Families with small children, and those expecting, could find information Thursday at the Barton County Health Department’s third annual “Community Baby Shower.” There were giveaways and drawings, as well as safe sleep demonstrations and a fun Daddy Relay Race that had fathers pushing a stroller and safely placing a baby doll into a car seat.
There were a few activities for preschool and school-age kids so they wouldn’t be bored coming with their parents, said Vicki Richardson with the Kansas Children’s Service League – Healthy Families, one of the sponsors.
Organizations were able to let parents know where to turn when they need information or assistance on a variety of topics.
• KCSL’s helpline is 1-800-CHILDREN (800-244-5373).
• The Family Crisis Center’s helpline is 866-792-1885.
• The Center for Counseling and Consultation’s helpline is 800-875-2544.
The Great Bend Fire Department offered tips on safe car seats and safe sleep, part of the Safe Sleep training offered through the Kansas Infant Death and SIDS (KIDS) Network. The ABC’s of safe sleep are:
A – Alone: Place the crib in the same room where you sleep. Baby should sleep in parent’s room on a separate, flat surface.
B – Back: Baby should always sleep on their back for every sleep.
C – Clutter-free Crib: Avoid using soft bedding including crib bumpers, blankets, pillows and soft toys. The crib should have a firm mattress and tight, fitted sheet.
Rise Up Central Kansas was handing out out sunscreen and signing people up for “Creating Resilience Through Connection,” a future class on how to help your kids through a tough time.” Amy Ferguson with Rise Up said adults who complete this two-hour class will receive a $50 gift card. For more information contact Amy Ferguson, 620-639-0125, or Vicki Richardson, 620-868-0139.
Other participants were Imago Dei Midwifery, Sunflower Health Plan, WIC (Women, Infants, Children), Aetna Better Health, Kansas Department of Children and Families, United Way of Central Kansas, Birthright, Sunflower Early Education, Catholic Charities, The University of Kansas Health System, Core Community & Barton Academy, Clara Barton Medical Center, KanCare, Harvest America, Primus Sterilizer Co., K-State Research & Extension – Cottonwood District, and Child Care Aware.
