Newsletter - Saskatchewan Institute on Prevention of Handicaps

Prevention Post

Volume 10 Issue 2 Fall 1998

Saskatchewan Hosts First Canadian Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome

The First Canadian Conference on Shaken Baby Syndrome is being hosted by the Saskatchewan Institute on Prevention of Handicaps in Saskatoon on May 26 to 29, 1999. With the collaboration and support of several organizations and agencies from across Canada, this conference will be the first step in the development of a national strategy on the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS).

Subtitled "Awareness, Prevention & Response - An Integrated Approach", the conference will bring together professionals from health, legal and social service fields with parents and caregivers concerned about Shaken Baby Syndrome. They will share information on the many issues surrounding this tragic form of child abuse and work on multidisciplinary strategies to prevent the deaths and permanent injuries of children.

Professionals involved in child injury prevention, parenting education, child advocacy, clinical care of infants and children, child protection, or the prosecution of child abuse cases will have opportunities to share, to learn and to network with others who are interested in reducing the incidence of Shaken Baby Syndrome.

Keynote speakers include Dr. Jacy Showers, Ed. D, the director of SBS Prevention Plus in Colorado and Cynthia Morton, Children's Commissioner of British Columbia. Dr. Showers has published numerous papers in refereed journals on child abuse, child development, child behaviour management and Shaken Baby Syndrome. She has created a wide assortment of prevention products related to SBS and coordinates an American national network to advance SBS prevention efforts. Cynthia Morton is the author of the Baby M Report which details the investigation and recommendations of a Shaken Baby Syndrome death.

Canadian and American professionals will be invited to speak on the health, social and legal issues that continue to be controversial and contribute to the challenges associated with the of diagnosis of Shaken Baby Syndrome, the prosecution of offenders and the development of prevention programming. Parents of children who have suffered the injuries of Shaken Baby Syndrome will share their experiences and perspectives.

The conference will be held at the Radisson Hotel in Saskatoon. Registration and a free public lecture will take place on the Wednesday evening of May 26, 1999. The main conference activities will be scheduled for Thursday, May 27 and Friday, May 28. On the Saturday morning of May 29, participants will be invited to contribute ideas and suggestions for recommendations to be included in a national statement on Shaken Baby Syndrome. The statement will constitute the first step in the development of a National Strategy on the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome.

Topics of the Conference Include:

  • Identifying Shaken Baby Syndrome

  • Medical Investigation of Shaken Baby Syndrome

  • Legal Investigation of Shaken Baby Syndrome

  • Prevention Strategies

  • Risk Assessment

  • Community Programming

  • Developing a National Strategy and Multidisciplinary Action Plans for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome.

  • Series on Genetics - Genetic Diseases

    Genes are tiny structures within our cells which we inherit from our parents. Genes interact with our environment to determine practically all aspects of our physical make-up. Genes make us resistant to some illnesses and prone to others.

    At least one-quarter of all infant deaths in Canada result from genetic factors. Approximately 1 in 30 children are born with a serious birth defect. An estimated 1 in 10 Canadians have some condition in which the genetic component is important.

    Genetic Diseases

    Genetic diseases are conditions caused by genes or chromosomes (the carriers of genes). Some genetic diseases can be fatal or cause severe disabilities. Other genetic diseases are very mild, perhaps even unnoticeable. The genetic defect which causes the disease is present at birth. Symptoms, however, may appear at any time in life, depending on the condition.

    Some genetic diseases are apparent at birth or during infancy. For example:

  • Spina Bifida

    (a defect of the backbone in which the spinal column doesn't close properly)

  • Cleft Lip and/or Palate

    (a split where parts of the upper lip or roof of the mouth haven't grown together)

  • Deafness (some types)

  • Blindness (some types)

  • Developmental Disability

    (some types, including Down Syndrome)

  • Hemophilia (a bleeding disorder)

  • Club Foot

  • Cystic Fibrosis

  • Phenylketonuria (PKU)
  • Other conditions don't appear until childhood or later life. For example:
  • Muscular Dystrophy

    (progressive muscular deterioration)

  • Epilepsy

  • Diabetes

  • Cancer (some types)

  • Heart Disease

  • Huntington Disease
  • Genetic Counselling

    An individual or couple may receive information through genetic counselling about the specific genetic condition concerning them. Genetic counselling will give information about what the disease is, how it is inherited, if it can be prevented and if it can be detected prenatally.

    There are several steps involved in genetic counselling:

  • A nurse takes a family and health history.

  • A genetic specialist (a physician) assesses the history and may perform tests on family members.

  • The physician interprets the results and discusses the risk of genetic disease occurring.
  • Counselling

    If the physician finds that the risk of genetic disease is higher than normal, a counsellor will give the individual information, answer questions, and provide emotional support for the individual and the family. The family physician may be involved in ongoing consultations.

    Prevention, Screening and Treatment

    The devastating effects of certain genetic diseases can be prevented (i.e., some types of cancer or heart disease). If an individual has a healthy lifestyle and limits exposure to toxic substances, the risk that the individual's genetic background will result in disability may be reduced.

    The physician may advise preventive measures such as screening and testing for carriers (people who "carry" the disease in their genes, but who don't actually have the disease). Prenatal testing may also be done for some genetic disorders.

    Other genetic conditions such as Phenylketonuria (an inborn error of metabolism which is also called PKU) are tested for in all newborn babies. Some genetic diseases can be effectively treated through dietary management, drug administration, physical therapy and/or surgery.

    Genetic Counselling May Be Suitable For:

  • Parents of a child with a genetic disorder or congenital malformation.

  • Couples who are planning a pregnancy when either of them has or is suspected to have an inherited condition or is from a family where the condition exists.

  • Parents who have experienced repeated miscarriages, a stillbirth, or an early infant death.

  • Couples who are related and are planning a pregnancy.

  • Women over 35 who are pregnant and have been advised to have amniocentesis or women over 35 who are planning a pregnancy.

  • People who are concerned that they may have been exposed to excessive amounts of drugs, chemicals or radiation.

  • People who are aware of a high incidence of a particular genetic disorder in their cultural background (e.g., Tay-Sachs in people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent; sickle cell anaemia in people of African-Canadian descent).
  • The information contained is this article is available on the Genetic Disease Fact Sheet available from the Prevention Institute.

    Program Areas

    The Saskatchwan Institute on Prevention of Handicaps focuses its programming on four areas that can impact on the health and well-being of children.

    These areas are:

  • Reproductive Health

  • Childhood Injuries

  • Neglect and Abuse

  • Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs
    Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs

    Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

    The FAS Community Poster was distributed to all Saskatchewan liquor stores in June 1998 by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA). This mass distribution will help raise awareness of FAS to residents of the province. The poster was also distributed to all owner-operated stores, restaurants and bars. We would like to thank the SLGA for their distribution of over 1700 posters.

    Another poster was released by the Institute in June. Listen to The Inner Voice poster promotes primary prevention of FAS. This poster, which is illustrated with a kangaroo, is appropiate for school age children to adults. For a full description of the poster see page 10.

    Many recipients of the Community Development Grants for the Prevention and Management of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)/Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE) have started work on their projects throughout the spring and summer. Refer to page 7 for highlights on two projects.

    Childhood Injuries

    Infant and Child Restraints

    Provincial Activities

    A great amount of work has been accomplished since the Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Trainers were trained in March. To date, there have been approximately 30 infant and child restraint inspection clinics held, and approximately 250 Infant and Child Restraint (ICR) Inspectors trained. There are more inspector training sessions and inspection clinics scheduled for this fall. These activities positively affect child passenger safety by assisting parents and caregivers to properly restrain their infants and children in a vehicle. For more information on becoming a Child Passenger Safety Trainer, contact Arin Jorgenson at the Prevention Institute at (306) 655-2518.

    National Training Manual

    The Saskatchewan Institute on the Prevention of Handicaps is proud to announce that the first draft of the National Training manual that was developed through the Winter and Spring has been completed. On June 2, the Prevention Institute submitted the manual to Health Canada, Population Health, the funders of the project. Once the process of approval has been completed by Transport Canada, the manual will be made available, as a working draft, to CPS Trainers. The national program, which will include the training manual, is in the stages of development. With a team of professionals and experts in the field working on both the manual and the program, the Institute looks forward to the development of a strong national program.

    Neglect and Abuse

    Nobody's Perfect Parenting Program

    Parent Book Revisions - Safety

    The new Safety book is an excellent resource for young parents to help them prevent childhood injuries and keep their children safe. Highlights of the revised content include:

    · Teach your child what to do in case of fire. This section emphasizes the value of teaching children "Stop, Drop and Roll" if their clothes are on fire. A companion resource to expand on this issue is the "Learn Not to Burn" program for preschoolers. This resource is available for loan from the Prevention Institute or from the Office of the Provincial Fire Marshall.

    · Reduce the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome - highlights the current research in prevention of this syndrome, including having babies sleep on their back, preventing overheating, avoiding cigarette smoke exposure and the importance of breast-feeding.

    · An expanded section on childproofing your home and choosing children's furniture. Additional fact sheets on preventing poisoning and injuries are available from the Prevention Institute.

    · The newest information on car seat safety. Please contact the Prevention Institute for new initiatives around the province in car seat safety.

    · Sun Safety - the use of sunscreen and the dangers associated with staying in the sun too long. Sunscreen should not be used on babies and they should never be out in the direct sun.

    · Winter Safety - appropriate clothing and safe sledding.

    · Off-Road Vehicle Safety - Children travelling by snowmobiles and All Terrain Vehicles require special safety considerations.

    · Boating Safety - Life jackets should be worn by everyone - every time. Other considerations for making boating a fun experience are highlighted. This information is particularly important for parents who live near lakes or rivers and for parents who take their children to the lake in the summer.

    · Farm Safety - Farms can be dangerous places for children because they are both a residence and a work place. It is important to emphasize safety rules no matter where you live. Explanations to children need to be given over and over in many different ways. The most important aspect is for adults to model safe behaviour.

    The back section of this book contains a condensed first aid manual. Everything from first aid for broken bones to burns to CPR is covered, in an easy to understand format with clear, descriptive illustrations.

    The Safety book is just one of 5 books that parents receive when they take the Nobody's Perfect program. For more information, call Leslie Barker at the Prevention Institute at (306) 655-2529.

    Recent Facilitator Training Sessions

    Facilitator Training for the Nobody's Perfect Program was held at:

    · Meadow Lake Tribal Council (MLTC) - May 25-29,1998. Representatives from the nine communities that form MLTC attended this four day training session with Trainer Freida Iron. Two communities have already instituted plans for parenting sessions in the fall.

    · Regina Health District - June 1-4, 1998. Representatives from various community agencies spent a productive week with Joan Riemer, Colleen Dybvig and Mona-Maria Krumenacker in Regina.

    Upcoming Training Sessions are planned for North Battleford - September 1998 and Saskatoon (date TBA). Please contact the Prevention Institute for an application form.

    1,2,3,4 Parents!

    The Active Parenting Program 1,2,3,4 Parents! has been purchased and is available for borrowing by agencies that are interested in providing a companion program to Nobody's Perfect. The resource kit comes with a video, a leader's manual, and a sample parent workbook.

    1,2,3,4 Parents! is an a resource for parents of preschool children. It is complementary to the Nobody's Perfect program and the two programs are being used together in many communities. The program highlights basic development for children ages 1 to 4, using poems and examples. The 1 year old is described as The Explorer, the 2 year old as The Boss, the 3 year old as The Pal and the 4 year old as The Adventurer. Positive discipline strategies are outlined and parents are given the opportunity to try them out through exercises, observation (video) and by direct practice.

    1,2,3,4 Parents! encourages parents towards the ‘flexible but strong' parenting style. Unconditional love and encouragement are threads that run throughout this program.

    Shaken Baby Syndrome

    After consultation with community professionals involved in parenting education and postnatal care, the need for resources on coping with a crying baby and preventing Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) was found to be significant.

    The existing Prevention Institute fact sheet on Shaken Baby Syndrome was updated and revised to better reflect the need for information on crying. It also validates the feelings of frustration and anger felt by many parents and caregivers. The Home Care/Special Care Program at SIAST Kelsey Campus is using the new SBS fact sheet in one of their curriculum modules.

    The SBS fact sheet has also been shared with health, legal and social services professionals from all across Canada. Feedback has been very positive.

    The development of a new pamphlet on crying required further research. Focus groups were organized in the Saskatoon area with experienced parents, parents to be, teen parents and young people enrolled in a babysitting course. Their input on content, color, graphics and other elements proved to be valuable in the process of designing this new resource. The new pamphlet entitled "When Your Baby Won't Stop Crying" is colorful, easy to read, non-judgmental and supportive. It emphasizes the importance of staying calm and encourages parents and caregivers to ask for help.

    In collaboration with Bev Thompson, Daphne Goodman-Eifler and many other public health nurses in the Saskatoon District Health area, the new pamphlet "When Your Baby Won't Stop Crying" is now being evaluated. With the generous help of the public health nurses and clinic staff in Gabriel Health Springs, Central Plains and Living Sky districts, as well as hundreds of families welcoming new babies into their homes, feedback on the new pamphlet is being documented.

    Reproductive Health

    The Prevention Institute has made the area of Reproductive Health a priority for the upcoming year. During the Long Term Strategic Planning Process the Prevention Institute conducted this past year, the area of Reproductive Health was a main focus.

    In May 1998, a Program Developer was hired to address the issues that are current in the area of Reproductive Health in today's society. Please watch the New Resources section of this and upcoming issues of the Prevention Post for new resource materials that are added to our library.

    For more information in the area of Reproductive Health contact Leegay Jagoe, Program Developer for Reproductive Health, at the Prevention Institute at (306) 655-2526.

     

    FAS Provincial Grant Projects

    Healthy Lifestyle Program - Whitecap Dakota/Sioux First Nation

    The Whitecap Dakota/Sioux First Nation saw an opportunity to address health and social issues within their community through the Community Development Grants for the Prevention and Management of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)/Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE). Their main goal is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of their community members through a Healthy Lifestyles Program.

    Whitecap Dakota/Sioux First Nation is located south of Saskatoon. The community of over 250 members is the main target audience of this project.

    Individuals from the community, working in the areas of health care, health and social development and parenting, believe that promoting and maintaining community wellness is a goal that is attainable through appropriate health programming. By offering programs for children, youth, adults and elders, they believe they can achieve their goal of holistic community wellness.

    Many activities are planned that will help the group achieve its goal. These activities include the training of health staff in the area of FAS/FAE. By providing appropriate training the health staff will have the advantage of delivering FAS/FAE education workshops to community members. This training will lead to the development of a FAS/FAE Prevention Program within the community.

    Other activities that the program will include are community awareness, "Healthy Lifestyles" awareness pamphlet, men's workshops, traditional parenting workshops and a youth "Healthy Choices, Healthy Lifestyles" workshop.

    A traditional parenting workshop was held in June 1998, a second one will follow in Septemer 1998. The "Healthy Choices, Healthy Lifestyles" workshop will be held in the the fall of 1998. The workshop will be designed to assist youth to make positive choices. The workshop will provide awareness in the areas of HIV/AIDS, healthy relationships, traditional values, personal development they will be prepared to make better choices in the future.

    Journey to Wellness, Celebrating Healthy Choices - Ocean Man First Nation's Health Department

    Ocean Man First Nation's goal is to prevent FAS/FAE by targeting the younger population. Through the Community Development Grants for the Prevention and Management of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)/Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE) they plan to target nursery to grade two school age children, and youth ages 14 to 19.

    Ocean Man First Nation, located in southern Saskatchewan, hopes to achieve their goal of preventing FAS/FAE by increasing awareness and educating the younger population. By achieving this goal, they beleive they will reduce the incidence of FAS/FAE in their community.

    Presentations were held in June 1998 for school-age children. The dangers of drugs and alcohol abuse were discussed.

    A student was hired during the summer to take on the role as project coordinator of the teen workshop, Journey to Wellness - Celebrating Healthy Choices. The two-day workshop was held in August, 1998 for 30 youth in the community. Members of the community spoke on issues such as AIDS/HIV, healthy relationships, self-esteem building, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and suicide.

    Another activity that the program will include is a poster. A local artist will participate in providing the artwork for the poster. It will be distributed throughout the community to raise awareness. Feedback from the community will also be valuable in the evaluation of the poster.

    The Ocean Man Education Centre, the Community Health Nurse, the Ocean Man First Nation's Chief in Council and various Band Counsellors are working together to provide the program throughout the community.

     

    Playgrounds -

    Swing into Safety

     

    Six year old Laura was having a great time. Recess, her favourite part of school, was the time when she and her friends rushed to enjoy the school's playground equipment. Recess was almost over and Laura was enjoying a final twirl on the tire swing. She fell. Unable to walk, Laura was carried into the school by the playground supervisor. Her mother was called at work. During the twenty minutes that it took her mother to arrive at the school, Laura was carried by another teacher to her child care provider who lived across the street from the school. When her mother arrived at the school, she was told that Laura was at her child care provider's house. Her mother rushed over, and immediately upon seeing Laura, realized that her daughter was in shock. Laura was taken to the hospital by her mother and there Laura was diagnosed with a broken femur. Laura was in traction for one and a half weeks and then in a body cast for eight weeks. Laura is still recovering from her injury.

    Obviously, this situation was not handled well by the supervisors and staff of Laura's school. When examining injury, one must study the whole situation to determine how the situation may have been avoided. Questions to be asked are:

    · Had the school established playground safety guidelines?

    · Was the supervision adequate?

    · Did the supervisors and teachers in the school have an established policy for dealing with injury?

    · Were the supervisors and teachers trained in first aid?

    Positive responses to the above questions are very important in providing a safe playground setting. Laura's injury is not an isolated occurrence. Approximately 10,000 children are injured on playgrounds in Canada each year. In Saskatchewan, children aged five to nine who are hospitalized due to injury are most often injured while on the playground.

    There is no question that adult supervision is key to a child's safety on public and school playgrounds. Whether preventing injury from occurring or treating an injury which has occurred, the role of the adult playground supervisor is vital.

    Safety on the playground is also impacted by the condition of the equipment itself. Ensuring that playground equipment meets the Canadian Standards Association's standard Z614 - Children's Playspaces and Equipment (new in 1998), and performing regular maintenance will provide a much safer environment in which children can play.

    The revised standard applies to playgrounds and playground equipment designed for children ages 1½ to 12 years. The standard includes: revised minimum and maximum requirements for gaps in playground equipment (protection from falls and entrapment); new requirements regarding the heights of protective barriers and guardrails (protection from falls); and new requirements for fall heights and protective surfacing of zone areas.

    Whether maintaining older equipment or constructing a new playground, it is essential that the guidelines be followed. A copy of the new edition, CAN/CSA-Z614-98, A Guideline on Children's Playspaces and Equipment, can be ordered for $45 by calling CSA's Standards Sales Group at 1-800-463-6727.

     

    Protecting The Brain

     

    The brain enables us to do everything that we do - breathe, walk, plan for our futures. It is important to understand the function of the brain so that the brain will be protected as well as it should.

    How is the brain organized?

    The brain is divided into three main components: the cortex (cerebrum), the cerebellum and the brain stem. Each component has a specific function. The cortex is the largest part of the brain. The cortex is divided into the left and right hemispheres. The left hemisphere, which is the dominant hemisphere for the majority of people, controls the right side of the body and also controls language functions. The right hemisphere, the non-dominant hemisphere for most people, controls visual memory, spatial orientation and the ability to construct things.

    The cortex is divided into four lobes. The frontal lobes work to organize and control behaviour. They also have many connections to the rest of the brain. The parietal lobes, which are located directly behind the frontal lobes, control muscle tone, strength and physical sensations. The parietal lobes are also involved with speech, reading and writing, perception, and drawing among other things. The temporal lobes, which are located beneath the frontal, parietal and occipital lobes, have memory functions and control the muscular components of speech. The occipital lobes, which are at the back of the brain, have their function in vision.

    The cerebellum is located at the base of the brain and regulates balance, posture and coordination.

    The brain stem relays stimuli from the body to the brain and responses from the brain to the body. It contains the centres which control breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. The brain stem is also the nerve centre for sight and hearing, and it controls the muscles of the face, mouth and neck. The brain stem also connects the two hemispheres of the brain to the spinal cord.

    How is the brain naturally protected?

    The brain is encased within the rigid structure of the skull. Thin membranes, the dura mater and pia-arachnoid, also work to protect the brain. The brain, which is attached by the brain stem to the spinal cord, floats in cerebrospinal fluid inside the skull. The cerebrospinal fluid acts as a protector for the brain. The skull also protects the brain and the cerebrospinal fluid. The outer surface of the skull is smooth but the inner surface of the skull is rough with sharp edges which can damage the brain in injuries where the brain continues to move forward after the body and head have come to a sudden stop.

    How can we protect our brains and the brains of our children?

    The brain can be injured in a traumatic incident, from spontaneous bleeding, from lack of oxygen or from prenatal exposure to teratogens such as alcohol or other drugs. Becoming aware of the ways that the brain can be injured is an important step in avoiding risks which may cause a brain injury.

    Naturally, we think of helmets of various kinds as providing protection for the brain. Helmets do provide protection and it is important to use them in a variety of sport and work-related activities. It is also important to use other safety devices such as seat belts to protect us in the event of a car crash or safety gates to protect infants and toddlers from falls in the home. The brain of a developing fetus must be protected by providing the fetus a healthy environment free from alcohol, tobacco smoke and other drugs. Infants and young children must never be shaken, as this can result in brain injury.

    We only have one chance with the brain that we have. If the cells of the brain are damaged, they will not be replaced. In all situations, precaution must be taken to keep the brain as safe as possible.

    References:

    Gronwall, D.,Wrightson P. & Waddell, P. Head Injury: The Facts, A Guide for Families and Care-Givers, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1990.

    BC Rehabilitation Society, Think Ahead!, Vancouver, 1994.

    Neurotrauma Law Nexus, Understanding Brain Injury, http;//www.neurolaw.com/brain.html

    New Resources

    The Resource Catalogue of the Saskatchewan Institute on Prevention of Handicaps lists resources that can be obtained from the Prevention Institute to assist individuals, groups, organizations and communities in their prevention initiatives and programs. Each year the Saskatchewan Institute on Prevention of Handicaps responds to hundreds of requests.

    We're here to help! For more information or a complete catalogue please contact the Prevention Institute.

    2-V-227 Attitudes

    Pacific Edge Publishing Ltd./K.A. Productions Ltd., 1994

    The video includes three mini-dramas created by students, for students, to foster discussion of student attitudes toward people with HIV infection, toward sexual activity between peers without consent of both parties, and toward people with alternate sexual preferences. Also included in this package are a resource list, some guidelines for using drama in the classroom, the video transcripts, and a decision making process that can be taught to students as a tool to help them make lifestyle choices throughout their lives.

    Audience: Grades 8-10

    3-113 Listen to the Inner Voice - Poster

    Saskatchewan Institute on Prevention of Handicaps, 1998

    This attractive poster focuses on the primary prevention of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. An illustration of a kangaroo helps portray the message. This poster is a must see!

    3-V-223 FAS/FAE Teaching Strategies for the Classroom (30 min.)

    Lethbridge Alberta FAS Steering Committee, 1995

    In Teaching Strategies for the Classroom, you are placed in the middle of a frank group discussion dealing with FAS/FAE affected children . . . from an educational standpoint. The group is a combination of teachers, caregivers and social work professionals, all sharing their individual and insightful experiences in growing with these children. The video allows you to look at the development of FAS/FAE children throughout the various stages of their education. Learn more about what behaviours to expect, how to set academic goals, the relationships between teachers and caregivers, and the methods this group have found successful in helping these children find success from within themselves.

    3-V-224 FAS/FAE Coping With Challenging Behaviors (30 min.)

    Lethbridge Alberta FAS Steering Committee, 1995

    This video takes a closer look at the behaviors FAS/FAE affected individuals display. You observe a discussion among a group of caregivers and professionals, who struggle each day with the task of coping with these behaviours. Alcohol affected individuals must learn to function in society . . . and that learning begins at home. Through their personal experiences, you are given a unique perspective . . . a first-hand lesson in what to expect and how to cope. They offer suggestions, strategies and support for anyone living with the everyday challenges of FAS/FAE. The video will hopefully change the way we look at behaviours and lead to a new understanding and methods of positive programming for all whose lives are touched by individuals affected by FAS/FAE.

    3-A-225 What Doctors Need to Know about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) (30 min.)

    College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba and the Manitoba Children and Youth Secretariat, 1998

    This audio tape features Dr. Albert Chudley, a pediatrician and medical geneticist, and Dr. Michael Moffatt, a pediatrician and epidemiologist, both with clinical and research interests in Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. In conversational style, they provide information about the diagnostic criteria, incidence and wide range of physical, learning and behavioural characteristics associated with the syndrome and offer suggestions for programming within the community. An insert card which describes the diagnostic criteria for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Alcohol Related Effects suggested by the the Institute of Medicine is provided.

    5-226 1,2,3,4, Parents

    Scottish Rite Children's Medical Center, 1996

    1,2,3,4 Parents is an active parenting program for parents and children age one to four years of age. The program highlights basic development stages, communication skills, postive discipline approaches and encouragement. The kit includes a leaders' guide and video, as well as a sample parent's workbook. An ideal reource to complement parenting programs for parents of preschoolers. May be used as a follow-up program to Nobody's Perfect.

    5-301 When Your baby won't stop crying

    Saskatchewan Institute on Prevention of Handicaps, 1998

    Crying has been identified as the main cause or 'trigger' for Shaken Baby Syndrome. This helpful brochure identifies strategies and suggestions for dealing with an infant that will not stop crying. The brochure also validates feelings of frustration and anger. Ideal for use with all caregivers.

    5-400 The First Years Last Forever: The New Brain Research and Your Child's Healthy Development

    Canadian Institute of Child Health, 1998

    New brain research indicates that the first years of life are a critical period in a child's development. This 10-page booklet contains information for parents and caregivers who want to know more about the new research and who want to know what they can do to promote healthy development and school readiness in young children.

    Available in single copies (no cost) from the Prevention Institute or in multiple copies (shipping charges apply to quantities over 10) from the Canadian Institute on Child Health, 885 Meadowlands Drive, Suite 512, Ottawa, Ontario, K2C 3N2.

    We're Global!

    The Prevention Institute will officially launch their web site in September, 1998. By providing this site to professionals and the general public throughout Saskatchewan and the world, we hope to provide a valuable resource in the area of prevention of handicapping conditions in children.

    This site will be in constant development, with new elements and educational items being added on an ongoing basis. By continually updating and adding information to the site, it will be an asset to those working in the field of health promotion and prevention.

    Our Site Includes:
    History
    Program Areas
    Newsletter
    Resources
    Events
    www.usask.ca/medicine/prevent
     

     

    Everyone has a role to play in preventing disabilities

    Formed in 1980, the Saskatchewan Institute on Prevention of Handicaps is a unique provincial non-profit organization. Its mandate is to raise awareness of preventive measures which can reduce the incidence of handicapping conditions in children.

    For more information on the topics outlined in this newsletter or on any prevention topic, please contact the Prevention Instiute.

     

    Shareholders

    Community at Large

    Government of Saskatchewan

    Kinsmen Telemiracle Foundation

    Saskatchewan Abilities Council

    Saskatchewan Association for Community Living

    University of Saskatchewan

     

    Staff

    Ann Schulman, Executive Director

    Noreen Agrey, Health Educator

    Rosemary Bolaria, Research Officer

    Shannon Booth-Elliott, Communications Coordinator and Prevention Post Editor

    Trudy Wooff, Office Manager/Secretary

    Beth Campbell, Program Secretary

    Christy Kuse, Accounting Technican

    Rhonda Adams, Administrative Assistant

    Tricia Kutnikoff, Research Assistant

    Leslie Barker, Coordinator (Nobody's Perfect)

    Lois Crossman, Coordinator (Fetal Alcohol Syndrome)

    Wilda Watts, Community Development Project Consultant

    Maureen Bingham, Coordinator (Shaken Baby Syndrome)

    Arin Jorgenson, Coordinator (Infant Child Restraints)

    Leegay Jagoe, Program Developer for Reproductive Health

    Florence Highway-Roberts, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Program, Educator and Community Support

    Cheryl Buer Cartwright, Healthy Parenting Home Study Coordinator