TALLAHASSEE — From coping with a crying child to potty training techniques to keeping one’s teen drug-free, those tips and more are now available in a free, online parent and caregiver resource guide.The Florida Department of Children and Families is providing the electronic book free for anyone with online access.

Family Development – A Caregiver's Guide can be downloaded in English, Spanish or Creole. The English version will also be available in formats compatible with Kindle, Nook, e-book, iPad and other tablets.

To download a copy visit dcf.state.fl.us/caregivers. For more information, caregivers can also call the Florida Parent Helpline.

1-800-352-5683.

The department, in conjunction with the Ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida, has provided thousands of these books in hard copy to parents and caregivers across the state for several years. This is the first time these important guides have become available for free across many different platforms.

The book begins with infant care and teaching parents safe sleeping techniques, soothing a crying baby and nutrition. Following chapters are dedicated to changes as children grow, including physical, social and cognitive development for each stage.

Safety tips for babies and children include home safety checklists, drowning prevention and positive

parenting activities that

promote nurturing and development. Another section tells parents when to be concerned and to check with their doctor if a child isn’t hitting certain milestones.

A section on teens includes discussions on puberty, keeping kids safe online, and substance abuse prevention. Other topics include how to manage stress, choosing safe and appropriate child care, dealing with military deployment and working with children with disabilities.


For more information call 800-352-5683.

ON THE NET
dcf.state.fl.us/caregivers