Breaks from school often mean that working parents are in a quandary for child care. Many turn to family and friends, especially to those households with a stay-at-home parent. Even if the generous caregivers offer to watch your youngster for free, parents should consider these things before unloading a child on someone else, even family, for a day (or more) during these breaks. After all, food bills, entertainment expenses, pool chemicals, and snacks add up!
Pack Your Child's Lunch
If your child is going to someone else's house for a full day, and it is due to your work schedule or a school break, parents can help lessen expense and create more positive goodwill by packing their child's lunch. It's even better to notify the caregiver in advance that you'll be doing so, and offer to pack the lunch of other kids as well. Grandparents might be especially appreciative, as they may not have foods in stock that are "kid preferred."
Send Snacks and Drinks
Kids are eating machines, and will devour lots of food in a relatively short time. Help out by bringing snacks over that are fresh and preferably, individually packaged. Don't send over things you wouldn't want your kids eating at your home because of mess. Choose a healthy selection combined with a treat you know the kids will love. Also include some kid-friendly drinks; active youngsters go through a lot of drinks throughout the day.
Send A Child Pool-Ready if Swimming
Backyard pools can result in hours of fun for kids. But parents dropping a child off to swim should be sure that a child already has sunscreen on and extra packed (that stuff is expensive!), has his own goggles, beach towel, a practical swimsuit, complete change of clothes, hat, water shoes (if appropriate) and a life jacket. Show extra thought by including a pool game or toy that can be shared for extra fun. The caregiver also needs to know the child's swimming ability.
Include a Craft, Movie, Board Game, or Toys to Share
A full day is really a long time to watch a child, and guests sometimes change the "balance." Help pass the time by including a simple craft, renting a movie, packing a board game, or sending along some toys to share (like dolls or small cars, for example).
Express Appreciation Afterward
If your friend or relative is watching your child so you can work, then you should realize the caregiver has saved you money and provided you a peace of mind that your kid will be safe and have fun. That means you should show your appreciation with a handwritten note, a small gift certificate, an offer to pick up dinner on the way home, or other token. With appreciation and consideration, these caregivers may be willing to lend a helping hand again in the future!
