Infant Safe sleep

The CAPE Council encourages infant safe sleep for your baby or any baby in your care by donating infant safe sleep sacks or onesies to every baby born at McLaren Northern Michigan and including education for parents from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Follow these tips for safe sleep during every nap and night-time routine:

• Place your baby on their back, in a crib, bassinet or pack-n-play for every sleep time.

• Use a firm mattress with a tightly fitted sheet.

• Keep baby’s sleep space clutter free – no pillows, blankets or toys.

• Avoid covering baby’s head or overheating.  Instead of a blanket, consider using a sleep sack, wearable blanket or footed sleeper to keep baby warm.

• Remind everyone who cares for your baby, including babysitters and family members, how to keep baby safe while sleeping.

Pinwheels for Prevention

The pinwheel is the national symbol for the prevention of child abuse and neglect.  Throughout the month of April, the CAPE Council plants pinwheel gardens to raise awareness about the importance of healthy child development.  Schools and organizations with pinwheel gardens are our partners in providing the healthy and happy childhoods and bright futures that all children deserve!

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champions for children

Each year the CAPE Council recognizes individuals or groups in our community who go above and beyond to make positive changes in the lives of children in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties.  "Champions for Children" recipients receive a token of our appreciation on behalf of the entire community. Nominations are due March 1st.

Nominate a Champion!

"what makes your family strong?"

In recognition of March as Parenting Awareness Month, the CAPE Council sponsors a drawing contest for second-grade students and an essay contest for third-grade students.  All entrants receive an award certificate and winning drawings are displayed in Charlevoix and Petoskey public libraries.  Selected essays are published in the Petoskey News-Review.