Falls 59405 454-2171 gfclinic.com Pediatrics, same day appointments, Pediatric Immunization Clinic, Well-Child Care, Pediatric Speech and Language Therapy, Pediatric Physical Therapy, Pediatric/Young Adult Psychiatry, General Pediatrics, Newborn Services, Pediatric Cardiology, and Behavioral and Developmental Pediatrics. Great Falls Clinic Pediatrics: 1400 29th St S 454-2171 Monday-Friday, 8:00am-6:00pm Northwest Clinic Pediatrics: 1600 Division Rd 268-1600 Mon.-Thurs. 8am-6pm, Fri. 8am-5pm Pediatric Weekend Immediate Care Center: 1400 29th St S 454-7200 Saturday and Sunday 10:00am-1:00pm Pediatric Cardiology: 3000 15th Ave S 454-2171 Call for hours or to schedule an appointment.

Montana School for the Deaf and Blind 3911 Central Ave, Great Falls 59405 771-6000 msdb.mt.gov MSDB provides educational opportunities for Montana’s

deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and visually impaired children. Preschool through high school students attend MSDB as

residential or day students on the Great Falls campus. MSDB also serves as a statewide resource center for

parents of deaf and blind children and for school districts and professionals serving students with different hearing levels and/or various vision conditions.

Parents, Let’s Unite for Kids (PLUK) Central Office: 516 N 32nd St, Billings 59101 Toll Free: 800-222-7585 pluk.org Provides information, training, and support to families of children with special needs across Montana. Anyone may contact PLUK for free assistance with disability, medical insurance, school, resources, services, legal rights, employment, social security, child care, daily living, work, or play. There are no eligibility criteria. Family advocates are located in communities throughout the state.

Quality Life Concepts 215 Smelter Ave NE, Great Falls 59404 452-9531 qlc-gft.org Infant Toddler Program is designed to provide home-

based services and support for children up to age 3 who have delays in development or have been

diagnosed with a condition that has a high probability in delayed development. Support can be emotional, access to resources and materials, and determine how early intervention might best fit into their lives. Early Childhood Developmental Screenings in collaboration with local school districts, City County Health Department, Early Head Start, etc., to identify and refer children from birth to age 3 who may have conditions interfering with growth and development. Family Education and Support Program provides home-

based services to families who have children with developmental disabilities or are at risk for delays aged 3-21. Help parents learn skills to teach their child, offer emotional support, information and coordination or other services. Children’s Waiver Services are designed to provide intensive services to meet the exceptional needs of an eligible child aged 18 months-22 years, and enhance a family’s ability to maintain their children in the family home. Evaluation and Diagnostic Services are provided by an

evaluation team of the family/parent, psychologist, speech therapist, physician, and behavior specialist. The team determines what contributes to a child’s

behavior and determines strategies for supporting the child, locate resources, and offer evaluation for autism spectrum disorders. Autism Services are provided to children of all ages.

Autism Services include: consultation by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Applied Behavior Analysis, parent training, and direct child training by a Children’s Autism Trainer.

Peace Place Respite Care 1315 Central Ave, Great Falls 59401 453-1411 [email protected] Providing temporary RELIEF care for all families of young

children with special needs. We are a state-licensed childcare facility allowing special folks to re-energize, re-focus, and renew their spirits. Open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings and occasional Wednesday evenings.

Scottish Rite Childhood Language Disorders Clinic 1304 13th St S, Great Falls 59405 727-1088 [email protected] The Scottish Rite Childhood Language Disorders Clinic provides FREE speech, language, and feeding evaluations and therapy to preschool children in North Central Montana.

Youth Dynamics 2334 Lewis Ave, Billings, MT 59102 1-877-458-7022 [email protected] Youth Dynamics provides family-focused behavioral health treatment. We are committed to providing comprehensive and progressive behavioral health services to meet the ever-changing needs of youth and families. Youth Dynamics provides the following services: Individual and family counseling Mentoring/family support assistants In-home services/family support teams Youth case management Respite care Therapeutic foster care Supervised visits Therapeutic youth group homes Independent living/supported independent living skills

Airman and Family Readiness Center 7215 Goddard Ave, MAFB 731-4900 Airman and Family Readiness Center works with EFMP service members and their families to provide comprehensive and coordinated services within military agencies and civilian resources. Refer Airmen and family members to support services

and advocacy assistance. Refer Airmen and family members to EFMP Medical (SNIAC) screening and enrollment Network installation EFMP-Medical to provide referral

and support community resources. Respite Care

Child Protection Services

CASA-CAN 325 2nd Ave N, Great Falls 59401 454-6738 www.casacan.org [email protected] Child Advocates serve as guardians ad litem who are trained to protect the rights of children who have been abused or neglected and to speak for the best interests of these children in the Eighth Judicial District Court. Ensuring that children are in safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible is priority.

Children’s Receiving Home PO Box 1060, Great Falls 59403 727-4843 [email protected] Provides emergency shelter and placement services for local children who have been placed into foster care due to issues of child abuse or neglect.

Child and Family Services 2300 12th Ave S #211, Great Falls 59405 727-7746 dphhs.mt.gov/cfsd Protective services for abused, neglected, or abandoned children. Services for adoption, foster care, and guardianship.

Dandelion Foundation 525 Central Ave Suite M5A, Great Falls 59404 952-0717 dandelionfoundation.org Child abuse and family violence prevention organization where victims & survivors of abuse can reach out to get help. Presentations & community education on what abuse is

and how to access services. Opportunities for community members to volunteer to

provide education & resources that strengthen families and prevent future instances of abuse.

Support an active involvement in community projects geared towards prevention.

Supports survivors via social media and live interactions.

Did you know?Did you know? Children in quality child care show fewer Children in quality child care show fewer

behavioral problemsbehavioral problems

Child Abuse Hotline#1-866-820-5437

Family Support Services

Alliance for Youth 5305 3rd Ave S, Great Falls 59405 268-6781 allianceforyouth.org Mediation and Accountability Program (MAP) Jaustina Santos 268-7642 [email protected] Low or no-cost resource for agencies/families and youth status offenders: truancy, alcohol use, and runaway. Facilitates mediation with youth and parents/caregivers

to reach a common understanding. How the youth came to be in the present situation. Common goal of where the family/youth would like to

be. Mutually determined strategies to support behavioral

changes. Mediation to resolve conflicts that may interfere with

goal attainment. Problems at school, court system, etc. Case management supports youth/family’s ability to

accomplish strategies and attain goals Parent Education Programs Discovery Family Counseling Services 761-4150 Bobbie Voegel [email protected] Julie Trosper or Janet Thayer 268-6781 [email protected] Low or no cost program to develop parent knowledge skills and promote healthy parent/child attachment. Circle of Security Parenting (COSP): 8 sessions, families with children prenatal to 5 years. Nurturing Parenting (NP): 10 sessions, families with children ages 5-12 years. Interactive video, group discussions, homework, social

support networks, practicing, & coaching. Individual sessions to confidentially address specific, in-depth parent concerns. Support parents 30, 60, and 90 days following successful program completion or more frequently upon request. The programs help parents develop: Appreciation of lifelong impact of parent/child attachment Healthy parent/child attachments Understand/anticipate child’s needs & respond in developmentally appropriate ways Empathy toward meeting their child’s needs Effective/developmentally appropriate discipline strategies Understand/appreciate parent child roles in the family Child power and independence

Family Promise of Great Falls 1019 Central Ave, Great Falls 59401 866-0288 familypromisegf.org Family Promise is a nonprofit organization committed to

helping homeless and low income families achieve lasting independence. The Family Promise Program brings shelter, meals, and

support services to families without homes. Family Promise works in collaboration with area social

services. Local social service agencies refer families to the network and may also help guests find or provide housing, jobs, and other needed services.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren 3300 3rd St S NE, Great Falls 59404 454-6980 msuextension.org The Montana Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

(GRG) Project offers caregivers support, education, and access to resources so they can raise children who know emotional and physical safety, excel in school and are prepared to take on the challenges of their new life.

Our educational meetings are held the fourth Monday of each month beginning in October.

My Neighbor in Need 525 Central Ave, Great Falls 59401 750-2542 myneighborinneed.org My Neighbor in Need is a 24 hour, 7 day a week website where anyone with a specific need in a specific area can ask for help with that need. Their need is verified and goes live on the website where anyone in the world can offer help. The person in need and the person wishing to help never meet. It’s anonymous giving at its best! Need Categories: Furniture Household items Transportation (bus passes) Emergency fuel Plumbing Electrical Crucial car repairs including tire issues Potentially dangerous items One-time city required yard clean-up One-time residence/house cleaning

Did you know?Did you know? Children in quality child care are more likely to Children in quality child care are more likely to

graduate from high schoolgraduate from high school

Voices of Hope Hotline #211

Opportunities, Inc. 905 1st Ave S, Great Falls 59401 761-0310 gfoppinc.org Services and education to individuals and families in six counties. Assisting single/married with/without children, veterans, disabled, mentally ill, and homeless. HUD Section 8 Housing: income-based housing. LIEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program): help

with payments on primary heating source Weatherization @ 216-3055: home insulation and energy saving education WIA Youth Employment Program 761-8462: education and job skills for youth ages 14-21 Head Start Preschool Education and Early Intervention

Services 453-5415 Community Resource Center 216-2300: Assistance and

referrals for emergency housing, food, medication, and transportation.

Rescue Mission 311 2nd Ave S, Great Falls 59405 761-2653 gfrm.org Services to families and children: shelter, food, clothing, limited medical services, after school and summer programs. Special events throughout the year: Back to School Rally Christmas Party Easter Egg Hunt on Good Friday New Year’s Eve Blast

Rural Dynamics 2022 Central Ave, Great Falls 59401 877-275-2227 ruraldynamics.org Non-profit organization specializing in financial management/budget counseling, mortgage delinquency and default resolution counseling, pre-purchase and rental housing counseling, homeless counseling, financial education and resources, debt management, credit building coaching, credit building loans, medical assistance loans, and free tax preparation. Also provides pre/post-bankruptcy counseling and education.

Salvation Army 527 9th Ave S, Great Falls 59405 761-5660 salvationarmy.org Provide emergency food baskets, prescription assistance, utility assistance, rental assistance, and hygiene needs. Spiritual support & youth activities through our CORPS offices and youth center.

St. Vincent DePaul 426 Central Ave W, Great Falls 59404 761-0870 Emergency food, clothing, housing, and thrift store.

Voices of Hope PO Box 1788, Great Falls 59403 406-453-HELP 406-268-1330 1-800-273-TALK www.voicesofhope.info Connecting: We connect people in need with community services. Advocating: We assist sexual assault survivors through

the process of healing. Listening: We listen 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We

answer the crisis line and provide support and crisis intervention services to all who call. We help people deal with suicide, domestic violence, sexual assault, eating disorders, relationship problems, and mental health issues. Teaching: We offer training to community members

and service agencies to provide the knowledge and skills to respond to and prevent all types of violence.

Building: We build a network of skilled and compassionate volunteers.

YWCA 220 2nd St N, Great Falls 59401 452-1315 ywcagreatfalls.org Mercy Home Shelter program offers safe, temporary

shelter to women & their children seeking refuge from domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.

Classes and workshops Individual counseling Case management Support groups for women and children Children’s advocacy and counseling

Did you know?Did you know? Quality child care leads to more job Quality child care leads to more job

opportunities and higher earningsopportunities and higher earnings

Did you know?Did you know? Employees with quality child care have Employees with quality child care have

better attendancebetter attendance

While concepts are important, they can’t be learned if children don’t have the skills to sit and listen to others, concentrate on tasks, and persist in the face of a certain amount of frustration. Children are born ready to learn and with your support they can build the knowledge and skills necessary to enter school as ready learners.

What does a “Ready” Child look like? They have the language to say what they think, want, feel, and need They get along with children and adults They understand their own feelings and the feelings of others They have early literacy knowledge of vocabulary, conversations, the alphabet,

and knowledge of books and print They use scribbling, writing, and drawing to represent and interpret ideas They see themselves as learners and approach learning with curiosity and interest They use their imagination to play and create ideas and objects They are well nourished, well rested, clean, and healthy They take care of their physical needs (toileting and dressing) They use school tools such as puzzles, scissors, computers, pencils, and markers They move their bodies, legs, and arms with coordination They transition between activities with ease They persist at several tasks throughout the day They function well in groups, sharing ideas, materials, and space They follow two- and three-step directions They sit and participate in circle time and small groups They understand they are going to a new school called kindergarten

School readiness begins long before a child steps into the classroom. Starting at birth, young children begin to acquire the skills necessary for success in school and life. Social and emotional skills, knowledge, and attitudes are learned through caregiving routines and having basic needs, such as food, sleep, and shelter, met in a consistent and predictable way.

School Readiness

Did you know?Did you know? “The emotional, social, and behavioral competence of young children is a strong “The emotional, social, and behavioral competence of young children is a strong

predictor of academic performance in early elementary school.”predictor of academic performance in early elementary school.” (Zero to Three, 2003)(Zero to Three, 2003)

Social Skills Essential for Academic Success: Getting along with others Following directions Identifying and regulating one’s emotions and behavior Thinking of appropriate solutions to conflict Persisting on task Engaging in conversation and cooperative play Correctly interpreting others’ behaviors and emotions Feeling good about oneself and others (Center for Evidence Based practice: Young Children with Challenging Behaviors, 2003)

Child Care Checklist Child Care Checklist A guide to choosing quality child care.A guide to choosing quality child care.

Caregivers & TeachersCaregivers & Teachers

☐☐ Seem to really like childrenSeem to really like children ☐☐ Get down on child’s level when speakingGet down on child’s level when speaking ☐☐ Greet children when they arriveGreet children when they arrive ☐☐ Quickly meet child’s needs even when busyQuickly meet child’s needs even when busy ☐☐ Involved in continuing education programsInvolved in continuing education programs ☐☐ Always ready to answer questionsAlways ready to answer questions ☐☐ Tell you what your child is doing every day Tell you what your child is doing every day ☐☐ Welcome parent’s ideas and involvement Welcome parent’s ideas and involvement ☐☐ Staff and children enjoy being together Staff and children enjoy being together ☐☐ Meet childMeet child--toto--staff ratios for each age group staff ratios for each age group

ActivitiesActivities ☐ Appropriate for each age group☐ Appropriate for each age group ☐ Daily balance of play, story, and nap times☐ Daily balance of play, story, and nap times ☐ Healthy food and snacks☐ Healthy food and snacks ☐ Variety of toys & learning materials for children☐ Variety of toys & learning materials for children

SettingSetting ☐☐ Bright and pleasant environmentBright and pleasant environment ☐☐ Fenced outdoor play area Fenced outdoor play area ☐☐ Variety of safe play equipmentVariety of safe play equipment ☐☐ Play areas easily viewed by staff at all timesPlay areas easily viewed by staff at all times ☐☐ Separate areas for resting, quiet play, and Separate areas for resting, quiet play, and active playactive play

In GeneralIn General ☐☐ You agree with the discipline practicesYou agree with the discipline practices ☐☐ You hear the sounds of happy childrenYou hear the sounds of happy children ☐☐ Children are comforted as neededChildren are comforted as needed ☐☐ The provider is licensed and regulatedThe provider is licensed and regulated ☐☐ Surprise visits by parents are encouragedSurprise visits by parents are encouraged

Types of Child CareTypes of Child Care

Family Child Care Homes: Family Child Care Homes: a homea home--like like atmosphere with a ratio of one caregiver to a atmosphere with a ratio of one caregiver to a maximum of six children.maximum of six children.

Group Child Care: Group Child Care: settings where two settings where two adults provide care for a maximum of 12 adults provide care for a maximum of 12 children. Care is provided in a private home.children. Care is provided in a private home.

Child Care Centers: Child Care Centers: care for 13 or more care for 13 or more children with hours that normally coincide children with hours that normally coincide with regular working hours.with regular working hours.

Family Resource Guide Sponsored by:

“This project is funded in whole or in part under a Contract with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. The statements herein do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Department. This project was funded with 43% federal and 57% non‐federal funds at a cost of $0.76 per copy.”

NONPROFIT ORG

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PAID

GREAT FALLS, MT

PERMIT NO. 166

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