Child Development

Growing Up On Track

Parents want the best for their children!  They work very hard to coax a baby’s first smile, steps and words.  But parents often worry about:

• When children should master each skill
• How to help their child learn tasks and skills

It is very important for babies and young children to develop and learn the skills they need as they grow up.  Many children need extra help in one or more areas.  IT is easier to correct or catch up on growth and skills when you figure out what your child needs as soon as possible. [[MORE]]How do I know that my child’s growth and development is on track? One tool that you can use to check on your child’s development is the Nipissing District Development Screen (NDDS) for infants and children up to 6 years of age.  This tool is available in English, French, Spanish, Chinese and Vietnamese.  It includes:

• A checklist of skills most children can do at each age
• Tips on what to do to help children learn

Where can I get this information?The NDDS is free-of-charge for people living in Ontario.  You can receive your copy by: 

• Ordering copies at www.ndds.ca
• Registering at 222.endds.com/en/index.html to receive the tool by email
• Calling the Ottawa Public Health Information Line at 613-580-6744

How does the tool for checking child development work?Parents can use the tool themselves for their child or they can get help from a public health nurse, doctor, child care provider or Early Years Centre.On your own or with help, first answer the 12 to 14 questions about your child’s skills.  If you answer “no” to a question, think about why your child cannot do this skill.  Also, use the tips provided to do what you can to help your child learn.If you have questions about your child’s growth and progress, how to use the NDDS, or where to find help, please call the Ottawa Public Health Information Line at 613-580-6744 | TTY 613-580-9656, visit ottawa.ca/health or your child’s doctor. read more..

source:ottawa.ca

Eye Conditions-Free Eye Exam

Don't over LOOK your eyes

Your eyes help keep you safe and independent, so it is important not to take your vision for granted. The best thing you can do to protect your eyesight is to have an eye exam every year.  Even if you don’t wear glasses or don’t think you have problems with your vision, an eye exam every year is an important check-up.  As you get older, dryness, sensitivity to glare, and trouble reading small print are all normal changes to your eyes.  But, there are also more serious eye conditions, like glaucoma and macular degeneration that can cause you to lose your eyesight before you notice any warning signs.  Visit www.cnib.ca for more information on these conditions. An eye exam can pick up these serious conditions before you lose your vision.If you are worried about the cost of having an eye exam, this information may help: [[MORE]]

• If you are under 20 or over 65 years of age, you can get a free eye exam once a year.
• If you are 20-64 years of age and have diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts or other medical problems you can have a free eye exam once a year.  You can find a full list of the conditions at http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/pub/ohip/services.html or you can call ServiceOntario INFOline at 1-866-532-3161 or TTY 1-800-387-5559
• If you are on social assistance or disability you can have an eye exam every two years for free
• If you have your own private health insurance you may be covered for an eye exam.  Speak to your insurance provider for details.

You may also be able to get help to pay for your glasses.  Talk to your case worker if you are on Ontario Works (OW) or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). If you are not on OW or ODSP, but have a low income and limited savings, you may be able to get help through the City of Ottawa’s Essential Health and Social Supports Program.  For more information on this program, call 613-560-6000. For more information on protecting your vision and other health related topics, call the Ottawa Public Health Information Line at 613-580-6744, TTY: 613-580-9656 or email us at healthsante@ottawa.ca.  For more information about eye conditions, visit www.cnib.ca. read more..

source:ottawa.ca