STLMoms Parents As Teachers Tip: Family, Friend Or Neighbor Care

While it's true you're the first and most important teacher your child will have in his or her life, other people, such as family, friends and neighbors, are vital in your child's development, too. Many parents choose family, friends and neighbors to care for their baby or toddler because these people usually have a familiarity or relationship with the child. Unfortunately, many studies show that care from family, friends and neighbors has the lowest quality overall.

Why?

It's usually because these providers may not understand the importance of:


* providing a safe, child-proof environment

* limiting a child's exposure to television

* reading and frequent interaction with the children in their care

* child development

IMPROVING CARE FOR YOUR CHILD

Family, friends and neighbor care has potential to offer many advantages including flexibility, lower cost, and familiarity. But if your child receives this type of care, it's important to help the care providers offer higher quality care for your child. Your first step is to make sure your friend, family member or neighbor really wants to care for your child. If so, then encourage your care provider to:

* Learn more about child development stages -- even if they've raised children before.

* Child-proof the home.

* Pay attention to and understand your child's cues for what he or she needs.

* Follow the routines and care you specify for your child and respect your wishes as the parent

* Allow minimal, if any, television viewing. If the television is on in someone's house, make sure the shows are appropriate for children to hear or see.

* Provide activities that stimulate young minds during this critical period of brain development such as reading, playing games and including physical activity.

* Communicate with you openly about your child.

BE CONFIDENT AS YOUR CHILD'S PARENT

Having a relative or friend care for your child can be an ideal arrangement. However, you may be hesitant to bring up problems or give instructions because you don't want to cause waves in your relationship. Start with the foundation that everyone has the best interests of your child at heart. Showing mutual respect and keeping lines of communication open will maintain a good relationship with your child's care provider and benefit your child in the long run.