Annie’s Nanny Network

March’s Nanny of the Month is Becky Aman! Becky has consistently come through for us in a pinch and is extremely flexible.  We are grateful to have her represent our agency!

Her favorite children’s book series is Olivia.

Congratulations Becky!

A crucial part of a nanny’s job is identifying the developmental stages for the child or children in your care. Understanding these stages allows you to introduce games, toys, and activities that will aide the child in his or her growth. Check out this article, Stages of Play, from the Foundation for Early Learning for types of play and suggestions for toys and tools by age group.

Tags: early childhood development, nanny industry, nanny tips

One of the biggest hurdles many nannies face is helping an older sibling through the introduction of a new baby. We hear nannies bring this issue up frequently.  There are many resources out there to prepare for and get through these changes in the household dynamic.

Things to do before the new baby’s arrival:

Make the child part of the pregnancy - Ask the parents if they’re comfortable taking the older child to prenatal appointments or including him or her in meetings with the mid-wife. Let the child listen to the baby’s heartbeat or feel the baby kick. This will make the child feel like part of the change.

Talk to the child about pregnancy and babies - Read books, talk about the changes Mommy is going through, and talk about babies. Preparation and knowing what to expect are key for children. Encourage questions!

After the birth:

Talk up their new status as “big brother” or “big sister” - Explain to the older child how important his or her new role is. Give the child some age appropriate responsibilities or tasks associated with the new baby. Let them know you need their help!

Spend individual time with the older child - Set up a special time for you and the child to do a fun activity that you like to do together. Make sure to give them lots of attention when you can.

Be careful what you say - Don’t use the baby as an excuse for why you can’t spend time with the older child. Use your words carefully. Be sure to draw attention to the older child as well as the baby when visitors are around.

Above all communication, routine, attention, and patience will get you through the adjustment. Let us know if you have any tips or stories!

Links:

Check out this blog for links to articles on how to prepare the sibling based on his or her specific age.

Why Siblings Fight

Books/Resources

Some other links on the subject:

Preparing Your Older Child for the New Baby

Preparing Older Children For a New Sibling

Bringing Baby Home to Siblings

Tags: nanny community, nanny resources, seattle nanny, sibling rivalry

Check out this recent article from the New York Times: How to Speak Nanny. The story delves into key issues that hinder good communication between parents and nannies. Some highlights include the delicate employer vs. family friend balance, the need for clear verbal/written expectations, and the parent’s hesitation to “give orders.”

Let us know what you think. Have you ever had a difficult communication issue with your employer that you were able to resolve?

Tags: articles, nanny community, nanny industry

February’s Nanny of the Month is Andrea Williams!  Andrea has been our most requested On-Call nanny over the last month and is consistently praised by our families.

Her favorite children’s winter activity is: sledding and sharing homemade hot chocolate.

Thank you Andrea for all you do and the example you set in the community!

Check out the Ruby Slipper Guide for city guides, calendar of events, and other great resources for things to do and see with children on the Eastside.  They have ideas & activities from Bothell all the way to Renton!

Nannies: check out The Spot Card, a unique savings opportunity for activities and stores on the Eastside. The Spot Card offers recurring monthly specials as well as loyalty-card benefits!  Check out the website for more details.

Now that the hustle and bustle of the holidays are over and winter has truly settled in, nannies need some exciting “go-to” activities for the kids.  Check out these programs, resources, and activities going on in the greater Seattle area for new ideas:

• Don’t miss the temporary exhibit at the Children’s Museum, “Sesame Street presents: The Body!” which is over at the end of January.  This interactive exhibit teaches children how their bodies work and how to keep them healthy.
• Be sure to check your local Parks & Recreation calendar of events regularly for classes and programs. They have great indoor play areas for toddlers all over the city.
• Red Tricycle put together a list of “Top Ten FREE (or CHEAP) Things to do with Kids Under 5 in Seattle” Check it out here.
• If you really want to get out and embrace the winter weather, scope out Red Tricycle’s picks for snow-filled activities near the city.

Let us know if there are any other activities you’d like to share with other nannies!

January’s Nanny of the Month is Alyssa Meadows!  Alyssa has received outstanding feedback from our clients and was recently placed in a full-time Household Manager/Nanny job.

Her favorite children’s book is: “Cars and Trucks and Things That Go” by Richard Scarry

Thank you Alyssa for all you do and the example you set in the community!

Tags: nanny community, nanny industry, Nanny of the Month

As of January 1st, 2010, the standard IRS mileage reimbursement rate changed to $.50 cents per mile (down from $.55 cents per mile).  If you are driving your own vehicle for work you should be reimbursed for any driving done as a job requirement.