STRENGTHENING OKLAHOMA FAMILIES
May 2016
School is out so what are your
kids doing this summer?
“A blend of structured and unstructured
activities was my mother’s answer to
‘School is out and I’m bored!’” said Laura
Hubbs-Tait, Oklahoma State University
Cooperative Extension parenting specialist.
“That advice is still good today.”
Structured activities reassure children used
to the structure of school. Some
unstructured time allows children to learn
what it feels like to be bored and to discover
creative and interesting activities to stop
boredom. Contemporary children
unthinkingly turn to smart phones,
computers and other electronic media when
bored. Thus, parents should consider
requiring some unplugged, turned off and
disconnected time – where only face-to-face
interactions, reading and creative activities
are allowed.
Appropriate summer activities will vary by
children’s age. For preschoolers, continued
enrollment in preschool, mother’s day out,
Early Head Start or quality child care
programs offer safe opportunities to play
with friends and to continue learning over
the summer. Public libraries provide free
story times for preschoolers, often followed
by additional activities.
“The OKC Metro Library system, for
example, includes bilingual (English-Spanish)
and English-only story times,” Hubbs-Tait
said. “Museums and zoos frequently offer
summer programs for children of all ages,
usually for a fee.”
For those moments when parents must turn
to the internet for activities, there are many
online sites parents can visit to increase
children’s skills and abilities. For shape,
number, sorting, pattern and letter games,
go to
http://www.sesameworkshop.org/sesame
street/?scrollerId=games. For parent-child
activities, educational games and narrated
stories, Hubbs-Tait recommends
http://www.ziggityzoom.com and
http://pbskids.org/lions/. On each site
parents should help children make ageappropriate selections.
“Some games are for preschoolers and
some are for school-age children,” she
said. “I recommend parents be with their
children for some of the time while they
are working on activities on educational
websites because of the importance of
parental engagement, as well as
supervision of internet activity.”
For school-age children, the range of
programs and opportunities is more
extensive than it is for preschoolers.
YMCAs and YWCAs offer summer
programs, as do community and theatre
groups, churches, parks and recreation
departments, scouting and Camp Fire
groups and state and local universities.
Oklahoma parents and children are very
fortunate because Oklahoma is home to
working farms that offer summer field trips
and day camps. Summer also is the classic
time for swimming lessons and the
adventures of out-of-town sleepover
camps.
For parents who must leave school-age
children at home for some part of the long
days of summer, Hubbs-Tait said it is
(continued on page 2)
Logan County
Extension Office
215 Fairgrounds Rd., Suite B
Guthrie, OK 73044
Phone: 405-282-3331
Fax: 405-282-3332
Cynthia Klumpp, Extension Educator
Family and Consumer Sciences/
4-H Youth Development
[email protected]
oces.okstate.edu/logan
In this issue
Page 2
School is out so what are your
kids doing this summer?
Rethink Mental Illness
Page 3
Fall Prevention
Wake up Yoga
Page 4
OHCE News
OHCE Calendar
Page 5
Registration Annual State
OHCE Conference
Wake up Yoga Registration
Page 6
Annie’s Project
Strengthening Oklahoma Families
Page 2
(continued from page 1)
crucial to have clear rules, daily home activities and
chores, regular monitoring by phone and unannounced
drop-ins by parents to make sure that all is going well and
children are safe.
“Kids can pick a skill or you can pick one together. It can
be something they can learn in 4-H, at a craft or sewing
center, at soccer camp or online. Then, set a time for
your child to teach you,” she said. “Make sure you are
ready to be a willing learner and very appreciative of
your child’s beginning teaching skills.”
Parents of school-age children also need to be aware of
the importance of internet safety. Although internet
safety is a year-round issue, increased hours of
unsupervised time in summer mean parents may need to
be more vigilant. Make sure your home computer
internet browser is not set to “delete browsing history on
exit. If the checkbox for delete is not checked, parents
can regularly check their child’s browsing history. Parents
may also want to purchase software that blocks
children and teens from accessing websites with
inappropriate content. Similar options are available for
smart phones, and parents should consult with their
phone service provider.
For teens not yet ready to hold a job, there are
volunteer opportunities in most communities. Teens
can volunteer in hospitals, for Habitat for Humanity,
with animal shelters or humane societies, at summer
camps for children, with sports programs for children
with special needs, and in nursing homes. Some
counties have teen court programs in which teen
volunteers serve as bailiffs or jurors or train to be
defense and prosecuting attorneys. The 13 to 18-yearold volunteers learn about the legal system and serve a
pivotal role in this intervention program for adolescent
offenders.
Parents who need more information about summer
opportunities for children can call the OSU Extension
office for suggestions.
Rethink Mental Illness
A mental illness is a medical condition
that disrupts a person’s thinking,
feeling, mood, ability to relate to
others and daily functioning. Just as
diabetes is a disorder of the pancreas,
mental illnesses are medical
conditions that often result in a
diminished capacity for coping with
the ordinary demands of life.
experience relief from their symptoms
by actively participating in an
individual treatment plan.
Oklahoma Mental
Health & Addiction
Facts

Serious mental illnesses include major
depression, schizophrenia, bi-polar
disorder, obsessive compulsive
disorder (OCD), panic disorder,
posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
and borderline personality disorder.
The good news about mental illness is
that recovery is possible.
Mental illnesses can affect persons of
any age, race, religion or income.
Mental illnesses are not the result of
personal weakness, lack of character
or poor upbringing. Mental illnesses
are treatable. Most people diagnosed
with a serious mental illness can

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Approximately 600,000
Oklahomans report having a
mental health condition.
326,000 Oklahomans age 12+
abuse or are dependent on alcohol
or illicit drugs.
Only 38% of the children/youth
who needed mental health
services received it in the past
year for a major depressive
episode.
Only 1 of every 3 adults who
needed mental health treatment
receive it.
Only 7.6% of Oklahomans age 12+
who needed treatment for alcohol
abuse or dependence actually
receive it.
Only 13.9 % of Oklahomans age
12+ who needed treatment for
illicit drug abuse or dependence
actually receive it.
Oklahoma ranks in the bottom 10
states for access to mental health
and substance abuse treatment.
Nationally, Oklahoma ranks #2
per capita for number of people
who have a mental health
condition.
Find Help. Find Hope.
For support or guidance for yourself
or family member contact the
Oklahoma Coalition of Advocates and
the OK Department of Mental Health
and Substance of Abuse Services at
namioklahoma.org or 800-583-1264.
Page 35
Page
Strengthening Oklahoma Families
Fall Prevention
Falls are the leading cause of nonfatal injuries in every
age group except ages 15-24 and are the leading cause
of injury death among adults 65 years and older in the
United States. Approximately 7,000 older adults are
hospitalized, and 225 die, from a fall every year in
Oklahoma. Acute care hospital charges alone total
nearly $225 million. Most fall injuries happen in
predictable, preventable ways.
Environment – Most falls happen in homes and are
entirely preventable. Simple changes in lighting,
housekeeping and furniture arrangement can make
older adults less susceptible to falling in their homes.
• All rooms in older adults’ homes should be well-lit.
Put in brighter light bulbs, add lighting to dark areas
and install night-lights in bedrooms, bathrooms and
hallways. • Clutter and tripping hazards can cause a
person of any age to fall. Make sure all pathways are
clear and clean. • Arrange furniture to ensure that
there is always a clear pathway to enter and exit a
room. • Many falls occur on stairs and steps. All
stairwells should be well-lit, clear of all objects, and
have handrails on both sides.
Health – Older adults with hip or bone weakness,
arthritis, osteoporosis, and blood pressure fluctuation
are more prone to falls. Those suffering from
neurological conditions, Parkinson’s disease, multiple
sclerosis or Alzheimer’s disease are at an increased risk
for falling as well.
• Have a doctor assess an older adult’s risk of falling
and suggest changes in an older adult’s medications or
lifestyle to reduce the risk of falling. • Let doctors know
about past falls. A fall can be a sign of a new medical
problem that needs attention.
Medication – Many medications have side effects that
can affect an older adult’s coordination and balance or
cause dizziness, confusion or sleepiness.
• Ask a doctor or pharmacist to review all medications,
including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines,
vitamins, and minerals. • Have an up-to-date list of all
medications and provide it to doctors during visits.
• Make sure medications are properly labeled and
there are clear instructions for usage.
Habits – Oftentimes, older adults fear that exercise
may lead to a fall, but regular physical activity is the
first line of defense against falls and fractures. Physical
activity strengthens muscles and increases flexibility
and balance.
• Many communities offer group exercise classes for
older adults, such as water aerobics and Tai Chi, which
uses slow, flowing movements to help relax and
coordinate the mind and body. Contact your local
community or senior center for classes. • Mild weightbearing exercise, like walking or climbing stairs, helps
slow bone loss from osteoporosis and increase muscle
strength.
Yoga for Adults
Moving for Better Balance in Oklahoma
Yoga and Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance is an
evidence-based fall prevention program that was
designed to be used with adults.
Benefits of Yoga
• Improves Balance and Posture
• Improves Functional Limitations
• Strengthens Muscles
• Builds Confidence from the Fear of Falling
• Improves Mental and Physical Health (Positive
attitudes, self-esteem and well-being)
• Improves Musculoskeletal Conditions (Reduction of
arthritic symptoms; increases in flexibility and mobility)
• Improves Cardiovascular Functions
• Improves the Quality of Sleep
• Enhances Stamina
• Increases Energy Level
• Relieves Stress
Join me for “Wake Up with Yoga” a five-week
adult yoga class on Tuesday mornings beginning
June 21 – July 26. Classes: $15 for the 5-sessions.
Put these dates on your calendar: June 21, 28, July,
12, 19 & 26. Classes will start at 8:30 am. Must
have minimum of six participants. Yoga mats
provided.
Strengthening Oklahoma Families
Page 24
Page
OHCE News & Notes
Oklahoma Home and Community Education
Leader Lesson Training
June 28th, at 10:00 am
“Pie 101”
You think you know pie: the double crusts,
the lattices, the crumbles, and the pots. But what do
you REALLY know about pies? Just thinking about the
flaky and tender-crusted delights makes my mouth
water. Brandi Krittenbrink, Kingfisher County will be
teaching and demonstrating the fine art of pie crusts.
Join us for the Leader Lesson, “Pie 101” on
June 28th at 10:00 am. We may even get to sample
her tasty treats.
81st Annual State OHCE Conference
“Oh the Places You Will Go” is the theme for the 81st
Annual State Conference that will be held on July 1012 at the Embassy Suites Downtown Oklahoma City.
The Sunday evening program will begin at 3:30 pm
with the History of Quilts presented by Cynthia
Shattles and Freddie Seaman. Or you can join others
on the hotel shuttle that runs from 7:00 am to 11:00
pm for your sightseeing convenience. Bricktown &
the OKC Memorial are in the vicinity.
The conference begins at 8:00 am on Monday with
the First-Timers session and the Voting Delegate
Orientation. The Business meeting will follow
immediately at 9:00 am.
There will be five learning session opportunities this
year with five different workshops during each
session. The meeting rooms are larger this year and
you should be able to attend the sessions of your
choice.
The Friendship Banquet is always a highlight of the
conference, and Membership Awards will be
presented followed with entertainment provided by
Joyce Lee and her sidekick, Miss Ethel. At the
Tuesday Awards Ceremony, individuals will be
recognized: Outstanding Award Winners, Report
Winners, and 50+ members/groups. To entice
members to stay for the Tuesday Lunch, a crisp $100
bill will be awarded to one lucky winner that is
present! Registration is $100.
See insert flyer for more details on the State Conference.
Upcoming Dates
May
Leader Lesson is Club Choice
June 21, 28 July 12, 19 & 26
Wake Up with Yoga – Tuesdays
Cost $15
June 28
Leader Lesson, 10 am
July 10-12
State OHCE Meeting,
Embassy Suites, OKC
July 26
Leader Lesson, 10 am
August 23
Exec. Council Meeting, 10 am
August 31
County Council, Fair Work Day
& Leader Lesson
September 7-10
Logan County Free Fair
October 6-7
Quilt Show – First Capital
November 10-12
HCE Quilt Retreat
Scholarship Announcement
Congratulations to Lane Gorrell who was selected
as the 2016 Logan County OHCE Scholarship
Recipient. Lane is the son of Mike & Sharron
Gorrell. Sharron has been a member for
approximately 25 years.
Basket for State
OHCE Conference
Each county is asked to
bring one gift basket or item
for the OHCE-FCS
Ambassador Silent Auction.
Value approximately $100.
If you would like to donate toward a basket,
please let me know.
Page 5
Strengthening Oklahoma Families
81st Annual OHCE State Conference
Registration Form (Please Print)
Name________________________________________________________________________ County_________________________
Check One
_____OHCE Member
_____Guest
_____Extension
Address ___________________________________________________________ City _______________________Zip____________
Daytime Phone ____________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________________
FIRST TIMER ___ YES
____NO
I would be willing to serve as a Hostess ____YES
Registration fee includes Monday luncheon and Monday Friendship Banquet
$100.00 Registration (Early Bird - through June 21)
Or $140.00 Late Registration (Starting June 22)
$__________
$10.00 Tuesday Luncheon Option ($100 door prize awarded at luncheon)
$__________
Family Banquet Tickets for Award Finalists #___ x $32.00 each
$__________
$5.00 Additional fee if paying with a credit card
$__________
TOTAL DUE
Registration for Sunday Workshop – No Charge
_____I will attend Sunday Workshop
____NO
$__________
_____I will not attend Sunday Workshop
Please list any Special Dietary Needs:______________________________________________________________________________
Make check payable to: OSU and Mail to: Agriculture Conferences, 430 OSU Student Union, Stillwater, 74078
Registration Form (Please Print)
Name___________________________________________________________ Club ______________________
Check One: _____OHCE Member
_____Guest
Beginner: ____ Yes _____ No
Address _____________________________________________________ City ___________________Zip______
Daytime Phone _______________________________ Email: __________________________________________
Classes are offered at 8:30 am: June 21, 28, July 12. 19. & 26
Cost is: $15 for all class sessions
Wear: Comfortable clothing that will allow you to move freely. Yoga Mats will be provided.
“Annie’s Project” Farm & Ranch Management
RESCHEDULED: If you are a farm or ranch
woman with a passion for business involvement,
you should attend this series of workshops
designed just for you! Annie’s Project is a six-week
workshop series targeted toward those who wish
to learn more about farm and ranch management
and decision-making in the complex, dynamic
world of agriculture.
The course consists of six 3-3 1/2 hour sessions,
with participation limited to 15 people. Registration
fee is $50 and lunch will be included. Tentative
itinerary shows the topics covered:
Session 1 – June 7: Introduction, personal/business
risks, and goal setting.
Session 2 -June 14: Family financial management,
developing a business plan, and legal issues.
Session 3 – June 21: Production and Market Risks
Session 4 – June 29: Spreadsheets, farm accounting
and planning software
Session 5 – July 12: Financial Risk – Part 1
Session 6 – July 19: Financial Risk – Part 2
Annie’s Project is an educational program and
support network designed to enhance your business
skills whether you’re brand new to the industry, or
have spent your entire life in it! Through the program,
you will gain insight and knowledge about: your
personality temperament and how it affects your
relationships, the importance of organizational and
time management skills, and how to work with
professionals to meet goals.
The sessions will be taught by professionals in
their field who will be available to answer your
questions at the conclusion of each session.
If this workshop series interests you, call the Logan
County Extension Office and sign up today!
Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Higher Education Act), the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990,
and other federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, genetic information, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, or status as a veteran, in any of its policies, practices
or procedures. This provision includes, but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. The Director of Equal Opportunity, 408 Whitehurst, OSU, Stillwater, OK 74078-1035; Phone 405-744-5371; email:
[email protected] has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity. Any person (student, faculty, or staff) who believes that discriminatory practices have been engaged in based on gender
may discuss his or her concerns and file informal or formal complaints of possible violations of Title IX with OSU’s Title IX Coordinator 405-744-9154. Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation
with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director of Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma. This publication is printed and issued by Oklahoma State University as authorized by the Vice President,
Dean, and Director of the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources and has been prepared and distributed at a cost of 000 cents per copy.
Logan County Extension Office
215 Fairgrounds Rd, Suite B
Guthrie, OK 73044