You know you're a nanny when.....

You know you're a nanny when......

...you have a fairly authoritative, slightly scary "nanny voice" and it can stop everyone around you in their tracks

...you grab into your bag for a pen and pull out a crayon, a half eaten bag of goldfish and some tissues

...you heart soars when a child accomplishes something practiced often but never conquered until now

....you forget the name of the last movie you saw but you can recite every word of the "Cat in the Hat" and can sing all 15 verses with motions to the "Wheels on the Bus"

...you are willing to give up your weekends to go to ballet recitals, baseball games and art shows

...you have never gotten the tax deduction for "your" kids

...you are kid magnet where ever you go

...you love your job especially because of the perks like hugs, days at the pool, naptime and home made valentines

...you have several outfits and perhaps even a car that smells slightly of baby formula, play dough and juice

...you have days when you are a pirate, a ballerina, a dog and an explorer

...you are proud of what you do- even if that means all you did today was get a two year old to take a bite of broccoli

...you have mistakenly asked your friend if she had to use the "potty"

...you are faster than a crawling infant and can leap tall towers of toys in a single bound

...you want to inspire the future of the world one child at a time

You know you're a nanny when the ripples of your daily work extend out for generations. 

How do you finish the sentence- You know I am a nanny because......

What agencies can offer....

A while back I posted a conversation someone had with a brick and mortar nanny agency and expressed my frustration with these kinds of agencies. I need to be more specific however, and say that SOME agencies can be like this. MANY traditional agencies are quite the opposite!

A traditional brick and mortar agency can be very helpful for both the family and the nanny. But it has to be a quality agency.

A high quality agency will really screen all the nannies they present to families. They will do background checks and reference checks before sending the nanny out to families as an option. A high quality agency will spend time with the family, usually over the phone, and ask lots of questions to get a good idea of what the family is looking for and then MATCH nanny candidates to those needs and preferences. SO much of what makes a successful nanny/family relationship works is chemistry so it won't be a precise match in one recommendation, but it will save everyone time knowing a laid back nanny won't be presented to a stricter type A family.

Agencies are a bonus to nannies as they can advocate for you. They can help you get a contract into the hands of the family and then you can negotiate and settle things. Good agencies offer you support. They give you contacts of other nannies in the area, offer group dinner and training opportunities. They often have newsletters with valuable information and ideas. Agency owners have experience and can guide you in how to deal with families.

While searching online allows you to access loads of families- many of these families on the popular sites are looking for custodial care and not true nanny care. They need babysitters and not full time nannies. We all know the difference and the pay and benefits will reflect this.

Sadly, there are fewer good agencies out there than one would think. But it you find one- stick with them! TELL EVERYONE! They are an important part of our industry.

Modeling

You know we talk alot about modeling as a powerful tool for shaping children's behavior. We are careful to use good manners, to pick up after ourselves and to treat others with respect. Okay, we TRY to do these things without yelling idiot at the crazy drivers and dumping our purse and stuff on the table at the end of the day. But it got me to thinking... do we use modeling as much as we could?

When was the last time you read a book for yourself while your child could see you do it? We all want kids to grow up to be good readers. Heck, I would be happy if my 10 year old reluctant reader picked up a book right now! I remind myself that it is important that kids see that I ENJOY reading and that reading is something you do not only when you are in school- it is a lifelong thing.

When was the last time you looked something up? When you don't know a word or are confused about a news story, do you let your kids see you research something for your own knowledge? It is good for kids to see that you are not just a teacher but you are a learner too! And that you enjoy finding the answers.

Do you follow your passions? Take time to practice something that you are trying to master? Do you let the kids see you pursue things? And you can't fool kids- you can't turn it into a lesson because they will know you are only doing it for their benefit.

It is hard to remember but modeling is a powerful tool. Kids will become their caregivers in many ways- which includes the good and the bad. Make sure to show the kids thru actions, how you live your best life.

Babysitter VS Nanny

What is the difference really?
Now don't go getting all crazy on me. I KNOW there is a difference. But try to think like an outsider for just a minute. What is the difference when you explain it to strangers?

A nanny is there more hours? A nanny provides educational and developmental activities? A nanny loves her charges? A nanny will do the laundry, dishes and help out with the home?

Face it- some babysitters do this. And these days some babysitters have the formal education that many nannies do not. Babysitters, in these days of economic pressures, are not just the teenager down the street. They are often college students, teachers, and even nannies who want to make some extra cash.

For me it all boils down to intention. Actually, I have to credit Lora Brawley for the word, but it sums up what I was thinking so I think it counts!! Intention is what separates the sitters from the nannies.

When I go to a home to be a nanny- my intention is to care for the whole child. I am planning a well rounded day, providing curriculum, caring for the home and family and the health and safety of the child as well. I intend to be whatever that child needs in order to grow and develop into a productive and happy adult. I plan and come prepared for the day both mentally and physically. I make lists, work out a schedule and communicate with all involved.

When I go to a home to be a babysitter- I make sure that no one goes to the hospital. I make sure everyone is fed and that the rules of the home are not broken. I keep the kids relatively happy and make sure that the kids are not watching Jerry Springer before bedtime. I am basically a cross between a vending machine, policeman and a hall monitor. I don't make a plan (although I may bring some art supplies if I am feeling "crafty") and I don't really prepare other than making sure that the family has cable tv and internet for when the little tykes finally go to bed. Sure I could do more- and I might if I like the kids and if I am in the mood- but the intention is not there.

It is in the intention.

But what do you think?

True Story- MUST READ!!

Warning: What you are about to hear is a transcription of an actual conversation. It is shocking and sad. Please use caution when reading that you do not become TOO outraged. 

Me: Hello JOE. This is Susie Nanny. As you know, I run the local Nanny Support Group.
JOE: Yes, how are you? Me: Good, I am calling because we have been asked to coordinate a conference here in Cooltown, USA. I sent you a email regarding the details last night and well, I wanted to see if I could come in to discuss it w/ you further...
JOE: (Cuts me off) Well, Susie... we don't support events as these. In the last 21 years that we have been in business we have been approached on several occasions and our answer is always no. We don't want to me impartial to anyone, so we have decided to not help anyone.
Me: Ok, I understand if you cannot help us financially, but would you at least be willing to share the information of the event with your Nannies?
JOE: Again, we don't help anyone. And no I wouldn't be willing to pass the info along. Because my nannies are already well trained and if I didn't feel that they were, I wouldn't hire them to belong to my agency.
Me: Well, JOE... The NANC is a Nationally recognized agency and lots of exposure would be included for your agency. But the main thing here is that there aren't a lot of resources for Nannies in our community to receive ongoing training for low cost or FREE and that is why we are putting on this event. Don't you believe in continuing education for your Nannies?
JOE: (Laughs) Yes, that's called "on the job training".
Me: (shakes head) Ok, JOE... Thank you for your time and you have a wonderful day.

Now the names have been changed (wish I didn’t have to do that!)  but this really happened to a very dedicated nanny support group leader who is working to put on a mini conference for nannies. The mini conferences, called Nannypalooza, are events that cost no more than $25 and offer at least 2 workshops and some networking for nannies in a local community. Please note, that even though she was asking for $$ for the event, she would have been happy with an email blast to the agencies nanny database. But even that is denied. I am glad that this owner feels that his nannies are well trained- he must have a roster of hundreds of Mary Poppins- nannies that know everything and need to learn nothing! 

Sadly, I am not shocked at the way this agency owner reacted. Even though the website of this large, multi city agency offers “(the) highest quality in home child care services from day of birth on upwards.” I have seen this attitude from many agencies before, although not often so candidly shared. I think it is interesting that this owner believes that once placed nannies can use their charges as “on the job training” and wonder what parents would think of that comment and laugh. In fact, I wonder what their clients would think if they knew this agency wouldn’t even let the nannies know that there would be low cost workshops were offered. 

It is short sighted. What this owner does not realize is that well trained and supported nannies are easier to place, stay longer in positions, can demand higher salaries, and ARE BETTER CAREGIVERS!! Nannies are intensely loyal and will refer good agencies that support them not only to other nannies, but to the countless parents at the park who say “where can I find a great nanny like you?” And think of the client loyalty you would foster if you are sending this information to parents to relay to their nannies. 

This is the reason there are bad feelings about brick and mortar agencies. And the truth is that they are not all like this, but the bad apples have spoiled some of the bunch. More and more parents are flocking to online sites to do their nanny search. The agencies that survive will be the ones that support nannies, support families and really put their money and their time where their mouth is. The online sites such as 4nannies.com, enannysource.com, nannyclassifieds.com are quick to offer help every year for our conferences as well as supporting countless support groups all across the country.

Supporting continuing education for nannies is essential. It is the right thing to do and will come back to you in many ways. 

Social Media and the Nanny

Should a nanny be updating her facebook status while on the job? Should a mom worry about this?

So on this mom's chat board there is some chatter from a mom who is friends with her nanny on facebook. The mom logged on and found that the nanny updated her status during her work hours. She also noted that it was not particularly in a time when the child was at school or taking a nap. She wanted to know if she should be concerned.

What do you think??
Personally, I think that an update to facebook here and there is not the end of the world. Many people update via cell phone or other device so it doesn't even mean that the nanny was spending time on the computer. Nannies are with children all day and often crave the interaction of a "coworker" so some interaction on sites like twitter and facebook can help fill the void.

That being said, there may be a problem if the nanny is posting things all day long. A nannies first responsibility is to the children he or she cares for. Spending some time on the computer while a child naps seems reasonable, constantly checking facebook all day while the kids play by themselves is not.

Like many situations facing nannies and employers this one is best solved individually. As a parent consider these questions-

• Are my kids in school or napping for parts of the day? This is a good time for the nanny to have a break and use the computer. 
• Is my nanny posting things about my family? This is cause for concern unless you are ok with it. 
• Am I ok with the nanny multi tasking? Watching the kids on the playground while texting a quick update? Tweeting while pushing a stroller? 
• Does the amount of time spent on social media seem to be excessive? There is a big difference between an occasional update and an addiction. 
• Am I happy with the quality of care my nanny provides? If things are going well and you are happy then great, but if you have other concerns and this is one more red flag there may be bigger issues. 

Nannies ask yourselves these questions- 

• Am I respecting the privacy of the family? Are you posting complaints about your job or personal information?
• Are you sure that while you are using social media that the kids are still priority number one? 
• Are you posting things you would not want your employer to see or posting often enough you don't want your employer to know? 

It seems to me the bottom line is that these things can be great if used wisely and when all parties are in agreement. Just yesterday a twitter friend of mine shared a great link to a baby owl's nest web cam to share with the kids. A great resource!! But if you as a parent are concerned, talk to your nanny. Share your concerns and ask your nanny some questions. Work together to make sure that everyone is happy with your family's policies. 

Hiring an Unemployed nanny can save parents money!

News from Breedlove and Associates

HIRE Act Signed Into Law

Good News for Many of Your Families and Nannies!

Yesterday President Obama signed into law a new job creation act entitled Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE Act).  The HIRE Act will reduce the cost for your families who hire a qualified worker(s) after February 3, 2010 (a qualified worker is defined as anyone who has worked 40 hours or less in the 60 days preceding employment).

Those families who hire a qualified worker(s) will be entitled to an exemption on the employer portion of the Social Security tax.  The 6.2% exemption applies to all wages paid in 2010 between the dates of March 19 and December 31.

Note: Employers will still be required to pay Medicare (1.45%) as well as Unemployment and any other applicable state taxes, but the HIRE Act will reduce the employer’s payroll tax obligation by more than 60%.

Logistically, families will need to get their new employee to sign an affidavit stating that he/she has been unemployed or underemployed per the HIRE Act qualifications.  Families will then be required to report the New Hire and deduct the Employer Social Security Tax from their estimated federal payments throughout the rest of the year.  Obviously, those families who join our service can rest assured that we will take care of all these details on their behalf.

If you have any questions about the new law, please contact us.  In the meantime, we’ll be updating our Payroll Calculator at www.breedlove-online.com in the coming days.  As always, we also stand ready to provide each of your families with a complimentary, no-obligation consultation to discuss this and other tax, legal and budgeting issues that may affect them.

For assistance and support, please contact (888) 273-3356 or clientservice@breedlove-online.com

Privacy and the Laptops- A Cautionary Tale

In school we read 1984 and learned about Big Brother. But local high school kids learned that Big Brother is always watching first hand. My local school district, Lower Merion in PA, has made international news as it was called out with a class action lawsuit for "spying" on students. 

Lower Merion received a grant so that all the students in the school could have a laptop computer. This would allow students to access the schools resources and work on projects, papers, etc. 24/7. The laptops belong to the school but the student has possession for the year. But one student was called to the vice principals office in Nov. to be reprimanded for questionable behavior that was caught in a still captured from his webcam. No students or parents were informed that the school has the power to remotely activate these webcams and monitor what they see. It was only when this student was called to the office for his behavior at home that people found out these cameras could be turned on remotely by the school. 

Now don't get me wrong, there are many issues with cyber privacy that we as parents, nannies, and individuals must wrestle with. I check the emails, downloads, text messages etc.. of my 13 year old charge. I want to know that she is safe. But I am entrusted by her parents to do this. And I tell her I am doing it. Of course a tech savvy kid could then erase things she didn't want me to see so I always wonder if it would be better not to tell. 

The school certainly has the right to make sure that the laptops are being used appropriately. But does that mean they have the right to turn these cameras on without student's knowledge or consent? And does the administration of a school have the right to punish or even address behavior of a student in their own home? No one is saying what the "questionable" behavior was that was caught on tape. It could be drug use. Would that make this ok? 

No. In my opinion, we have to draw the line somewhere with this issue of privacy vs. safety for our kids. But it is a fine line and we must define it carefully. What do you think? 

- Sue Downey

Lower Merion School District sued for cyber spying on students

The Olympics teach kids more than just what curling is.....

It is that time again and the world watches as some dedicated individuals try to push their minds, bodies and spirits all for the sake of their country and their own individual glory. The Olympics provides some great "teachable moments" for you and your charges. Some of those moments are when you have to explain what the biathlon is, but there is more to it. Let me share some reasons why I think the Olympics offer us many lessons.

1. See the world, from your couch. As we watch the athletes march in during the opening ceremonies we are introduced to a number of countries that weren't even in existence a few years ago! The winter Olympics only hosts about 80 countries as opposed to the summer games which can have more than 200! But still, get out the globe and challenge your kids to find where that ski jumper is from. Watch the athlete profiles and see the cultures of countries we rarely talk about. And try to figure out why an athlete from the Bahamas might become an Alpine Skier or check out the "snow leopard" from Ghana!
2. Passion. Dedication. What it takes to succeed. The athletes that make the Olympic team have a drive to succeed and a love of their sport that makes them put aside everything else in pursuit of a dream. What a great lesson that can be applied to whatever passions your youngsters might be interested in. Ask your kids what sacrifices these athletes might have to make to find enough training time while going to school or working full time? How would it feel to feel passionately about something like curling, when many people might laugh or ignore the sport? What goals do the athletes set and how do they go about achieving these goals? The athletes are role models for pursuing something you love at any cost.
3. Teamwork and love of country. Many of the sports are team sports and those stories make for great inspiration. Who could forget the story of the miracle on ice of the 1980 Olympics? That team won because they played as a team, they believed in each other. Each Olympic games has their own stories of teammates who want to play for the US so much and work together to make that true. How about the "night train" men's bobsled team this year?
4. Overcoming adversity. There are countless stories of athlete's who get injured or overcome adversity just for the thrill of competing. Downhill ski champion Lindsay Vonn competed with her hand duct taped to her pole so she could compete in a race last year. Speed skater J.R.Celski just came back from a cut on his thigh where he lost so much blood he almost bled out on the track to win the bronze medal last night! These athletes persevere through adversity. What a great lesson.
5. You won't always win, but the thrill of competing is worth it. In each event so many athletes don't even have a chance. There are 20 or 30 athletes in some events and only 3 medals. But every athlete is there with pride to give it their best. They know they will not stand on that podium, but they dare to dream. They compete for the love of what they do. And you never know what might happen. Teaching kids to love the thrill of the pursuit instead of just the win might be the best gift we can give them.
6. Sportsmanship. The athletes cheer for each other. They trade pins and shake hands after each race. They respect each other and hope that each time the race or game begins that all the competitors will bring their best. The world becomes a smaller place, a friendlier place as we watch these young people do their best.

So you want to host a Nannypalooza event?

The most exciting thing about Nannies Across America is that there can be an event in each and every community that really meets the needs and personality of the actual community where it is held. Each location can go big, loud, opulent. Or it could go down home, casual, informal and be just as successful. Let me demonstrate. 

One person let's say in Philly could decide to hold her event at a local library. It is 2 workshops from 9 am in the morning until noon. In between workshops there is a short break with bagels and cream cheese and some mingling. Nannies meet new friends and chat. The workshops are facilitated by a local agency owner and doctor from a local hospital. The cost is free but after the workshops all the attendees are invited out for lunch across the street. There nannies can mingle some more and share some great advice and new ideas! Great event. Simple, fun, effective. 

And at another event, let's say in LA, they could go all out. They solicit sponsors and hold their event in a conference room at a local hotel. They have goodie bags and optional events. At this event there are choices of workshops so that two are being held at each time slot. The workshops are given by national experts as well as local trainers. The event has a theme and there is a meal provided as well as some games for nannies to get to know each other and round table discussions on all sorts of topics. More elaborate, still fun, still effective. 

And BOTH events meet the needs of the community of nannies in that location. 

So far we have more than 13 cities committed to events. That means that if only 25 nannies come to each event we will have connected, trained, inspired, re-energized, and celebrated 325 nannies. With each city we can reach out to, we increase that number!! 

Please consider hosting an event in your city. Within the framework there is much flexibility to make an event large or small. The important thing is having the event!! 

Nannies Across America!

NANC is proud to announce Nannypalooza '10! Nannies across America! A weekend of nanny training events held all across the country with low cost, high quality training for nannies and placement professionals!

Sounds exciting right! Let me tell you a little more about it. We at NANC have done Nannypalooza fairly successfully for 4 years. But while we are thrilled to have included so many people, we want to make sure all have access to professional development. Travel costs preclude many nannies from attending conferences so we decided to bring Nannypalooza to the people! We are working with nanny agencies, support groups and motivated individuals to empower them and support them through the process of planning a single day training event. It will have a few workshops and some social and networking opportunities as well as the great friendly and fun Nannypalooza atmosphere. Each event in each city will be slightly different as each city will personalize the experience to meet the needs of their community. Any way you look at it, on September 18th and 19th we will gather (virtually) to share our experiences as nannies and to grow as professionals.

NANC is proud to partner with the Association of Professional Nannies to kick of National Nanny Recognition Week with out Nannypalooza events. By developing our skills and supporting each other we truly will be celebrating ALL nannies and their families.

Events are being planned so far such as

• Detroit
• Cincinnati
• Cleveland
• St Louis
• Seattle
• NY/Northern NJ
• Richmond
• Southeastern WI
• Columbus
• Philadelphia
• Los Angelos

and more are being added every day!!

To become an event planner please email Sue at Suedowney@nannycredential.org!

What to get your employers?

At this time of year many articles pop up online and spots on tv about holiday tipping and what parents should do for their children's caregivers. But a much trickier question (for me especially since I am a nanny!) is what to get for your employers! The first gifts are fairly easy. What parent doesn't love framed photos of their kids? However, how many framed photos can you give before it just seems unimaginative? And it is hard because let's face it- these families have more disposable income than us.

Creativity must then rule the gift process. And I have also found that it is wise to think of things that are a bit outside the box.

Here are a few suggestions...... but please feel free to add your own!
1. A calendar with the kids photos- make this one a tradition if you haven't already!
2. Coupons for babysitting time
3. Volunteer to do a favor around the house (like organize a closet or make back up disks of photos)
4. Write a letter sharing some of the reasons they are great parents and employers
5. Cook some dinners and put them in the freezer
6. A gift certificate to their favorite restaurant
7. Check out sites like Shutterfly.com or Snapfish.com for photo gifts like mugs, mouse pads etc..
8. A plant
9. A holiday centerpiece with place card holders
10. A family movie package (a dvd of a family favorite, with popcorn bowl, popcorn, candy etc..)
11. a kids growth chart they can hang on the wall

What are your best employer gift ideas?

A letter to our members

Dear NANC member:

We started NANC with one basic idea, that every child deserves a quality caregiver. We wanted to make sure that every nanny placed in a home has access to high quality continuing education, professional resources and that there is are standards to which we are all held accountable. We have been successful in many respects so far. We have held a professional conference, NANNYPALOOZA for 4 years which has drawn nannies and agency owners from all over the US. It offers high quality training- affordable for all. We have continued to put together a newsletter that informs nannies, parents, business owners and all who believe that in home care for a child doesn't just mean babysitting. We have developed resources for parents on choosing a nanny, an agency and the like. We are reaching out into the world to find nannies who are not connected, offering them support. Most importantly, we have developed the 3 tier nanny credential. This credential is based on childcare industry standards and is comprehensive in scope so that it will have a meaning far beyond our profession.

But we find we are at a bit of a crossroads. Like many volunteer organizations, the work we do is our passion. And we are searching for others who share this passion. There is much to do. 

In order to move forward, we must take a step back and reevaluate our goals and our immediate needs. It is essential to strengthen our organizational structure in order to support the credential and the other important work we do. We know there are many willing hands out there and we will be taking a new approach to putting those talented and passionate people to work for NANC. 

NANC will use 2010 to focus on leadership and membership development. We have streamlined our goals, focusing on the ones directly related to strengthening and growing our organization, to ensure that we have the foundation and leadership necessary to successfully develop and maintain our 3 tier credential.  We’ve created a list of actionable tasks so that we can use YOUR talents to achieve our collective objective. We will be announcing these priority goals and tasks along with some VERY EXCITING NEWS regarding Nannypalooza 2010 in a conference call presentation on Sunday, December 13th at 8:30 PM EST. At this time we will post information on the website to download and present the information over the computer or phone. You will be able to take some time over the holidays to consider our shared goals and decide how you’d like to support NANC.   This group is YOUR group and only YOUR commitment to share your time and talents will move us forward.  We will record the conference call so you can listen at your convenience.   

After the holidays we will have another follow up call where you can ask questions and get clarification on any points. And as always Lora and I are available via email for your input. 

We hope that by mid January we will be able to announce our new leadership, the details of our new direction and the specific tasks we’ll undertake in the new year.  This is your chance to make a difference and guide the direction our profession will take in the future.  There are a variety of levels of commitment and I urge everyone to dial into the call or download it after so that you can be involved. 

We look forward to speaking to you this Sunday, December 13th at 8:30 PM EST. Please call in to the following number- 206-701-8388 and input code # 600622. Again, this call will be taped and posted along with some printed material on our website on Monday, December 14th. 

Never underestimate the power of a few committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. 
Margaret Mead

Lora Brawley

Sue Downey

Tis the season

Tis the season we think of others,

Mothers, daughters, daddies, brothers.

But what of the person who keeps us in line,

Who drives kids to school, and shows up on time. 

What of our friend who plays some fun games?

Who teaches us math and how to spell our names? 

A nanny is one who cares for us all

Is there a special gift for her at the mall? 

What gift could show her how much we care?

How important she is and would keep her aware,

That we appreciate her every single day,

As mom and dad often must be away!

We want to spoil her and show our affection

We just need a little direction. 

There are many options from which you can choose

Here is a list, chose one and you won’t lose! 

Enjoy your holidays, avoid all the stress

And remember your nanny because she is the best! 

**A cash bonus, for a full time nanny one week’s pay is a generally accepted norm 

(note: nannies like most employees look forward to a holiday bonus and nannies will discuss their bonuses with friends. If you love your nanny and want to keep her happy, this is an investment in your relationship.)

Gift nannies love to receive:

1. A day or a half day off 
2. A spa certificate
3. Frequent flier or credit card points for holiday travel
4. A letter of thanks from you
5. A letter of thanks from your kids
6. A framed photo of her and the kids
7. Membership to NANC, INA, NAEYC
8. Magazine subscription to her favorite magazine
9. I-tunes gift certificates
10.  Extra money in petty cash so she can do some fun things with the kids
11.  Supplies for her favorite craft
12.  A donation to her favorite charity
13.  A list of 25 or 50 reasons she is the best nanny
14.  A short video of the kids talking about all the things she does for them
15.  Visa or Mastercard gift cards 
16.  Extra time off at the holidays
17.  a percentage of your holiday bonus - you can’t succeed without her
18.  Massage or mani/pedi coupons
19.  Gas cards or gift cards to her favorite restaurant
20.   Money toward attending a conference  
21.  Pay her cell phone bill for a month or a year
22.  Gym memberships
23.  Something from their amazon.com wishlist
24.  Pay for a class for her hobby, i.e. a photography or cooking class
25.  A coupon for their birthday off work
26.  A t-shirt with the kids handprints on it
27.  Gift certificate to Starbucks or a favorite restaurant 
28.  An ipod 
29.  A calendar with the kids photos on it
30.  Notes from the kids about all the fun things they did with your nanny this year

Waiting

Patience is a hard thing to teach. This time of year especially, there is quite a bit to get ready for, things to wait for and look forward to! But there are teachable moments no matter what holidays your kids are celebrating! Counting down the days with an advent calendar is a time honored tradition for those who celebrate Christmas. Here are some ways to twist this tradition slightly to create some great memories and teach some lessons to your kids!

1. A waiting chain! We used paper strips cut about 1 1/2 inches wide in alternating colors (red and green, blue and white) to count the days until the holiday! It can also be used to count down days to a birthday or other big event. Make one strip for each day from now until the big day and make a simple paper chain. Each day you can rip off one of the links. This is a great visual way to show the passage of time and to build and manage excitement. Want to make it even more meaningful? Try writing a little something for the family to do on each link before connecting them. Things like:

• sing a carol or other happy song out loud
• clean your room to get ready
• clean out the toy room and donate old toys to a shelter
• make a bird feeder to give back to nature
• do something nice for someone today without being asked 
• tell someone today a nice compliment
• write a note to someone you have not seen in a long time
• bake cookies
• try a new holiday craft today
• jump up and down and yell hooray to celebrate another day closer
• hug someone every hour today
• call someone who lives far away from you and have a chat

You get the idea and you can modify and think of more things to do to get ready for the holidays! 

2. Have a jar of jobs. Want some things done around the house before the holidays. Create a job jar and have the kids choose a job from the jar each day. Fill a jar with slips of paper that have the jobs written on them- things like cleaning their rooms, helping with baking, wrapping gifts or whatever. On the other side of the jobs, you can write an amount that the job is worth. Then as the kids earn money they can make a gift list of family to buy for. They will really think very hard about what to give people when they are earning the money themselves! Or if you want have another treat on the other side of their job, things like watching a holiday video, getting computer time or having a holiday treat! 

3. Put a white piece of paper up on the wall in the kitchen- poster size! Grab some markers and each morning have the kids write something they are thankful for, or some achievement or moment from the last year that they want to highlight! Try to fill the paper up before January 1st! Then use the paper to cut up and make New Year's confetti! This is a great way to focus on accomplishments and celebrations from the past year! 

There are hundreds of ideas of activities for this time of year.... feel free to share your own ideas!!! 

Online Nanny Sites--Parents, what should you look for?

So you have decided as a parent to look for a nanny using an online site. What should you look for?

• Cost of information- make sure you know how much you will have to pay and what information you will get for your money. Some sites will offer you a free preview, but the important nanny resume info will cost you. Also pay attention to how you make contact with the nanny- phone, interview or do you go through the site?
• What information will you get? Will you be provided with references, work history, just the nuts and bolts of a standard job application? Or will you have access to statements from the nanny about their childcare philosophy, experiences, viewpoints and preferences?
• Does the site have a large database of nannies in your area? 
• Are there helpful resources available on the website? Do they have interview questions and tips, salary guidelines, nanny contracts, and other information that you can access for your membership fee? This information is SO valuable especially if you are hiring a nanny for the first time. 
• Do they provide background checking? This is almost always at an additional fee. No two background checks are the same so be sure to find out what is included. You will want to make sure you are checking things out nationally and not just in the current city or state the candidate is living in. 
• Watch out for the term "prescreening". This has vastly different meanings with each different site. Make sure you know what this term means for the specific sites you are using. You will have to do reference checking and background checking yourself when you use an online site to really screen a candidate.  
• Is the site a nanny site? Or does it post jobs for any types of employment? This can affect the amount of time it will take to identify qualified caregivers. 
• Is it easy to use? Can you post all the relevant information about your position including living arrangements, pets, complete job description and the kind of caregiver you are looking for? Are you able to include some personality information about you and your family? Remember a good nanny relationship is based on mutual fit. Both you and your nanny will be interviewing each other! 

The most important thing to remember when searching online for a nanny is that it is an active process. You will be doing the work of a whole agency yourself so be sure you have a plan and ask lots of questions, both of the websites and the nannies you interview!

Online Nanny Sites- Nannies, what should you look for?

Are you a nanny searching for a family? Perhaps you have registered with a traditional agency, but now want to expand your search. Online nanny sites have many benefits for nannies but be careful how you search! Some questions to ask:

• How big is the current family database in my area? Sites often have thousands of jobs but are they close to you? 
• What information are you required to give? What information will families have access to? Many sites require you to give references, personal info etc.. but will not allow families to see this info unless you give your permission. 
• What information will the site prescreen? Will they check your references or run a background check prior to putting your profile up on a site? 
• How will families be contacting you? via email or phone or through the site itself? 
• What information about families will you be given? Is it just nuts and bolts stuff like salary, hours, ages of kids or will there be more extensive info on family personality, job description and additional compensation? 
• Does the site have additional resources you can access such as interview tips, nanny contract information, etc..? Does the site seem nanny friendly and supportive? 
• Does the site belong to NANC or INA? Does the site seem nanny oriented or is it for all kinds of jobs? Do they support nannies by sponsoring training, conferences, support groups or any other means? 
• How long will your resume be posted? Do the family postings seem current and up to date? 
• Does the site give parents salary guidelines and do they fit into the salary range you are looking for? Does the site give parents advice and do you agree with what they are advising parents? Parents will view these sites as "experts" so what the sites tell employers will likely affect their opinions. 
• Finally is the site easy to use? Can you access the job database easily and search for jobs in ways that make sense to you (i.e. by geographic area, salary range, type of position)? Is the site organized in a way that makes sense to you? 

It is very important to remember that in any job search, but particularly when you are using online job sites, YOU MUST BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE. Make sure you are following basic internet safety rules when contacting families and be super cautious about giving out your information. Searching for a job online takes a lot more time and requires that you really look at searching for a job as a job in itself. 

Online Nanny Sites -- Are they for you?

Online nanny search websites are here to stay. In this economy they seem to be experiencing a boom in business. There are so many new sites popping up every day it can be confusing. And more and more nannies seem to be flocking to these sites as parents look to them to save a little money in the nanny search process.

It is important to know that while these sites have become more popular, they are still not the same as a traditional brick and mortar agency. The reason these sites are less expensive is that they offer less service. If you are a parent and you are hiring from an online site, you are going to have to do much more of the legwork for your search yourself. This does not only mean a background search and interview, it also includes prescreening candidates, gathering and checking references, clearly defining the contract and job description and more. And you are doing this on your own, with few resources and no experienced person to hold your hand through the process. If you are uncomfortable with the thought of this, you should look into a traditional agency. However, if you are willing to make your nanny search your job for awhile, then online sites can provide you with all kinds of great candidates.

And nannies, online sites are booming with jobs these days. But just like parents, you will need to do more of the legwork yourself than if you had registered with brick and mortar agencies. You will have to make more calls to prospective families, screen out families with "dealbreakers" and search out families that are in your pay grade. Be sure to be safe! Be cautious about information you post online and make sure you are not visiting a family for the first time in their home. Meet in a public place first- or at least make sure you have people who know where you are.

Next post we will talk about what to look for in an online site and start the discussion on what the best practices of online sites should be!

Nanny Care Worth the Investment

The economy has changed things for nannies. Many nannies are finding it hard to find jobs, and especially higher paying jobs. But do you go into the interview and really identify why you are worth the higher salary? Do you know why nanny care is worth the investment?

Nanny care is worth the investment.

• Studies show that early attachments with a consistent caregiver provide children can positively affect kids later social/emotional development. Kids with consistent quality care have better relationships, find it easier to express their emotions and even can preform better in school.
• Kids in daycare have higher rates of childhood illnesses such as ear infections, colds and even the flu.
• Children's brain development is at its peak from ages 0-6. It is essential that kids get the proper stimulation at these ages. Neural pathways can be lost forever if not stimulated at early stages.
• Teenagers go through some of the same developmental struggles as toddlers- the search for independence, the struggle between what I want to do and what I can do, the need for lots of sleep and rapid growth spurts. It is essential to recognize and help children through both of these turbulent periods.
• Nanny care provides parents with an in house expert and support.
• Nanny care can also provide household support, help with errands, light housekeeping, laundry, management issues and scheduling. This frees parents to spend more quality time with their children. While hard to quantify, parent involvement does have a huge influence in raising a healthy, happy, successful child.

I found articles and proof for all of these statements and more in a few minutes with a google search. Make sure you are armed with your facts as you renegotiate your raise or search for a new job. Nanny care is worth the investment.

A nanny is a true innovator!

When you are on the front lines with kids you have to be able to keep thinking. It really brings new meanings to the term "be on your toes". There are thousands of books, hundreds of experts, and countless sources to find new solutions for kids. But the one thing I have learned in my 15 or so years is that no two kids, really no two families are alike which means you always have to be a creative problem solver.

Enter my current situation with a 10 year old charge. He is entering into that hormone induced, moody, pre teen stage that no one warns you about. Oh, I know teenagers can be rough, but I find the transition to be even tougher. I have been down this road before, the advantage of being a nanny is that you do see these things over and over, so I know the drill. I have read the advice and studied up on current theory. We try to set fair limits. We give him some space. We teach him alternatives. We reason with him. Still his grumpy, sassy, angry behavior was driving me crazy!

So I made him grumpy coupons this week. Simple pieces of paper that say "I am in a bad mood, please leave me alone" and I told him he could use these when he was angry for no good reason. I then gave him some parameters, like he had to still treat people with respect, he had to be ready to go on time to activities, and he could not use these coupons during holidays and family obligations. The piece of paper was just a different way for him to communicate how he was feeling, and gave him a nicer, and somewhat humorous way to to ask to be left alone.

I don't know if they will work, but he did say thanks for them. He now is thinking about how to solve the problem instead of fighting against me.

I know lots of nannies who are creative problem solvers like this. You have to constantly be thinking of new ways to approach the situations that crop up. It is the most exciting part of the job really, that there are always challenges to face.