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Month: August 2026

News

August 31, 2026

PA Key’s August Health Trend is Food Poisoning in the Wake of Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

With foodborne illnesses such as the cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting Americans this summer, The Pennsylvania Key’s August health trend is preventing food poisoning.

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Food Safety Matters: Preventing Food Poisoning discusses how, each year, roughly 48 million – or one in six Americans (16.7%) gets food poisoning after eating contaminated food.

Foodborne illnesses occur when viruses, bacteria, parasites, or toxins (poisons) produced by them get into the foods we get. Some examples include cyclospora, listeria, salmonella, STEC, vibrio, shigella and yersinia.

Anyone can get food poisoning, but children are more likely to be affected and typically have a more serious illness, the PA Key wrote. 

Children under age 5 are at increased risk for food poisoning because their immune systems are still developing, so their body’s ability to fight germs and sickness isn’t as strong. Food poisoning can be particularly dangerous for them because illness can lead to diarrhea and dehydration. 

Some resources on the topic include:

News

August Recalls on Children’s Products

Parents and caregivers should be aware of several child-related products recalls.

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Below is a list of August recalls collected from the following federal agencies: the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Food and Drug Administration, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

  • Magnetic fidget sliders sold on Amazon by PIXLABBY are being recalled because the sliders can liberate loose high-powered magnets, posing an ingestion hazard to children. When high-powered magnets are swallowed, they can attract each other or other metal objects and become lodged in the digestive system. This can result in perforations, twisting, or blockage of the intestines, blood poisoning, and death.
  • A2batt recalled its EEMB lithium coin battery chargers because they have lithium coin batteries that can be easily accessed by children. The batteries provided with the battery charger are not in child-resistant packaging, which does not have warnings required by law. When button cell or coin batteries are swallowed, they can cause serious injuries, internal chemical burns, and death. 
  • Wnttmt recalled its baby walkers because they can fit through a standard doorway and fail to stop at the edge of a step, posing a deadly fall hazard. Additionally, the walkers have leg openings that allow the child to slip down until its head can become entrapped, posing a serious risk of injury or death.
  • Syera recalled its LED projecting finger light toys because they contain button cell batteries that can be easily accessed by children. When button cell or coin batteries are swallowed, they can cause serious injuries, internal chemical burns, and death. 
  • Winston Porter and Seeday recalled three-drawer, four-drawer, and five-drawer dressers because they are unstable if not anchored to the wall, posing tip-over and entrapment hazards that can cause serious injuries or death to children.
  • Play yard and crib mattresses sold on Amazon by Voomft were recalled because the mattresses may not adequately fit certain play yards, posing a deadly entrapment hazard. Babies can suffocate in gaps between an undersized mattress, or extra padding, and side walls of a product, especially when the infant’s face becomes trapped against the side and the mattress, preventing the infant from breathing. The crib mattresses also violate mandatory flammability standards.
  • Fitueyes recalled its Laziza dressers because they are unstable if not anchored to the wall, posing tip-over and entrapment hazards that can result in serious injuries or death to children.
  • Magnetic fidget sliders sold on Amazon by BUSOHA were recalled because the sliders can liberate loose high-powered magnets, posing an ingestion hazard to children. When high-powered magnets are swallowed, they can attract each other or other metal objects and become lodged in the digestive system. This can result in perforations, twisting, or blockage of the intestines, blood poisoning, and death.
  • Little Rawr recalled its pull-string teething toys because the silicone strings are smaller and longer than permitted. The strings can reach the back of children’s throats and become lodged, posing a serious risk of respiratory distress and a deadly choking hazard.
  • KC Imports and Exports recalled its mini-laser pointer keychains because the button cell batteries can be accessed easily by children, posing an ingestion hazard. When button cell or coin batteries are swallowed, they can cause serious injuries, internal chemical burns, and death.
  • OKK Trading recalled its Easter LED headbands because the lithium coin batteries can be accessed easily by children, posing an ingestion hazard. When button cell or coin batteries are swallowed, they can cause serious injuries, internal chemical burns, and death.
  • DUMOS recalled its nine-drawer dressers because they pose tip-over and entrapment hazards if they are not anchored to the wall, possibly resulting in serious injuries or death to children.
  • Cubershop recalled its magnetic speed cubes because the cubes were packaged with loose high-powered magnets, posing an ingestion hazard to children. When high-powered magnets are swallowed, they can attract each other or other metal objects and become lodged in the digestive system. This can result in perforations, twisting, or blockage of the intestines, blood poisoning, and death.
  • Fastbuy recalled its Zimtown portable gas and fuel cans because they violate the requirement for closures under the Children’s Gasoline Burn Prevention Act. The closure is not child-resistant, posing a risk of burns and poisoning.
  • TooyBing recalled its wooden bead stacking toys that violate a small parts ban because they are intended for children, ages 3 and below. The toys’ wooden beads pose a deadly choking hazard.
  • Shengsen recalled its prank sound makers because they violate mandatory standards for consumer products with button cell and coin batteries. The lithium coin batteries can be accessed easily by children, posing an ingestion hazard. The packaging and product do not have warnings required by law. When button cell or coin batteries are swallowed, they can cause serious injuries, internal chemical burns, and death.
  • Yamazuki recalled its youth all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) because the parking brakes fail to hold and the ATV’s speed limiting device is not set to the restricted speed required for children, ages 6 and older, posing a crash hazard. Additionally, the ATVs are missing the required rear safety reflectors, reducing visibility of the ATV to other vehicles.
  • Goody King recalled its magnetic building cubes and blocks because they contain magnets that can become loose if the cubes break or open, posing a magnetic ingestion hazard to children. When high-powered magnets are swallowed, they can attract each other or other metal objects and become lodged in the digestive system. This can result in perforations, twisting, or blockage of the intestines, blood poisoning, and death.
  • Taleco Gear recalled its baby jumpers, baby swings, and 2-in-1 baby jumper and swings because the two items can become unstable, posing fall and impact hazards. Also, the hanging restraint straps and seat openings can pose strangulation hazards.
  • Deli recalled jerry fuel containers because they violate the requirement for closures. The closures are not child-resistant, posing a risk of burns and poisoning to children. 
  • JINHEZO recalled its mini-waterproof LED tea lights because their button cell batteries can be easily accessed by children, posing an ingestion hazard. The packaging and product also do not have warnings required by law. When button cell or coin batteries are swallowed, they can cause serious injuries, internal chemical burns, and death.

News

August 26, 2026

Measles a Growing Concern as Number of Cases Rise

As the number of measles cases continues to rise in Pennsylvania, state and county health departments have provided guidelines for families to stay safe amid the outbreak.

What to Know About Measles

  • Measles is a highly contagious virus that infects the lungs and spreads when an infected person breaths, coughs, or sneezes. The virus remains in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, even after the infected person leaves the area.
  • Symptoms to watch for include fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes followed by a rash that starts on the head or face and spreads downward. 
  • Symptoms can start seven to 21 days after exposure. An individual with measles can spread the virus to others four days before and four days after the rash begins.

Cases on the Rise

The number of measles cases continues to rise in Pennsylvania as 70 people have been hospitalized statewide, with two deaths in Lancaster County. Allegheny County reported a positive case at UPMC Children’s Hospital Emergency Department in Pittsburgh

No additional details can be provided about the Allegheny County case for privacy reasons. UPMC will call patients who have been identified as exposed on the two days when the patient was at the hospital.

How to Prevent Measles

Measles is a preventable disease, but vaccination is on the decline and cases have risen to the highest level in 35 years. Individuals who are not vaccinated are most at-risk for infection, state and county health departments said. 

The Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine is given to toddlers when they are 12 to 15 months, and a second MMR vaccine is required for all Pennsylvania school children.

The state’s Department of Health (DOH) advises that Pennsylvanians should follow immunization recommendations issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which include MMR, hepatitis, polio, and whooping cough.

The Pennsylvania  DOH recently said that it planned on sticking to its original childhood vaccine schedule, despite a federal executive order recommending alterations, and that school entry requirements would remain the same.

What To Do If Your Child is Exposed to Measles

Caregivers who are concerned that their child might have been exposed to measles should take the following steps:

  • Do not go directly to a healthcare facility without calling ahead first.
  • Check the child’s vaccination status.
  • Residents in Allegheny County who are concerned about a potential exposure should call the Allegheny County Health Department at 412-578-8062.
  • Pennsylvanians in other areas who believe their child might have been exposed can call 877-724-3258.

News

Resources for September Observances

Various organizations, states, and nations recognize a number of observances each month. Resources help parents, caregivers, and child care professionals acknowledge and navigate them.

Here is a list of resources for September observances.

Month-Long Observances

Attendance Awareness Month

Baby Safety Month

Childhood Cancer Awareness 

Hispanic Heritage Month

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

National Recovery Month

Newborn Screening Awareness Month

Weeks of Recognition

September 20 – 26 is Child Passenger Safety Awareness Week 

Days of Recognition

September 6 is National Read a Book Day

September 28 is National Family Day

News

Homewood Families Receive Backpacks, Resources at Family Center Open House

More than 100 people turned out for the Homewood Early Learning Hub & Family Center’s August 21 open house, where families received backpacks, supplies, and important resources to support their children’s growth and development.

Emphasizing the Importance of Early Learning

The open house was especially important because families learned about pre-k and Head Start options, said Toni Beasley, the Hub’s director.

“Many families in our area aren’t familiar with pre-k and the importance of sending their child to school before kindergarten,” Beasley said. “We let caregivers know that by sending their child to pre-k or Head Start, they are giving their child the best opportunity to develop important skills and prepare for kindergarten”

Educators and child care providers attended the event to meet with families and help enroll  children in early learning programs. They also provided information about free pre-k options in the region and other ways to afford child care. 

Supporting Families

Attendees received a variety of materials at the open house, including backpacks, swag bags, coats, a variety of snacks and drinks, and personal hygiene products, such as soap, body wash, deodorant, toothbrushes, socks, and laundry detergent. They also took part in children’s activities and free blood pressure screenings.

“It wasn’t just school supplies,” Beasley said. “Children received hygiene supplies, clothing, and other items so they can start the school year feeling comfortable, confident, and with a sense of belonging.”

The Hub partnered with several organizations for the event. Beverly’s PGH Basics Boutique operated a truck, where participants could pick up everything from bedding and clothing to cleaning supplies, books, and toys. Students from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine’s Community Alliance Program held a discussion on postpartum care.

The Homewood Early Learning Hub & Family Center, located at 7219 Kelly Street, supports the early learning needs of children, families, and early educators in Homewood. It offers developmentally appropriate activities for children from birth to age 9, individual and group support for parents to set and meet goals for their family, and professional growth opportunities for providers.

News

August 25, 2026

Child Mind Institute Provides Tips for Students Starting Elementary, Middle, or High School

Although the sun is still shining and families are still taking vacations, the return to school is not far off.

This can lead to a combination of excitement and nervousness. For some, a new school year means a different teacher and classroom, but for others it could be a new school and higher expectations.

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The Child Mind Institute has put together some resources and suggested some strategies for a successful return to school. Some resources explore what children in transition years can expect, what skills they will need to develop, and how caregivers can support those who may be anxious.

One article discusses how kindergartners need to build independence and stamina for longer days and more structured learning activities, while middle schoolers will be changing classes for the first time and dealing with a heavier workload.

And high school freshmen will face pressure to effectively manage their time and develop productive study habits. Children of all ages will face social and emotional challenges and new opportunities as they navigate larger groups and more complex interactions.

The Child Mind Institute’s resources include:

News

State DCNR Announces New Planning Tools, Updates to Accessible Recreation Website

Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has announced new planning tools, communication boards, and updates to its accessible recreation website pages to help visitors to plan trips to the state’s public lands.

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The DCNR recently announced several ways that it is making state parks and forests more accessible for all visitors.

The agency said it is making major updates to its accessible recreation website pages. More than 100 state park and forest webpages now list detailed accessibility features. 

These pages continue to be updated and include information about accessible facilities and amenities, such as lodging, pavilions, water access, fishing access, hiking, hunting, beaches, loaner equipment, colorblind viewfinders, wildlife-watching areas, theaters, amphitheaters, and environmental education centers.

A new search function on the websites allows visitors to filter locations by the specific accessibility features they are looking for.

The DCNR also announced new:

  • Online planning tools
  • Communication boards at seven state parks
  • Handy Talkers
  • Colorblind viewing resources for all visitors to plan trips and enjoy Pennsylvania’s public lands.

For more information on the DCNR’s new features, visit the department’s website.

News

August 24, 2026

Pennie Announces Open Enrollment Season for the Upcoming Year

Pennie has announced that its open enrollment season this year will run from Sunday, November 1 through Friday, January 15.

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Pennie offers health coverage from the top health insurance companies in Pennsylvania. Those who use it can get personalized help from a Pennie-certified professional at no additional cost.

To get coverage for the year, one must enroll during the open enrollment period. If there is a qualifying life event – such as loss of health coverage, marriage, change of residence, or other changes – residents can enroll during a special enrollment period.

Those interested in enrolling should:

  • Use the Plan Comparison Tool in Pennie to see plans in their coverage area and within their budget.
  • Apply after gathering household information. Consult Pennie’s shopping checklist. 
  • Filter and compare health plans by needs and cost.
  • Pay for coverage, which will not begin until the first month’s premium has been paid. For most health plans, you can make your first payment at the same time you enroll.

Pennie’s coverage includes free preventive care, covers a wide range of medical services, and cannot be denied because of a preexisting condition. 

To schedule an appointment or for more information, visit Pennie’s website.

News

PA Promise for Children Releases List of August Books for Preschoolers

PA Promise for Children has released its list of August books for preschoolers that includes eight titles across four categories.

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This month’s titles fall under the categories of Language and Literacy Skills, Social Studies Thinking, Science Thinking and Technology, and Mathematical Thinking and Expression.

The list of August books for preschoolers includes:

Language and Literacy Skills

  • Click, Clack Moo Cows That Type (Doreen Cronin)
  • Dear Panda (Miriam Latimer)

Social Studies Thinking

  • Maisy Goes to Preschool (Lucy Cousins)
  • Mr. Gumpy’s Motor Car (John Burningham)

Science Thinking and Technology

  • Oscar and the Cricket (Geoff Waring)
  • And Everyone Shouted, “Pull!” (Claire Llewellyn)

Mathematical Thinking and Expression

  • Lengthy The Long Long Dog (Syd Hoff)
  • Big Dog… Little Dog (P.D. Eastman)

The full list can be viewed online.

News

August 19, 2026

Trying Together Builds Network For Alumni of CDA Credential

Trying Together helps educators to obtain their Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, a widely recognized credential in the early childhood education field and a key stepping stone on the path to career advancement.

Trying Together has recently formed a CDA Alumni Network as a means of staying connected with the participants who have taken the course.

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The CDA credential is based on a core set of competency standards that guide early learning professionals in their work to build on their professional experience and expertise. 

Lindsey Vicoria, Trying Together’s Career Pathways program manager, said the CDA network currently consists of nine Trying Together CDA Cohort alum – two from Fayette County and seven from Allegheny County.

“We had this idea of building up our CDA alumni network,” Vicoria said. “We have kept contact with a lot of great early educators, but sometimes we lose touch after they get their CDA. So, we wanted a way to strengthen that connection.”

She said the idea for the network is to provide a leadership development opportunity for the CDA alumni who want to dive a little deeper into the work and to provide feedback for Trying Together’s growing CDA program.

Current participants in the CDA Alumni Network hold a variety of positions in the education field, from leadership to administration and educator roles. The group meets quarterly and holds both virtual and in-person meetings.

“I think it’s important for two reasons – to strengthen our CDA program through continuous practitioner-informed feedback and to develop a pipeline of emerging early childhood education leaders who are connected to the work of Trying Together,” Vicoria said. “It’s intended to professionalize the field, build emerging ECE leaders, and expand Trying Together’s visibility and credibility through authentic educator voices.”

The network takes part in a variety of activities, including skill building, workshops, and CDA program feedback and insight. For example, the council provides feedback and reflection on any new CDA components that are introduced.

Vicoria said the network provides a great opportunity for networking. She added that she is encouraged by the group’s growth.

“This is an opportunity for educators from across the region to network, build relationships, and share practices,” she said. “I feel energized by the meetings and the joy in the space when all of these educators get a chance to get together. It makes me excited for the future of the field and the leaders who Trying Together is connected to.”

Those interested in getting involved can email Vicoria at lindseyv@tryingtogether.org. Participants should be alumni of Trying Together’s CDA credential course from one of the 10 counties that Trying Together covers.

Institute for Early Childhood Career Pathways and the CDA Credential

The Institute for Early Childhood Career Pathways is the central hub for Trying Together’s workforce development programs, bringing together education, career pathways, and professional growth opportunities, with the goal to support the early childhood workforce.

The CDA Credential Program offered by the institute constitutes 135 hours of professional development over the course of approximately six months, focusing on practice knowledge and skills early learning professionals need to become credentialed.Trying Together is actively enrolling students for the fall’s CDA cohort.

A CDA credential enables early learning professionals to work in Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms in addition to early learning programs across the United States. Several topics are studied in a CDA program, including, but not limited to:

  • A healthy and safe learning environment
  • Physical, cognitive, language, and creative development
  • Social and emotional development
  • Positive guidance
  • Creating positive relationships with families
  • Program and classroom management
  • Observation and assessments
  • Professionalism in early childhood education