Activties for Kids - TLC Family Care

5 Screen-Free Summer Activities for Nannies & Kids of All Ages

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 14:10:31 +0000

Summer is the perfect time to get outside, get moving, and create memories without screens! Whether you’re caring for toddlers, school-age kids, or a mixed-age group, there are tons of creative and engaging ways to fill the day with fun.

Here are five screen-free summer activities nannies can do with kids that are simple, low-cost, and packed with learning and laughter:

1. Explore with a Nature Outing

Take the kids on a neighborhood nature walk, a local park adventure, or a visit to a nearby garden or trail. Collect leaves, spot birds, or start a nature journal together.

Learning Bonus: Talk about different trees, bugs, flowers, or cloud formations. You can even bring along a magnifying glass and sketch pad!

What to Pack: Water bottles, sunscreen, bug spray, and a light snack.

2. Backyard Obstacle Course

Transform your yard or driveway into a mini ninja warrior course using things you already have—pool noodles, hula hoops, cones, and jump ropes.

Kids can run, crawl, hop, and balance their way through, and older kids can even help design the course!

Add Creativity: Let kids name each section of the course or make medals from cardboard and ribbon.

3. DIY Scavenger Hunt

Plan a scavenger hunt tailored to your environment:

Indoor: Find something soft, something blue, something round
Outdoor: Spot a bird, find a pinecone, see a bug, etc.

For mixed ages, pair younger and older kids as teams, or create picture-based lists for non-readers.

Add a Challenge: Use rhymes or riddles for older kids to decode clues.

4. Simple STEM with Summer Vibes

Keep little minds active with hands-on, screen-free STEM activities that feel like play.

Try this fun, fizzy Baking Soda & Vinegar Volcano:

Fill a container with baking soda
Add a few drops of food coloring
Slowly pour vinegar and watch the eruption!

Other ideas: Make sun catchers, build towers with marshmallows and toothpicks, or try sink/float water experiments.

5. Field Trip Fun

Plan a mini adventure to a:

Farmer’s market
Local splash pad
Zoo or petting farm
Botanical garden
Ice cream shop or picnic spot

Bonus Tip: Let kids help pack a picnic or map the route using paper maps to build life skills along the way.

Final Thoughts

Screen-free fun doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a little creativity and a lot of sunshine, nannies can help kids stay engaged, active, and smiling all summer long.

Looking for more summer inspiration or a qualified caregiver to keep your kids busy and safe while school’s out? ��ë��˵��is here to help! Contact us today to learn more about our experienced, trusted nannies and sitters.

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.

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Family Travel: Traveling With Kids

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 11:40:22 +0000

Family travel is something most families do throughout their years together. Traveling on vacations is often an annual tradition families have. From the time your child is born, it is likely you will take him or her on trips to see family members, theme parks, and even just one day drives. While safety is often the first thing parents consider when traveling with their kids, keeping them happy and busy along the way also adds to the success of the trip.

Safe Travel Tips

Safety is the most important factor with children traveling. Family travel should always been done with caution paid to safety above anything else. Here are some tips to keep everyone safe.

• Insure everyone is using proper safety belts and car seats throughout the trip. It’s tempting to loosen the belt for long trips, but high speed accidents on highways are common during the summer months.

• Be sure that the driver gets enough sleep and that parents are able to stay alert not only in the car but also on airplanes and buses.

• Keep items out of the car that could be choking hazards for small children. Travel games often have small pieces and are meant for older children. The jarring of a car can easily cause these to slip down the child’s throat.

• Be sure everyone knows where to meet if for any reason the group is splitting up. Cell phones are a good communication device and the responsible person’s within each group should have one.

• Talk to your children ahead of time about the risks of strangers and who to talk to if they do get lost. For family travel to be fun, everyone has to remain safe.

Family Travel Things To Do

When it comes to being on the road or in a plane for an extensive amount of time, busy kids are happy ones. Parents can do a number of things to keep kids active and busy so they don’t become overwhelmed with the long trip.

• Pack snacks. Kids are hungry every few hours and snacks are the best way to keep them quiet. Prepackaged items are sold in individual sizes, but you can also choose crackers, grapes and other small foods and place into small bags. Juice boxes and bags travel well.

• Pack an activity bag. For younger children, these goody bags can be a surprise for once you are on the road. Load them up with small toys, coloring supplies, stickers, and other activities you know they will enjoy. Don’t let them go into the bag until they are on the road.

• Pack things to do in backpacks. For older children, keeping them busy will help to cut down on your stress. Handheld games, video games, a deck of cars and travel size games can work very well. Include a few comic books, a magazine or even a book they want to read.

Many of today’s ultra fun activities for the car are in the form of technology. Portable game players, tablets, and movies are sure ways to keep everyone busy. Download the latest songs, movies and books. Challenge each child to a photo scavenger hunt using a camera or phone camera.

Family travel is often best when everyone on the trip is looking forward to something that interests them. When there are two completely different opinions, cater to both. For example, if you are traveling to an area where there is a lot of camping and wilderness hiking, and one child does not care for this, find out if there’s a local show or museum nearby they may like to stop in during the trip.

Traveling with kids is enjoyable when you plan ahead. Take the time to talk to your kids about the trip alerting them to the length of the drive. While traveling at night is not always an option, this is also a good way to cut down on the boredom factor. Many kids are happy enough with a few things to do and the conversation of the parents to keep them busy. Make this a trip that everyone enjoys by sharing stories, ideas and thoughts in an open forum. Everyone will feel welcome and happy before, during and after the trip.

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Honoring Pride Month with Love, Learning, and Inclusion

Kellie — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 17:04:59 +0000

Every June, the world comes together to celebrate Pride Month—a time to recognize the achievements, history, and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. At TLC Family Care, we’re proud to stand in support of love, diversity, and inclusion for all.

Pride Month is more than just parades and rainbow flags (though we love those too!). It’s a meaningful opportunity for families, caregivers, and children to learn, grow, and show support in age-appropriate, joyful, and impactful ways.

Here are some family-friendly ways to honor Pride Month:

1. Host a Pride-Themed Movie Night

Gather the family for a cozy evening watching inclusive, affirming movies that celebrate differences and promote empathy. Great family-friendly options include The Mitchells vs. The Machines, Out (Pixar short), and Steven Universe.
Use this as a jumping-off point for conversations about love, respect, and identity.

2. Cook a Rainbow-Themed Meal

Get the kids involved in the kitchen by preparing a colorful, rainbow-inspired meal or snack—think fruit skewers, layered smoothies, or rainbow veggie pizzas.
As you cook, talk about the meaning behind the rainbow Pride flag and how each color symbolizes something powerful (like healing, peace, and spirit!).

3. Attend a Local Pride Event

Many cities host family-friendly Pride parades, picnics, and storytimes. These events are a great way to celebrate community, show support, and expose children to messages of love and acceptance.
Not sure where to find one? Check with your local library, city website, or LGBTQ+ organizations for a schedule of events.

4. Read Inclusive Books Together

Visit your local library or bookstore and pick up books that reflect LGBTQ+ stories and characters. Great picks include Julian Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love, Heather Has Two Mommies by Lesléa Newman, and Red: A Crayon’s Story by Michael Hall.
Representation in stories helps all children see themselves—and others—more clearly.

5. Foster Conversations About Kindness & Inclusion

Whether you’re a parent or a caregiver, now is a great time to encourage open conversations about identity, family structures, and being a kind friend.
Let kids ask questions and share their thoughts. Your openness helps them build empathy and emotional intelligence.

At TLC Family Care, we believe every family deserves to feel seen, safe, and celebrated. This Pride Month, let’s take time to lift each other up, educate the next generation, and create more inclusive communities—one conversation, one story, and one rainbow snack at a time.

Happy Pride!
With love and care,
The ��ë��˵��Team

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Spring Cleaning & Organizing Tips for Nannies and Parents

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 07:36:00 +0000

Spring is the season of fresh starts! Whether you’re a nanny or a parent, it’s the perfect time to declutter, deep clean, and embrace the warmer weather. Here are some helpful tips:

Declutter the Playroom – Donate or toss broken toys, organize craft supplies, and rotate books for a fresh selection.

Deep Clean High-Touch Areas – Wipe down doorknobs, light switches, and toys to keep germs at bay.

Switch Out Seasonal Clothes – Pack away heavy coats and boots, and bring out spring-friendly outfits.

Check for Expired Items – Go through snacks, medicine cabinets, and sunscreen bottles to replace anything outdated.

Plan Outdoor Activities – Make a list of parks, nature trails, and local events for outdoor adventures.

By refreshing your home and schedule, you set the stage for an exciting and organized spring season! Need extra help? A ��ë��˵��nanny can assist with daily tasks and make your life easier.

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Fun & Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Earth Day with Kids

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 07:34:00 +0000

April 22nd is Earth Day—a perfect opportunity to teach kids about taking care of our planet. Here are some fun ways to celebrate:

Nature Walk & Scavenger Hunt – Explore a park, collect leaves and flowers, and talk about nature’s beauty. Recycling Crafts – Make art out of old magazines, turn cardboard into playhouses, or create bird feeders from milk cartons. Plant a Garden – Grow flowers, herbs, or vegetables together and teach kids about sustainability. Clean Up the Neighborhood – Grab gloves and a trash bag and pick up litter to make a difference in your community. Go Screen-Free – Spend the day outdoors hiking, biking, or simply enjoying fresh air.

Let’s teach kids that small actions can make a big impact! Need a nanny to help facilitate outdoor learning? TLC Family Care has wonderful caregivers ready to engage your little ones in meaningful activities.

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Valentine’s Day – Fun & Meaningful Ways for Nannies & Parents to Celebrate with Kids

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 12:25:00 +0000

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance—it’s a great time to teach kids about kindness, love, and appreciation! Whether you’re a nanny or a parent, here are some creative ways to celebrate with little ones.

Crafts & DIY Fun

Handmade Valentines – Have kids create personalized cards for family, friends, or teachers.
Memory Collage – Print out favorite photos and make a “Reasons We Love Our Family” scrapbook.
Love Notes Jar – Write small notes of appreciation for each family member to read throughout the day.

Sweet Treats to Make Together

Heart-Shaped Cookies – Bake and decorate cookies with pink and red frosting.
Fruit Love Skewers – Make a healthy snack with strawberries, watermelon, and grapes.
DIY Hot Cocoa Bar – Let kids customize their hot chocolate with marshmallows and sprinkles.

Acts of Kindness & Giving Back

Send Cards to Nursing Homes – Brighten someone’s day with a handmade Valentine’s card.
Create Kindness Coupons – Kids can make “helping hand” coupons for parents and siblings.
Love for Animals – Donate blankets or treats to a local animal shelter.

Valentine’s-Themed Activities

Read Love-Focused Books – Stories like The Day It Rained Hearts or Love You Forever teach valuable lessons about love and kindness.
Dance Party Fun – Play classic love songs and have a family dance party.
Valentine’s Pajama Movie Night – Snuggle up for a cozy evening with a feel-good family movie.

No matter how you celebrate, Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to show appreciation and spread kindness. Whether crafting, baking, or simply spending quality time together, let’s make this holiday special for kids and families!

PS: Don’t forget to book your Valentine’s Sitter with TLC Family Care!��

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Lifelong Learning – How Nannies and Parents Can Foster a Love of Learning

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 12:22:00 +0000

Learning doesn’t stop when school ends—it’s a lifelong journey! Whether you’re a nanny or a parent, fostering curiosity and a love of learning in children can shape their futures in incredible ways.

Why Lifelong Learning Matters

Children who develop a love for learning at a young age are more adaptable, curious, and motivated to explore new ideas. As a nanny or parent, you set the tone for how children perceive education, discovery, and personal growth.

Ways Nannies Can Promote Lifelong Learning

Create a Reading Culture – Set aside daily time for reading and visit the library often. Let kids pick books that interest them!
Encourage Exploration – Science experiments, nature walks, and creative projects help kids think critically and stay engaged.
Embrace Hands-On Learning – Activities like baking, gardening, and art teach important skills while making learning fun.
Introduce New Experiences – Museums, cultural festivals, and interactive exhibits expose children to the world beyond their immediate environment.

Ways Parents Can Support Learning at Home

Ask Open-Ended Questions – Encourage critical thinking by asking “why” and “how” questions.
Be a Role Model – Show enthusiasm for learning by trying new things yourself! Pick up a hobby, take a class, or explore a new skill.
Use Educational Tools – Websites like Khan Academy, PBS Kids, and local library resources can supplement traditional learning in a fun way.

Fostering lifelong learning helps children develop confidence, curiosity, and problem-solving skills that last a lifetime. Let’s create an environment where learning never stops!

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Setting the Stage for 2025: Preparing for a Year of Growth and Development

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 12:20:00 +0000

As we enter 2025, it’s a perfect time to focus on your children’s growth and development. By setting developmental milestones, planning educational activities, and fostering a growth mindset, you can create a supportive environment that nurtures your child’s potential. Here’s how to set the stage for a year of growth and development.

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.

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Honoring Martin Luther King Jr.: Teaching Kids About Equality and Social Justice

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 12:15:00 +0000

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time to honor the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to fighting for equality and justice. It’s also an opportunity to educate children about the importance of these values and inspire them to contribute to a more inclusive society. Here’s how you can teach kids about equality and social justice in meaningful and age-appropriate ways.

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.

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Creating Family Traditions

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 12:52:32 +0000

What are some good ideas for creating family traditions? Here are some ideas based on the holiday. These can be useful to get you started but remember that your own family traditions can be whatever you want and they don’t have to be centered around a holiday at all. Part of the fun of a family tradition is that it is yours and you can do whatever you want.

• Create your own special day or holiday such as “unbirthdays” or “family day”
• Never go to bed without saying I love you
• Have a special birthday meal whenever a family member has a birthday
• On Saturdays, everyone cooks breakfast together
• Have a monthly movie day where you watch movies that explore traditions
• Sing a special birthday song made up by the family
• Keep a family journal and let everyone write in it
• Make a scrapbook for every family vacation
• Always eat dinners together as a family and talk about your day
• Take turns choosing topic of discussion at dinner

These are just some ideas for creating family traditions. You can use these to boost your own ideas and be sure to ask your family members to think of their own. You can have everyone write down their ideas for traditions and then vote as a family on the ones you want to make happen.

Ideas for Passing on Family Traditions

When it comes to passing on family traditions, there are many ideas here as well. The most important thing to remember is to remain consistent. It’s important to do something over and over again each time to become tradition. If your family does not seem enthusiastic about it right away, you will have to help motivate them by being consistent.

For example, hold an event every year at the same time and continue to encourage the family to participate. Remain positive about it even if others do not and always continue even if only a few show up. By doing this consistently and with enthusiasm, others will begin to join in and the tradition will continue. As soon as all parties give up and miss an event, the tradition dies along with any enthusiasm to do it.

Holiday Traditions

Here are some holiday traditions that we enjoy and might help you get started:

• Volunteer at a homeless shelter for Thanksgiving or Christmas
• Collect or make an ornament each year at Christmas
• Have Thanksgiving dinners together with everyone helping to make a dish
• Have the children dress up as pilgrims and Indians on Thanksgiving
• Re-enact holiday events or perform a small skit as a family
• Act out the Christmas story
• Make cookies and milk for Santa
• Leave shoes outside for “baby New Year” to fill with goodies
• Create family New Year resolutions together

These ideas should help you with creating and passing on family traditions of your own. Whether you have your own family now or hope to one day soon, we hope that you will explore these options and ideas for family traditions. The memories you will create together as a family will last a lifetime.

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