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1. Bento Boxes

Bento boxes are originally from Japan, and they are a very creative way to serve your child food. There are containers especially made for this purpose, or else you can simply use a variety of boxes in an assortment of sizes that you already have.

Bento box food is generally shaped to look like flowers, animals or cartoon characters. The sky is the limit as far as creativity. There are plenty of websites dedicated solely to this artistic endeavor. Check them out and make your child’s lunch fun each and every day.

2. Pasta

Pasta is an easy and quick lunchbox idea. Make a batch early in the week and then load it up with various vegetables and sauces to make many different options. You can pair spaghetti noodles with green peas and Parmesan, or add broccoli and a simple yet delicious tomato sauce to pasta shells.

3. Sandwiches

Sandwiches have been an old lunch standby for as long as most of us can remember, but they are not to be scoffed at. There is almost nothing you cannot add between two pieces of bread that does not automatically become delicious. From peanut butter to BLTs, sandwiches filled the lunch boxes of our own childhood and continue to do so for our children.

Keep them fresh by storing any vegetables or other moist food in a separate container, so your child can put it all together directly before consuming it. Add new tastes to expand your child’s palate and prevent boredom, such as wasabi or sriracha mayo.

4. Veggie Burritos

Why not turn an old favorite into a new lunch idea for your school-age child? Veggie burritos are easy to make and easy to store. What’s not to love about that? Simply choose a type each of beans, veggies, cheese and sauce, and then wrap it up. Your child will never get tired of all the options and combinations available.

5. Soup

Soup is another great lunchbox standby. With all the thermoses and container options out there, it is easy to find something to keep it in, even keeping it warm until being eaten. A broth filled with numerous kinds of vegetables such as cauliflower, carrots, broccoli, zucchini and onions is healthy and lasts well in a lunchbox. Simply add a piece of bread and a few cheese sticks for a healthy, well-rounded meal.

6. Salads

Salad is a great lunch option, and it does not have to be boring. Load it up with chickpeas, nuts, seeds, and top it off with a healthy dressing for a lunch your child will thank you for. There are now salad storage containers sold even at the big box stores that have special compartments to fit all the components of the salad – even tiny squeeze bottles for the dressing.

With all the options available, there is no reason for your child to get bored with their school lunches. Thanks to a variety of storage options, your child’s lunch can safely wait for lunch break and not even go bad. Fill up your child’s lunchbox with healthy meals to keep your child fueled all day long.

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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1. Set Clear Screen Time Limits
   Establish specific times for using the computer and explain why these limits are important. Encourage your kids to develop a sense of responsibility and self-discipline.

2. Keep Personal Information Private
   Make sure your kids understand the importance of not sharing personal details like their name, home address, phone number, email, passwords, school information, and financial details. Online predators often target children who unknowingly disclose such information.

3. Avoid Online Gambling
   Teach your kids about the risks of online gambling and why it’s important to stay away from it. Explain that gambling involves high risks and can lead to significant losses.

4. Use Nicknames Online
   Encourage your kids to use pseudonyms or nicknames when chatting online or participating in forums to protect their identity.

5. Skip Online Contests and Surveys
   Warn your kids about the dangers of filling out online contests, surveys, and registration forms. These often ask for personal information and can be used by spammers to gather email addresses.

6. Handle Emails with Caution
   Teach your kids never to open, download attachments, or reply to emails from unknown senders. Explain that spammers can verify email addresses through replies and that attachments may contain harmful viruses.

7. Stick to Public Chat Rooms
   Encourage your kids to stay in moderated public chat rooms and avoid private chats. This reduces the risk of encountering inappropriate behavior or harassment.

8. Seek Permission Before Meeting Online Friends
   Make sure your kids know they must always ask for permission before meeting someone they’ve met online. Emphasize the importance of caution, as people may not be who they claim to be.

9. Verify Before Downloading
   Teach your kids to check with you before downloading any programs, even if they come from reputable sites. Many downloads can include hidden spyware or viruses.

10. Report Disturbing Content
    Encourage your kids to come to you immediately if they encounter any disturbing images or content online. Keeping open communication helps ensure their safety.

By teaching your children these essential internet safety rules, you can help them navigate the digital world more securely. Staying informed and vigilant about the latest online trends and threats is crucial for both parents and children. Ensuring a safe online environment is a continuous process, so keep the conversation going and make internet safety a regular topic in your household.

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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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.

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1. Gradual Adjustments: Start preparing your children for the time change a few days in advance. Gradually shift their bedtime and wake-up time by 15 minutes each day leading up to the transition. This gentle approach allows their internal clocks to adjust without causing a sudden disruption to their sleep routine.

2. Optimize Sleep Environment: Create a conducive sleep environment by ensuring the bedroom is cool, dark, and comfortable. Consider using blackout curtains to minimize the impact of the extended daylight hours. Maintaining a consistent and calming bedtime routine can also help signal to the child that it’s time to wind down.

3. Expose to Natural Light: Daylight plays a crucial role in regulating our circadian rhythms. Encourage outdoor activities during the day, especially in the morning. Exposure to natural light helps synchronize the body’s internal clock, making it easier for children to adapt to the shifted time schedule. A dose of sunlight can do wonders for their energy levels and overall mood.

4. Limit Screen Time Before Bed: The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of the sleep hormone melatonin. To ensure a restful night’s sleep, establish a screen-free zone at least an hour before bedtime. Instead, engage in calming activities such as reading a book together or practicing mindfulness exercises to help the transition into sleep.

5. Maintain Consistency: Consistency is key when it comes to children and sleep. Stick to the same bedtime routine, even during the time change. Consistency helps signal to the child’s body that it’s time to sleep, fostering a sense of security and stability. Be patient and allow a week or two for your child to fully adjust to the new schedule.

With a bit of planning and patience, you can ensure a smooth transition for your children as we spring forward into daylight saving time. By gradually adjusting their schedule, optimizing their sleep environment, exposing them to natural light, limiting screen time before bed, and maintaining a consistent routine, you’ll set the stage for restful nights and joyful, sun-filled days ahead. Here’s to embracing the changing seasons with well-rested and happy little ones!

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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.

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While sharing is generally positive, it’s crucial to establish boundaries when it comes to your children, home, and family. Your privacy matters, and safeguarding the well-being of your little ones is a top priority.

Just as companies implement social media rules, you have the authority to set guidelines too. Establishing boundaries ensures that information about your children and family remains private. Taking this proactive step grants you control over shared information, safeguarding your loved ones.

Your children’s safety and privacy always take precedence. By outlining social media rules, you gain assurance that your family’s intimate moments stay within the circle of trust.

Once your nanny is on board, initiating an open dialogue about social media expectations is crucial. If this conversation hasn’t happened yet, worry not—it’s never too late to address this vital topic with your current nanny.

Consider this scenario: Would you be comfortable with your nanny sharing your child’s exact location with hundreds of strangers on social media? Expressing this concern is essential, as your nanny may not have considered it.

Engage in a transparent conversation with your nanny. Discuss your concerns and establish aligned with your values. Provide specific examples of what’s acceptable and what might raise concerns for you.

To guide your discussion, consider the following guidelines when discussing social media boundaries with your nanny:

• Location and Check-ins: Clearly communicate your preference regarding sharing your child’s location, emphasizing the importance of avoiding specific details compromising safety or privacy.
• Photos and Videos: Discuss your comfort level with posting images or videos of your child online. Specify acceptable content and what you’d prefer not to be shared.
• Family Matters: Emphasize the importance of respecting your family’s privacy. Discuss what topics or personal information should remain offline to uphold confidentiality and well-being.
• Set Usage Rules: Determine if you’re comfortable with your nanny using social media while on the clock. Establish a mutually agreeable system, perhaps limiting usage to specific times.
• Stay Connected: Discuss the possibility of connecting with your nanny through social media. If they’re comfortable, “friend” or “follow” away; if not, respect their preference.

This conversation isn’t about restricting your nanny’s personal life but about safeguarding your child and respecting your family’s privacy. Openly discussing concerns and setting clear guidelines ensures everyone is on the same page, working together to create a secure environment for your child. Best of luck with your conversation and your journey with your nanny!

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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��website, contact us at��tlc@tlcforkids.com��or call 314-725-5660.

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Here are a few things you can do to help your little one adjust to the time change. For more information on kids adjusting to the time change or sleep training your baby visit the blog.

1. Make naps a priority. One key to a good night’s sleep is a well-rested baby. Keeping naps on schedule and giving your baby plenty of daylight in between naps will help with the adjustment.

2. Keep your bedtime routine consistent. Keeping your same bedtime routine will help your little one know it’s time for bed. Kids thrive on consistency and keeping with the routine is soothing to them.

3. Morning walks. If possible get outside and go for a walk in the morning. If it’s too cold to go outside open up the curtains and sit in the sunshine.

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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You may prefer to use your own vehicle for your job because you’re more comfortable and secure driving. But you’ll want to ensure your clients that your car is well-equipped to safely transport��children with as minimal risk as possible. Here’s some guidance to follow if you choose to use your personal car to shuttle kids to and from as a nanny.

Establish Guidelines with Parents

Your clients entrust you to safeguard their children in their absence, which means you’ll both want to create a plan in advance to��prevent surprises or accidents��as much as possible, including these adhering to these steps.

• Set up a work agreement with policies that include expectations on gas, parking ticket payment, limitations on how far the children can be driven and trip documentation.
• Establish car safety standards, such as proper vehicle maintenance, secure car seats and liability insurance.
• Discuss work-related reimbursements based upon the��; these reimbursements may cover transportation for school, activities, errands, shopping, etc.
• Agree on ways to keep kids busy in the car to help prevent crying or outbursts that can dangerously distract. This may include movies video games, books or car games

Find a Car with Top Family-Safety Features

If you’re just beginning as a nanny, you may want to invest in a family-friendly car to support your long-term career and appear as an attractive nanny candidate.��U.S. News & World Report��released its�� that fit all budgets and lifestyles. Your best bet? Choose a multi-purpose car or SUV that can serve both work and your personal life.

Invest in Quality Tires, Learn How to Change a Flat

Without proper tire maintenance or replacements, a tire is doomed to go flat. A flat tire can become a complicated situation with a newborn or toddler in the car, especially since it shouldn’t be driven on. If you get on, you should pull over immediately. AutoGuide.com explains that driving on a flat can lead to��, resulting in risky vehicle handling and loss of control. Poor control can ultimately cause an accident or injury to passengers.

In case of an emergency, learn how to change a tire or invest in a AAA membership that allows you to receive free roadside assistance.��Consumer Reports��also offers a����highlighting tips on tire types, tread wear and tire-pressure monitoring systems when searching for��brand-new, high-performance tires.

Maintain Your New Car with Regular Upkeep

Properly maintaining your vehicle ensures top reliability, supports longevity and helps reduce wear and tear.����recommends following these three top tasks:

• Check the engine oil regularly for an oil leak or deficiency.
• Check tire air pressure and inspect tires for premature, uneven or abnormal wear and tear.
• Wash your vehicle routinely to remove dirt, debris and any interior trash accumulated from caravanning kids.

You may also want to schedule an appointment with a mechanic who can provide an in-depth inspection on your car’s air filter, brakes, exhaust system, fluids, battery and more. Have your����on the cooling system, automatic-transmission fluid, drive belts and hoses and timing belt. You’ll keep you car in excellent condition for your own transportation, career and, most importantly, the little ones in your care.

this article originally appeared on RegardingNannies.com. Used with permission.

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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In my opinion, make-believe is not only healthy, it is essential. Make believe helps a child to make sense of the world around him. He assigns his perceptions of a person, place, or thing with the help of make-believe.

There are those who advocate removing all make-believe from childhood. These experts tell us that make believe causes children to delay their perception of their reality. Shame on them! Too much “reality” isn’t good for adults much less little kids.

Grown-ups attend movies and plays and get caught up in the action on the screen or on the stage. Just for a moment, they believe what they are seeing and hearing. Adults, of course, can separate fact from fiction and fantasy from reality. Kids will learn to make those distinctions as they grow older. Meanwhile, that fantasy is helping them learn how to deal with life in a safe and nonthreatening way.

As long as the make-believe is healthy and doesn’t desensitize the child (make killing seem good and evil seem desirable), I see no harm in make-believe.

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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