Laurie Rackas

Laurie Rackas is the Content Developer on CCAoA's Marketing & Communications team. She is a writer, editor and video producer who specializes in writing for and about children. For her work, she's been awarded six Emmys and a PBS Advertising & Promotion Award, among others.

Recent Posts

Health Resource Spotlight: Infectious Disease Outbreaks

By Laurie Rackas on March 13, 2019

 

 

The problem: Right now, there is widespread flu activity in 48 states and 11 states have reported outbreaks of the measles. How can adults talk to young children about what’s happening without scaring them?

One solution: A tip sheet published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association (SAMHSA) on Talking with Children: Tips for Caregivers, Parents and Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreaks.

Topics: Professional Development

Continue Reading

Health Resource Spotlight: Daily Health Checks

By Laurie Rackas on February 13, 2019

The Problem:
Child care providers are expected to do a daily health check for each of the children in their care. However, not all providers are aware of what a comprehensive health check entails.

Topics: Professional Development, Health & Safety

Continue Reading

Health Resource Spotlight: Stress and Provider Health

By Laurie Rackas on January 09, 2019

The Problem:

Working in child care can be stressful and take a toll on many facets of a providers’ health, including oral health. 

Topics: Best Practices, Health & Safety

Continue Reading

Health Resource Spotlight: Resources for Child Care Providers to Make Healthy Choices

By Laurie Rackas on December 12, 2018

The Problem: 

Child care providers care for and promote the health and wellness of our nation’s children but struggle to make healthy choices for themselves. 

Topics: Systems Building, Workforce, Professional Development, Health & Safety

Continue Reading

Health Resource Spotlight: Steps for Toothbrushing at the Table

By Laurie Rackas on November 14, 2018

The Problem:

Early childhood programs are great places to help children learn good health habits, including oral health habits. But having children brush one at a time at the sink can be messy and time consuming.

One Solution: 

A group activity known as toothbrushing at the table, in which children and staff sit around a table and brush together. It allows staff to model, coach, and encourage good toothbrushing skills. 

Topics: Parenting, Health & Safety

Continue Reading

Health Resource Spotlight: Emergency Preparedness Manual for Early Childhood Programs

By Laurie Rackas on October 10, 2018

The Problem 

By law, child care programs must have a disaster plan to keep children and staff safe in an emergency. However, developing one can be complicated. 

Topics: Best Practices, Health & Safety

Continue Reading