The term "primary caregiver" refers to a person who is primarily responsible for providing physical, emotional and developmental care for a child. This may include tasks such as feeding, bathing, dressing, playing with or reading to the child; providing comfort, security and guidance; and ensuring that the child's basic needs are met. The primary caregiver is often the parent, grandparent or other close relative who spends the most time with the child and has the greatest influence on their development. In some cases, a non-relative may also serve as the primary caregiver if they have been granted legal custody of the child.