Archives for 2019

Prepare Your Child Before Accepting a Job

Many tweens and teenagers babysit to earn money. Babysitting can instill responsibility in children as they’re on the cusp of becoming more independent. Would-be babysitters who have cared for younger siblings may know what to expect, but parents of prospective babysitters with no such experience may want to heed the following tips before their youngsters agree to look after a friend’s or neighbor’s child.

• Discuss the responsibility of babysitting. Babysitting is a big responsibility, and parents can discuss this with their children before they accept any babysitting gigs. Children old enough to babysit should be old enough to understand the trust others are placing in them when paying them to look after their children. If would-be babysitters cannot recognize that or downplay just how big a responsibility they’re taking on, then they might not be ready to be a babysitter.
• Ask your child if they have any questions about babysitting. Prospective clients will no doubt feel more comfortable with babysitters who ask thoughtful questions, and one sign that a child is ready to accept the responsibility of babysitting is asking such questions. If kids are hesitant, parents can quiz them about what to do in certain situations, such as how to respond to a baby crying or what to do if a child is asking for his or her parents. Going over these topics before kids begin seeking babysitting jobs can help parents gauge if their children are ready to babysit while also helping them prepare for interviews.
• Get the contact information for guardians of the child your son or daughter will be babysitting. Before kids accept their first babysitting job, their parents should not hesitate to ask to meet the parents or guardians of the child they will be babysitting. This can calm parents’ nerves about sending their children to look after a stranger’s children. Such a meeting also provides an opportunity for parents to get the contact information, including name, address, home, and mobile phone numbers, of their children’s clients. In addition, visiting a client’s home in advance gives kids a chance to learn how to use home security systems if necessary. Find useful information on home security systems at www.sixtechsys.com/drone-detection-and-tracking-a-matter-of-safety-and-practicality-and-urgency.
• Program emergency numbers into babysitters’ mobile phones. Parents trusting their children to neighborhood babysitters may or not leave a list of emergency contact numbers on their refrigerator doors. But parents of would-be babysitters can exercise caution and program such numbers into their childrens’ mobile phones in advance. This ensures babysitters will have access to the numbers no matter what.
• Arrange for transportation home. Arrange transportation home in advance. If a child’s clients will be going out for a night on the town where they expect to consume alcohol, parents can pick up their own children so they recognize the importance of never getting into a vehicle with someone who has been consuming alcohol. If clients will not be consuming alcohol, sitters’ parents can speak with them directly to ensure they will provide a ride home at the end of the night.

Read Next | Hire a Babysitter in the New York Metropolitan Area on Mommybites

Time spent in the backyard on spring and summer afternoons and evenings contributes heavily to the popularity of these times of year. Many homeowners go to great lengths to make their outdoor living spaces as luxurious as possible, only to be bothered by uninvited and bothersome guests: mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes are not just pesky nuisances, but they’re also harmful. According to the American Mosquito Control Association, more than one million people across the globe die from mosquito-borne diseases every year. Such diseases include malaria, dengue, yellow fever, West Nile virus, and the Zika virus. Mosquitoes are even to blame for heartworm in dogs.

The AMCA notes that many of the diseases transmitted by mosquitoes can be linked to travel to endemic areas. But mosquitoes in North America can still be harmful, and bites may result in severe skin irritation through an allergic reaction to mosquito saliva.

Homeowners can employ several measures to prevent mosquitoes from invading their backyards this spring and summer.

• Remove standing water. Stagnant water is an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, so homeowners must be diligent in their efforts to remove standing water around their properties. Mosquitoes can breed in bird baths, pets’ water bowls and empty plant pots that collect rain water; they can lay hundreds of eggs even in a spoonful of water!
• Inspect property for hidden pockets of water. While bird baths, pet bowls and kiddie pools are easy to find, homeowners may be unknowingly hosting mosquito breeding grounds elsewhere on their properties. For example, tarps used to cover pools, automobiles or grills that are not tightly secured can fold up, creating pockets where rain water can collect and give mosquitoes somewhere to breed. Mosquitoes also may use gutters to breed, so homeowners should routinely inspect and clean their gutters during spring and summer.
• Keep a well-manicured lawn. Well-manicured lawns are less likely to be breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Because water plays such a crucial role in the mosquito breeding process, it’s necessary that all potential water sources in a yard be removed. Fallen leaves that are not removed and pockets of soil beneath trees and plants can collect rain water or water from lawn sprinklers, which can be just enough for mosquitoes to breed.
• Grow mosquito-repelling plants outdoors. Keep yourself, your family and pets safe naturally by planting specific plants and flowers that repel mosquitoes, as well as some other pests. Recommended plants include lavender, marigolds, catnip (also called catmint), rosemary, citronella grass (the Cybopogon nardus or Citronella winterianus variety), basil, and scented geraniums.
• Use fans. Consumer Reports tested the efficacy of oscillating pedestal fans to keep mosquitoes from invading decks and patios and found that such fans cut mosquito landings by 45 to 65 percent for those sitting closest to the fans. When hosting backyard barbecues, homeowners can set up several such fans on their decks and patios to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Mosquitoes are unwelcome guests come spring and summer. But homeowners can take steps to increase the likelihood that their properties stay mosquito-free.

Nothing is more comforting to a sick child than snuggling up on the couch with blanket and a favorite teddy bear. But what’s not so comforting is when teddy bear brings the flu virus to preschool or daycare the next day.

That’s exactly what teddy bears can do, says a study from Vanderbilt University.

The study focused on hospitals that allow familiar, comfort-giving teddy bears to accompany children during visits, specifically surgeries.  Researchers wanted to know if the toys unintentionally contribute to surgical-site infections (SSI).

Indeed, stuffed animals and other “comfort” items, all showed bacterial growth when tested. And viruses proved just as invasive, surviving up to 24 hours on the surface of toys in another study.

Stuffed Toys Miss Out On Personalized Attention

Raggedy stuffed bears keep watch over our toddlers during cold and flu season’s runny noses and puking tummies.  But rarely do they get the follow up care they need.

As studies have shown, 3 out of 4 teddy bears don’t get washed after a child is sick. Even worse, 1 of 5 bears have never been washed at all. Plastic and wooden toys have a better chance at getting washed, or at least cleaned with disinfectant wipes.

What can parents do?

Parents can send stuffed toys through the laundry. A single run through a laundry wash/dry cycle, followed by 24 hours in a sealed bag when completely dry, effectively sterilized 79 percent of the stuffed animals tested. In other tests, machine washing plush toys using anti-bacterial laundry soap killed 99.9% of bacteria. Authors recommend allowing toys to dry thoroughly to avoid mold growth.

Ways to Limit the Spread of Germs during Cold and Flu Season

Avoid letting your kids play with plush toys at daycares, doctors’ offices, and church nurseries.

Use soft blankets as an alternative to a stuffed toy. They can be washed more easily between uses.

Limit playdates and sleepovers during cold and flu season.

Use washable area rugs in place of, or on top of, carpets. Wash sheets more frequently.

Wash stuffed animals weekly.

We all know that children who are sick, hurt, grieving or have special needs, are the true heroes of the world. But what if you could make their day by helping them meet some of their own personal heroes? The Humble Heroes is a group of volunteers whose goal is to lift the spirits of these children by visiting local hospitals and grief centers while dressed as famous superheroes. The Staten Island-based organization is run through a popular local charity, the Carl V. Bini Memorial Fund. “From acting out skits and coloring with kids, to a simple high five and wave, the Humble Heroes inspire those young warriors to continue facing their battles,” reads their mission statement. “It is our ultimate duty to bring smiles to such resilient kids by taking their icons and making them a reality. Because they are the REAL heroes.”

Former USMC Sergeant Kenny Restrepo, who is an Annadale dad and serves as the resident Batman for Humble Heroes, talked to Staten Island Parent about his experiences being on the team. As the name suggests, he tells us it’s been rather humbling. He’s one of the newest members but has already visited the pediatric ward of New York Presbyterian, St. Peter’s Children’s Hospital as well as Camp Good Grief at the JCC, an organization for children who have lost a loved one and a recent Carl V. Bini fundraiser for a child with a rare disease.

The costumes are all custom made by members, and Restrepo says he used his art skills to impress his way into the group. “A friend of mine, one of the founding members, was telling me about the organization and what they do, and I thought it was the coolest thing ever. I asked to see pictures and I told him I was very interested in becoming involved,” he said. “I started making a Batman costume, and my brother-in-law Gaspere Randazzo also wanted to volunteer, so I made him a Robin costume. The guys were very impressed by the costumes so they invited us to come to a visit — and we fit right in. It was an amazing experience and the kids looked so happy. I remember overhearing two of the kids saying ‘that’s definitely the real Batman!’ It felt so fulfilling to be able to cheer them up.”

Humble Heroes started two years ago on a whim, after a group of friends, dressed up for Halloween as Power Rangers, were asked to pose for a picture for a child in a nearby hospital by the child’s mother. The group then made the decision to visit him in person and thus Humble Heroes was born. Restrepo says they’re planning to visit a school for children with special needs soon and hope to book future dates at many other schools. “We’re open to any location where there are kids that we can help bring a smile to,” he said.

If you would like to make a donation to Humble Heroes, go to binifund.org/humble-heroes. You can also keep up with their latest adventures and newest costumes on Instagram at @humbleheroes_ny.

Kids have a long history of disliking dental care, which can frustrate parents, who know the importance of proper dental hygiene. While many youngsters may never excitedly run to the bathroom to brush their teeth, there are various approaches to get kids to embrace proper dental care.

• Start early. Begin cleaning kids’ teeth as soon as the first tooth appears. The earlier dental care is part of a child’s routine, the more likely he or she is to accept it as part of everyday life. Dr. Mark Padilla, from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends using a soft-bristled brush with a small head. Ideally, use a toothbrush designed for infants, brushing teeth once per day at bedtime. The AAPD advises taking kids to visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than the child’s first birthday. Parramatta dental services offer you brand-new, modern facilities that offer the latest advancements in dentistry.

• Make it a group effort. Young children love to imitate their parents’ actions and behaviors, so use that adoration to your advantage by making teeth-brushing a family activity. Get down on kids’ level and show them how to brush. If kids are resistant, divert their attention with conversation while brushing so they don’t even realize they’re cleaning away.

• Involve kids in choosing their dental care products. While always sticking with products recommended by your child’s pediatric dentist, let youngsters choose their toothbrush and toothpaste. Kids might prefer a particular flavor of toothpaste, and a colorful toothbrush with a favorite film or television character might make kids more enthusiastic and less fussy about brushing. This site will give you updates on the advanced dental care and treatment.

• Don’t forget flossing! Soft, sticky foods are commonplace in young kids’ diets, and these can promote decay. Even well-intentioned gummy vitamins can be sources of dental decay. But How to Avoid Tooth Decay? Oftentimes, these foods become lodged between the teeth or on the surface of molars. If left in contact with the teeth for too long, food particles become a source of carbohydrates for oral bacteria, and cavities may appear as a result.

To remove food particles from between the teeth, children must floss, advises the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists. Parents should check out some good brands and help young children to floss since the dexterity required to wind the floss around little fingers and then thoroughly clean the teeth may be discouraging. There are children’s flossing helpers with handles to make back teeth more accessible and promote more effective flossing.

Kids who shy away from flossing may be more likely to use a children’s water flosser. In lieu of string floss, a water flosser uses a pressurized stream of water to dislodge food from between teeth. Although a water flosser may be more messy, children may enjoy the opportunity to “play” with water and the cleaning sensation provided.

• Compliment kids after positive dental appointments. When pediatric dentist appointments go well, compliment children and express your pride in them for taking dental hygiene as seriously as they do.

Looking for a local pediatric dentist? Visit our directory here. 

Staten Island Parent is beyond excited to team up with Spectrum NY1 News in a bimonthly segment on their program, This Week on Staten Island. The segment will cover hot topics from the latest issue of our publication, as well as highlight exciting, upcoming family events on the Island. Bookmark this page to see all of our latest segments from the show and be sure to tune in to This Week on Staten Island on Spectrum NY1 every Friday at 6:30pm, Saturday at 1:30pm and Sunday at 2:30pm.

Friday, June 29
Editor Jeannine Cintron talks about avoiding the summer slide, as well as signs your child is abusing drugs or alcohol. Upcoming events include the Travis 4th of July Parade, $1 movies at the UA, and Sprinklerfest 2018.

Friday, June 15
Editor Jeannine Cintron discusses whether or not your teen is ready to babysit as well as fun ideas for summer fun. Upcoming events include: The Big Picnic at Snug Harbor, the Food Truck Festival at Mount Loretto and Bees Knees at Gericke Farm.

Friday, June 1
Junior Editor Jeannine Cintron talks about keeping the kids from destroying your house and the many, many fairs and festivals going on in June. Upcoming events include The Great Fish Count at Lemon Creek Park, Home Depot Workshop for Kids, and Fatherhood Family Resource Day at Clove Lakes.

Friday, May 11
Junior Editor Jeannine Cintron talks the upside of digital devices, local kid hero Mia Mannarino, and questions to ask before applying to college. Upcoming events include: Learn to Ride with Bike New York and the NYC Park’s Dept., a Taste of Forest Avenue, and Staten Island Fleet Week.

Friday, April 27
Junior Editor Jeannine Cintron has the scoop on the top stories in the May & April issues, including how to get mom in front of the camera and what moms are really thinking at the park. Upcoming events include New Dorp Family Fun Day, the Carousel Opening in Willowbrook Park and Movies Under the Stars in NYC Parks.

Friday, March 16
Junior Editor Jeannine Cintron is talking tons of spring fun, Easter events, basket auctions, and kids & contact lenses. Upcoming events include stargazing with the Amateur Astronomer’s Association, an egg hunt at Mount Loretto, and STEM programs at SI Makerspace.

Friday, March 2
Junior Editor Jeannine Cintron offers up some helpful info on summer camp registration and how to discuss the Parkland shooting with your children. Upcoming events include the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Anti-bullying workshops with Play It Forward, and a Purim carnival at Temple Israel.

​Friday, February 16
Junior Editor Jeannine Cintron discusses 10 things your kids need to know by the time they’re 10 years old as well as fun stuff to do for the Midwinter Break. Upcoming events include Storytime with Nicole Malliotakis at the South Beach Library, Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo at St. George Theatre, and Lunar New Year at the Staten Island Museum.

Friday, February 2
Junior Editor Jeannine Cintron offers up ways to say “I love you” for kids, and the proper care for your teddy bear during flu season. Upcoming events include: Maple Syruping Saturdays at Clay Pit Ponds, Cosmic Computer Women at the S.I. Children’s Museum, and I Love the Zoo at the S.I. Zoo.