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.

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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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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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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Setting Meaningful Goals

Begin by setting family goals that promote growth and happiness. These could range from health and wellness objectives, such as incorporating more outdoor activities, to educational aspirations like reading together every night. Involve everyone in the goal-setting process to ensure that each family member feels invested and motivated.

Creating New Traditions

New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be limited to individual goals. Establishing new family traditions can create lasting memories and bring everyone closer. Consider starting a monthly family game night, planning annual trips to explore new places, or even volunteering together in your community. These traditions provide a sense of continuity and shared experience that strengthens family connections.

Nurturing Positive Habits

January is the perfect time to introduce positive habits that can improve daily life. Encourage open communication, establish healthy routines, and prioritize quality time together. Simple practices, such as having dinner together without distractions, can make a significant difference in fostering a supportive and loving home environment.

Supporting Each Other

Change can be challenging, especially for children. Be patient and offer support as your family adjusts to new routines and goals. Celebrate small victories and provide encouragement during setbacks. Remember, the journey towards new beginnings is a collective effort that requires understanding and cooperation.

Looking Ahead

As you embark on this new year, keep in mind that the most important aspect of setting goals and creating new traditions is to enjoy the journey together. Embrace the opportunities that 2025 brings, and cherish the moments of growth and connection with your loved ones.

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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Here’s why backup care is especially important during the holidays, how to prepare, and how ��ë���˵���can step in to support your family.

Why Backup Care is Crucial During the Holidays

Keep Holiday Plans on Track
The holidays are packed with events, shopping, and to-do lists. If your nanny calls out sick or is away on vacation, it can disrupt your carefully planned schedule. A backup child care plan ensures that you can attend that work party, finish holiday shopping, or simply relax, knowing your children are cared for.

Maintain Consistency for Your Children
The holidays can already disrupt your children’s usual routines with travel, activities, and visiting family. When your nanny isn’t available, a backup caregiver can help provide consistency and normalcy, keeping your children comfortable and happy during a busy season.

Eliminate Last-Minute Stress
Scrambling to find child care at the last minute is stressful for everyone. With a solid plan in place, you can avoid the panic and focus on enjoying the season, knowing your family’s needs are covered.

How to Prepare a Backup Child Care Plan for the Holidays

1. Identify Reliable Providers
   Start by identifying trusted child care options, like TLC Family Care. Our professional caregivers are ready to step in when needed, ensuring your holiday plans stay on track.

2. Communicate with Your Nanny
   Discuss holiday schedules and your backup care plan with your nanny in advance. Open communication can help prevent surprises and ensure everyone is aligned on expectations.

3. Prepare Essential Information
   Create a care guide with your children’s daily routines, allergies, emergency contacts, and holiday-specific details. This will make it easy for a backup caregiver to step in seamlessly.

How ��ë���˵���Can Help

At TLC Family Care, we specialize in providing reliable backup care, especially during the busy holiday season:

• Vetted and Experienced Caregivers
  Our caregivers are thoroughly screened and experienced, ensuring your children are in trusted hands.

• Quick and Reliable Service
  We understand the urgency of holiday schedules and offer fast support when your nanny is unavailable.

• Flexible Options
  Need care for just a few hours while you wrap gifts or a full day during holiday travel? We’ve got you covered with flexible options.

• Peace of Mind
  Enjoy your holiday celebrations knowing your children are being cared for by professionals who will maintain their routines and keep the season magical.

Plan Ahead for a Smooth Holiday Season

Don’t let unexpected nanny absences derail your holiday plans. By partnering with TLC Family Care, you can ensure a stress-free season with reliable, professional backup child care.

Contact us today to learn more about our backup care services and how we can help your family navigate the holidays with ease!

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 Why Having a Backup Child Care Plan is Essential During the Holidays: How ��ë���˵���Can Help appeared first on TLC Family Care.

Start with a Small Act

Many people have a hard time getting motivated to give because they feel like their��contribution won’t matter in the long run. Prove to your kids that every little bit counts when it comes to donating either time or resources. Look for someone in your community that your kids can help with something like yard work or other chores around the house.

Don’t forget to reward them for their good deeds and show them the ways that even a small act of kindness can be a big help to someone. That way, they’ll probably more willing (and excited) to help the next time.

Set a Good Example

Kids often want to follow in the footsteps of their parents. If you want your kids to pick up on how important it is to give, make sure that you practice a bit of giving yourself. Let them see you putting aside time to help others or donating to a charitable organization. Remember, it’s sometimes more difficult to get your kids to want to give when they’ve never seen you do so. All it takes is once, to set a good example.

Find Other Kids

It will be easier for your kids to connect with the idea of giving if they’re involved in a project with their peers. Look for opportunities like food banks or toy drives in your community. Check to see if they allow children to participate in their programs. If there aren’t any kid-friendly charitable organizations in your area, consider taking it upon yourself to organize a volunteer event. You also have the option of seeking out online charities or volunteer organizations that kids can relate to.

Make Them Feel Empowered

The greatest motivator for giving is the feeling that you can make a difference. If you want your children to feel good about giving, make them feel good about themselves. Let them know that the things they have to say are important and encourage them to incorporate their talents into giving back to others. If they feel empowered, they’ll feel like they definitely can and will make a difference.

If you practice the act of giving on a regular basis, you make a habit out of generosity and charity. This is especially true of kids, who are growing up and developing into the people they will be later in life. Talk to your children about how important it is to give today and they will almost certainly make you proud of their compassion in the future.

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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• 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.

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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Here’s why having a backup care plan is essential, how you can prepare, and how ��ë���˵���can support your family when your nanny is unexpectedly unavailable.

Why Backup Care is Crucial

1. Minimize Disruption to Your Schedule When your nanny calls in sick at the last minute, your workday and other commitments can be affected. Without backup child care, you might have to take an unexpected day off, causing stress and potential disruptions at work. A backup plan ensures that even when your nanny can’t be there, you don’t have to cancel meetings or rearrange your entire day.
2. Consistent Care for Your Children Children thrive on routine and consistency. When your nanny is unavailable, it’s crucial to maintain a sense of normalcy in their care. With a reliable backup child care plan, you can ensure that your children continue to receive quality care, keeping their day as close to routine as possible.
3. Reduce Stress for Everyone Scrambling to find last-minute child care can be stressful for parents and unsettling for children. With a backup plan in place, you eliminate the panic and pressure of finding suitable care on short notice. A trusted backup provider will already be familiar with your family’s needs, making the transition smoother for everyone.

How to Prepare a Backup Child Care Plan

1. Identify Trusted Providers Begin by identifying a few trusted child care providers who can step in when your nanny is unavailable. This could be a family member, a friend, or a professional child care service like TLC Family Care, which offers vetted and experienced caregivers who can be there when you need them most.
2. Discuss Your Backup Plan with Your Nanny Ensure that your nanny is aware of your backup care plan. Open communication about what will happen in the event of an emergency can ease any concerns and ensure everyone is on the same page. This way, if your nanny is unwell, they know who to contact or inform about the situation.
3. Keep Important Information Ready Make sure you have all the essential information prepared for your backup caregiver, such as your children’s daily routines, allergies, emergency contacts, and house rules. Creating a care guide or written instructions ensures that even if your regular nanny isn’t there, the backup caregiver can easily step in and provide seamless care.

How ��ë���˵���Can Help

At TLC Family Care, we specialize in providing backup child care services, so you never have to worry when your nanny is unavailable. Here’s how we can support your family:

1. Vetted and Experienced Caregivers All of our caregivers are carefully screened, with extensive background checks and years of experience. Whether your nanny is out for the day or longer, ��ë���˵���offers professional and reliable sitters to care for your children.
2. Fast and Reliable Service Our backup care service is designed to respond quickly to your needs. When your nanny calls in sick, you can count on us to provide a caregiver as soon as possible, ensuring minimal disruption to your day.
3. Flexible Options We understand that each family’s needs are different. Whether you need backup care for just a few hours or for an entire day, ��ë���˵���offers flexible care options that fit your schedule.
4. Peace of Mind With TLC Family Care’s trusted caregivers, you can go to work with peace of mind, knowing your children are in good hands. Our experienced professionals ensure that your children’s routines are maintained, helping them feel comfortable even when their regular caregiver is unavailable.

Plan Ahead to Protect Your Family

No one can predict when your nanny might fall ill, but with a solid backup care plan, you can protect your family from last-minute stress and disruptions. By partnering with TLC Family Care, you’ll have access to experienced, reliable caregivers who can step in whenever you need them.

Don’t wait until an emergency happens—prepare now. Contact ��ë���˵���to learn more about our Backup Child Care Services and how we can help you navigate the unexpected with ease.

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What began as an effort of few now spans hundreds of professionals the last full week of September each year. ��NNRW continues to focus on the positive, quality aspects that nannies bring to their charges and jobs every day; and for parents and agencies to say “Thank You” to their wonderful caregivers. ~ www.nnrw.org��

How can you say Thank You to your nanny?

Say Thank You Tell your friends good things about her knowing she will hear them back a surprise day off Have the children say Thank You Treat your nanny to breakfast or dinner made by the family a card and framed photo of the family Pay for dinner out with friends gift basket of favorite treats gift certificates to favorite stores movie tickets gift certificate for manicure/pedicure or massage handmade card or gift from the child/children

From the TLC family to all our nannies … Thank You! We appreciate all you do day after day, and are grateful to have you as part of our family of caregivers.

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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Daycare Substitutes On Demand

Unexpected absences or surges in demand? No problem. ��ë���˵���provides experienced and qualified substitutes at a moment’s notice, ensuring your daycare center remains a safe and nurturing environment for the children in your care. Our dedicated pool of professionals is ready to seamlessly integrate into your team, maintaining continuity and quality without skipping a beat.

Quality You Can Trust

At TLC Family Care, we pride ourselves on delivering only the best. Our rigorous screening process ensures that every substitute we provide is not just qualified but exceeds the industry standards. Each candidate undergoes comprehensive background checks, face-to-face interviews, and evaluations of their childcare skills, knowledge, and philosophy. You can trust that our team members are fully equipped to uphold the high standards of your center.

Flexible Staffing Tailored to Your Needs

No two daycare centers are alike, and neither are their staffing needs. Whether you need a last-minute substitute, a temporary replacement during extended leave, or additional staff to meet seasonal demands, ��ë���˵���offers flexible solutions designed to adapt to your unique requirements. We work closely with you to ensure that the staffing solutions we provide perfectly align with the needs of your center.

Why Partner with TLC Family Care?

– **Quick Response Time:** We understand the urgency of staffing needs, especially in the childcare industry. Our quick response ensures you’re never left short-handed.
– **Experienced and Qualified Substitutes:** Our thorough vetting process guarantees that your children are cared for by skilled and trustworthy professionals.
– **Flexible Staffing Solutions:** Whether your needs are ongoing, as-needed, or last-minute, we have the right solution for you.
– **Seamless Transitions:** Our substitutes are trained to integrate effortlessly into your existing team, minimizing disruption and maintaining a stable environment for the children.

Tailored Childcare Staffing Across Various Settings

TLC Family Care’s services extend beyond daycare centers. We also provide staffing solutions for preschools, religious organizations, health clubs, and resort kids’ clubs. No matter the setting, our commitment to quality and reliability remains the same.

Ready to Partner with Us?

Don’t let unexpected staffing shortages disrupt your daycare’s operation. Partner with ��ë���˵���for reliable, immediate, and qualified substitutes who can keep your center running smoothly. Contact us today to discuss how we can tailor our services to meet the unique needs of your center.

With TLC Family Care, you can trust that your children are in the best hands, even when your regular staff is unavailable. Let us be your go-to solution for seamless, flexible, and high-quality childcare staffing.

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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��tlc@tlcforkids.com��or Call 314-725-5660.

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