female

Speaks English

cared for children ages 0-12 years old. I have frequently stayed overnight so parents could either sleep in or go away for the night or weekend. I also have watched children from multiple families in one evening so all of the parents could attend a social function. I engage the children in my care in activities that will stimulate their minds, imagination and creativity. Arts and crafts, construction (Lego, building blocks etc...) and dramatic play are all forms of activities I employ. I teach manners, respect for oneself and others as well as property. I help them learn boundaries and accountability for ones actions by using the actions versus consequences technique. I love to spend time outdoors, weather permitting, going on outings to local parks, museums, indoor play places, libraries, zoo and aquarium. I don't use computers, televisions or other forms of electronic devices to do my job. I prefer to use them as incentives for positive behaviors. I have worked with children with ADD/ADHD, Autism, Down syndrome, emotional, mental, physical and learning disabilities, depression, anxiety, developmental delays, neurological and sensory issues. When caring for infants I work on fine and gross motor skills, talk, read and sing to them and spend time outdoors, whether permitting. I am also happy to make fresh baby food so the family does not have to buy canned, if they prefer not to. I have done overnight care, in the past, so parents can get a good nights sleep. I have cared for children for 18 years in a variety of settings from in home care, day and after- school care facilities. I am working on a child psychology degree with a minor in sociology. I thoroughly enjoy being around and working with children of all ages. My desire is to help children who may feel (often as a result of some form of disability or emotional issue) like they do not fit in with their peers. Through work with self esteem, confidence building, and other forms of creative work (arts an crafts, etc.) they can come to an understanding of the wonderful person they are, how much they do matter and how much they have to give to others.