Children are the most valuable assets of their families. The happiness and safety of their children are very valuable to families. In some cases, families may need a live-in babysitter.
Basics of Child Care: What to Consider?
Nutrition
Children need a balanced and nutritious diet for healthy growth and development. Following the nutritional recommendations appropriate for each age group will ensure that your child receives all the vitamins, minerals and energy he/she needs.
Breast milk is the best food for babies for the first 6 months. After 6 months, supplementary foods should be given, but breast milk should continue until at least 1 year of age.
A nutrition plan that includes sufficient amounts of fruits, vegetables, grains and protein sources is recommended for children. Unhealthy options such as sugary drinks, processed foods and fast food should be avoided.
It is important for families to set an example in helping children acquire healthy eating habits. Chatting with children about healthy eating and teaching them how to cook healthy meals will also be effective in the formation of these habits.
Hygiene
Hygiene plays an important role in keeping children healthy. Children should be given the habit of washing their hands frequently, especially before eating, after using the toilet and when they come home from outside.
Babies' diapers should be changed regularly, and hands should be washed thoroughly after diapering. Children's toys should be cleaned regularly, and this is even more important for toys they put in their mouths.
It is also necessary to pay attention to the cleanliness of the surfaces children touch. Regular cleaning of tables, chairs, toys and other items helps prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses.
When children are sick or show flu symptoms, they should stay home and avoid contact with others as much as possible. People who come into contact with a sick child should wash their hands frequently and avoid using the same items as the child.
Safety
Ensuring children's safety comes first. Dangerous items such as hazardous substances, medicines, cutting tools and electrical cables should be placed in places where children cannot reach at home.
It is also necessary to pay attention to safety in areas where children play. Balconies and windows should have safety measures, and objects in high places should not pose a risk of falling.
Precautions should also be taken for the safety of children in traffic. Before children set off, parents should be careful when crossing the road and ensure that they obey road signs.
It is also important to keep children away from dangers such as water, fire and electricity. If you are in a place near water, you should never leave children unattended. If there is a stove or stove with fire, you should prevent children from approaching it. When using electrical devices, they should be kept out of reach of children.
Sleeping Routine
Sleeping enough is essential for children's healthy growth and development. There are appropriate sleep times for each age group, and it is important for children to complete these times.
14-17 hours of sleep per day is recommended for babies. It may be useful to create a sleep routine for babies at certain hours.
For children, the duration of sleep varies according to their age. It is recommended that preschool children sleep 10-13 hours per day, and school-age children sleep 9-11 hours.
To help children establish a regular sleep schedule, it may be beneficial to do calming activities before going to bed (e.g. taking a bath, reading a story). It is also important for the sleep environment to be quiet, dark and cool.
Games and Activities
Games and activities play an important role in children's physical, social, emotional and cognitive development. It is necessary to choose games and activities where children can use their creativity, develop problem-solving skills and socialize.
Outdoor games allow children to do physical activity and get fresh air. Activities such as playing in the park, riding a bike, and playing ball help children develop their motor skills and release their energy.
Educational games support children's cognitive development. Doing puzzles, playing with blocks, reading books, painting, and listening to music help children develop their creativity, problem-solving skills and language.
When choosing games and activities for children, it is important to choose games that are appropriate for their age, interests and skills. Providing an environment where children can express themselves, learn and have fun is very important for their development.
Emotional Needs
Meeting children's emotional needs is essential for healthy development. Children need to feel loved, valued, and in a safe environment.