The autumn season is a busy one for Sieda’s many services. Programs like Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) and the Coat Drive start a new year in the fall. For other Sieda programs, it is a chance to get involved with the festive events in our counties or host an activity.

A few of Sieda’s services that enjoyed community strengthening events were MIECHV, PAT, Prevention & Substance Abuse Education, and Head Start. We have a few pictures from Jefferson, Keokuk, and Wapello counties. Each county has its own section of photos and event information. Click the photo to see the bigger picture.

Sieda PAT and Head Start in Keokuk County

Sieda Keokuk Head Start and Parents as Teachers (PAT) worked together to give items at the ‘Sigourney Trick-or-Treat Around the Square.’ Emily and Kris set up outside the Sieda Resource Center. They gave over 100 children mini pinwheels and whistles. Educational handouts “Blowing in the Band” were given to parents of young children to encourage blowing activities to help language development.

Sieda PAT, and Prevention & Substance Abuse Education in Jefferson County

Sieda Prevention & Substance Abuse Education, and Parents as Teachers (PAT) set up tables, near trunks, at the Jefferson County Trunk or Treat. The event is hosted by ISU Extension and Outreach: Jefferson County and 4-H and the Organizers reported around 500 children attend. Kitty Bogle and Lynn Godwin had a variety of quick activities, goodies, Beluga Bubble recipes, a discovery with black light stamps, and parent encouragement.

Sieda Parents as Teachers (PAT) visit in Jefferson County also shows “Pumpkin pounding.” It is a great activity for toddlers and preschoolers to develop their eye-hand coordination. Just need a pumpkin, golf tees, a safe hammer, and an excited child. Lynn Godwin, the Sieda PAT Program Manager lets us know, “Parents as Teachers visits often involve activities with materials that can be available to families using household items and for little cost.”

Sieda MIECHV and PAT in Wapello County

Just recently the Sieda Maternal Infant Early Childhood Home Visitation (MIECHV) and Parents as Teachers (PAT)  teamed up for a “Fall Group Connection.” Both Family programs work hard to strengthen the parent-child relationship. The programs are primarily an in-home visitation program but love to hold group connections for the parents to meet one another and develop peer support. The whole family was invited to come with their 0 to 5 year-olds. Everyone gathered for a variety of fall-themed activities that help children with developmental skills.

Sieda PAT in Jefferson County

Parents as Teachers (PAT) visit in Jefferson County also shows “Pumpkin pounding.” It is a great activity for toddlers and preschoolers to develop their eye-hand coordination. Just need a pumpkin, golf tees, a safe hammer, and an excited child. Lynn Godwin, the Sieda PAT Program Manager lets us know, “Parents as Teachers visits often involve activities with materials that can be available to families using household items and for little cost.”