Emily Shank’s Post

🌞 Summer is here, and with it comes a whirlwind of activities, vacations, and camps for the kiddos! If you're co-parenting, here are some tips to keep things smooth and stress-free: 1. **Get Schedule Modifications in Writing** 📄 Planning a vacation or signing up for summer camps? Make sure any changes to your co-parenting schedule are approved in writing. This keeps everyone on the same page and provides a record if any issues pop up later. 2. **Consider a Shared Calendar** 📅 If you’re not already using one, a shared calendar can be a lifesaver! Include custody schedules, vacations, camps, and other important events. It’s a great way to stay organized and avoid any mix-ups. 3. **Child Support Usually Stays the Same** 💵 Even if your child spends more time with one parent over the summer, child support amounts typically remain unchanged for short-term adjustments. 4. **Abatement for Extended Stays** 🏖️ If your child is staying with the non-custodial parent for an extended period (like a month or two), you might be eligible for a child support abatement. Remember, this needs to be filed through the court. An informal agreement won’t cut it—without court approval, the paying parent could be held in contempt if payments stop. 5. **Discuss Summer Activity Costs** 🎨🏕️ Summer camps and activities can add up! Check your custody agreement to see who’s responsible for these costs. If it’s not specified, have a chat with your co-parent and get any agreements in writing. Having a clear plan can make summer a breeze! If you have any questions or need guidance on modifying child support or managing co-parenting expenses, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help! 🌟 #CoParenting #SummerFun #ChildSupport #FamilyFirst #ParentingTips Feel free to tweak it to better fit your style or specific needs!

🌞 Planning for summer camp? Parents, don't let January stress get in the way of making the best choice for your child! As a summer camp owner for the past decade, I understand the weight of this decision. Here are crucial steps to consider before signing up: 1. **Identify Interests:** Reflect on your child's hobbies and passions—these should guide your choice of camp. 2. **Visit Camps:** If possible, tour the facilities to ensure it aligns with your child's needs and preferences. 3. **Ask Questions:** Inquire about staff qualifications and program structure to ensure a safe and enriching experience. This is not just about childcare; it's about fostering growth, independence, and joy. What's your top priority in choosing a summer camp? Share your thoughts below! #SummerCamp #ParentingTips #ChildDevelopment #CampOwnerInsights #Education Read more: https://lnkd.in/d-ZUXg7y

Happy summer camp registration season for those that celebrate.   Over the summer I wrote an off-the-cuff post inspired by a Bravo meme about the chaos of caring for kids during the summer. What felt like an individual struggle quickly blew up on LinkedIn, highlighting that a majority of working parents are running themselves ragged figuring out kid coverage during the summer (or all year tbh.) My conclusion? If we are going to solve the childcare crisis and support working parents, we need to talk about the realities of kid coverage more. Just this week my after school babysitter was sick because she is human just like the rest of us. This sent us into a scramble to cover 3-5pm every afternoon amid meetings, work, and general life. On top of that – it is time to start planning for summer camp. This led to a very grumpy week at the Walkers with no end to this working parent chaos in sight. What is the solution? I’m not totally sure. But I do think recognizing that this is a pressure that working parents face is the first step. We cannot change a broken system until enough people agree it is broken.   

The following article by Jen Hogan only highlights that Sherpa Kids is the solution to all the pain points raised. Late starts? Sorted - Sherpa Kids opens Holiday Programmes early to support working families! Early finishes? Sorted - Sherpa Kids stays open to support working families. Over-scheduling anxiety? Sorted - We balance a variety of multi-activities with time for children to actually relax, socialise and explore their environments freely. Eye-watering costs? Nope- Sherpa Kids accepts NCS which is soon increasing to a discount of a minimum of €2.14 per hour for every child, making our already highly affordable prices even more so. For those on the higher subsidy, our programmes are free. We also ensure (in all our programmes) there are places available for sponsored children who need our enriching and consistent programmes most of all. What’s more? There is no chasing camps that move around - we stay in one familiar safe place, in multiple sites across Ireland, all through the holiday periods! The solution of Sherpa Kids Holiday Programmes (also the hosts of Holiday HQ), apart from affordability and full day options, is that they are an extension of wrap-around before and afterchool programmes in 75 schools in Ireland today (and growing!). This means the staff are a familiar, trusted, highly trained and experienced team, with attachments already formed. And the biggest bonus of all? Kids are more likely to get to be with their best mates from school- no more guilt of the child “sitting on her own all day” as one parent cites in the article. Sherpa Kids = solution!

🌟 Choosing the Right Sports Camp for Your Child This Summer 🌟 As the summer holidays approach, finding the perfect sports camp for your child can be a daunting task. Here are some essential factors to consider to ensure your child has a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience: Qualified Staff: Ensure the camp employs experienced and certified coaches and staff who are trained in child supervision and first aid. A knowledgeable team guarantees a safe and supportive environment. Safety Measures: Check that the camp follows strict safety protocols, including secure facilities, proper equipment, and emergency procedures. Your child's safety should always be a top priority. Program Variety: Look for camps that offer a diverse range of activities and sports to keep your child engaged and excited. A well-rounded program helps children develop various skills and discover new interests. Reputation and Reviews: Research the camp’s reputation through reviews and testimonials from other parents. Positive feedback and recommendations are strong indicators of a quality camp. Affordability: Consider the cost and ensure it fits within your budget. Many camps offer financial assistance or discounts, so don’t hesitate to ask about available options. Location and Convenience: Choose a camp that is easily accessible from your home or workplace. Convenient location ensures a smooth drop-off and pick-up routine. Values and Philosophy: Ensure the camp’s values align with your own. Look for programs that promote teamwork, inclusivity, and personal growth. Trial Sessions or Open Days: If available, attend a trial session or open day. This allows you and your child to experience the camp firsthand and make an informed decision. At our holiday camps, running across 9 venues this summer, we prioritize these factors to provide an exceptional experience for your child. With our qualified staff, diverse programs, and commitment to safety and fun, we aim to make this summer unforgettable for every child. For more information and to book your child's spot, visit www.sprintactive.co.uk #ChoosingASportsCamp #SummerCamps #ActiveKids #ChildSafety #ParentingTips #HealthyLiving #ChildDevelopment #PeaceOfMind

Recently, the Irish Times published an article about the challenges parents face during the summer season, highlighting feelings of stress, guilt and the financial burden of having children out of school during extended school breaks (two months in the summer). Fortunately, we have and are the solution to address these concerns and make the holiday season enjoyable for everyone! As well said by Jennifer Lee: “Sherpa Kids is the solution to all the pain points raised. Late starts? Sorted – Sherpa Kids opens Holiday Programmes early to support working families! Early finishes? Sorted – Sherpa Kids stays open to support working families. Over-scheduling anxiety? Sorted – We balance a variety of multi-activities with time for children to actually relax, socialise and explore their environments freely. Eye-watering costs? Nope- Sherpa Kids accepts NCS which is soon increasing to a discount of a minimum of €2.14 per hour for every child, making our already highly affordable prices even more so. For those on the higher subsidy, our programmes are free." Yes, free! It's evident that we offer a comprehensive solution for working families during school closures. Our programmes not only relieve stress and financial burdens but also eliminate the guilt parents feel, trusting their children are engaged, safe, and happy, have a good time with us!

#ResourceSpotlight: There are so many more incredible resources to share for Maine kinship families now that we have expanded our support into Cumberland County, Maine, following our expansion into York County last year! The Maine Kinship Family Resource Guide, created by Adoptive and Foster Families of Maine, Inc. & The Kinship Program, takes an in-depth look at kinship care in Maine and can assist families by providing much-needed information, support, and guidance. It includes information on legal matters surrounding kinship care, childcare availability, education, financial assistance, tax credits, and more. You can access the Resource Guide here: https://ow.ly/fU8C50SqpxF

🌟 Crafting Our Promise of Safety: A Personal Journey 🌟 🔍 Searching for the Perfect Creche: Unveiling the Depths of Safety 🔍 Parent 1: "Finding the right creche for our little one is crucial. Safety is non-negotiable." Parent 2: "Absolutely! But what does safety really mean to you? Is it just about security, or is there more to it?" In my recent heartfelt conversations with fellow working parents about choosing the perfect creche for their little ones, one theme echoed profoundly: safety. But as we explored what safety truly entails, my heart swelled with a mix of emotions, realizing the depth and diversity of perspectives within the parent community. For me, safety is more than just a checkbox—it's a sacred trust, a beacon of assurance that our children are in nurturing hands. It's the peace of mind that comes from knowing every corner of the creche is meticulously safeguarded, allowing our little explorers to flourish without fear. I resonated deeply with those who spoke of emotional sanctuaries, where caregivers not only tend to our children's physical needs but also cradle their hearts with understanding and empathy, creating a haven of love and security. And let's not forget the unsung heroes of cleanliness, for whom safety means a sparkling environment that reflects the dedication poured into every aspect of care, ensuring a healthy space for our precious ones to thrive. Yet, amidst these varied dimensions of safety, I'm reminded of the importance of not losing sight of the details in our quest for comprehensiveness. Each aspect holds its unique significance, and in weaving them together, we must preserve the individuality that makes our journey of parenthood so deeply personal and meaningful. In these simple life conversations, I find profound lessons for marketing, exploring each of these safety dimensions could lead to a different positioning approach for each creche that exists, isn't it? This is a simple way to explain the concept of brand positioning. These multifaceted dimensions of safety aren't just ideals; they're our shared commitment—a promise to uphold the highest standards of care and nurture a sense of trust and belonging for every child and parent in our community. What does safety mean to you in your journey as a parent? Share your thoughts and experiences below! 👶✨ #safety #parenthood #creche #branding #positioning #dimension

Child Safety Tip: Creating a "Yes" Environment for Children Creating a "yes" environment for children is a powerful way to promote safety, encourage exploration, and foster positive behavior. Here are some practical tips on how to achieve this: Childproofing: Ensure that your home or childcare space is safe for exploration. Use safety gates, cover electrical outlets, and secure heavy furniture to prevent accidents. Positive Reinforcement: Focus on what children can do rather than what they can’t. Set up areas with safe, engaging activities that encourage creativity and independence. Clear Boundaries: Establish clear, consistent rules that children can understand. Explain why certain areas or items are off-limits in a way that makes sense to them. Safe Exploration: Provide a variety of safe materials and spaces where children can explore freely. This helps them learn about their environment while staying protected from harm. Encouragement and Praise: Reinforce positive behavior with encouragement and praise. Acknowledge their efforts and successes, which boosts their confidence and motivation. By creating a "yes" environment, we empower children to explore and learn in a safe and supportive setting. It's all about making safety and positivity a natural part of their everyday experiences. What strategies have you found effective in creating a safe and encouraging environment for children? Share your tips below! #ChildSafety #PositiveParenting #ChildDevelopment #SafeEnvironment #EarlyChildhoodEducation

Summer vacation is only getting more expensive for parents, with some spending thousands of dollars on camp: It's 'highway robbery' Summer camps and care cost parents thousands, pushing many into debt or altered work schedules. Parents are facing rising childcare costs, exacerbated by post-pandemic economic pressures. For day camp alone, parents spend around $150 to $200 per child per day; sleepaway camp costs around $6,000 per child for three weeks. To make costs manageable, they use payment plans to pay throughout the year for camp. Despite the financial strain, parents view summer activities as essential for their children's well-being. Follow the TJNEWS channel on WHATSAPP 🔗 http://bit.ly/Channel_TJV TELEGRAM 🔗https://t.me/tjvnews