TLC for Kids, Inc. - News for Today's Nanny!

Follow me to the new blog!

2010-06-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

Hello News for Today's Nanny Followers and readers!

TLC For Kids, St. Louis' nanny and sitter service is pleased to announce its new and improved blog has a new location at http://www.tlcforkids.com/blog/! Don't miss tips for both nannies and families on fun things to do with kids, safety, nutrition, building relationships, finding the right nanny match, age appropriate activities, nanny family communication and more! If you are a St. Louis mom, or dad, a nanny, sitter, au pair or governess the TLC blog is a great place to be.

Bloggers, Sharon Graff-Radell, Stephanie Graff, owners of TLC and Kimberly Patterson and Jessica Friedman, professional Nanny Placement Counselors look forward to sharing the ins and outs of in-home child care with you!

Sharon Graff Radell
President, TLC For Kids, Inc.
7301 Tulane, St. Louis MO 63130

Nannies in Saint Louis know how to stay cool

2010-06-13T14:10:00.000-07:00

Hello TLC Nannies!
It seems we are definitely in full swing of summer in St. Louis and boy, it's hot! Now especially, it's important to remember to put on sunscreen, pack the bug spray and watch the weather when you are taking your charges anywhere outdoors in St. Louis.
I recently had a TLC family ask, "what kind of indoor activities are there for my children, if I don't want them only at the pool or outside this summer?"
To this I simply reply that St. Louis has a myriad of activities (INDOOR) that are fun, inexpensive or even free and a great way to beat the heat!
Some of these include the St. Louis Art Museum, St. Louis Science Center, both interactive and educational. For a small fee, take children to the Magic House (Kirkwood) or to the top of the St. Louis Arch (Downtown)! Become a tourist in your own city and grab an ice cream cone from Ted Drewes on the way home!
Just a few tips -- nannies, feel free to leave a comment and share some more cool ideas.

St. Louis Nannies - Celebrate Earth Day this weekend!

2010-04-22T07:41:00.001-07:00

St. Louis always has a lot of great activities around town for celebrating Earth Day! If you're free this weekend check it out!

Join your neighbors in celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day with two stages of live music, cultural performances, local food and hands-on activities for the whole family!
· Over 275 eco-artists, educational exhibitors, food vendors, businesses and organizations will share how they are living Earth Day Every Day, and how you can too!
· Held at Forest Park. Visit http://stlouisearthday.org for more info.

Thanks, have a great week(end)!

FANTASTIC ARTICLE!=

2010-04-15T08:28:00.000-07:00

Heroes of the Profession
By Michelle LaRowe
2004 INA Nanny of the Year, Author of A Mom's Ultimate Book of Lists and Executive Director of INA

For those in-home child care providers who have dedicated a lifetime, a career or even a short season of their lives fighting for respect and recognition for the work they do, the stories of irresponsible caregivers that make the nightly news (and are often given the title of nanny) is at times enough to make them want to give up their fight and wave the white flag of surrender.

Although the negative stories seem to linger in our hearts and minds forever, the good news is that we are seeing more and more heroic nannies, real life everyday nannies, featured on the nightly news. As they share their stories they're capturing America's hearts and impacting the image of who today's professional nanny is.

As in industry we must embrace and support these real life super nannies, because as we know (and as America is quickly finding out) to the children whom today's professional nanny cares for and to the families for whom they work, they are their everyday (and often unsung) heroes.

A professional nanny puts the needs of the children in her care before her own. In fact as a nanny with over 15 years of professional experience who has played an active role on the local, national and international level, I can say with confidence that a nanny who wouldn't risk their own life for the sake of their charges is the exception, not the rule. I can also say with confidence that the nannies whom I consider my colleagues and the agency owners whom I've developed relationships with over the years take their responsibilities extremely seriously and know that caring for a child as a professional nanny is more than a job. It's a calling to care. It's a commitment to excellence. It's a chance to make a difference.

It's for these reasons that for the past 25 years INA has honored one truly amazing real life super nanny with the INA Nanny of the Year Award. It's also for these reasons that in celebration of the dedication and commitment to professional excellence that many individuals have made to our industry INA is pleased to introduce the INA Harriet Grant Service Award Pin and the INA Service Award Pin programs. It will surely be a great time of celebration at the 2010 INA Annual Conference when the award receipients will be presented with their awards.

If you've missed out on the headlines, here's a look at two heroic stores of real life super nannies that have recently been featured in the news.

March 23, 2010 - Nanny Rescues 5 Year old Boy from Fire and Suffers Serious Burns

For information on donating to the Alyson Myatt Special Needs Trust Fund visit http://www.alysonmyatt.com/.

April 8, 2010 - Nanny Saves Infant After Lightning Strikes, Causing House Fire

2010-04-07T09:59:00.000-07:00

Hi St. Louis Nannies!

Don't miss the 7th Annual Kids' Night on Broadway on Friday, April 9. Buy an Adult ticket & get a Kid's (17 and under) ticket FREE at the Fox box office only. 6:30 Pre-show activities: dancing, photos, crafts and temporary tattoos. Also Post-show cast Q & A.
HAVE FUN!

The Fabulous Fox - St. Louis - Shows
www.fabulousfox.com

Do Nannies Really Turn Boys into Future Adulterers?

2010-03-31T12:40:00.000-07:00

Attention Nannies:
This article came from time.com and I think if anything can generate a discussion, this may be it! Already disputed in the article, any thoughts?
Jessica

Do Nannies Really Turn Boys into Future Adulterers?

Give and Get Program 5% goes directly to Big Brothers Big Sisters!~

2010-03-19T11:20:00.000-07:00

Hi Nannies,

I received this in my email this morning and wanted to pass it along to you in case you were going to do some spring shopping this weekend! Hope you are all doing well and thanks for being great nannies

Do you want to update your wardrobe with the latest Spring fashions AND help kids? If so, you are in luck!

The coupon in this email is good for 30% off any in-store purchase at The Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic fromThursday, March 18th through Sunday, March 21st.

The best part: 5% of your purchase goes directly back to Big Brothers Big Sisters and the children whose lives we impact!

Click here to access your coupon. (or copy and paste the link below into a new window browser if the link doesn't work)

Please spread the Spring cheer and forward this coupon to your friends, family and co-workers. The coupon works for in-store purchases between March 18th and March 21st.

A special thank you to The Gap, Inc. for inviting Big Brothers Big Sisters - and supporters like you - to take part in their Give and Get campaign!

* ***** http://www.gapinc.com/giveandget/bigbrothersbigsisters/?tr=y&auid=6087973

Have a great weekend,

Jessica Friedman
Placement Counselor
TLC for Kids, Inc.
314-725-5660 ph
314-725-7689 fax
jessica@tlcforkids.com
www.tlcforkids.com
www.tlcforkids.blogspot.com

New Q & A Blog for Nannies from TLC for Kids!

2010-03-01T15:16:00.000-08:00

TLC's Personnel Director, Kimberly is constantly asked awesome questions by our temporary nannies and has now created a blog to promote discussion about pertinent issues and questions that arise while watching children. Such questions dealing with discipline and behavior or arts and crafts projects may be coming directly from TLC nannies in St. Louis, but are universal for nannies and sitters everywhere.

Please check out her blog and post a question or help answer one!

www.kimberlytlcforkids.blogspot.com

Have a great week! Jessica

'INA Nanny Salary and Benefits Survey'

2010-02-22T09:10:00.000-08:00

'INA Nanny Salary and Benefits Survey'

St. Louis nannies - it's that time again! Click the link above and please take the survey from the INA regarding your salary and benefits, and look at last year's results to see how you compare to the rest of the country.

Valentine's Day celebration and tips for nannies!

2010-02-10T13:37:00.000-08:00

Holidays are a great excuse to have fun with kids! Nannies definitely know this and even though Valentine's Day falls on a Sunday this year, Stephanie Felzenberg knows that celebrating with her charges is super fun and important. Nannies in St. Louis and even temporary nannies from TLC for Kids will be taking advantage of this wonderful holiday by baking or making Valentine's cards for busy parents. Below is just an example of what Stephanie will be doing with her charges - there are some great tips and ideas!

I'd love to hear from TLC nannies after the holiday to find out what fun activities, meals or crafts you did to celebrate Valentine's day! Post a comment!

Celebrating Valentine's Day with Your Charges
By Stephanie Felzenberg Nanny and Editor Be the Best Nanny Newsletter
www.bestnannynewsletter.com
Like many nannies I work Monday through Friday and won't see my charges on Valentine's Day, which is on a Sunday this year. So, I am celebrating the holiday with my charges today! I am not even spending my own money on gifts. Instead, I am just going to make some fun meals and yummy treats with the children. Here is what I have planned to celebrate Valentine's Day with the kids.

Breakfast:
I will start my Valentine’s Day celebration at breakfast. It’s easy to make pancakes, then use heart shaped cookie cutters to cut out a Valentine shaped breakfast. I plan to top the pancakes with strawberries. I actually prefer using a thawed bag of frozen strawberries with the juice than fresh strawberries if available. If the parents allow you to, cover the strawberries with plenty of whipped cream.

Lunch:
For lunch I am using the same heart shaped cookie cutters to make Valentine shaped sandwiches. First, use a rolling pin on the bread to make it easier to cut. Spread peanut butter and red jelly or jam on the bread. I don't recommend cold cuts as they are difficult to cut with a cookie cutter. Use cookie cutters to make the sandwiches fun heart shapes.

Dinner:
For dinner, I plan to let the children make their own heart shaped pizzas. First I form the dough into hearts. I fill little bowls with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and other toppings the children like. I let them add their toppings to the dough and cook it then serve with a salad.

Treats:
If the children love baking you can make a sugar cookie recipe from scratch or it is fine to use pre-packaged cookie dough when making Valentine’s cookies with children. Roll the dough out on a non-stick surface. Add a touch of flour to the rolling pin before you try to roll the dough or it will stick. I let the children place the cookie cutters on the dough to cut out Valentine’s shapes. After the cookies cool, allow the children to decorate with white and pink frosting and sprinkles.

Cupcakes are easy to make with a box cake mix instead of making the recipe from scratch. Red velvet cake is great for Valentine’s cupcakes, but any flavor will work. Mini muffin pans create bite size cupcakes for the family to enjoy after dinner. Decorate those cupcakes with creamy icing. White icing can be turned into pink with a bit of red food coloring. Allow the children to stir the white icing and food coloring so they can see the frosting change colors. Use candy sprinkles and cinnamon red hot candies to decorate the cupcakes.

Drinks:
For Valentine’s Day, serve the children red juice. You can find 100% fruit punch juice in any grocery store.

Attention St. Louis Nannies - Tips for Wintery Weather from Parents as Teachers!

2010-01-27T13:25:00.000-08:00

Hi St. Louis Nannies! As you know our winter weather can range from cold to freezing! Here are some tips from Parents as Teachers that will help you keep your charges safe and warm this season.

As you know, providing age appropriate activities with the children in your care is an important part of your responsibilities as a caregiver. While indoor play can continue as usual, outdoor play can certainly be affected by the cold temperatures, but don't let that put a halt to all outdoor fun with the children in your care!

By taking a few precautions and bundling up right, your child can still enjoy the great outdoors safely this winter, says the National Center for Parents as Teachers.

TIPS FOR PLAYING IT SAFE IN THE COLD:

* Dress your child in layers, rather than one heavy garment.

* Your child should wear a hat and mittens; add boots if it's wet or snowy.

* Add one more layer on your child than on you.

* Make sure the outer layer is water-resistant.

* Your child should drink water before and after play to stay hydrated.

* Change clothes when they become wet.

* Don't play outside if temperature is 10° F or colder.

* Keep young babies inside in very cold weather.

For more parenting tips like these, visit www.ParentsAsTeachers.org.

Stay Warm!

St. Louis get behind the Dependent Care Tax Credit proposed increase!

2010-01-25T10:40:00.001-08:00

For more than a year the International Nanny Association (INA) has been lobbying Congress to increase the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC).

Today I'm pleased to report that President Obama plans to endorse this proposal in his State of the Union address this week! Here's a link to the story on CNN:http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2010/01/25/obama-to-propose-almost-doubling-child-care-tax-credit/#more-86862. While Obama's proposal isn't as comprehensive as INA's proposal, it's definitely a step in the right direction.

If you haven't already done so, I urge you to contact your member of Congress and Senators to support increasing the CDCTC. There is information and a sample letter on INA's webpage here:http://www.nanny.org/GOV.php. There are 3 bills in Congress -- let's get behind them!

Take care,
Sharon Graff-Radell
President TLC For Kids
Vice President International Nanny Association

Financial Planning Advice for Nannies from the BestNanny Newsletter!

2010-01-14T13:23:00.001-08:00

A New Year, A New Financial Beginning for Nannies
What Nannies Should do with Their Holiday Bonus
from: http://bestnannynewsletter.blogspot.com/
The start of a new year is a great time to take control of your financial life.

During the holidays we discussed what parents should pay nannies for holiday bonuses and The Wall Street Journal quoted us on the topic as well. We also talked about how nannies can give holiday gifts on a budget.

If you followed our advice you did not rely on your holiday bonus to purchase gifts. If you worked hard and the parents rewarded your good work with a holiday bonus, don’t spend the extra income frivolously. Use the extra money to pay-off debt, build an emergency fund, make some investments, or even give to charity.

Pay-Off Debt:
First, if you have outstanding credit card debt use the money to pay-off as much debt as possible. Determine which card has the highest interest rate. That is the debt you want to satisfy first. We will discuss how to do reduce debt in more detail next Tuesday.

Build an Emergency Fund:
Once you have paid-off your credit card debt then look for the best possible savings account. Financial planners have been warning Americans to build a three-to eight-months worth of emergency cash in case they get laid-off. If something unexpected and expensive were to happen, that's the cushion that will soften your blow. The savings is for emergencies (like if you are unemployed or sick) only. Visit this blog again on Wednesday when we will discuss building an emergency fund.

Make Retirement Investments:
If you have no outstanding debt and already have a savings account for an emergency fund then you should consider making some investments. An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is a personal retirement savings plan available to anyone who receives taxable salary during the year. Visit us again on Thursday we will discuss retirement investments more thoroughly.

Give to Charity: If you're already debt-free, have fully funded your investment accounts, and have your emergency funds are in order, you've got it made. There are plenty of deserving, but under-funded, charitable causes that could use some support. Stop by next Friday to learn how to get tax write-offs when donating to charities.

To learn how to manage your money in more detail stop by again next week when we will discuss gaining control of your finances in more detail.

Did you get what you expected for your holiday bonus? What did you do with your holiday bonus?

Guest Contributor to Blog! St. Louis nannies welcome Dr. Lynne Kenney, The Family Coach!

2009-12-14T04:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday Nannies!

I recently came into contact with Dr. Lynne Kenney, who is "The Family Coach" and frequent contributor to the International Nanny Association! Dr. Kenney is a mom and parenting coach and delivers her content online, via telecast and on television.

After hearing about her website I asked her if she would contribute to TLC for Kids' blog and answer a few nanny questions each month about St. Louis' kids! She will field questions about development, potty training, school age issues, biting...any issue dealing with children.

Do you have a question you would like answered? Shoot me a quick email asking a kid-related question that you would like Dr. Kenney to take a stab at! I will send really great questions to "The Family Coach" and post the answers in an upcoming blog.

More information on Dr. Kenney can be found on her website: http://www.lynnekenney.com/

You can also follow her on twitter: http://www.twittermoms.com/profile/LynneKenney

Email questions to TLC for Kids, Inc's: jessica@tlcforkids.com

Nannies in St. Louis - what do you think?

2009-12-10T13:46:00.000-08:00

I read an interesting article posted on TLC for Kids facebook page - and want to know what St. Louis families and nannies think. Please read the following and post a comment.

If you're not a nanny reading this blog I'd guess you know a nanny, are a family employing a nanny - or you're my brother, and first follower!
But seriously, if you are reading this you must be connected to a nanny.

I'm curious what that means...or what you think it should mean. Is there a certificate? A class to take? Is experience required? Do you wear a uniform? Are these things important or not necessary?

TLC for Kids in St. Louis promotes the professionalism of nannies and it is our goal to help them find fair positions and competitive salaries in St. Louis.
For families in St. Louis, we recruit, screen and represent the most qualified caregivers to care for their children. We strive to help both the nanny and family have a professional, balanced working relationship.

The article on NYTIMES.com has many points, but what caught my attention were new ways in which a nanny could distinguish herself by paying anywhere from $80-$6900 for classes and programs on becoming a nanny. However, as the article points out and many of you know the complexities of a working nanny/family relationship requires experience, hard work and communication.

I'd love to hear what you think! Should their be standards (much like a teaching certificate) to become a nanny? Would you like to see classes or certification programs offered in the St. Louis area? Or would it be a waste of your time and money?

Check out the NY Times article and post a comment.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/13/nyregion/13bigcity.html?_r=2#

St. Louis Nannies join the International Nanny Association for a REDUCED RATE!

2009-12-01T14:58:00.000-08:00

The International Nanny Association has reduced their rates for individual membership!

St. Louis nannies and sitters - be part of a national organization that recognizes the nanny industry! TLC nannies - build up your skills and professional associations by becoming a member!

TLC for Kids, in St. Louis are members of the INA and encourage you to do the same! Agency owner and St. Louis native Sharon Graff-Radel is also on the board of directors!

The International Nanny Association's Board of Directors held its annual fall meeting November 5th and 6th in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

To kick off INA's 25th Anniversary celebration, the Board of Directors is pleased to announce:

All new and renewing Individual Membership dues have been reduced from $95 to $35 effective immediately. New Individual Members who joined INA after November 1, 2009 and Individual Members who have already paid their renewal fee for 2010 will have the option of:

*donating their balance of $50 ($85 early bird rate - $35 2010 renewal rate) to the 2010 INA Nanny of the Year™ fund or the 25th Annual INA Conference fund

*receiving a credit with INA to be applied to future transactions, or

*receiving a $50 refund check.

With this reduction of fees, Individual Members will no longer be eligible for an early bird discount and Individual Membership dues will no longer be prorated.

Visit www.nanny.org for more details! TLC and St. Louis caregivers / nannies feel free to call Jessica @ TLC for more info!

Just in time for St. Louis weather - tips for Car Seat Safety for busy Nannies!

2009-11-24T14:07:00.000-08:00

As the holiday season begins to descend up on us, St. Louis nannies know the weather in our area is unpredictable at best! be sure to drive around St. Louis safely and of course make sure little ones are in their car seats correctly! This article was sent to me from a TLC nanny who drives about 30 miles a day!

I found this on CNN.com's website!

Filed under: Children's Health
(MayoClinic.com) Car seat safety is crucial for protecting your child during travel, but knowing how to safely install a car seat and buckle up your child as he or she grows can be difficult. Check out 10 common mistakes parents often make when it comes to car seat safety — and how to avoid them.

Don't Miss
Children's Health
1. Getting a used car seat without researching its history
If you're considering a used car seat for your child, make sure the car seat:

Comes with instructions and a label showing the manufacture date and model number
Hasn't been recalled
Isn't more than six years old
Has no visible cracks or missing parts
Has never been in a moderate or severe crash
If you don't know the car seat's history, don't use it.

2. Placing the car seat in the wrong spot
The safest place for your child's car seat is the back seat, away from active air bags. If the air bag inflates, it could hit the back of a rear-facing car seat — right where your child's head is — and cause a serious or fatal injury. Vehicles with no back seat aren't a good choice for traveling with children.

While side air bags improve safety for adults in side-impact crashes, placing a car seat next to a door with a side air bag may not be appropriate. Read your car seat manual for guidance on placing a car seat next to a side air bag. If you're only placing one car seat in the back seat, place it in the center of the seat rather than next to a door.

3. Using the car seat as a replacement crib
A car seat is designed to protect your child during travel. It's not for use as a replacement crib in your home. A 2009 study showed that sitting upright in a car seat may compress a newborn's chest and lead to lower levels of oxygen. Although it's essential to buckle your child into a car seat during travel, don't let your child sleep or relax in the car seat for long periods of time out of the car. Airway obstruction — even when it's mild — can impair a child's development.

4. Incorrectly buckling up your child
It can be hard at first to properly buckle a child in a car seat. Before you install the seat, read the manufacturer's instructions and the section on safety seats in the vehicle's owner's manual. Make sure the seat is tightly secured — allowing no more than one inch of movement from side to side or front to back — and facing the correct direction. Give yourself extra time before every trip to secure your child in the seat correctly.

If you're using an infant-only seat or a convertible seat in the rear-facing position — a common choice for newborns — keep these tips in mind:

Use the harness slots described in the car seat's instruction manual, usually those at or below the infant's shoulders.
Thread the straps through the shell and pad.
Place the harness or chest clip even with your child's armpits — not the abdomen or neck. Make sure the straps and harness lie flat against your baby's chest and over his or her hips with no slack.
Position the car seat's carrying handle according to the manufacturer's instructions. Don't hang anything from the handle.

5. Improperly trying to keep your child upright
Recline the car seat according to the manufacturer's instructions so that your newborn's head doesn't flop forward. Many seats include angle indicators or adjusters. You can also place a tightly rolled towel or newspaper under the seat's front edge to achieve the right angle.

If your baby slouches down or to the side of the car seat, place padding around — never under or behind — him or her. Don't use any additional products unless they came with the car seat or from the manufacturer.

6. Moving to a forward-facing car seat too soon
Resist the urge to place your child's car seat in the forward-facing position just so you can see his or her smile in your rearview mirror. Riding rear-facing is recommended until a child reaches 30 to 40 pounds (14 to18 kilograms) and varying heights. You can start with a convertible seat or switch from an infant-only seat to the convertible variety as your baby grows.

When your child reaches the rear-facing weight or height limit of the convertible seat, you can face the seat forward. When you make the switch:

Install the car seat according to the manufacturer's instructions, using either the seat belt or Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system.
Use the tether strap — a strap that hooks to the top of the seat and attaches to an anchor in the vehicle — for extra stability.
Adjust the harness straps so that they're threaded at or above your child's shoulders. Make sure the harness fits snugly.
Remember, the back seat is still the safest place for your child's car seat.

7. Dressing your child in bulky outerwear
Harness straps may not provide enough protection over a baby's bulky outerwear. If it's cold, dress your baby in a lightweight jacket and hat. Buckle the harness snugly and then tuck a blanket around your baby for warmth. Save the bulky outerwear for outdoors.

8. Moving to a booster seat too soon
Older children need booster seats to help an adult safety belt fit correctly — but is your child ready for a booster seat? Here's how you'll know:

Your child has topped the weight or height limits of the current car seat — often from 40 to 80 pounds (18 to 36 kilograms) and varying heights.
Your child's shoulders are above the car seat's top harness slots.
Your child's ears have reached the top of the car seat.
9. Incorrectly using a booster seat
Booster seats must be used with a lap and shoulder belt — never a lap-only belt. Make sure the lap belt lies low and snug across your child's upper thighs and that the shoulder belt crosses the middle of your child's chest and shoulder.

Some booster seats come without backs. Backless booster seats also must be used with a lap and shoulder belt — never a lap-only belt.

If your vehicle has low seat backs or doesn't have a headrest to protect your child's head and neck in a crash, consider using a high-back booster that fits your child's height and weight.

10. Using the vehicle safety belt too soon
Most kids can safely use an adult seat belt sometime between ages 8 and 12. Here's how you'll know that your child is ready:

Your child reaches a height of 4 feet 9 inches (nearly 1.5 meters).
Your child sits against the back of the seat with his or her knees bent comfortably at the edge of the seat. The lap belt rests flat across your child's upper thighs, and the shoulder belt rests on your child's shoulder — not on the neck or throat.
Make sure your child doesn't tuck the shoulder belt under his or her arm or behind his or her back. Don't allow children to share seat belts or use products that claim to make a seat belt fit better.

There's a lot you need to know to keep your child safe on the road — but don't panic. Consult your child's doctor for information on how to select and properly use a car seat. If you have questions or need help installing a car seat, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration can help you find a car seat inspection station. Be sure to follow the child passenger safety laws in your state.

©1998-2009 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Terms of use.

TLC Nannies know the Importance of Indoor Play!

2009-11-11T07:30:00.000-08:00

Wintertime in St. Louis means long days indoors for kids and nannies! I have received some great tips from nannies who are already preparing to keep their charges busy when the weather in St. Louis changes from fall to winter.

TLC for Kids has compiled some great websites for all nannies to use and create fun and educational days. Feel free to comment and post more - these are just a few that our great nannies came up with!

http://www.earlychildhood.com/
http://www.kinderart.com/
http://www.childfun.com/
http://crafts.kaboose.com/index.html
http://www.kinderstart.com/
http://www.preschoolrainbow.org/
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/Home.html
http://www.everythingpreschool.com/
http://www.atozteacherstuff.com/
http://www.easyfunschool.com/IndexArt.html
http://www.dltk-teach.com/
http://tlsbooks.com/kpacrafts.htm
http://www.edupics.com/
http://www.abcteach.com/

Have a great week! Jessica

TLC for Kids and St. Louis Nannies against 'XBOX Dante's' Inferno

2009-10-27T12:26:00.000-07:00

St Louis Nannies, TLC for Kids against 'Xbox Dante's' Inferno!

The recent announcement of the release date for the much anticiapted Xbox game Dantes Inferno has caused some controversy among the in home childcare industry. Nannies and babysitters across the country are shocked by the representaion of nannies in the video game.

St. Louis nanny agencies TLC for Kids, and on-line nanny agency, Find The Best Nanny, find Xbox Dantes Inferno distasteful and potentially dangerous to children.

"We represent 1000's of nannies who are up-in arms about the 'Bad Nanny Award' achieved by slaughtering unbaptized children," said TLC for Kids, agency owner Sharon Graff-Radell and Vice President of the International Nanny Association (INA).

"The INA feels this video game component of Dante's Inferno was created out of poor taste and bad judgment. INA is opposed to video games that promote and encourage players to 'kill' babies, even in fantasy play. It is our opinion that this type of play may promote violence towards children. The name of the trophy or achievement, Bad Nanny, is offensive to our association in that we strive to promote and educate the public regarding the selfless work nannies do to support families by providing quality in-home child care. We have urged our membership to take action concerning this issue through the appropriate channels, as well."

To take action on this issue you can contact TLC For Kids or Find The Best Nanny at their websites, tlcforkids.com and FindTheBestNanny.com.

Staying Healthy During Flu Season!

2009-10-23T12:49:00.000-07:00

Attention St. Louis Nannies and Sitters!

TLC for Kids wants you to stay healthy this cold and flu season!

As you know, the cold and flu season is upon us and likely to be more extreme this year than in years past. As child care providers who sometimes care for mildly ill children, it is important that you take extra measures to stay healthy yourself! In order to stay healthy it is important to maintain a healthy life style, wash hands frequently and consider getting a flu shot! Flu shots are available at your doctor's office, clinics, and most area Walgreen's. Please review the following information TLC for Kids in St. Louis sent our to all of our nannies about staying healthy this season!

- Jessica

TLC Nannies -- Tips for Staying Healthy Healthy During Cold & Flu Season

You can protect yourself and others by following these key action steps.

1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle through rest, diet, exercise, and relaxation.

2. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner only if soap and water are not available. Be sure to wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.

3. Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes. Germs spread this way.

4. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or cough and sneeze into your elbow. Dispose of tissues in no-touch trash receptacles.

5. Keep frequently touched common surfaces clean, such as telephones, computer keyboards, doorknobs, etc.

6. Get vaccinated against seasonal flu when vaccine is available in your area.

TLC has been receiving quite a few jobs from St. Louis parents looking for nannies to care for their sick children, here are a few tips!

When providing care to a child who is sick, the most important ways to protect yourself and others who are not sick are to:

1. Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer after you touch the sick person or handle used tissues, or laundry.

2. Remind the sick child to cover their coughs or cough into their sleeve and clean their hands after coughing and/or sneezing.

3. Have the child clean their hands often, using soap and water or hand sanitizer. Children may need reminders or help keeping their hands clean.

4. Wipe down toys, counter tops and other items the child touches.

5. Avoid being face-to-face with the sick child.

6. When holding small children who are sick, place their chin on your shoulder so that they will not cough in your face.

7. Keep the sick child away from other people as much as possible.

How do I know if I have the flu?

You may have the flu if you have some or all of these symptoms:

*fever, cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, sometimes diarrhea and vomiting

* Not everyone with flu will have a fever.

What should I do if I get sick?

Don't panic! You may have a simple cold. If you get sick with flu-like symptoms this flu season, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care. Most people with 2009 H1N1 have had mild illness and have not needed medical care or antiviral drugs and the same is true of seasonal flu. CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine, such as Tylenol®.) You should stay home from work, school, travel, shopping, social events, and public gatherings.

What is the incubation period of the H1N1 flu? How long will it take to get the flu after being exposed?

The estimated incubation period is unknown and could range from 1 to 7 days, and more likely 1 to 4 days.

Persons with novel H1N1 flu virus infection should be considered potentially contagious (able to spread disease) for up to 7 days after illness onset. Persons who continue to be ill longer than 7 days should be considered potentially contagious until symptoms have resolved. Children, especially younger children, might be contagious for longer periods.

For more information please visit www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu.htm

Why I decided to be a nanny. Sent by verteran TLC nanny LB, St. Louis, MO

2009-10-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

I recently asked TLC nannies "Why did you decide to nanny?" and this response really stood out! Way to go LB!

In 1990, I joined the Navy. Since then, I have shucked oysters, arranged flowers, sold tanning oil, modeled, taught dog obedience, washed dishes, and read to the blind. I am only getting started here. I've lived on both coasts and come "this close" to getting a Masters degree.
People often ask me why I choose to nanny considering I've marshalled planes for take-offs and landings, taught horseback riding, and sold lingerie. It's because helping raise a family is always surprising. I look forward to going into work every day because it's different every time. My girls amaze me each day with new words they've learned and skills aquired. I've seen the youngest off formula and onto solids.
What could possibly be more rewarding than being welcomed into a family (J and M's) and becoming an integral part of raising three children? Every day is a new experience for me and my little charges. Little Gym? Check. Kindermusik? Check. Playdates? I'm responsible for that and more. G loves hot dogs and dinosaurs. K wants to choose her outfit and search the yard for new bugs to show her science teacher. I'm the one who taught C to go down stairs safely on his belly. Imagine- when I signed my contract he couldn't even walk!
There is no doubt in my mind that I've made the right decision with what to do with my life. You want to sit at a desk and punch a clock? I get hugs and kisses on arrival plus a sweet chocolate lab to cuddle!
I've worked dozens of jobs and I'm here to tell you there is nothing more fulfilling than walking into work and having tiny arms thrown around your neck and sweet voices telling you they've missed you. Even if it was only twelve hours since you last saw the little sweeties!

National Nanny Appreciation Week, Sept. 21, 2009

2009-09-21T13:44:00.001-07:00

Way to go Nannies!

Monday marks the start of National Nanny Recognition Week (NNRW). It is a week during which families are encouraged to focus on the positive aspects of the nanny profession –the important role nannies play in the lives of families and the wonderful contribution they make in the loves of the children they care for. NNRW begins Sept 21st, with nannies, families, agencies, educators, and nanny support groups participating in the celebrations across the United States. For more information on NNRW, please see the Association for Professional Nannies @ www.nannyassociation.com

Please take a look at the Nanny Association's website (above) membership is FREE right now - and it is a great professional organization/ resource for you to get involved in.

Don't forget about the International Nanny Assocation either: www.nanny.org membership is reduced to $35 for nannies in recognition of NNRW!

Let me know if you have any questions or would like more info on any of the different organizations for professional nannies.

TLC for Kids announces the acquisition of Childcare Solutions!

2009-07-06T16:39:00.000-07:00

TLC For Kids Inc., St. Louis' premier nanny and childcare agency announces merger with ChildCare Solutions Nanny and Babysitting Service.

St. Louis.--In a move that will strengthen efforts to provide quality in-home and on-site childcare services available to St. Louis families, TLC For Kids announced today that ChildCare Solutions would become part of the TLC For Kids network of care providers. The merger comes following many years of cooperative association with each other.

Since 1985 TLC has worked with thousands of St. Louis nannies, families, and businesses to provide quality in-home and on-site child care. TLC was one of the first nanny and child care agencies in the United States and today serves as a national model and consultant to agencies throughout North America.

"We are very excited to have ChildCare Solutions as a member of the TLC For Kids family," says co-owner Sharon Graff Radell who is also the Vice President of the International Nanny Association. We bring together a combined 37 years of experience and now have a larger staff of nannies, back up child care providers and professionally screened sitters to assist parents in the St. Louis Metropolitan area including the Metro East.

TLC for Kids offers full and part-time, and after-school nannies as well as temporary day and evening care. TLC also provides newborn care services, including overnights, house and pet sitters, tutors, and other in-home services.

TLC is owned by St. Louis natives and sisters Sharon and Stephanie Graff.

What are the kids going to do this summer? TLC summer nannies to the rescue!!

2009-03-27T08:51:00.000-07:00

St. Louis families are once again faced with the dilemma of what to do with their young children over the summer break. Many working parents are learning that a summer nanny is like having your very own camp counselor, tutor, driver, and household helper all wrapped up in one. The cost is surprisingly affordable, especially when faced with paying multiple camp fees and extended care fees.

Fortunately, TLC for Kids, Inc. has the perfect solution! Families can hire an experienced, screened, and professional nanny to ensure that your children have a fun, exciting, and stress free summer.

Summer nannies will schedule fun parent approved outings for the kids like going to amusement parks, swimming, museums, bowling, play groups, the zoo, and more. TLC nannies will also do tutoring over the summer so that the kids are on track for the upcoming school year.

Summer nannies will drive children to classes, practices, and other activities, and even run family errands like grocery shopping! Some families opt to share a nanny with a friend or neighbor to make the cost even lower. All this, coupled with the peace of mind of knowing that the kids will have a safe and memorable summer, make hiring a TLC summer nanny the perfect option!

TLC for Kids also offers full and part-time, and after-school nannies as well as temporary day and evening care. TLC is St. Louis’ premier nanny agency, and has been finding families temporary and permanent nannies for over 24 years. For more information, please contact Kimberly at 314.725.5660.

What is a nanny anyway? In-home care defined.

2009-03-10T10:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to TLC's blog for nannies, nanny employers and anyone interested in in-home childcare! For the first post, I would like to define in-home care and dispel myths that may be associated with what nannies do! The following definitions are published by the International Nanny Association - which is a professional organization representing nannies, families and agencies involved in in-home childcare. TLC's founder Sharon Graff is also the First Vice-President of the International Nanny Association. TLC for Kids has been St. Louis' premier childcare agency since 1985 and have placed thousands of nannies over the years!

INA uses the following definitions to describe various in-home child care positions:

Baby Sitter. An individual who provides supervisory or custodial care of children on an irregular, full-time or part-time basis. Special training should not be expected.

Au Pair (Foreign). A foreign national who resides in the United States for up to one year lives as part of the host family, and receives a small stipend in exchange for baby-sitting and helping with housework. She may or may not have previous child care experience.

Parent/Mother’s Helper. An individual who lives in or out of the home and works for a family to provide full-time or part-time child care and domestic help for families in which one parent is home most of the time. The individual may be left in charge of the children for brief periods, and may or may not have previous child care experience.

Nanny. An individual who is employed by the family, on either a live-in or live-out basis, to undertake all tasks related to the care of the family’s children. Duties are generally restricted to child care and the domestic tasks related to child care. A nanny may or may not have had formal training, though often has a good deal of actual experience. Nanny’s work-week usually ranges from 40 to 60 hours per week. Nannies usually work unsupervised.

Nursery Nurse. The title is used in Great Britain for a person who has received special training and preparation in caring for young children. When employed by the family, she or he may live in or out of the home. A nursery nurse works independently and is responsible for everything related to the care of the children. Duties are generally restricted to child care and the domestic tasks related to child care. The work-week is usually 50 to 60 hours per week. In addition to specialized training, the nursery nurse will also have successfully passed the national British certification examination of the Council for Awards in
Children’s Care and Education (CACHE), which is formerly referred to as a Norland Nanny. In the United States, the term “nurse” is reserved strictly for the medical profession (see below).

Newborn Care Specialist. In the United States, nannies are prohibited from using the title “nursery nurse.” The term “nurse” is reserved strictly for the medical profession. In 2007, INA adopted the title of “newborn care specialist” to describe a nanny who is trained in caring for newborn babies.

Governess. Traditionally, a governess is an educated person with a degree who is employed by a family for the full-time or part-time at-home education of school-age children. A governess functions as a teacher and is not usually involved with domestic work or the physical care of younger children. Work hours may vary.