Gretchen R.

“ I've been a preschool teacher for 7 years, working with toddlers through 5-year-old's, as well as elementary age children. I have been a regular babysitter and nanny to children from schools I have worked at, and families I have been recommended to. I love taking children out for trips to see new things, explore, run and have fun. I don't believe in sitting in front of the TV for education (although I do love...

I've been a preschool teacher for 7 years, working with toddlers through 5-year-old's, as well as elementary age children. I have been a regular babysitter and nanny to children from schools I have worked at, and families I have been recommended to. I love taking children out for trips to see new things, explore, run and have fun. I don't believe in sitting in front of the TV for education (although I do love Dora the Explorer and dance videos for kids), but in being active! I believe artistic and creative play are excellent ways for children to learn self expression, confidence, and cognitive development. Every day, there are a million things for a child to learn. As a nanny, I believe maintaining a positive, imaginative attitude, and communicating at a child's level is the best way to build a strong relationship and gain the most of our time together. I love watching a child grow and use their imagination through art, math, dance, dramatic play, and story telling.
I place great importance in developing mutual respect between child and caregiver, setting boundaries, and working through problems with understanding and by example. Consistency is key. And any activity can have an element of fun - including picking up as you go. I fully promote making messes and getting dirty (within reason) to learn, be creative, and develop problem-solving skills, yet also in developing a sense of personal responsibility to work together on cleaning up and making compromises throughout the day.
I would love to develop a positive, comfortable relationship with the right family, and a schedule that works for all of us. I would like a long term situation with consistency, but am also flexible. I have no problem with staying a bit longer (I know work schedules can be unpredictable) filling in last minute, and babysitting late nights when you need a night out or a weekend day to run errands. I like open communication with children as well as parents.

I just finished a long term position with a great family who moved away, so am now available for full time or part time position!

*Please note: I receive a lot of messages from families and it gets overwhelming at times! I will do my best to get back to you with any questions you have as soon as possible. Please include in your message: Days, hours, location, and number of children you are looking to receive care for. I want to make this as easy as possible for both of us! Thank You

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