Setting Developmental Milestones

Begin by identifying key developmental milestones for your child’s age group. Whether it’s achieving certain physical abilities, language skills, or social interactions, having clear milestones helps you track progress and identify areas that may need additional support. Consult with your pediatrician or use trusted resources to understand what to expect and how to encourage development.

Planning Educational Activities

Educational activities play a crucial role in your child’s growth. Plan activities that are both fun and educational, such as reading together, engaging in hands-on science experiments, or exploring nature. Tailor these activities to your child’s interests and developmental stage to keep them engaged and motivated to learn.

Encouraging a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and persistence. Encourage your child to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and celebrate their progress. Praise their efforts rather than focusing solely on results, and foster a positive attitude towards learning and self-improvement.

Creating a Supportive Environment

A supportive environment is essential for your child’s development. Ensure that your home is a safe and nurturing space where your child feels valued and understood. Provide opportunities for open communication, active play, and creative expression. Establishing routines and setting clear expectations also contribute to a stable and supportive environment.

Engaging in Quality Time

Quality time with your child strengthens your bond and provides opportunities for learning and growth. Whether it’s through family meals, outdoor adventures, or simply spending time together, prioritize moments that allow you to connect and support your child’s development.

Looking Ahead

2025 is full of potential, and by setting the stage for growth and development, you can help your child thrive. Embrace the journey with positivity and confidence, and enjoy watching your child reach new milestones and achieve their goals.

��

The professionals at ��ë���˵���personally assist nannies, babysitters and families in��St. Louis, Atlanta, Chicago, Nashville, Memphis, Charlotte, Miami and Orlando to find the right childcare arrangement. Our mission is to provide a safe and personalized ��approach for families and caregivers to connect with each other that is not an internet search. TLC has worked with families, nannies, sitters, newborn care providers, and tutors for over 35 years and looks forward to working with you! To find great nanny and babysitting jobs visit us at��tlc@tlcforkids.com��or Call 314-725-5660.

The post Setting the Stage for 2025: Preparing for a Year of Growth and Development appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Understanding MLK’s Legacy

Begin by introducing children to Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and achievements. Explain his role in the Civil Rights Movement and his efforts to end racial segregation and promote equality. Use age-appropriate books, videos, and discussions to convey his message of peace and justice.

Engaging Activities

Incorporate engaging activities to make learning about MLK’s legacy interactive and memorable. Consider organizing a craft project where children create posters with messages of equality and kindness, or host a family discussion where everyone shares what they have learned and how they can apply these principles in their daily lives.

Reading Together

There are numerous children’s books that beautifully convey the themes of equality and social justice. Books like “Martin’s Big Words” by Doreen Rappaport and “I Am Martin Luther King Jr.” by Brad Meltzer provide valuable lessons through inspiring stories. Reading together not only educates children but also opens the door for meaningful conversations about these important topics.

Promoting Diversity and Inclusion

Use MLK Day as an opportunity to promote diversity and inclusion within your community. Participate in local events or volunteer as a family at organizations that support marginalized communities. Encouraging children to engage with diverse groups and learn about different cultures fosters empathy and a broader understanding of the world.

Modeling Respect and Kindness

Children learn by example, so it’s essential to model respect and kindness in your daily interactions. Treat others with fairness, stand up against discrimination, and practice inclusivity in your own actions. By demonstrating these values, you instill a sense of responsibility in your children to contribute positively to society.

Looking Ahead

Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. By educating the next generation about his life and work, we can inspire them to continue his mission and create a more just and inclusive world.

��

The professionals at ��ë���˵���personally assist nannies, babysitters and families in��St. Louis, Atlanta, Chicago, Nashville, Memphis, Charlotte, Miami and Orlando to find the right childcare arrangement. Our mission is to provide a safe and personalized ��approach for families and caregivers to connect with each other that is not an internet search. TLC has worked with families, nannies, sitters, newborn care providers, and tutors for over 35 years and looks forward to working with you! To find great nanny and babysitting jobs visit us at��tlc@tlcforkids.com��or Call 314-725-5660.

The post Honoring Martin Luther King Jr.: Teaching Kids About Equality and Social Justice appeared first on TLC Family Care.

The post TLC Family Care’s Guide to a Fun and Safe Family-Friendly Halloween appeared first on TLC Family Care.

1. Stay Sun-Smart

The summer sun can be harsh, and protecting your child’s skin is crucial. Here’s how to be sun-smart:

• Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to your child’s skin 30 minutes before they go outside. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if they’re swimming or sweating.
• Seek Shade: Encourage playtime in shaded areas, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
• Wear Protective Clothing: Dress your child in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, hats with brims, and UV-protective sunglasses.

2. Water Safety

Water activities are a highlight of summer, but they come with risks. Here’s how to ensure water safety:

• Supervise Constantly: Never leave children unattended near water, whether it’s a pool, lake, or even a large puddle.
• Use Life Jackets: Equip children with life jackets that fit properly when they are in or near natural bodies of water or on a boat.
• Teach Swimming Skills: Enroll your child in swimming lessons appropriate for their age and skill level. Familiarize them with water safety rules.

3. Stay Hydrated

Children can quickly become dehydrated in the summer heat. Here’s how to keep them well-hydrated:

• Encourage Regular Water Breaks: Ensure your child drinks water frequently, even if they don’t feel thirsty.
• Offer Hydrating Foods: Provide snacks like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges, which have high water content.
• Avoid Sugary Drinks: Limit the intake of sugary drinks and sodas, as they can actually lead to dehydration.

4. Practice Safe Play

Outdoor play is essential, but it’s important to create a safe environment. Here are some guidelines:

• Inspect Play Areas: Check playgrounds and backyard equipment for hazards like sharp edges, loose parts, and hot surfaces.
• Use Safety Gear: Ensure your child wears appropriate safety gear for activities like biking, skateboarding, or rollerblading. Helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads are a must.
• Stay Within Safe Boundaries: Set clear boundaries for where your child can play and establish check-in times for older children playing outside.

5. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Despite all precautions, accidents can happen. Being prepared is key:

• First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit accessible at home and take a portable version on outings.
• Know CPR: Both nannies and parents should be trained in CPR and basic first aid. Many organizations offer certification courses.
• Emergency Contacts: Have a , including your child’s doctor, nearby relatives, and local emergency services.

Conclusion

Summer is a wonderful time for children to explore and enjoy the outdoors. By following these safety tips, nannies and parents can ensure that their little ones stay safe while making the most of their summer adventures. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring peace of mind for everyone.

The professionals at ��ë���˵���personally assist nannies, babysitters and families in��St. Louis, Atlanta, Chicago, Nashville, Memphis, Charlotte, Miami and Orlando to find the right childcare arrangement. Our mission is to provide a safe and personalized ��approach for families and caregivers to connect with each other that is not an internet search. TLC has worked with families, nannies, sitters, newborn care providers, and tutors for over 35 years and looks forward to working with you! To find great nanny and babysitting jobs visit us at��tlc@tlcforkids.com��or Call 314-725-5660.

The post Keeping Your Child Safe This Summer: 5 Essential Tips for Nannies and Parents appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Independence. During their experience at a traditional kids summer camp, children will experience their first taste of independence. Being away from home for the first time can be scary, but new friends and fun activities will help to make the transition easier. This will also be an important step toward college preparation, which often requires that the child leave home for months at a time.

Responsibility. A traditional kids summer camp will teach children to be responsible in a variety of ways, including the organization of their personal items. While away, they will be personally responsible for maintaining their living quarters and personal items. In addition, they will be required to pack their belongings at the end of their stay and will have to learn the responsibility of organizing their items for the trip home.

Teamwork. One of the most important experiences at a traditional summer camp is that of learning to work together as a team. Whether it be during a sports event, a canoeing trip or other group activity, teamwork is often required. Much like in adulthood where teamwork is essential to everyday life, children will learn the valuable lessons of working with their peers toward achieving a common goal.

Friendship. While at a traditional kids summer camp, new friends will be met and there is plenty of fun to be had. Learning to make friends and how to be a good friend is an important life lesson that is not only important at a traditional summer camp, but also in every day. Situations are always presented when individuals are placed with new faces in school, the workforce, families, etc. Therefore, it is important for children to learn the value of friendship and how it can make every day a little brighter.

Experiences. Traveling to new places, embarking on an exciting journey and exploring the wilderness are all a part of what makes a traditional kids summer camp so special. A nature hike, sailing on a blanket of calm water or sitting around the campfire with friends are just a few of the experiences that a child may encounter while enrolled in a traditional kids summer camp.

The professionals at ��ë���˵���personally assist nannies, babysitters and families in��St. Louis, Atlanta, Chicago, Nashville, Memphis, Charlotte, Miami and Orlando to find the right childcare arrangement. Our mission is to provide a safe and personalized ��approach for families and caregivers to connect with each other that is not an internet search. TLC has worked with families, nannies, sitters, newborn care providers, and tutors for over 35 years and looks forward to working with you! To find great nanny and babysitting jobs visit us at��tlc@tlcforkids.com��or Call 314-725-5660.

The post 5 Reasons To Choose A Traditional Kids Summer Camp appeared first on TLC Family Care.

1. Indoor Snowman Building Contest:

   • For Toddlers: Use white socks, buttons, and felt to create mini snowmen that are safe and easy to handle.
   • For School-Age Children: Challenge them to get creative with household items for a unique snowman-building experience. Set up a contest with different categories and prizes for the most imaginative creations.

2. Winter-themed Storytime and Crafts:

   • For Toddlers: Choose picture books with vibrant illustrations of winter scenes. After reading, engage in simple crafts like making paper snowflakes or handprint snowmen.
   • For School-Age Children: Opt for chapter books that capture the magic of winter adventures. Follow up with crafts like creating winter-themed bookmarks or writing and illustrating their own snowy short stories.

3. Hot Cocoa and Cookie Decorating Party:

   • For Toddlers: Keep it simple with marshmallow-topped hot cocoa and easy-to-decorate cookies using sprinkles and edible decorations.
   • For School-Age Children: Let them unleash their creativity by providing an array of toppings and flavors for hot cocoa. Pair this with a cookie decorating station featuring more intricate designs and edible paints.

4. Indoor Obstacle Course:

   • For Toddlers: Set up a soft and safe obstacle course using cushions, pillows, and stuffed animals. Encourage crawling, climbing, and jumping.
   • For School-Age Children: Design a more challenging obstacle course with activities like crawling under tables, hopping through hula hoops, and balancing on a makeshift balance beam. Time them for an extra layer of excitement.

5. Science Experiments with a Winter Twist:

   • For Toddlers: Create simple experiments like freezing colored water to make ice cubes. Let them explore the sensation of melting ice with their little hands.
   • For School-Age Children: Dive into more complex experiments, such as creating snowflakes with borax crystals or conducting simple physics experiments using winter-themed elements. Turn the kitchen into a winter laboratory!

With these engaging activities, you can turn snow days into memorable experiences for both toddlers and older children. Embrace the winter wonderland indoors, and watch as the freezing temps become the backdrop for endless joy and creativity! And don’t forget our full of Winter Fun! Should you still need help – don’t forget that ��ë���˵���can provide temp and back-up sitters for your childcare needs.��

��

The professionals at ��ë���˵���personally assist��nannies, babysitters��and��families��in��St. Louis, Atlanta, Chicago, Nashville, Memphis, Charlotte, Miami and Orlando to find the right childcare arrangement. Our mission is to provide a safe and personalized ��approach for families and caregivers to connect with each other that is not an internet search. TLC has worked with families, nannies, sitters, newborn care providers, and tutors for over 35 years and looks forward to working with you! To find great nanny and babysitting jobs visit us at��/, contact us at��tlc@tlcforkids.com��or call 314-725-5660.

The post Winter Wonderland: 5 Fun Activities for Nannies and Parents to Beat the Chill with Kids at Home appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Halloween is just around the corner!�� Are you still�� stumped for costume ideas?�� ��ë���˵��� here to help, with our favorite costumes that kids can make themselves with a parent or nanny’s help.

1)���������� M&Ms/Skittles bag: With some felt, carefully cut out circles of “candy.” Next, sew or glue the candy pieces onto a black (M&M) or red (Skittle) outfit.�� Your kids will transform into little packets of their favorite candy!

2)���������� Bubble bath: Cut the bottom out of an inflatable kiddie pool to go around your child’s waist and attach suspenders so it stays up, then glue on some small balloons to look like bubbles.

3)���������� Pig in a blanket: All you need to turn your kid into an adorable little piglet are pink clothes and some easy homemade pig ears and nose. Then wrap them up in a blanket and you’re all set!

4)���������� Raining cats and dogs: Dress your child in rainboots and a raincoat, and attach felt cat and dog shapes to an umbrella. They’ll love that it’s “punny”!

5)���������� Watercolors: All you need is a kicky felt beret, and a paper or felt poncho with round patches glued on to look like a watercolor palette.

6)���������� Sailor: Dress them up in stripes and a sailor hat, then fashion a boat out of paper and hang it around your child’s waist like you would with the bubble bath costume mentioned above.

7)���������� Wind-up doll: Dress your child up like a little doll, and attach a big paper key to their back. You can even try “turning” it and getting them to dance!

8)���������� Hot-air balloon: A laundry basket with the bottom cut out and a balloon attached should do the trick.

9)���� Rain cloud: Dress their torso in white felt or a ton of cotton balls, and attach little blue paper raindrops to their legs. It may seem dreary, but we promise it’ll be cute!

Happy and safe trick or treating!

The professionals at ��ë���˵���personally assist nannies, babysitters and families in��St. Louis, Atlanta, Chicago, Nashville, Memphis, Charlotte, Miami and Orlando to find the right childcare arrangement. Our mission is to provide a safe and personalized ��approach for families and caregivers to connect with each other that is not an internet search. TLC has worked with families, nannies, sitters, newborn care providers, and tutors for over 35 years and looks forward to working with you! To find great nanny and babysitting jobs visit us at��tlc@tlcforkids.com��or Call 314-725-5660.

The post DIY Halloween Costumes for Kids appeared first on TLC Family Care.

With a little bit of advanced planning, you can be sure to enjoy the best of both worlds so that the kids have a great time and you do too!

As so many Art Basel events occur in the evening, one strategy is to take advantage of Miami’s excellent kid-friendly attractions during the early part of the day. Attractions such as the��, ��, ��, or an amphibious adventure with����will provide much needed entertainment for the kids that parents can share and enjoy with them!

Ok, so now the kiddos are entertained and worn out and its time for the parents (who have presumably conserved some energy) to go enjoy the Art Basel action. What now? Yes, we want to expose our children to wonderful art, but the massiveness of exhibitions such as Red Dot, Aqua, Context, Art Miami, and many others is capable of testing the endurance of the hardiest adults, let alone children.

That’s where ��ë���˵���can help. Perhaps you’d like to take an early evening stroll through an exhibition hall with your children and have an extra set of eyes, ears, and hands to ensure the kids don’t touch the art (with the big “do not touch” sign on it), break anything, or run around and get lost in the massive halls while you attempt to take a serious and thoughtful look at the abundant and diverse art. One of TLC’s fully vetted and loving caregivers will be glad to join you and look after the kids to allow you to focus a bit more on the artistic treasures. Alternatively (or immediately after) TLC will send a sitter to your hotel room so that you can go out and enjoy the exhibitions, fine restaurants, and nightlife. You’ll be assured that your children are having a great time at your hotel playing, reading, and doing other activities before they get safely tucked in for a good night’s rest.

It’s really the best of both worlds; you can enjoy Miami’s beaches and attractions with your children by day, and also to get in some “adult-time” at night. Art Basel and Children DO go together well when you add a little bit of TLC caregiving to the equation.

It’s easy to book a TLC Miami hotel babysitter. Simply visit����and fill out our short application. A TLC representative will contact you immediately to assign and confirm an experienced and fully qualified sitter who will have fun with your children and set your mind at ease.

Last-minute requests are welcome, but we advise that you book in advance to be certain of getting the coverage you want. This is one of the busiest times of year for our on-call sitters. Use the link above or call TLC at 305.256.5905. We’d be happy to tell you more about our awesome sitters and get you set up with coverage to make your visit run smoothly.

Enjoy the art!

The post Tips on how to enjoy Art Basel when traveling with children. appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Parents start to wonder what to do with their kids while they are at Art Basel or enjoying the Miami Nightlife.

TLC for Kids Miami has the answer! TLC For Kids has vetted, loving and experienced babysitters who can come to your hotel to entertain and safeguard your children so you can tour Art Basal.

It’s easy to reserve a TLC Miami hotel babysitter. Visit our website to complete the Hotel Reservation form.�� A TLC representative will contact you immediately to assign and confirm an experienced sitter.�� TLC sitters will make sure your child is having fun while you are away!

TLC For Kids, Inc.��has been��St. Louis’ premier nanny and babysitting agency�� for over 25 years. We also provide caregivers in Miami, South Florida and Atlanta.�� TLC For Kids’ dedicated staff is ready to assist you in finding nannies, tutors, newborn care specialists, sitters and more. Reach us at��info@tlcforkids.com��or 314-725-5660.

The post Babysitters for Art Basel appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Devote Time to Recharge

To provide the best care and environment for your extrovert, you need to devote time to unwind and recharge yourself. For many introverts, prolonged periods of social interaction can be daunting and often leads to feeling anxious or stressed out.

If you’re in a bad mood, there’s a good chance that your child will pick up on that. This can lead to your child feeling depressed. They may blame themselves as a result for something that couldn’t possibly be their fault. Schedule an hour out of the day for a break, to process and manage your stress. Explain to your child why it is important for people to recharge their batteries and turn it into a positive experience for them. This will also give your child the opportunity to process their feelings and experiences.

Provide Opportunities for Interaction

It’s important to provide many opportunities for social interaction for your extroverted child. However, that doesn’t mean you have to turn your home into a hangout spot for all their friends. Schedule social interactions for your child with a wide variety of people. Spend time with family members, schedule play dates with friends from school or take a trip to a public play place where your child can meet new friends.

By establishing interactions outside of the household, you can provide an appropriate level of social interaction for your extrovert while also keeping your personal space. It is recommended, however, that you allow your child to enjoy interactions with their friends in your household on occasion. Even if it’s just once or twice a week, your child will greatly benefit by having a social outlet on a more personal scale.

School Environment for Your Extrovert

Make sure your child is getting an education that properly caters to their extroverted needs. Meet with the school’s staff of teachers and assess what type of classes would be best for your extrovert. Seek out teachers that have a significant amount of practical “field work” in their lesson plans.

The best thing you can do for your child is to get them involved in extracurricular activities, preferably involving groups of people or clubs. This is something that they’ll already be interested in getting involved with. It is a wonderful way for them to socialize and build relationships with like-minded people, as well as learn valuable skills. Discuss what activities your child is interested in – whether it be sports, the chess team or the drama club, and get them involved in as many as you and they can comfortably manage.

As an introverted parent, an extroverted child can sometimes seem like quite a handful. But, even if you aren’t excited about expressing your feelings or meeting new people, it’s important that your kid gets the chance to do so. Every chance that you give them to interact with people will help them to develop their social skills and maybe even earn them a new friend.

TLC for Kids is currently placing summer nannies in St. Louis, Atlanta, and South Florida. If you need reliable, energetic, and professional child care visit our website at��tlcforkids.com��Or, email us at tlc@tlcforkids.com.

The post How to Raise an Extrovert Child When You Are an Introvert appeared first on TLC Family Care.