Keeping my child safe when I am not there

Questions to ask ourselves about our caregivers…

—  Do they have unrealistic expectations for your child's age?

—  Do they overreact if something is broken or your child doesn’t follow directions?

—  Do they show anger or impatience if the child has a tantrum or cries a lot?

—  Do they call your child bad names or find it entertaining to scare them?

—  Do they accuse you of not being strict enough?

—  Do they think your child is a bother or burden?

—  Do they drink alcohol or use drugs in your child’s presence?

 Look for caregivers who are…

• Calm
• Mature
• Patient with children
• Experienced taking care of children and know how to soothe them
• Not easily agitated or impulsive
• Not taking drugs or drinking alcohol while caring for your child
• Not overly stressed out
• Not too tired or sleep deprived
• Not abusive to others or animals