When it comes to vaccinations, many parents have questions.  What are the pros vs the cons?  Are they safe?  Will my child react to the vaccine?  Many parents struggle with the decision on whether to vaccinate, or not to.  In the past few weeks, the vaccination debate has come into the news once again. 

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I was away on holidays last week, so there will be lots to catch up on this week!!

Diabetes before pregnancy linked to higher birth defect risk: new research

Diabetic women who get pregnant are three to four times more likely to have a child with birth defects than other women, according to new U.S. government research.

The study is the largest of its kind, and provides the most detailed information to date on types of birth defects that befall the infants of diabetic mothers, including heart defects, missing kidneys and spine deformities.

http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2008/07/30/diabetes-birthdefects.html

Too little tummy time slows infant development

Infants who spend too much time on their backs have an increased risk of developing a misshapen head along with certain developmental delays, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) warns in a statement issued this month.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26205535/

FDA: Chemical found in plastic bottles is safe

WASHINGTON - Despite ongoing safety concerns from parents, consumer groups and politicians, a chemical used in baby bottles, canned food and other items is not dangerous, federal regulators said Friday.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26223328/

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Election officials are needed to assist with the 2008 Municipal Election set for Saturday, November 15, 2008. Those wishing to work the election can apply online at www.kelowna.ca or pick up an application form at the City Clerk’s Division at City Hall.

 ”We need officials to assist at each polling station,” says elections clerk Debi Duhamel “Workers will help with voter registration and handing out ballots, overseeing the voting station and with the vote tally at the end of the night. ”

 Workers are need for advance polls on November 5 and 12 and on Election Day November 15.

 Training is provided for all positions. Remuneration ranges from $200 to $400 depending on the position.

 Election information can found online at www.kelowna.ca or by contacting the City Clerk’s Division at City Hall, 1435 Water Street, or by phoning 250 469-8645.

Girls 5+ are invited to sign up for Sparks, Brownies, Girl Guides, Pathfinders or to be a leader. Registration is Today, Sat. Aug. 23 at Mission Creek Park from 10 AM until 2 PM. All Central Okanagan Units are taking registrations here.

Westside/Westbank girls can ALSO register on Wed. Sept. 3 at Westbank United Church at 6:30 p.m.

I’ve learned that I need to be realistic when making my to do lists!! 

Kelowna’s new Indoor Playground is now taking registrations for swimming lessons, following the We Teach swimming program.
To register for the second session please check out the schedule at
www.energyplex.ca click on SWIMMING.
To take advantage of early registration a kiosk will be set up in the
Orchard Park Mall (by the Starbucks kiosk near the Sears furniture store)
for IN-PERSON registration only:
Thursday Aug 21 from 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
Friday Aug 22 from 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
Saturday Aug 23 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday Aug 24 10:00 am - 6:00pm
Thursday to Sunday Aug 28 - 31 same times.
Payment can be made by cash, debit or credit card (Visa or Master Card).
Cheque will not be accepted.
Please bring your previous report card or know the swim levels of your
child(ren).