First 5 El Dorado

10/25/2026

Looking for child care or a little extra support for your family? ❤️

Catalyst Community helps El Dorado County families connect with helpful resources and services, including:

- Help finding child care that fits your family's needs
- Financial assistance for child care for eligible families
- Free family resources, including diapers, clothing, and learning materials
- Parenting workshops and classes
- Community events and activities for families

With offices in Cameron Park and South Lake Tahoe, Catalyst Community is a great resource for families throughout El Dorado County.

Learn more about the services available- https://www.catalystcomm.org/families/

10/24/2026

Halloween is almost here! 🎃👻

For little ones, all the costumes, spooky decorations, and excitement can be a lot to take in. A little preparation can help make Halloween more fun for everyone!

Here are a few things to try:

🎃 Let your child try on their costume ahead of time so they feel comfortable wearing it.
👻 Talk about what they'll see, including costumes, decorations, and people dressed up as their favorite characters.
🍬 Practice saying "trick-or-treat" and "thank you" before the big night.
🏠 Start with just a few houses if it's their first time trick-or-treating.
❤️ Don't push it if they're scared or overwhelmed. It's okay to head home early!

Halloween should be fun, not stressful. A little preparation can help your child feel more comfortable and ready to enjoy the festivities!

10/23/2026

Every. Single. Time. 😂

10/23/2026

Big feelings can be tough when you're little! ❤️

Toddlers and preschoolers are still learning how to handle frustration, disappointment, and other strong emotions. And sometimes those feelings come out as tears, yelling, or a full-blown meltdown.

A few things that can help:
❤️ Stay calm and give them time to settle down
💬 Help them name what they're feeling
🤗 Offer comfort when they need it
🧸 Give them a quiet space to calm down
👏 Notice when they handle a difficult moment well

Learning to manage emotions takes time and practice. Having a patient, supportive adult nearby can make a big difference.

10/22/2026

Just found out you're pregnant? Congratulations!

One of the first things to do is schedule your first prenatal appointment. It's a chance to check on your health, talk about your pregnancy, and ask any questions you might have.

Your first visit may include:
- A review of your medical history
- Blood pressure and other health checks
- Blood and urine tests
- An estimated due date
- Time to ask questions about medications, nutrition, and what to expect

A helpful tip: Write down your questions ahead of time so you don't forget anything during your appointment!

Learn more about prenatal care-

Prenatal care is the health care you get while you are pregnant.

10/17/2026

Finding quality child care isn't always easy. ❤️

For many families, finding child care that fits their schedule, budget, and location can be a real challenge. Between long waitlists, limited openings, and rising costs, parents often have fewer options than they'd like.

Having access to reliable, quality child care makes a difference for the whole family. It gives young children opportunities to learn, play, and grow while helping parents balance work and family responsibilities.

More child care options mean more support for families in our community.

Learn more about the challenges families across the country are facing - https://www.edsurge.com/news/2026-01-21-families-at-all-income-levels-struggle-to-find-child-care

10/16/2026

There's something special about welcoming a new baby into the world. ☀️❤️

A new life, new memories to make, and so many little moments to look forward to.

10/15/2026

Even common medications are worth a conversation with your healthcare provider during pregnancy.

We're not just talking about alcohol or illegal drugs. Prescription medications, over-the-counter pain relievers, cold medicines, and even some vitamins and herbal supplements are all worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

Some medications are safe to take during pregnancy, while others may need to be adjusted or avoided. The important thing is to ask questions, be open about what you're taking, and never stop a prescribed medication without talking to your provider first.

Learn more- https://mothertobaby.org/pregnancy-breastfeeding-exposures

10/14/2026

The experiences children have in their earliest years can affect their health and well-being for the rest of their lives. ❤️

Positive relationships with caring adults, safe environments, and opportunities to learn and play all help build a strong foundation for healthy development.

And it's not just about preparing children for school. Early childhood experiences can influence physical and mental health well into adulthood.

Learn more about the connection between early childhood experiences, lifelong health, and learning in this video from Harvard University's Center on the Developing Child.
📹 Harvard University Center on the Developing Child

10/14/2026

Potty training can be a big milestone for little ones and their parents!

Catalyst Community is offering a FREE virtual Potty Training Workshop to help parents navigate the process with practical tips and realistic strategies.

Topics include:
🚽 Recognizing when your child is ready
⭐ Building positive potty training routines
❤️ Handling accidents and resistance without pressure or power struggles

Workshop Details:
📅 Wednesday, November 18
⏰ 6–7 PM
💻 Virtual via Zoom

Plus, qualifying parents who complete the workshop will have a chance to receive a potty training support kit!

Interested? Scan the QR code on the flyer below to sign up or contact Callie Howell at (530) 676-0707 or [email protected].