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
Showing posts with label TLC for Kids. Show all posts
Showing posts with label TLC for Kids. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
FANTASTIC ARTICLE!=
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
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
Monday, March 1, 2010
New Q & A Blog for Nannies from TLC for Kids!
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
Please check out her blog and post a question or help answer one!
www.kimberlytlcforkids.blogspot.com
Have a great week! Jessica
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Valentine's Day celebration and tips for nannies!
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.
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.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Guest Contributor to Blog! St. Louis nannies welcome Dr. Lynne Kenney, The Family Coach!
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
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
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Nannies in St. Louis - what do you think?
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#
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#
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
St. Louis Nannies join the International Nanny Association for a REDUCED RATE!
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!
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!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Just in time for St. Louis weather - tips for Car Seat Safety for busy Nannies!
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.
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.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
TLC Nannies know the Importance of Indoor Play!
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 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
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
TLC for Kids and St. Louis Nannies against 'XBOX Dante's' Inferno
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.
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.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Why I decided to be a nanny. Sent by verteran TLC nanny LB, St. Louis, MO
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!
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!
Monday, September 21, 2009
National Nanny Appreciation Week, Sept. 21, 2009
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.
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.
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