find a sitter in Miami Archives - TLC Family Care

Six Back-to-School Lunchbox Ideas

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:54:00 +0000

It’s time for your child to head back to school. You roll your eyes, because that means coming up with a new lunch five times a week, for the rest of the school year. What’s a parent to do? Here are some ideas for creative and healthy lunchbox ideas that you can send to school with your child.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The post Six Back-to-School Lunchbox Ideas appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Back to School Checklist

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 11:58:32 +0000

Families everywhere are getting ready for the beginning of the new school year. Here are some helpful tips from Good Morning America parenting expert Ann Pleshette Murphy so you can be prepared for the first day.

1. Start readjusting to a school-year bedtime now.

2. Hang a family calendar and color-code everyone’s activities.

3. Gather all school forms as they arrive.

4. Book babysitters now for your school’s parents’ night and other dates when they’ll be in-demand. Call TLC for Kids to help with all your babysitting needs.

5. Create a family station where you can find what you need as you head out the door.

6. Set up an in/out box for school forms.

7. Look at online organizational websites.

8. Discuss goals for the year.

9. Institute a night quiet hour.

10. Reach out to your child’s teacher.

Good luck on the first day.

The post Back to School Checklist appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Keeping Kids Safe Online: Modern Tips for Internet Safety and Screen Time Management

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 08:08:00 +0000

In today’s digital age, monitoring your kids’ internet use by sitting with them is ideal but not always feasible. However, there are several internet safety rules you can teach them to ensure they stay safe online even when you’re not around. Here are some updated tips for managing screen time and ensuring internet safety:

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.
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.
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.
Use Nicknames Online
Encourage your kids to use pseudonyms or nicknames when chatting online or participating in forums to protect their identity.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 post Keeping Kids Safe Online: Modern Tips for Internet Safety and Screen Time Management appeared first on TLC Family Care.

TLC Can Help With Your Back to School Needs

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 11:28:00 +0000

New backpack? Check.

New crayons? Check.

New clothes? Check.

Childcare? Don’t stress. It’s never too early to start thinking about your school year child care needs. No matter how much help you need, TLC Family Care has a few ideas on how to help you gear up for the school year.

1. Hire an after school nanny. Not every parent is able to be home after school with their kids. Luckily, TLC Family Care has caregivers with flexible schedules to care for your children when you need it. After school caregivers can pick up your child from school, help with homework, start on dinner, etc. All of our caregivers have reliable, insured forms of transportation and have been thoroughly vetted.

2. Make a list of your top five favorite nannies. Once the school year starts, calendars start overflowing with practices, PTA meetings, and plays. When parents get this busy, it is easy to forget when you need a sitter. Plan ahead and make your requests now with for your favorite sitters. Requesting your favorite sitters in advance helps ensure one of them will be available. A familiar nanny is easier for you and your kiddos because they’ve been to your house before—you don’t have to spend time explaining all the dos and don’ts. Plus, being requested for a job lets your nanny know he/she is doing her job well.

3. Emergency Childcare. No matter how much planning we do last minute needs come up. Our kids will get sick, an extra practice is scheduled or a last minute meeting is added to the calendar. Don’t worry, the TLC for Kids Emergency Service can help with these last minute needs.

��ë��˵��is here to help as you gear up for this school year. Visit us online at or call 314-725-5660.

The post TLC Can Help With Your Back to School Needs appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Keeping Your Child Safe This Summer: 5 Essential Tips for Nannies and Parents

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 11:28:00 +0000

Summer is a time of adventure and outdoor fun for children, but it’s also a season that requires heightened awareness and safety measures. Whether you’re a nanny or a parent, ensuring the well-being of your child during these warm months is paramount. Here are five essential tips to keep your child safe this summer.

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

5 Reasons To Choose A Traditional Kids Summer Camp

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 11:57:18 +0000

A traditional kids summer camp is one that generally begins in June and continues through August. This type of recreation is a popular activity among children of all ages as it gives them the opportunity to experience new things, meet new people and embark on a journey of independence. With that being said, the following are 5 popular reasons to enroll your child in a traditional kids summer camp.

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

Keeping Your House Safe This Summer

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:21:35 +0000

Summertime means summer travel for home owners. Not surprisingly, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reports that home burglaries peak in July and August. Homes that look not lived in are more susceptible to burglaries.

There are few things people can do to keep there home from being broken into when traveling this summer.

The best thing you can do is hire a house sitter to stay in your home while you are gone. House sitters will give your home the lived in look. They can bring in your mail and papers, water your plants and park in your driveway. If you have pets the sitter will also take care of all of your pets needs.

TLC For Kids, Inc, is a childcare agency that also provides house and pet sitters in Miami and St. Louis. “Our screened and background checked caregivers are a great match for families looking for house and pet sitters,” explains Vice President Angela Lehmann. “Clients love knowing they only need to make one call to us and it’s taken care of.”

Other steps you can take to keep your risk of a break-in low is to put your lights on a timer, put up a motion detector light outside, and make sure all your windows are locked before you leave.

The post Keeping Your House Safe This Summer appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Top 5 things to do with Kids in and around Miami in the Spring

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 11:30:47 +0000

We’ve rounded up our top favorite things to do around Miami during the Spring. What’s your favorite?

Visit the : The Miami Children’s Museum is a great place for kids to learn and play. With interactive exhibits like the Castle of Dreams and the All About Art exhibit, there’s plenty for kids to do and see.
Explore : Jungle Island is a wildlife park and botanical garden that’s perfect for families. With over 300 species of animals and birds, there’s something for everyone to see, plus fun attractions like the zip line and petting zoo.
: Miami is known for its beautiful beaches, and Spring is a great time to visit. Take the family to South Beach, Crandon Park Beach, or one of the many other beaches in the area for a day of sun, sand, and fun.
Visit the : The Miami Seaquarium is a must-visit for families with kids. From the dolphin show to the sea turtle exhibit, there’s plenty to see and do. Plus, kids can even swim with dolphins or sea lions!
Check out the : The Wynwood Walls is an outdoor art museum that’s perfect for families who love art. Kids will love the colorful and unique murals, and parents will appreciate the art history and cultural significance.

These are just a few of the many activities available in and around Miami in the Spring. With so much to do, there’s never a dull moment in this vibrant city!

The post Top 5 things to do with Kids in and around Miami in the Spring appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Top 5 Nanny Sites You Should Be Following

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 11:44:16 +0000

The nanny world is full of resources and information for nannies, parents and agencies. We’ve pulled together 5 of our favorites that we think you should be checking out for the information they provide.

. This is the only publication for nannies featuring advice, industry news, insights and inspiration. They offer and a with subscriber only content.
. The longest running nanny organization serving the in-home child care industry, INA bring together all aspects of this industry – nannies, newborn care specialists, parents, agencies, training programs and service providers. With to the , the INA has it covered. Check out their and their , happening May 2024 in Portland, OR.
provides continuing education for nannies and parents including Positive Discipline, and guidance from newborn to teens.
Nanny Care Hub. NCH is the site of industry advocate and veteran nanny Lora Brawley. Check out the blog of , and .
. The musings of two veteran nannies, Lora Brawley and Sue Downey, they bring hot topics in the industry straight to listeners everywhere.

The post Top 5 Nanny Sites You Should Be Following appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Tips on Finding a Nanny

TLC Nannies & Sitters — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 12:28:44 +0000

Almost all busy, working parents need a nanny to take care of their child and, sometimes, their household chores. Finding a nanny is not an easy thing to do. ��ë��˵�� here to help navigate hiring a nanny. Before you start your search, here are some tips to get you ready:

When finding a nanny, you need to identify the number of hours that you will require the nanny to work. If you are that busy and if your schedule frequently changes, you should make sure that you will inform your nanny beforehand if you need her to stay with your child overtime so that she can make the necessary adjustments in her personal life. The nanny may feel taken advantage of if you are constantly requiring her to work more than the hours you agreed upon when you hired her.

It is important that you decide on the pay right from the start. Consider the amount that you can afford before finding a nanny. Be sure to take into consideration taxes, overtime, and overall costs associated with having a third person in your household. Ask people you know who have nannies how much pay they provide so you have a realistic basis. Live-in nannies get pay plus room and board. Some families allow nannies the use of a car and other perks such as gym membership, paid vacations and educational stipend.

When finding a nanny, you also need to consider the fact that you will become an employer so you need to take care of completing all of the necessary legal employment documents required by the government and pay all necessary taxes, Medicare and social security. Both you and your nanny will have to pay certain taxes. TLC can recommend a tax service to help you in your nanny employment.

In finding a nanny, it is important that you and the nanny are in the same page when it comes to disciplining your child so make sure to discuss with your prospects what is acceptable and what is not and be sure that all of your terms are understood. Also discuss goals for your child, educational aspects, and whether your nanny can take the child/children places outside the home – library, play groups, parks, zoo, etc.

Nannies require time off like any regular employee. At the same time, make sure to pay your nanny for overtime work or of you asked her to work during her supposed time off. If there is a need for the nanny to travel along with you and your family, you should cover all of her expenses plus her regular pay.

All the items we’ve discussed should be laid out in a work agreement signed by both the parents and the nanny.

When you make an offer that shows a prospective nanny that you respect their profession and value their services enough to give them honest pay and good working schedule, then finding a nanny should come easy.

TLC can help when it comes time to hire your nanny. We meet each caregiver prior to placing them, and work with you and the nanny to find the best fit. Give us a call and find out how we can help you find the best caregiver for your family.

The post Tips on Finding a Nanny appeared first on TLC Family Care.