ML Interest Tag: care-givers

Safe Summer Fun: 6 Water Safety Tips to Live By

By Elizabeth Malson

Photo: Family Swimming via Amslee Institute

As summer approaches, we all look forward to spending time at the pool, river, or beach. Fun in the sun and water sports are a great was for families to spend time together but it’s important to be water safe. It’s easy to focus on snacks, sunscreen and water toys, but drowning is the second most frequent cause of death for children up to age 14. It’s important to role model water safety behaviors as well as teach older children how to protect themselves and keep help watch younger children.

1. Dedicated Watcher.
When children are in or near the water, have a dedicated adult keep watch. It only takes a few minutes to silently drown so having someone watch at all times it vital. While others unpack the car, set up the chairs, grab snacks, or get the kayaks ready, make sure all children are either out of the water or directly supervised.

Direct supervision requires an effort to remove distractions. Cell phones should be put away, ear buds should be taken out or the speaker volume for music should be set to low. Conversations with others should allow for your focus to be on the children with your chair or standing position such that you can see the children at all times. It’s easy to get distracted with a quick call or searching for a snack in a beach or pool bag but these can be the precious seconds or minutes when your attention is needed to save a child who needs helps in the water. Remember that parents and caregivers are responsible for the safety of children in your care, even if there are lifeguards.

2. Wear Life Jackets.
It is important to Invest in proper-fitting, Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices or PFD’s which are also called life vests or life jackets. The most popular PFD is a puddle jumper. No matter which st‌yle you choose, check the PFD for the proper weight range, comfortable fit, and especially a stable face-up position in water.

You should test your PFD in a swimming pool with the infant or child. To check for a good fit, pick the child up by the shoulders of the PFD. If the PFD fits right, the child’s chin and ears will not slip through. Parents and care givers should remember that inflatable toys and rafts should not be used in place of life jackets. If children are not wearing a life jacket, watchers should be in the water with the children, no more than arm’s length away.

3. Listen to Lifeguards.
Whether at the beach, visiting a lake, or heading to our community pool, always swim in designated areas with lifeguards. Lifeguards are often employed on a 1:100 ratio based on the expectation that parents or care givers will provide direct supervision of their children. Children under 10 years old must be accompanied and constantly supervised by a parent or care giver over 16 years of age. It’s important for adults role model appropriate behavior by following all lifeguard instructions and ensuring their children are respectful of the rules.

4. Respect the Environment and Aquatic Life.
When planning a day of fun on the water, it’s important to check the weather conditions. Adverse weather includes a high heat index or thunderstorms as they may impact water activities. As a storm or thunderstorm approaches, pools and other activities should be stopped, and the water evacuated when there is a threat of a lightning strike

Whether at the river or beach, it’s important to assess the conditions and be respectful of all aquatic life. Different beaches and states have different colored flags and assigned meanings, so be sure to ask the lifeguard if you’re not sure what the flags signify. In general, red flags indicated the beach may be closed or there is a high hazard caused by surf or strong currents. Yellow flags indicate a moderate hazard and that waters may be rough, and care should be taken if you are not a strong swimmer. Green means low hazard with calm conditions but be aware that currents will naturally push you down the shore. A purple flag indicates there is potentially dangerous marine life such as jellyfish which have been spotted in the area.

Many enjoy visiting the beach but please leave all animals alone including sea stars, sand dollars, and animals in seashells. Teach children to look at the wildlife without interfering or touching. When handled by humans, even when handled gently, these delicate animals are often so severely injured, the interaction leads to their death.

5. Limit Alcohol.
Adults often enjoy the summertime and water sports with alcoholic beverages including beer, wine, and liquors. For everyone’s safety, avoid drinking alcohol before or during swimming, boating, water skiing, and other water sports. Do not drink alcohol while supervising children as alcohol reduces balance, coordination, and judgment, and its effects are heightened by sun exposure and heat.

6. Know and Teach Swimming Skills.
Teaching children to swim can be a fun activity for both the adults and the children. Children ages 2 to 4 years old are coordinated enough to being learning to swim. Kids under 4 years old and who do not know how to swim should wear life jacket, even in the pool. Kids over 4 years old should take swimming lessons. As children learn water skills, remember that they are not yet strong or independent swimmers and still require full supervision. Don’t assume that a child who knows how to swim isn’t at risk for drowning. All kids need to be supervised in the water, no matter what their swimming skills.

Water play is an important part of summer fun and these tips will help you safety enjoy the local pool or beach!

As a single mom, I needed help caring for my son. I searched for credentials that identified professional nannies, but struggled to find a licensed nanny training program. With 30 college faculty, I launched Amslee Institute and happily share our expertise and adventures working with children and childcare providers.

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No Burns, No Burn Out: 6 Indoor Playgrounds with Drop Off Childcare

by rtandreakagey

School may be out for summer but your work as master-of-all-things-fun has just begun. No need to panic! We know that sometimes you need a break; both to work and to relax. Go ahead and schedule that important meeting or much needed “me” time—we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of LA’s best indoor play places that offer drop-off sitter services for a little fun out of the sun for them, and a break for you.

photo: Shahrzad Warkentin

WeVillage: ‘Cuz it Takes a Village
Direct from Portland, this new Sherman Oaks child care center gets that parenting isn’t easy and that it takes —well, you know—to help your kids thrive. Catering to children from 6 weeks to 14  years old, WeVillage has what it takes to keep your mini-socialites and wallflowers alike entertained on an as-needed basis. Unlike other child care centers, WeVillage is flexible and works with your schedule. They’re open 6 days a week, with hours ranging from as early as 7:30 a.m. to as late as 11:30 p.m. on weekends, leaving you with no more missing-date-night excuses. Whether you just need a sitter for a morning, full day or unexpected week, they’ll be able to accommodate your needs and even keep your hungry villagers fed so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Reservations are required and can be made online. Prices vary based on age and can range anywhere from $14-$22/hour with discounts available for longer blocks. A monthly ($25/month) or annual ($175) membership fee is required, but you can try your first hourly visit before making a commitment.

13335 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks
818-233-8218
Online: wevillage.com/centers/los-angeles

photo: Pamper & Play

Pamper & Play: Sounds More Fun than “Work & Play”
Enjoy some oh-so-deserved R&R while your tykes run others ragged at this West LA work and play space. For $12-$15/hour you can sign your little buddy up for a group supervised play session while you take a break in the comfy parent lounge. No time for breaks? No problem. Use this tranquil adults only space to catch up on your email and enjoy the free WiFi and complimentary coffee while the experienced staff entertains your brood. Services are offered to tots as young as 8 months and up to 8 years old. If your kiddo needs a little extra TLC, consider the personal concierge playtime option that offers one-on-one supervision for $25/hour. Walk-Ins are welcomed during the week and on some weekends, but check their calendar to ensure you won’t be turned away due to a special event. Caregivers must remain on the premises while children play so make the most out of your designated time-out and recharge.

2279 Westwood Blvd.
Westwood
310-441-0797
Online: pamperplay.com

photo: Snooknuk via Facebook

Snooknuk: You Found Your Nook
Get creative with your childcare needs this summer and book your little performers a colorful play experience at Snooknuk Arts & Indoor Play Cafe. Whether a singer, a dancer or just a mess-maker, any kid can have a blast at this Larchmont local spot for creative cuties. Little Stars as young as 17 months can enjoy a variety of arts classes offered at this magical locale, but anyone from as young as crawlers to 10 years old is welcomed to enjoy the play area. Supervised play is available every weekday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for $15/hour per child (toddlers & up). Parents are allowed to leave the premises during the supervised play visit, but they ask that you leave a deposit upfront of half of the cost of your booked session.

506 N. Larchmont Blvd.
Mid-City
323-498-5258
Online: snooknuk.com

photo: Kidspark Northridge via Facebook

Kidspark: All Day Help is Here
If your little movers and shakers need a wide open space to roam free, look no further than Kidspark Northridge. This 4,000 square foot facility is well staffed with experienced care givers that are guaranteed to show your rambunctious rugrats from 2-12 years old a good time. Kidspark offers hourly and daily rates and you can use them as a go-to kid-free option for as little or as much as you need, up to 20 hours per week and 10 hours a day. They have plenty of staff on hand to accommodate those last minute emergencies but it is a first come first serve facility, so best to call ahead or get an early start to ensure they’re not at capacity. $8/hour for the first sibling, add $5 for the second and an additional $3/hr for the third. Or go the daily rate at $48/day for one child and $78 for two siblings. A $25 annual family membership is required. Find them on Facebook or Yelp for a discounted membership rate.

9056 Tampa Ave.
Northridge
Online: kidspark.com

                                                                                     photo: Pint Size kids via Facebook

Pint Size Kids: Anyone Potty Trained Can Stay and Play
Your mini noise makers may be tiny in stature but there’s no mistaking that when it comes to energy they have some mighty big needs. Give yourself a break from all things mom and bring your little divas to Pint Size Kids for an hour or three while you take in some shopping, sipping or just enjoying of the peace and quiet. With one weeks notice via email or phone call, you can reserve a spot for your kiddo to make-believe their little hearts out at this cute and interactive play space where children are encouraged to use their imagination. Whether your playtime expert gravitates towards the grocery store, medical center, house or workshop, your imagineers are expected to work hard at playing. Drop off services are best for potty trained children ages 2 years old & up. The rates are $20 for the first hour and $12 for each additional hour per child up to 3 hours. Remember, this one isn’t a spur of the moment drop by, and prior notice of one week is required for drop off services.

13323 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks
310-339-7452
Online: pintsizekids.com

photo: We Rock the Spectrum

We Rock the Spectrum: This Spot Rocks For Everyone
If there’s one things kids of all shapes, sizes and needs know how to do it’s to have fun! The kind and caring staff at We Rock the Spectrum are there to make sure that when mom and dad need some time away, all the littles get to play. Open to kids with all abilities, this is a play place that even your most sensitive of rock stars won’t want to leave. Drop off child care is available starting at $12/hour and arrangements can be made for One-to-One Attendant care as well, based on individual needs. Some locations also limit the amount of time families without special-needs children are allowed to use their drop-off care services so check your location’s website before visiting.

We Rock the Spectrum has multiple locations throughout the LA area; check the website for locations and hours.
Online: werockthespectrumkidsgym.com/We Rock the Spectrum

What do you do when you need some alone time, and your kids just wanna have fun?

—Andrea Conway Kagey

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Portland — Hot List: School, Camps, Playtime & Events

by Rinat K

Winter Break Camps at The Audubon Society of Portland

December 17 – December 28, 2012 This holiday season give the gift of Art & Nature Camps at Portland Audubon. Choose from Snowshoeing, Onsite Art Classes and/or day-long Mobile Adventures to some of the most exciting places […] Read more »

 

 

How Do Children Adapt To Spanish, Chinese or Japanese Immersion at The International School

Find the answer to this and many more questions at intlschool.org with a special in-depth Q&A at intlschool.squarespace.com/qa/. Contact us for a personal tour – (503) 226-2496 or admissions@Intlschool.org. The International School provides a warm multicultural environment […] Read more »

 

 

Thanksgiving Break Camps at Trackers Earth

What will your kids do when school is out for Thanksgiving Break? Trackers Earth Portland offers fun and adventurous camps that could include learning about Stealth, Archery & Wilderness Survival, attending a School of Magic […] Read more »

 

 

Trails Across Time Living History Charter School Openings at Philip Foster Farm

Philip Foster Farm on the Oregon Trail offers a fully-accredited charter school program for grades 6-12. Students meet together in small groups two days each week, and work at home the other three, in a curriculum […] Read more »

 

 

Mad Science is Offering Non-School Day Science Camps – November 9, 2012 & Winter Break

Looking for kids activities for the upcoming non school days? Mad Science is offering non school day science programs in Portland and Hillsboro. With topics like crime scene investigation, machines, and chemical reactions the fun […] Read more »

 

 

4-Year Old Opening at Woodhaven School

Red Tricycle Readers chose Woodhaven School as their favorite in the 2011 Totally Awesome Awards… and now you have a chance to find out why! Woodhaven School has an opening for a 4-year old in our […] Read more »

 

Pinkalicous – Pink Friday (11/23/12) – Ticket Discount at Oregon Children’s Theatre

Pinkalicious: The Musical | Oregon Children’s Theatre November 10 – December 9, 2012 It’s pinkerrific, pinkatastic, and back by popular demand! Pinkalicious: The Musical returns to the Newmark Theatre. Relive the pink pageantry, or experience it for the […] Read more »

 

 

Set Out On The Adventure That Launched Northwest Children’s Theater

Set out on the adventure that launched Northwest Children’s Theater. It’s NWCT’s 20th anniversary season! Join Peter Pan, Wendy, John, and Michael as they soar on NWCT’s newly resigned mainstage. This world premiere adaptation of […] Read more »

 

 

Fancy That Grand Opening in Orenco Station

Fancy That is opening a new location in Orenco Station! Our new location is filled with unique party supplies & modern gifts. Join us at our grand opening on November 18, 2012. We will have […] Read more »

 

 

Free Play Fridays at Sky High Sports

Starting November 2nd, 2012 join Sky High Sports for Free Play Fridays! From 9pm – midnight, get unlimited video games* billiards, trampoline jump time, two slices of pizza, and a fountain drink all for $20. *(redemption […] Read more »

 

 

Paint Your Own Presents This Holiday at Mimosa Studios

It is not too early to start painting your holiday gifts! Mimosa Studios is a family-friendly ceramic studio chock-full of full of fun things to paint for both kids and adults. We’re stocking our shelves with […] Read more»

 

 

 

Things That Fly Events at Evergreen Space & Aviation Museum

What first inspired flight? Birds! The Oregon Coast Aquarium visits the Museum to discuss sea birds and their habitat. Presentations at 8am (Museum Members) 11am and 2pm in the Aviation Museum. Evergreen Space & Aviation Museum http://www.evergreenmuseum.org […] Read more »

 

Thank Goodness For The Great Deals at WeVillage

Don’t know what to do with the kids before Thanksgiving holiday? WeVillage has got you covered. Our Urban Camp is available at both The Pearl and Orenco Station and runs November 19 to 21 from […]Read more »

 

Catch Up For The Holidays With Our Brilliant Nannies

The holidays mean shopping, school days off, and plenty of stress for mom’s and dad’s! Let us help by getting the kiddos taken care of so you can have extra time to get things done. Visit […] Read more »

 

Holidays Are Coming & You Need A Babysitter? Register with Care Givers FREE

The holidays are coming and there is so much to do! So take time now to register your family for Care Givers Placement Agency’s babysitting service so you don’t get caught short handed. Register for a […] Read more»

 

 

Andeo presents: Host A Student From France, Spain or Japan For A Few Weeks This Winter

Andeo Homestays, a local non-profit, is looking for welcoming families to host a Japanese college student or a French or Spanish teen for a few weeks this winter ! The students have been studying English […] Read more »

 

 

Holiday Card Family Portraits with Sara Vandepas

November is a great time to schedule family portraits! The leaves are in full color, the air is crisp and clear and you’re just in time for holiday cards. Sara Vandepas Photography offers family portrait […] Read more »

 

 

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