Childcare, or daycare, makes up a vital part of any child’s upbringing. However, it can be difficult for both parents and children to adapt to the new setup, especially if it is the first time that the child is going out alone in the world. So, the following tips can come in handy for any parents venturing into childcare, either for the first time or switching to new childcare.
When in Doubt, Plan
If your child has been at home till now, heading off to childcare can naturally make you worried about them. So, even slight research into what kinds of establishments are available, and what each provides and expects from you, can help you feel more confident and comfortable. Even if it’s just a switch, visiting some of the nearby childcare centers would also help you in terms of deciding what is best suited for your child.
Discuss With Your Child
While gearing up for new childcare, having a discussion with your child is beneficial. This helps remove any apprehensions that they might have as they get familiar with the place. This also aids you as you can directly contact the center for any questions or requests prior to joining.
Organize
To be best equipped for the day, parents are advised to pack a bag with the things that might be of need for the children. This aids in a smoother transition into the new environment. Consult with your childcare center to know what you need to send with your child which mostly includes snacks and drinks, a change of clothes, diapers, wipes, and sunscreen along with a favorite toy for naps.
Arrive Early
Reaching with some time to spare can help you and your child get familiar with the new atmosphere of the childcare center and eliminate any rush or tension with the already daunting change. Some centers have initial transition sessions to help you and your kids get used to being away for some time. This can be especially accommodating for those adjusting to childcare centers for the first time.
Connect With Your Child
After your child has joined a childcare center, you should take some time to talk to them and get a feel of what their experience was like. This can help you bring any changes required that will make them feel more comfortable and supported. The best-advised way to do so is while reading together, crafting, or just spending quality time with them. This will also help you bond better and make the transition more comfortable.
A Complete Guide to Making the Most of Your Baking Staples
Almost every kitchen pantry contains basic baking essentials, but we often overlook the expiry rules of those items. You need to know how long they remain fresh and how to store them for better use. Here’s how to prolong the shelf lives of different baking ingredients.
Flour
Generally, all-purpose white flour is considered a non-perishable ingredient. But, if not stored properly, flour only stays fresh for just three months. So, always transfer your store-bought flour to an airtight container or a storage container to extend its expiry date for two years. Alternative types like almond or oat flour spoil faster than white ones but when stored in an airtight container, can stay fresh for up to one year.
Sugar
Granulated white sugar has an almost unlimited shelf life, especially if stored in a dark, dry place. It acts as a preservative by itself and keeps foods like peanut butter, jelly, etc. good for a long time. But brown sugar acts differently when exposed to air and tends to get hardened. So, it’s better to store it in an airtight container and to use it within two years to get maximum flavor and freshness. The same rule goes for powdered or confectioners’ sugar too.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is not just a baking staple but also has a range of uses in your household. But unfortunately, this highly useful life hack ingredient has a shorter shelf life. An opened box of baking soda can last for only six months. To keep it fresh for a bit longer, store it in a sealed container in a dry cabinet in your pantry.
Salt
Salt comes in many different variations. While the kitchen staple regular salt can last for a lifetime, flavored or iodized salt can go bad faster due to the other ingredients mixed within it. Though most types of salt can last for a long time, it’s a better idea to go for a dry container or wooden salt cellar to keep it fresh and healthy for a longer period of time.
Vanilla Extract
A few drops of vanilla extract can take any dessert recipe up a notch and it generally has an unlimited shelf life. A bottle of vanilla extract can last for years when stored in a dry, cool, dark place. But it’s better to smell it every time before using it. If that regular sweet scent is absent, it’s time to replace it with a new bottle.
Cornstarch
It is another baking pantry staple that can last for a long time. But still, cornstarch can get a funky odor, discolored, or sour taste, and then it’s best to chuck it in the trash. You’ll need proper storage with minimal exposure to light and moisture to keep it staying fresher for longer.