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Learning Childcare Skills

Learning Childcare Skills

young woman holding baby

Purpose

Learn how to care for children, whether you have younger siblings, serve in Primary, or tend children for others. It’s also a great way to prepare to be a parent yourself.

Description

Organize and host childcare during an adult activity in your ward or branch. Prepare a variety of age-appropriate activities for the children (music, coloring, games, and so on). Consider the children’s needs and how you will attend to them. For instance, what about snacks? Are there children with special needs? What will you do about taking children to the bathroom or changing diapers?

As you plan this activity, please follow the counsel given in chapter 13 of Handbook 2: Administering the Church (2010) and review “Safety Recommendations for Church Activities.”

More Ideas

  • Teach reverence—As a group, make quiet books or other simple and appropriate activities for children in your family or ward.

  • Be prepared—Invite an expert to teach your group first aid, CPR, and other important skills so you are prepared to help children in case of injury or in an emergency situation.

  • Build a babysitting kit—As a group, make kits you could use as you care for children. You could include finger puppets, craft supplies, first aid supplies, snacks, and favorite storybooks. Volunteer to babysit children in your ward or community so their parents can attend the temple or have a date.

  • Plan a childcare workshop—Invite a social worker, experienced parents, and community leaders to teach you how to interact appropriately with children. You could learn about how to respect boundaries and keep children safe emotionally and physically.

Discussion

Encourage participants to talk about what they are learning. Discussions can take place before, during, or after the activity. You could ask questions like the following:

  • Why do you think it is important to learn childcare skills?

  • When have you had a positive experience caring for children?

  • What feelings or impressions do you have about the importance of providing good childcare?

  • How can you apply what you are learning in your life?

Related Resources

Sabbath Day Lessons

Other