Newsletters
Norparrin News June 2010
Norparrin is always such a busy place – probably similar to your own household. Dot points below are just to remind you of some of our basic needs that help with our program delivery -
- You are all aware of the change in weather – we will still endeavour to go outdoors – so rug up.
- We are also experiencing some ill health, with parents, children and their siblings and staff. Please do not attend session with anyone who is unwell – our children are very susceptible to infections.
- Please ring if you are unable to attend – every group have very different requirements in setting up to meet the individual needs of children.
- Please make every effort to arrive on time – with only 2 hours per week we want to get maximum benefit for our children.
- Some of our groups have a significant number of siblings attending. This can create difficulties not just for the planning and delivery of the program, but also from the point of view of parents not being available to spend sufficient time with the child, who is enrolled at Norparrin. Where it is at all possible, can you assist us by having brother/sister staying with other carers. We realise that it is not always possible and we appreciate the effort that parents have to go to in making alternative arrangements. With our limited time for specialised service to each family we are trying to maximise the time available to all.
- Norparrin is still pursuing becoming a program of Plenty Valley Community Health. We will keep you informed of the process as it progresses. We are having our monthly Committee of Management meeting on Monday 21st June at 8.00pm at Norparrin, Mill Park. You are welcome to attend any of our committee meetings, if you are interested or discuss any concerns with Melinda or Georda at any time.
Many Thanks!
· 2010 Growling Frog Ladies Golf Club Inc Charity Day for their donation of $1,730.00 we will purchase some new equipment and assist in meeting costs for siblings group.
· Eltham Miniature Railways – totally surprised me with a donation “out of the blue” of $3000.00 - it is the train that we go to each year on the double-decker bus. They think we are all magnificent and love having us visit each year.
· All the families who have donated tissues and toilet paper
Donations:
· If you happen to know of any possible sources for donations or of fundraising opportunities – can you please let us know? We would love to hear from you!
Siblings Nights:
How successful for the 9 children who are able to attend. Kellie and Sarah report back to us that the group provides a great opportunity for the “other” children in families to feel valued. I expect that your children are reporting back to you with very positive comments. I understand there is a desire for the groups to continue and we are looking at possibilities.
Mobile Phones
Please be mindful of others at group time. Our groups are only 2 hours per week and we would prefer if mobiles were put on silent during your session time
Handbags
~ Reminder -Often there are inquisitive children at Norparrin and often there are dangerous items in our bags eg tablets, small or pointy objects (pens, scissors). They can be quite dangerous – can I please ask parents to store handbags in store room at Mill Park and the cupboard above children’s lockers at Mernda Village.
Hairy Days
Norparrin is very lucky to be able to access the services of Rosa, a past parent, who is a caring and experienced hairdresser. She has been assisting with children’s hair cuts at Norparrin for many years. For many of our children hair cuts are traumatic events. Rosa, Norparrin staff and parents can help your child with this task. Rosa is coming on Friday, June 18th at 11.00 – 1.00. Please let staff know if you are interested in coming in for a hair cut during this time. The cost is $10.00 which Rosa donates back to Norparrin.
Reminders!
· Fees – hopefully most are now paid – if fee payment is difficult, please discuss this with a staff member in your group.
· Communication Books – please bring your child’s book each week, write in them when you can and share them with other people who are involved in your child’s care.
· Term dates – the last day for term 2 is Friday 25th June and we resume after 2 weeks, on the 12th July. During the 2 week break we will have a holiday program at Mill Park. Please note we are not having the typical 3 week break.
Dates of happenings for 3rd term will be circulated next week
· Holiday Program – First week Tuesday 29th June and second week Thursday 8th July from 11am – 1pm. Please feel free to come along and use the Norparrin playground facilities during this time.
· Exciting Events - Nicole’s last week – she is commencing Maternity Leave on 18th June – we wish her all the very best and look forward to her returning for visits, with a gorgeous bundle in 3rd term
- Sarah is getting married on 4th July – good luck and we will welcome her back 2nd week of 3rd term.
Cheers – all Norparrin staff
