This morning we woke up to this on the news. I can honestly say I was sick to my stomach.
“Crying, cold and alone. A 21 month old toddler was found last night in his car seat in a car parked at the silver dollar casino. Police say he might’ve been there for 6 hours…dressed in light clothing, no socks, no shoes… It was -8 outside. EMS took the child to hospital for an assessment, family services will be involved. The child’s father has been charged…after *he* was found inside the casino.”
Having a child the same age, I can’t imagine what that child went through. Instead of being upset about this I wanted to give you a list of resources for childcare. It is out there. If you NEED to get out for a while, please leave your child in the care of someone who is willing to do it.
Here’s are some website links for childcare.
Here is the link to the Alberta Children and Youth Services, Child Care Services, Resources for Parents page:
http://www.child.alberta.ca/home/702.cfm
More specifically, here is the link to assist parents in finding specific child care options in their area, along with advice on what things to consider as a family for their specific child care needs, and suggestions on what to look for in a quality child care centre:
http://www.child.alberta.ca/home/724.cfm
Should parents require any additional information, they are encouraged to call Calgary and Area Child and Family Services Authority office main number at 403 297-6100, and they will be referred to a member of the Child Care Services team.
If EVER you know of a child in Crisis – please keep this number hand for the Child Services in Alberta Crisis Line – 403-297-2995 – They’re available 24/7 for Child intervention services in Calgary and area.
www.canadiansitter.ca This is a site I’ve used. Remember that no one is screened first. You must interview them. But I use 3 sitters from there, and they’re all GREAT!!
Here’s one with a list of things to do for babysitters and parents http://www.calgarypolice.ca/kids/babysitting.html
And often your community will have a list of people who have taken the babysitting course. Contact your local community centre association.
Here are two other links related to this story. First is AADAC – http://www.aadac.ca/
A healthy society that is free from the harmful effects of alcohol, other drugs and gambling.
The other that may be helpful is the Canadian Mental Health Association – http://www.cmha.calgary.ab.ca/
One of the best ways to help a child is to love them! (Love is your bonus code)