ChildServe and Veridian Credit Union have again teamed up to offer "The Scoop on Children's Health," a year-long series of public events. This year, the time of the presentations has been moved earlier in the evening, and we'll be offering a light meal for families who attend. The events will be held at ChildServe Center - Johnston (5406 Merle Hay Road) beginning at 5:30 and wrapping up around 7pm. All the events are free, but registration is required. For more information,  please call 515-727-8750.

September 14 

Sign Language for Families

Very young children can communicate with sign language even before they can talk, and many studies suggest that signing can even help children learn language faster. Whether your child has hearing or speaking challenges or not, basic sign language may help your family learn to communicate in a whole new way.

October 12

Toilet Training Tools for All Ages and Abilities

From the first signs of readiness to the graduation to “big-kid” underwear, toilet training is a complex process. Get useful tips for identifying the physical. social, and emotional elements that can help your child succeed.

November 9

Picking Meals for Picky Eaters

Since the beginning of time, parents have fought the battle of getting kids to eat a healthy, well-balanced meal. Join us for a hands-on family food fest and hear what therapists have to say about foods to try, foods to avoid, and techniques you can use to avoid the battle of the dinner table.

December 14

Building Stronger Families with Positive Behavior Support

Positive Behavior Support isn’t just a method for minimizing challenging behavior in children – it can also help strengthen your family’s relationships. ChildServe’s Bill Kallestad will share strategies for teaching new skills and changing the environment to increase quality of life for your child and your family.

January 11

Tell Me What's Wrong - Crucial Conversations with Children 

If you have ever wondered how to get your kids to talk to you, to really tell you what’s going on, then this presentation is for you! These proven skills will help you to get your kids to open up and honestly tell you how they feel and what they think.

February 8

Sensory Strategies to Improve Attention

How many parents have heard this familiar refrain: "But Mom, I can concentrate better on my homework if I'm listening to music!" Sensory integration strategies are particularly useful for children with attention deficits or autism spectrum disorders, but can be helpful for anyone looking to improve attention span and focus.

March 8

Music, Mind, and Health

Join us for a hands-on demonstration of just a few of the endless ways you can bring music into your child’s life (and your own life) to enhance well-being and quality of life.

April 12

Families and their Furry Friends

Studies show that pets have an uncanny ability to help with many emotional and physical ailments, providing healing, recovery and love. Learn how your family pet can provide therapeutic benefits.

May 10

Child’s Play: How Families Can Build Physical, Social, and Emotional Skills through Play

Play is much more than a recreational pastime for children - the importance of play in child development and learning is significant. Learn simple strategies to facilitate creative, independent play that will help your child learn and grow.