All Things Nanny

Favorite Friday ... Nannypalooza!

2011-11-04T01:04:00.001-04:00

I'm packing my bags and headed to Nannypalooza 2011 this weekend.

So why is Nannypalooza a favorite of mine?

It's an opportunity to see friends from across the country that I usually only get to catch with on Facebook.

It's also an opportunity to make new friends. Many of the friendships I have, started by meeting at conference - in fact, my best friend and I met almost 20 years ago at our first INA Conference in 1994.

It's a chance to be educated by some of our industries top leaders and doers. I'm in awe of what nannies are able to accomplish, and that they share that with others.

I've been in this career for 22 years, and I still find something new to learn each conference I attend.

It is the most fun I have at a conference. Where else can you go to a pajama/cupcake party at a professional event?

Whether you attend Nannypalooza, INA, a local or online event - gathering together with your peers is priceless and if you haven't attended a conference ever, you should add that to your bucket list of things to do!

Favorite Friday ... Nanny Pendant

2011-10-28T01:05:00.001-04:00

This is my favorite jewelry maker Lew's Jewelry. Sarah makes the most amazing custom design work for all occasions. (I've had 5 custom pieces made by her).

Her latest is just for NANNIES!

You can have your own Nanny Pendant for $25, with $5 of each purchase going towards Shoes That Fit charity.

This is a wonderful tribute to nannies.

Meet Marcia Hall, 2011 INA Nanny of the Year

2011-10-24T01:26:00.000-04:00

This article was written by Janinne Gardner as a feature to the ADCAN~Association of DC Area Nannies newsletter.

On May 13^th the International Nanny Association announced that the 2011 Nanny Of The Year was Marcia Hall. Marcia has been a nanny for almost 15 years since she graduated from the English, Nanny & Governess School in 1997 when she was 19 years old.

Read Marcia's acceptance speech.

She says, “I love being a professional nanny because I enjoy the challenge of teaching, nurturing and encouraging children while balancing managing their lives.”

As for why she decided to run for NOTY she says, “I decided to accept the nomination for Nanny of the Year in 2009 because I felt it was one more way to further my career as a nanny. Simply being nominated is a challenge and I like challenges. I accepted the nomination in 2010 and 2011 because I had many people - both nannies, employers past and present as well as other industry professionals telling me that I should go for it again. I was "suckered" into it ;) But honestly it is the greatest honor I think I could ever have as a nanny. I hope to represent the INA and professional nannies everywhere with greatness.”

In addition to the International Nanny Association she is a member of the Northshore Professional Nanny Alliance support group in Milwaukee. They participated in Nannypalooza- Nannies across America in 2010. She is also very involved in her church, Church in the City in Milwaukee, WI. In her church she has volunteered for many child related ministries over the 13 years she has been a member. She also works with Big Brothers and Big Sisters and used to be a part and work for a group on college campuses called Chi Alpha.

She currently works for a family with two children near her home of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a four year old girl and an eight year old boy. She comments, “The four year old loves to talk and is completely ready to start Kindergarten in the fall. The eight year old loves to play outside and spend time with his friends.” In addition to caring for these two wonderful children, she also cares for her own beautiful, energetic and intelligent two year old daughter, Nadia, who goes to work with her every day. She found this position through a local nanny placement agency, Perfect Match Nannies. She has been married for almost five years, they adopted their daughter when she was a day old and currently live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with their two cats, Sassy Pants & Chowder Head and their dog Allie.

She was born in Wisconsin not far from where she lives now. Her parents have since retired and now live in the northern woods of Wisconsin. “We have lots of fun visiting Grammy and Grandpa B.” Her older brother, Gene, lives in Milwaukee and gets to visit and baby sit Nadia very often.

She likes to organize her house and then re-organize it, she explains, “My husband Scott laughs that just when he figures out where everything in the kitchen, I re-organize it.” She also enjoys scrapbooking, but complains she is very behind.

As a child she loved the Anne of Green Gables series and says, “I read and re-read ALL 8 of them. (Not many people know there are 8 in the series.) Lucy M Montgomery also had another series I liked Emily of New Moon. I used to think I was born in the wrong era. These days I read mostly non-fiction – if I ever get to read. A few great ones are Irresistible Revolution by Shane Claiborne and a new one is Love Wins by Rob Bell. I do love listening to the Chronicles of Narnia series on audio. My husband thinks I should know them by heart now.”

She enjoys traveling and has been to some pretty cool places: Alaska, Hawaii, Dominican Republic, England and all over the US. To this she adds, “I would have to say hands down the best vacation I have ever taken was to Costa Rica in 2006. The family I had worked with for eight years just moved there and they invited me to come out and visit them. I spent three weeks there. The first was spent with the family on the west coast of the country, which was breathtaking. I spent a lot of time on the beach that week. The second week I spent on my own in the center of the country visiting volcanoes, raging rivers, natural fed hot springs and zip-lining through the rainforest. The last week of my vacation I spent on the east of the country with my cousin and her little 1 year old boy. They moved to the Caribbean side of the country a few years earlier. It was amazing to see how in just a few short miles the customs, culture and climate could change so dramatically. My husband and I have often talked about going back.”

When asked what makes her angry she replied, “What a loaded question. Unfortunately, way too many things make me angry. The list is long. But the thing that induces anger the most in me is ingratitude. That takes many forms. It is the thing I have the least amount of patience with when it comes to dealing with children but it also greatly angers me when I see it in the world. I see ingratitude when it comes to how we humans see our place in this world and in nature. In how the most fortunate see those that are less fortunate and vice versa. I wish that every person could look at what they have in life every day and realize exactly how much there is to be grateful for. I have this problem just as much as the next person. I have a great ability to not see what I really have and instead want what is just out of my reach. I believe if every person, young and old, could wake every day, look around and see all the amazing things they do have and be thankful for them – the world would be a different place.”

Introducing Favorite Friday

2011-10-21T04:55:00.000-04:00

Favorite Friday is my day to share with you a favorite book, quote, picture, product, tip, website/blog, just about anything that is a favorite of mine, that makes my life fun, organized, productive, professional, etc.

My first Favorite Friday is the book Like Pickle Juice on a Cookie by Julie Sternberg. I was fortunate enough to get a copy of this book for review, and I loved it! It's a great story about a nanny leaving a little girl and the new nanny who comes into her life.

Click here to read my review as well as an interview I did with the author at Regarding Nannies.

I encourage any nanny or family who is going through transition to a new nanny to read this book.

Happy National Nanny Recognition Week

2011-09-20T19:11:00.002-04:00

It's NNRW 2011! Nannies across the country are gathering and doing amazing things to celebrate one another.

Check out the NNRW blog for events in your area.

I'm proud to have so many wonderful mentors and peers in this industry. I applaud each and every one of you.

Nannypalooza 2011

2011-05-10T17:07:00.001-04:00

Get CLUED in!!
Join us at the nanny event of the year!

Nannypalooza 2011
November 5th and 6th, 2011
Turf Valley Resort, Ellicott City, MD
minutes from BWI airport

Nannies from all over the US gather for a weekend of learning, fun and networking.
Workshops this year to include topics such as the importance of play, working with families and children affected by autism, encouraging readers, the wellness of nannies and many more!
More than 14 workshops to choose from with a “learn today, use tomorrow” approach

Early bird pricing starts at just $100 but ends JUNE 1st!
For more information please visit our website at www.nannypalooza.com

Don’t miss out!!
Register today!!

Meet Greta Schraer - 2010 INA Nanny of the Year

2010-05-30T15:05:00.003-04:00

Hello Readers!

I am so excited to announce that I am the recipient of the International Nanny Association's 2010 Nanny of the Year! I am having a great time at conference with our local and national professional Nannies and I will be sharing more once conference is over. I did want to share with you my acceptance speech. I thought it was being video taped, but have not tracked it down yet. I would be glad to share if I find it!

Read Greta's INA Nanny of the Year Acceptance Speech.

Happy Nannyversary!

2010-05-02T18:03:00.003-04:00

Yes, Nannyversary. That's what my charges call it. For me, March was my personal Nannyversary ... 21 years in a career that I love.

Five families, 10 children, five states (New Jersey was twice), and thousands of memories to treasure.

A few highlights of my career ...

21 years ago, my starting salary was $180 a week + benefits.

Nanny Support Groups were still new, few and far between. Today, we have many and I'm proud to be the President of ADCAN - the longest running nanny support group in the country.

I was honored the 1997 INA Nanny of the Year.

Speaking at numerous conferences, sharing my experiences, wisdom and knowledge with other nannies.

Being part of the development team of Regarding Nannies.

Serving on the board of the International Nanny Association.

Being a part of five wonderful families, sharing in their families and watching the children grow to be amazing individuals.

A hundred years from now, it will not matter the car I drove, the house I lived in or the clothes I wore, but what will matter is that I was important in the life of a child. ~Anonymous

Congrats to Michele LaRowe - Working Mom's 411 makes Top 10

2010-01-26T16:48:00.007-05:00

Congrats to Michele LaRowe Conover, a dear friend, whose book Working Mom's 411: How To Manage Kids, Career and Home made the top 10 parenting books on sheknows.com

Top 10 parenting books to keep moms sane

Elizabeth Weiss McGolerick

Amid the chaos of busy schedules, tight purse strings and day-to-day struggles, moms still need time to connect with their family. The books featured here offer fresh perspectives on how to create that happiness, from infancy onward. Find the must-read parenting book that’s right for you.

New moms dream of creating the ideal family and nurturing it into a thriving, happy, content unit. But everyday life can interrupt your goals and distract your focus. Whether you’re looking for a way to bond with your baby, reason with your toddler or reconnect with your spouse, these books have the solutions to family bliss.

See the entire list of Top 10 books that are recommended.

Upcoming Events for 2010

2009-11-01T19:16:00.011-05:00

All Things Nanny has compiled a listing of known nanny events / conferences for 2010.

We know continuing education is important to nannies, and are pleased there are many opportunities available in the coming year. From an exciting INA conference in San Francisco to a relaxing nanny retreat in Key West, there is something for everyone.

As details and events become available, we will be sure to bring you that information.

Stay tuned to Regarding Nannies for The Financial Nanny tips on how to save for conferences.

If you know of any events or would like your event posted here, let us know!

International Nanny Association 25th Annual Conference
May 20-23, 2009
Hyatt at Fisherman's Wharf
San Francisco, CA
Exclusive INA Conference Room Rate of $115 per night!

Details can be found at www.nanny.org
Know a nanny who should be recognized as INA Nanny of the Year? Consider nominating her. Details can be found here.

Perfect Match Nannies 4th Annual Nanny Retreat
September 24-26, 2009
Key Largo, FL
Key Largo Resort
1 day education / training
Happiest Baby & Toddler on the Block and various safety training/recertification’s will be offered AND
2 days of networking, relaxing & fun activities. Open to all nannies.
Exact cost / details TBA.
Registration will open March 1 at Perfect Match Nannies.

Read all about the 2009 Retreat and get ready for 2010.

Details not yet available but as soon as we have them we will bring you information on Nannypalooza 2010.

National Nanny Recognition Week 2010
September 19 – 25. Details provided as they become available.

Oh the places we can go!

2009-09-21T21:46:00.009-04:00

Last week on Regarding Nannies, I wrote about the importance of getting and staying connected in this industry.

Continuing on that theme of staying connected, there is an abundance of sites available out there to nannies and the public that we can utilize in our personal and professional lives.

These are just a few of my favorites ...

Early Childhood Ed
Scholastic
Nanny Network - check out their library! From A-Z, Nanny Network has got you covered.
Best Nanny Newsletter

Watering Can Press
Kiddio
Skip to my Lou

Nannys Helping Hand

Nanny Blogs
The Creative Nanny
The Financial Nanny
CincyNanny
Gentle Transitions
Beyond Bottles
Nanny Groups

Agency Blogs
American Nanny Matters
Morningside Nannies

Nanny Mall

TLC for Kids

Don't forget to check out Yahoo Groups! A number of associations and nanny groups have groups online. Some are public, some private, but everyone has interests - so find yours today!

I know there are more out there … what sites do you visit that you find valuable to your personal or professional life as a nanny?

Happy NNRW - National Nanny Recognition Week

2009-09-20T07:25:00.001-04:00

To all the wonderful nannies ... Happy NNRW 2009!

Enjoy!

An Interview with Sue Downey ~ Co-creator of Nannypalooza

2009-08-23T16:56:00.005-04:00

I've known Sue for a few years, starting when I was a nanny in the Philadelphia area. With Nannypalooza coming to the Washington, DC area October 3-4, 2009, I thought this would be a great opportunity to ask Sue some questions about Nannypalooza and share with you all.

Why was Nannypalooza created?
Lora Brawley and I felt there was a need for affordable, high quality training. At the heart of it, that is the most important aspect of Nannypalooza. While there are many other great conferences, we wanted to create a more casual, less expensive option. Originally we thought it would only serve a small regional area, but it has grown as nannies have wanted to travel from all over the US to attend.

Why do you feel Nannypalooza is the success that it is?
I think the atmosphere we have been able to create at Nannypalooza is the key to success. While we are serious about our profession, we are all about creating an inclusive, fun environment - much like we do with our kids every day! We have had some amazing support from the nanny community as well - nannies who come back year and businesses that really support nannies and what we are trying to accomplish.

What is your greatest accomplishment associated with Nannypalooza?
Just being able to keep the price low is a big accomplishment for us and something we constantly struggle with. The 'palooza is all about fun, relaxed learning and connecting to others who feel the same way. It is a struggle every year to find enough financing, and to make tough choices about what we will offer or where we will be located. However, thanks to some incredibly supportive companies and some creative thinking we are still less than $100 for 6 workshops and 3 meals! This means that even nannies who are just starting out on their career path can attend.

What would you say to nannies that feel Nannypalooza or conferences in general are not for them - they don't feel they need to attend these types of venues?
It is easy to dismiss these events, especially if you have to pay for them yourself, but I think that there is NOTHING in the world like being a room full of people who share your professional ideals and hearing some new idea that will make a real difference to the kids you care for. It is important to invest in yourself. As nannies we often complain about the lack of respect we get from the press, from outsiders, or even from our employers. It essential to respect ourselves and know that to be professionals we need to continue learning. Conferences are one great way - certainly the most fun way in my opinion! And there are many options for GREAT conferences. You should try a few - INA, NAEYC, NannyPalooza - and see which one fits best for you. However, conferences aren't the only way to continue learning. If you are not attending conferences, make sure you are still training in some way.
What is the one thing you hope nannies take away from their Nannypalooza experience? At least one new idea, one new connection and a sense of enthusiasm and pride!

Anyone with ideas or questions should feel free to contact us. We are willing to work with people to make sure that anyone can attend whenever possible, and we welcome input from all sources!

Sue Downey is a professional nanny in the Philadelphia area and president of PhillyNannies.

Nannypalooza offers an amazing lineup of speakers. Some of the workshops include: Nanny Contracts, Challenges of Adolescence, Infant Massage, Time Management for the Nanny Manager, Defusing Sibling Rivalry and Working with the Special Needs Child. This is just a small sampling of the many workshops offered.

Presenters include: Kathy Webb, 4nannies.com and Nannypalooza Sponsor, Patricia Cancellier with PEP , Carolyn Stulberg - Alexandria School and Lynne Ticknor - Certified Parent Educator. Again, this is just a small sampling of the presenters that will be at Nannypalooza.

Still want to learn more? Read the Frequently Asked Questions about Nannypalooza.

Are you Ready? Being Prepared for Personal Emergencies

2009-07-19T18:09:00.002-04:00

As nannies we are so consumed with the safety and well-being of our charges and the families we care for, we often forget to include ourselves in emergency preparedness. At any time an accident can occur and with that comes a multitude of responsibility. Are you prepared? Are you prepared should YOU be the one that needs help, and not your charge or family?

I have every phone number, address, insurance number for my charges and parents, but what if something happens to me? My employer knows I have an aunt in Richmond, and that I have friends in the area, but do they know how to reach them? I’ve been fortunate to never have been seriously injured or ill, but I know nannies that have been. It has been their responsibility to call family or friends to help when needed.

So what can we do? What can we ask of our employer should something happen?

Prepare for the unexpected.

Accidents happen. On and off the job. Many nannies are hundreds, if not thousands of miles from home. Prepare a list of names and contact information to give to your employer to keep on file. Instruct them whom to contact and how, should an emergency should arise.

Provide your insurance information to your employer as a backup. If you are traveling with your employer this information can come in handy.

Discuss with your employer your reasoning for asking them to do this. Car accidents, falls, injuries, sudden illness … your mind should be on getting immediate medical attention, not having to contact people.

Hopefully you have a good relationship with your employer and are comfortable asking them to do this. If not, ask a close friend or neighbor who can step in should you need help.

If you don’t have your employers contact information – ask them for it. Say you are babysitting for them late one night and the police show up at the door. The parents have been involved in a serious car accident and both are hurt. What do you do? Whom do you contact? Having a list of family or friends that they wish to be notified should something happen can help you remain calm and focus on what needs to be done.

Police and emergency personnel recommend keeping an I C E number in your phone. I C E stands for IN CASE of EMERGENCY. This alerts police, emergency personnel and hospital staff of whom to call should you be involved in an accident. In your phone address book, list I C E and any person/number you wish contacted. This helps save valuable time in an emergency.

Also, keep in writing an emergency contact card in your vehicle. You can keep this in the glove compartment or with your insurance/registration information. This can be a listing of all personal information for you, the child/children in your car, emergency contact information to reach the parents, etc. Medical conditions, medications, doctor names and contact info and more. You should also keep a copy of your emergency medical release for the child/children in the car with you at all times. I also recommend keeping all important documents in a Ziploc clearly labeled IN CASE OF EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION.

Following these recommendations also helps you open up the lines of communication with your employer on what the expectations should are an emergency arise. How would they handle a situation if it involved the children? What if you had an accident off-hours in a car they provided? Do you have that outlined in your work agreement? Who’s responsible for work related accidents, even if you are not at fault?

So many responsibilities, so many opportunities for something to happen … ARE YOU PREPARED?

The Nannies are Here! Regarding Nannies that is.

2009-07-06T04:00:00.003-04:00

I’m proud to announce the launch of the new site Regarding Nannies. Together with Glenda Propst and Alice Shaffer, we have created a site that incorporates all aspects of today’s professional nanny.

Each week we will bring you:

Monday Moxie – is a roundup of nanny tidbits, news from the industry, some of our favorite websites and more.

Tuesday Tip Jar – the best and most useful tips to help you in your personal and professional lives.

Wednesday – Let’s Be Creative! Join The Creative Nanny as we bring you crafts, recipes and activities from guest contributors and some of our favorite websites and blogs.

Table Talk Thursday – interviews with some of today’s top nannies, profiles of nanny support groups and guest writers bringing you perspectives on issues we all face.

Financial Friday – The Financial Nanny brings you tips and resources for savings, spending and being financially secure.

We will also have giveaways, product and book reviews, and much, much more!

To kick things off we are giving away FOUR INA Memberships – one each week, starting today, July 6.

Visit every day, tell your friends and become a part of the site dedicated to YOU!

Something New and Exciting Coming Monday, July 6!

2009-07-03T15:56:00.003-04:00

The Nannies are coming your way! Come back Monday, July 6 to see where we are and what we are doing ...... You won't want to miss this!

Nanny Transitions: Help for Nannies When Leaving A Job

2009-06-13T13:36:00.003-04:00

Glenda Propst has a new blog, Nanny Transitions, dedicated to educating and helping nannies with the hard task of leaving a family. From communicating your intentions to preparing the parents and the kids to your departure, Glenda offers insight, practical tips and years of experience to any nanny currently in transition or thinking about leaving a family.

Great Giveaway For All Nannies

2009-05-15T14:53:00.005-04:00

Check out the NEW blogs of The Financial Nanny and Nanny Transitions for an exiting opportunity to win a FREE INA Membership.

The Nanny Financial Corner

2009-05-13T12:30:00.002-04:00

Oh Budget!
The following article appeared in the May/June 2009 ADCAN newsletter.
by Alice Shaffer

We have all been told at one time or another we need to follow a budget. However the problem we run into is how exactly to set one up and where our money goes. We would all love a personal financial planner but can't afford one. Today I bring you some hope to this frustrating process.

Read more .....

New Children's Book by Award Winning Author / Nanny Shellie Braeuner

2009-05-12T20:45:00.004-04:00

What a treat! Meet Award Winning Author / Nanny Shellie Braeuner and read how she combined her love of writing and love of children into an award winning book soon to be released to the public!

2009 INA Salary & Benefits Survey Results Announced

2009-05-06T08:38:00.003-04:00

The International Nanny Association has released the results of their recent Salary and Benefits Survey.

Six hundred and sixty seven (667) in-home child care providers responded to the 2009 INA Salary and Benefits Survey. The respondents include Nannies, Traveling Nannies, Temporary Nannies, Newborn Care Specialists, Doulas, Governesses, and other in-home child care providers.

Information in the report is based on the year 2008.

INA Honors New Nanny of the Year

2009-05-01T21:37:00.003-04:00

Real Life Super Nanny MaryAnn X. Meddish Honored with International Nanny Award

Dallas, TX (April 24, 2009) – The International Nanny Association (INA) has announced that MaryAnn X. Meddish, of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan has been selected as the 2009 INA Nanny of The Year (NOTY) award recipient at its annual conference in Dallas, Texas on April 24. “MaryAnn is the perfect picture of an exemplary nanny, not only in her work, but also in her professional conduct” said Wendy Sachs, Co-President of INA. In addition to being the best of the best in her profession, MaryAnn is of legal working status and adheres to all required state and federal tax laws; a hot topic not only in the political arena this year, but also in the recent media.

MaryAnn has been a professional nanny for the past 23 years and currently works as a nanny manager for a family with triplets. MaryAnn is a Certified Professional Nanny and graduate of Northwest Nannies Institute. She has also successfully completed the prestigious Nanny Advancement Program at Starkey International Institute and has passed the INA Nanny Credential Exam, earning her the title of INA Credentialed Nanny.

Lori Goldman, MaryAnn’s current employer says that “MaryAnn was born to be a nanny. Her ease in interacting with the triplets has fostered a serenity and calmness in them that make them the happiest and most content of babies. Her ability to nurture while gently guiding them is a wonderful thing to behold. Even our 11 year old daughter has fallen under MaryAnn’s spell.”
Carolyn Kavanaugh, MaryAnn’s former instructor at Northwest Nannies Institute (NNI) said “When MaryAnn first arrived at Northwest Nannies Institute in January 1990, we knew immediately that she was a young woman with the desire to be the very best nanny possible. NNI graduates are given an excellent foundation, but it is their responsibility to grow independently with each job and each challenge that awaits them. MaryAnn has truly flourished with each new family she has served.”

As is tradition, the prestigious award was presented by the previous year’s award recipient, 2008 NOTY Donna Robinson, a renowned traveling nanny and a genuine advocate for children. As a representative of the nanny profession, MaryAnn will be available for media interviews and appearances, in addition to booking speaking engagements.

As the 1997 INA Nanny of the Year I can say it was a highlight of my career to stand before family and friends and be recognized by my peers for a job that I love. This past month in Dallas, INA honored a new Nanny of the Year. I encourage every nanny who is passionate about what she does to consider the nomination process to be the next INA Nanny of the Year.

Off to Conference

2009-04-22T15:23:00.003-04:00

I'm packed and ready to head out tomorrow to the INA Conference in Dallas. I cannot wait to get back and share with you all the wonderful resources, information, and speaker information from this experience. If you're going to conference - see you there!

2009-04-15T11:13:00.004-04:00

What a wonderful day - a new nanny is coming and a little girl wonders what she will do with her nanny friend. Ginny Thurber has written a sweet story filled with wonderful illustrations and answers many questions I'm sure all children wonder ... will we play outside, will she feed me, will she make me eat food I don't like? Follow the adventure and fun of a special first day between nanny and child.

About the Author:
Ginny Thurber was born and raised in a small farming town in southern Idaho. Her formal education took place at the University at Little Rock, Arkansas where she discovered her love for writing. She later enrolled in The Institute for Children’s Literature and began writing children’s books and articles. Ginny has two daughters and five grandchildren. She works with children’s ministries and is a professional nanny. Ginny resides in Phoenix, Arizona with her puppy, Snickers.

Domestically Downsizing? INA Urges Parents to Carefully Calculate Their Cutbacks

2009-03-29T21:01:00.005-04:00

Media Contact:

Susan Tokayer, Co-President

International Nanny Association

Phone: (914) 674-8535

susantokay@aol.com

Media Contact:

Wendy Sachs, Co-President

International Nanny Association

Phone: (610) 645-6550

wsachs@nannyagency.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Domestically Downsizing? INA Urges Parents to Carefully Calculate Their Cutbacks

Hyannis, MA (March 26, 2009) – Walking the dog, running errands, doing the family laundry and deep cleaning the house used to be the responsibility of dog walkers, personal assistants and housekeepers, but in today’s economy, household employers are scaling back and asking their nannies to do more.

“For the first time ever, I am having parents call and ask if they can hire a nanny/housekeeper” said Susan Tokayer, co-president of the International Nanny Association (INA) and owner of Family Helpers, a New York based nanny placement agency. “Parents are looking for ways to cut back on their expenses and merging the roles of their household help is one way they’re trying to do just that.”

While even the most seasoned nanny understands that in this economy, they have to be even more flexible and figure out ways to bring added value to their job, it’s important for both parents and nannies to remember that the safety of the children must come first.

“While it is perfectly acceptable to ask a nanny to take on additional household tasks while the children are sleeping or at preschool, asking your nanny to perform household chores beyond the normal tidying up while the kids are in her care can put the children at risk” says Wendy Sachs, co-president of INA and owner of the Philadelphia Nanny Network, a Philadelphia based nanny placement agency.

Nannies agree, “When the children are in my care, my priority is keeping them safe and engaged” said Donna Robinson, a nanny with over a decade of experience and the associations 2008 Nanny of the Year. “It only takes a second for a toddler to get into cleaning supplies or to trip over the vacuum cord and get hurt. While I’m more than willing to help out, lend a hand and prove my worth, when my charge is awake or with me, my focus is solely on him.”

Nannies and nanny placement agency owners are experiencing the effects of domestic downsizing first hand and to help parents calculate their cutbacks, the International Nanny Association offers these five tips:

If you’re thinking about asking your nanny to take on additional household responsibilities, ask, don’t tell. Demanding that new responsibilities be added to an existing job description is a recipe for resentment. Approach your nanny with a list of five household tasks and ask her to choose three new responsibilities that she is willing to take on.
Anytime you’re modifying a job description or work agreement, it’s best to write it down and have both parties sign in acknowledgement. Having a current work agreement and job description outlining the expectations of both parties can help avoid miscommunications and misunderstandings down the road.
Reevaluate your childcare situation. Perhaps your children have outgrown the need for the expertise of a Newborn Care Specialist or other specialty type nanny. The right nanny for your newborn may not be the right nanny for your elementary school child. Hiring a nanny that has a more generalized focus can often reduce your childcare costs.
Consider taking part in a nanny share. If your household income has been decreased, but you aren’t willing to let your nanny go completely, consider a nanny share. Partner with another like-minded family who is looking to cut costs by sharing a childcare provider.
Look into hiring a nanny that has her own child. Many nannies with a decade or more of experience are now becoming mothers themselves. Hiring an experienced nanny with a child of her own can be a winning situation for all. You’ll get childcare from an experienced professional at a reduced rate, your child will get a built in playmate and your nanny will love and appreciate being able to bring her own child to work with her.

In today’s economy it’s financially tempting to ask your nanny to take on more, but be careful not to ask her to take on too much. “Remember your nanny’s primary job is to provide a safe and nurturing environment and to partner with you to raise physically, emotionally and socially healthy children” says Tokayer. “If you’re going to ask her to take on more, be sure to tell your nanny that it’s not a reflection on her or her work, but rather a sign of these grim economic times where everyone is forced to work harder.”

###About INAThe INA, a non-profit organization, serves as the umbrella association for the in-home child care industry by providing information and education to the public and to industry professionals. The INA is the only free-standing association that offers a nanny credential exam and nanny/family agreement. For more information, please visit our website: http://www.nanny.org/ or contact us by calling 1-888-878-1477.

March is National Craft Month

2009-03-13T13:26:00.004-04:00

Let's be creative. Here are some of my favorite sites to inspire you ~~
Kiddio

Crayola

Skip To My Lou

The Idea Box

DLTK's Crafts for Kids

What are your favorite sites?

Nannies Needed to Take INA Salary Survey

2009-02-24T16:57:00.005-05:00

INA is asking all nannies to participate in their 2008 Salary Survey. This survey can be accessed through the INA Home Page. Responses are confidential and results will be unveiled at the INA Annual Conference in Dallas. The results are then released to the public - including parents, press and industry businesses and professionals. The more nannies that take the survey means that more information is collected about trends in our industry today.

I urge all nannies to take the survey and provide much needed input on today's nannies. Deadline is February 28, 2009.

INA Conference Scholarship Opportunity Offered to ALL Nannies

2009-02-10T10:39:00.007-05:00

A wonderful group of specialty nannies are offering a scholarship* to the upcoming INA Conference for one lucky nanny.

Previously offered only to INA Members, this year, the scholarship is OPEN TO ALL NANNIES.

Kim Dillon, Clelie Borne, Melanie Nesbit, Myra Leffler, Rowlanda Smith, Letea Payne (previous winner), MaryAnn X. Meddish, Martha Wetzel, Janinne Gardner, and Donna Robinson are hoping to make this an annual scholarship and alternate each year between one for All Nannies and Specialty Nannies new to the field.

So what do you need to do to be eligible? Simple. Write a 300 word essay on Why I Am Committed to the Nanny Profession.

Completed essays should be emailed to memberservices@nanny.org The essays should include your name, address, email address, and phone number. The contest ends on March 1st and winners announced by March 15th.

Good Luck!

* note the scholarship covers the member rate registration fee for one person to attend the conference. Travel, accomodations, food, etc., are the responsibility of the recipient.

The No-Cry Nap Solution by Elizabeth Pantley

2009-01-22T11:31:00.005-05:00

Author Elizabeth Pantley and done it again with her new book The No-Cry Nap Solution.

Will your child only nap in your arms, in a swing, or after elaborate rituals? Does your child take cat naps -- or none at all? Let world-renowned, trusted parenting author Elizabeth Pantley help you. She’ll guide you with the same sensitive expertise and gentle approach used in her other No-Cry bestsellers about sleep, discipline and potty training.

Research proves that daily naps improve health, mood, growth, intelligence and well-being. Yet children often resist the naps they need and parents don’t know how to make them happen. The results are fussy, crying babies and cranky, grouchy kids who also have trouble sleeping at night!
In The No-Cry Nap Solution Pantley explains to parents of children ages newborn to kindergarten the importance of napping to both behavior during the day and sleeping during (and through!) the night. She then shares with you her gentle, loving child-friendly techniques--tested on families of all sizes and circumstances--and shows you how you can customize her solutions for your own family.

Pantley addresses issues such as children who resist naps, dealing with schedule changes, turning short naps into longer ones, helping a child go from needing motion for sleep to “stationery” sleep, nursing at naptime, daycare-related napping problems, newborn “in-arms” or “in-sling” napping issues, and much more.

Have you had success with Elizabeth Pantley's books? Share your success stories!

2008 INA Salary Survey

2009-01-05T11:07:00.005-05:00

Nannies are invited to take the 2008 INA Salary Survey. This information is used when INA is contacted by the media and the public regarding salary figures, benefits and general nanny dynamics. Your responses are confidential.

New Year's Resolutions

2008-12-12T13:05:00.007-05:00

We all make them, and we break them. Here's one I hope you'll keep and share with others you know. The wonderful people at Hooked on Phonics have created a wonderful program that gives back to the community, and all of us can get involved.

Basically, if you make a New Year's Resolution to teach a child to read in 2009, HoP will donate a learn-to-read kit to needy children through FirstBook.org, a really cool non-profit. The best part is that it is FREE.

So get started today! Pledge now to help a child to read in 2009, and give them the tools they need to succeed not only with reading, but with their overall education.

Working With Divorced Parents

2008-12-03T10:39:00.011-05:00

I've spent the past 10+ years working with divorced parents. I was thrilled to be asked to write about my perspective on this specialty niche and my suggestions and observations were published at the blog for Morningside Nannies in Houston, TX.

You can also hear an interview I did at All About Nanny Care on this topic which has some more information, not included in the blog.

I invite you to check both of them out and let me know what you think about nannies who work with divorced parents. What advice do you have?

Be The Best Nanny Monthly Guide - one of the best resources available to our industry

2008-11-29T18:49:00.015-05:00

In my opinion, the Be The Best Nanny Monthly Guide is one of the best resources available at a great price to anyone in the nanny industry. Stephanie Felzenberg goes above and beyond each month to bring her readers the best information, resources, experts and advice.

Each newsletter is topic based ranging from ...

Nanny Taxes
Nanny Health Insurance
Nanny Training Programs
Working with Nanny Agencies
Nanny Support Groups
Nanny Web Sites
Protecting Children Online
Getting Raises
Nanny Background Checks
Nannies Traveling with Families
Working for Nontraditional Families
How to Leave a Job
Children's Safety & Home Safety
Child Development
Caring for Multiples
Nutrition & Cooking with Kids
Nannies and Negotiating
Sleep Habits and Nap time
Organizing the Job, Home, Paperwork & Portfolio
Imaginative & Dramatic Play
Breaking Bad Habits
Children's Self-Esteem
How Much Housekeeping Should Nannies Do?

If you haven't yet experienced BTBN, I invite you to check out a complimentary copy. You'll like what you see. Then you can subscribe and get the most up-to-date issue delivered directly to you!

Want more information? Check out the Be The Best Nanny Monthly Guide Blog.

Stephanie has offered one lucky All Things Nanny reader a free email subscription to Be The Best Nanny Monthly Guide. To be eligible, go to the BTBN Blog, find your state and then come back here and leave a comment in this topic, with your state hourly part-time rate. One winner will be selected using Random. Deadline is Dec. 18. Winner will be notified by email (make sure to leave your email address in the comment you leave).

Nanny Adventures Celebrates 100 Posts

2008-11-20T10:01:00.003-05:00

My friend, Nanny A over at Nanny Adventures is celebrating her 100th post by giving away a free gift - just in time for the holidays!

Go check it out - the deadline is today though, November 20th.

Nannypalooza 2009 Announced

2008-11-13T12:21:00.004-05:00

If you've attended Nannypalooza in the past, you'll know that 2009 will be another great event for nannies and industry professionals to attend. Never attended? You won't want to miss this opportunity to meet other nannies, network with industry professionals and enhance and expand your knowledge of many issues we face in this industry.

Nannypalooza 2009
October 17/18
McLean VA (Washington, DC metro area)

I look forward to seeing many familiar faces there, and meeting many new people as well.

If you've attended Nannypalooza, I'd love to hear why you like attending. What is the best piece of information you learned that you've been able to utilize in your work?

TODAY show - New Face of Mary Poppins, part 2

2008-10-30T09:29:00.008-04:00

I hope you got a chance to see the TODAY show segment this morning. If not, my great friend Michelle LaRowe Conover sent me the segment link early this morning. Check it out and let me know what you think of specialized / niche nannies. This was a great positive story on nannies! While my interview wasn't included, it was great to see some of my wonderful friends on camera including Myrna Alphonse, Sue Downey, and MaryAnn X. Meddish. If you look closely, you can see my back and my nice green shirt I was wearing. I'm also thrilled that the opening shot was of ADCAN material we had on the Nanny Support Group table, and TANG got a great view of their information as well. Overall, a great segment and positive exposure for our industry.

See what's new over at Nanny Adventures

2008-10-28T13:25:00.002-04:00

My friend Alice has a fun blog of things that go on in her corner of the nanny world. She's got a new post on how to get some fun freebies and how to save on shopping - just in time for the holidays.

But my favorite so far is the Lead Warnings ... this is a must read for everyone and will definitely make you smile.

Enjoy!

New Face of Mary Poppins

2008-10-26T17:30:00.004-04:00

While I was at Nannypalooza earlier this month, the TODAY show was there, interviewing conference attendees who specialized in a certain field of nannying - infant care, multiples, special needs and in my case - working for divorced parents.

Those interviews are scheduled to air THIS THURSDAY - October 30. The focus will be on specialized nannies. I invite you to watch or set your Tivo or DVR's.

After the segment, come back and share your thoughts on the New Face of Mary Poppins.

2008-10-23T17:23:00.010-04:00

Welcome to my new venture. All Things Nanny is my platform to provide to you - All Things Nanny - resources, reviews, industry news, events, humor, as well as sharing my 20 years experience as a nanny with you all.

My wish is to make this a place for you to come back to again and again, and that you'll share with everyone you know. I hope you'll offer comments, suggestions and share with me your experiences.

2009 INA Conference Announced

2008-10-06T15:45:00.010-04:00

The International Nanny Association will host its 24th Annual Conference April 23-26, 2009 in Dallas, TX.

I highly recommend this conference to anyone in the in-home child care industry who has never attended an industry conference before. This Thursday - Sunday event is filled with networking opportunities, workshops, phenomenal speakers, industry leaders, and much more.

The INA also recognized an outstanding nanny in her profession by recognizing the Nanny of the Year. As a past INA Nanny of the Year (1997), I encourage all nannies to bring out their best and reach for this accomplishment and be recognized by your peers for the work you love.

Watch for more details on the conference as they become available.

Have you attended an INA Conference? What is the most important thing you've learned from attending Conference? What is your favorite memory?

Coming Soon!

2008-09-13T13:53:00.002-04:00

Check back in the weeks to come for information on All Things Nanny ...

Your source for information, education, resources, insight, products, wisdom, humor and much, much more.