Author: Michelle Kelsey

Categories
For Nannies For Parents

Introducing The Nanny Solution

An nanny and a child playing happily while baking.

 

This month, Nannies on Call is celebrating its 20th birthday. To celebrate, we wanted to share the story of how it all began, and introduce you to our new sister company, The Nanny Solution!

Our story:

When working mom-of-two, Michelle Kelsey, started Nannies on Call in 2001, it was out of necessity — she couldn’t find trustworthy, high-end childcare for her daughters and it was impacting her life in a negative way. So, she created what she had longed for — a professional, easy-to-use, reliable Nanny service. Since then, Nannies on Call has pre-screened over 18,000 Nannies and provided 1,552,310 hours of on call childcare to families. Our Placement Team has connected over 26,000 families with exceptional Nannies and placed over 1,800 Nannies.

In 2021, twenty years later, Nannies on Call has had to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing needs of both clients and Nannies. We recognize that there is an increased need for safe, health-conscious, reliable child care. At the same time, parents’ and Nannies’ roles have also changed — they have to be educators, as well as caregivers. While many families are familiar with our on call babysitting services, they may be unaware that we also offer full-time and part-time Nanny placements to fulfill their ongoing child care needs. Our Nannies on Call team assessed the situation and saw an opportunity to provide a solution — The Nanny Solution.

The Nanny Solution is made up of the same knowledgeable, experienced staff and offers the same high-quality Nannies on Call service. We recruit educated, engaging, and experienced Nannies, and offer families personalized childcare solutions to fit their unique lifestyles.

About the Nanny Solution:

The Nanny Solution is dedicated to providing families with trustworthy, high-end childcare that is tailored to fit their unique needs and lifestyle.

Nannies who are hired have impressive skill sets, up to date certifications, and varying personalities. All our Nannies are educated, engaging, and adaptable. You tell us your situation, and we find you your personalized Nanny Solution.

All our Nannies have:

  • Clear Criminal Record Checks
  • Valid First Aid and CPR certification
  • A minimum of 2 years child care experience
  • Verified references

 

If you’re looking for a personalized childcare solution to fit your lifestyle, book a consultation with one of our Placement Managers to find out if The Nanny Solution has the right fit for your family.

Lisa Bruce – Book a consultation
BC, Alberta and Nationwide Searches
Ext 104
lisa@thenannysolution.ca

Kate McGeachin – Book a consultation
Ontario and Nationwide Searches
Ext 108
kate@thenannysolution.ca

Find us:
The Nanny Solution
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Categories
For Parents

Nanny Search Discrimination

Hands in a circle of different ethnicities demonstrating inclusion.

 

In our 20 years of experience as a professional Nanny agency, we have heard clients make every request in the book. For the most part, we try our absolute best to accommodate families’ requests and help them find a Nanny that’s the right fit for their specific needs. On occasion, however, we do encounter clients making discriminatory requests, which we are absolutely not willing to accommodate.

What are discriminatory requests?

  • Requests for Nannies of a certain race or ethnic background (or Nannies who are not of a certain race or ethnic background)
  • Requests related to the Nanny’s gender identity or sexual orientation.
  • Requests for Nannies of a certain age group.
  • Requests related to the Nanny’s size or body type.
  • Requests related to the Nanny’s physical appearance.

What are you actually looking for in a Nanny?

Before specifying that you want “a Filipino Nanny” or that you don’t want “someone under the age of 25”, take a moment to reflect. What specific qualities do you value in a Nanny who is _____? Is the request you’re about to make based on a preconceived idea or stereotype about a specific group or demographic? What is it that you’re actually looking for, and how might you phrase it differently?

Below, we’ve listed some of the qualities that families desire in a Nanny. This language may be helpful for reframing your request, so that we can help you find a Nanny that’s the right fit.

  • Language skills (For example: “We would like a Nanny who is fluent in _____” or “we prefer a Nanny who also speaks _____”.)
  • Energetic
  • Active
  • Experienced
  • Mature
  • Patient
  • Engaging and attentive
  • Caring and nurturing
  • Communicative
  • Fun and enthusiastic
  • Creative
  • Flexible and adaptable
  • Reliable
  • Punctual, good time management skills
  • Organized
  • Housekeeping skills
  • Meal preparation and cooking skills
  • Positive discipline skills

 

But, why?

We understand that, as parents, you only want what is best for your child(ren). Most of the time, there are no negative intentions behind the requests that are being made, however, they are often based on a preconceived notion or stereotype the client has in mind. Stereotypes (even seemingly “positive” stereotypes) can be harmful, as they result in people having implicit biases toward a specific group or demographic. These biases may then lead us to deny opportunities to those belonging (or not belonging) to that group. As an agency, we are not willing to deny highly qualified candidates the opportunity to apply for a position simply based on a family’s prejudice.

Although we do, unfortunately, encounter racial biases with some clients, we are not speaking exclusively about race and ethnicity. We also often receive requests based on ageism — for example, clients who don’t want a Nanny under the age of 25, or who don’t want someone over the age of 50. When we inquire as to why they would prefer someone older, more often than not, we learn that their real concern is that the Nanny will not be hardworking or that they will be on their phone all day. Conversely, some clients would prefer a younger Nanny, as they feel that someone older won’t have the stamina to keep up with their energetic children. In our experience, age does not determine whether someone is a good Nanny or not — work ethic, energy, and enthusiasm do. We’ve placed 19-year-old Nannies with families who have reported that they were the most hard-working, responsible employee they’ve ever hired. We’ve also placed Nannies in their 50’s who can carry twins up and down multiple flights of stairs all day, and who run marathons in their spare time. When it comes to being an exceptional child care provider, age is truly just a number!

We also sometimes have clients requesting a Nanny who is “thin” or “in good shape” (yes, this does happen). Quite often, what they are actually requesting is a Nanny who is active and energetic, and can keep up with their children. Unfortunately, as a society, we often equate size and body type with level of fitness. If you need a Nanny that has the stamina to keep up with your busy family, we will find you that Nanny! The Nanny’s physical appearance, however, will not be a deciding factor in our search.

Where can I learn more about being inclusive?

Here are some informative resources to check out:

7 Ways to Be More Inclusive in Your Everyday Life

Guide to Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace

Gender-Neutral Pronouns 101: Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know

Types of Discrimination

The Terrifying Power of Stereotypes – and How to Deal with Them

3 Reasons Positive Stereotypes aren’t that Positive

White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack

Categories
COVID For Nannies

For Nannies: Practicing Gratitude During the Pandemic

 

These days, it’s easy to get caught in a spiral of negative thoughts. With all that’s going on in the world — a global pandemic, the tense political climate, racially-based violence, increased financial stress, a general feeling of uncertainty, we could go on and on — it’s hard to feel optimistic. That’s why now, more than ever, it’s important for us to practice gratitude and recognize the silver linings hiding in those big, dark clouds. Whether you simply have moments of silent reflection to think about the things that you are grateful for or you actively write in a gratitude journal each day, practising gratitude can be both cathartic and healing. We have put together a list of a few things that Nannies have to be grateful for to help you get started.

Your own health

Be grateful that you are strong and in good health. Say “thank you” to your body for all it does and all it has gone through over the years.

Family and friends

Whether they live in the same household as us or we’ve only seen them over Zoom in the past 8 months, our family and friends are what’s really getting us through this. Their ongoing support, words of encouragement, shoulders to cry on, and moments of laughter are something to be grateful for.

Your Nanny family

Many families are also facing financial hardships and uncertainty, yet they still see the value in having you on as their Nanny. Have gratitude for the parents for continuing to employ you during this time when so many others have lost their source of income. Thank the little ones as well — for the joy, wonder, and curiosity they continue to bring into your life.

The gift of time

Without all of the usual social obligations and everyday responsibilities, many of us have more time on our hands than ever before. We are able to do things that we wouldn’t normally have time for — organizing, DIY projects, hobbies, reading, learning new skills, catching up on our Netflix watch list, and so on. Sometimes it may feel like all we have is time, but when we reflect on the alternative, we realize that this is actually something to be thankful for.

Less social pressure

Homebodies rejoice! Is there a better excuse to decline a social invitation than a global pandemic? We don’t think so. Your introverted side is grateful for the opportunity to recharge and engage in some self-care.

Self-reflection

These past 8 months have given us the time to sit back and really figure out what’s important in life. We’ve gained insight and clarity, allowing our priorities to shift. If you’re finding that you’re not sweating the small stuff as much as you did before, be grateful for this increased time for self-reflection.

Creativity

The societal changes and restrictions we’ve had to adapt to these past few months have forced us to get creative and find new ways of doing things. Have gratitude for our collective creativity and imagination!

The benefits for our planet

The earth says “thank you” and we should feel grateful too. Less emissions means we’re reducing our global carbon footprint, making the air cleaner for all. In some parts of the world, coral reefs are actually starting to grow again. Venice’s waterways are cleaner than they’ve been in decades. Our planet is slowly starting to heal and that is something to be incredibly thankful for!

Solidarity

The message everywhere is “we’re all in this together”. People are coming together to help each other out, we’re showing appreciation for our essential workers, and we’re finding that we are stronger and our voices are louder when we stand together. Have gratitude for the solidarity that we are demonstrating.

The Nanny Solution by Nannies on Call team is grateful for YOU, our wonderful Nannies who have stood by us through these difficult times. We truly wouldn’t be here today without you. Thank you!

Categories
For Parents

Happy Nanny, Happy Family

An nanny and a child playing happily while baking.

 

Our Placement Team has connected over 26,000 families with Nannies and placed over 1,800 different Nannies, 95% of whom stay with their placement families for longer than one year — this doesn’t just happen by accident! In our twenty years of experience in the industry, we have learned the secrets to keeping your Nanny happy and ensuring a successful, lasting placement. We want to help your family have the same wonderful experience, that’s why we’ve compiled a list of suggestions to help you navigate the working relationship with your Nanny and ensure that everyone is happy.

 

How to aid clarity and happiness in relationship with your Nanny:

  • Follow the contract. It’s really that simple — follow the contract and keep a copy on-hand to refer back to when needed.
  • Always pay your Nanny on the date that was agreed upon and the amount you had both agreed to.
  • Set clear guidelines. Be upfront about your expectations, boundaries, and preferred methods of communication.
  • Stay on schedule and always try to be on time. Your Nanny’s time is valuable — do not expect them to stay longer than their work hours, unless previously discussed and agreed to by both parties, or in case of an emergency.
  • Use a day planner to write down a schedule for the day, including the tasks that need to get done (e.g., the nap and feeding schedule, fold cloth diapers, prepare formula or a certain meal for the children, classes the children have scheduled, etc.). Leave space for your Nanny to write down what they did with the children, what the children ate, when they napped, and so on, as well.
  • Just as you would in any workplace, meet with your Nanny on a regular basis to review their performance, and to give and receive constructive feedback. Be sure to give your Nanny the opportunity to discuss anything that may be coming up for them or any questions they may have.
  • Start and end any discussion on a positive note. Try to approach all conversations in a non-confrontational tone, and be specific about any concerns you may have. It is important to be clear about roles and responsibilities, and to talk through important issues in a timely manner, before they become a source of tension or conflict.

 

Some questions to clarify with your Nanny at the beginning of the working relationship:

  • What are your rules around screen time for the children? Are they allowed to watch television, use the computer, handheld devices, etc.?
  • Is it okay for the Nanny to use the home computer?
  • What are your rules regarding cell phone use while the Nanny’s watching the children?
  • Do you want the Nanny to call or text to update you throughout the day?
  • What do you want your child to eat for meals and snacks? Are there foods that you do not want your child exposed to? What about sweets?
  • Do you want your child using a pacifier?
  • Are the children expected to help out with tidying up or chores around the house?
  • Do you discipline your children? If so, how (e.g., positive discipline, time-outs, etc.)?
  • Can the Nanny help your children with their homework?

 

Categories
COVID For Nannies

Nanny Interviews in a COVID World

A potential nanny interviewing for a position during COVID.

 

Job interviews look a lot different today than they did just 9 months ago. Can you even imagine beginning an interview with a friendly handshake these days? We can’t either. That’s why The Nanny Solution has put together a list of helpful tips and things to be mindful of when interviewing for a Nanny position during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Be flexible with the format

It is still possible that the employer will request an in-person interview; however, these days it is more likely that they will decide to host the initial interview virtually (over Zoom, Skype, Facetime, Whatsapp, etc.). You may not be familiar with all these formats, but it is important to be flexible and willing to use a different app than what you’re accustomed to. Everyone has a different take on how they want to host an interview — view this as an opportunity to demonstrate how adaptable you are before the interview’s even begun.

Test your technology

Make sure you’re prepared and have tested out your technology prior to the interview. It is important to do a test login and ensure your video and audio works beforehand, as there can sometimes be technical errors. You certainly don’t want to be late for your interview because you can’t log in.

Find out the family’s social distancing rules

If the interview is taking place in person, be sure to communicate with the family beforehand and find out what their preferences and safety protocols are. For example: Will you be meeting inside or outside? Will you be able to safely social distance? Do they want you to wear a mask? To be on the safe side, you should always bring a mask and your own hand sanitizer with you, and wash your hands upon entering the home or other indoor space.

Day-to-day details

Similarly, you should also ask about the family’s preferences for the day-to-day in the job. Will you be required to wear a mask at work at all times or only while indoors? Do they allow you to leave the house or just stay on the grounds? Can you visit a park? What are their rules about where their child/children is/are allowed to go? What sort of interactions do they have with those outside their household? What are the rules with family members coming over or friends stopping by for a playdate? It is important for you to have all this information prior to working with the family, so that you’re all on the same page and understand each other’s comfort levels and expectations.

Define roles and discuss scenarios

This is especially important if you’re going to be placed with a family where the parents are working from home. You should discuss roles, boundaries, and scenarios you may encounter with the parents beforehand, and develop a mutual understanding of what your duties are, as well as where and when they can step in. For more in-depth information, take a look at our blog post with 4 helpful tips for Nannies with parents working from home.

Discuss the family’s social and travel plans

With the holidays fast approaching and travel restrictions constantly being added or modified, it is important to discuss the family’s social and travel plans during that time. Will they be having family members or guests staying with them? If they’re coming from out-of-town, will they be quarantining? You should disclose your holiday plans to the family as well, and make sure everyone is comfortable with the plans and protocols that are in place.

In addition to the interview

There are typically more steps involved in the interview process these days — and that is a good thing! If you met your potential employer virtually, it is also a good idea to meet the family in person before officially accepting the position. It is important to see the space that you will be caring for the child/children in and make sure it works for you. It will also give you the opportunity to interact with the child/children and ensure it’s a good fit. Lastly, ask for a working trial shift (this should be paid, with a prearranged time and wage paid out beforehand).

Have a strong contract

As always, you must have a strong contract in place. In these exceptional times, the contract should include a section regarding COVID, sick time, and what will happen in those circumstances. Some points to consider are: If you or the employer are having any COVID-like symptoms, you should be paid for the time taken off. Do they (or you) require a negative COVID test in order to go back to work? Remember, our Placement Managers are always here to help if you have any questions regarding your contract.

Finally, be prepared to discuss all the potential “what if…” scenarios. It is a strange time, but by communicating and discussing these things ahead of time, it will hopefully alleviate a lot of uncertainty and stress down the road.

Best of luck on your interviews and landing that great new job. Check out our YouTube video on 5 Tips for your Video Interview and also some tips for nanny interviews.

Stay safe!

Categories
COVID For Nannies

Helpful Tips for Nannies with Parents Working from Home

A woman working from home while her kids play behind her.

 

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Nannies rarely worked in homes where the parents were present during the day. Now, since offices have closed and many parents have transitioned to working from home full-time, it has become the norm, rather than the exception. This arrangement can present some challenges, particularly for Nannies who are used to having the parents be absent and prefer to work independently. We recognize that it is an adjustment, which is why we’ve put together a few helpful tips for Nannies placed in homes where the parents are also working.

Have a designated workspace

If the size and layout of the home allows, parents should set up a designated workspace that is separate from the main living area. This separation is beneficial for both the parents and children, as the parents can work without being distracted or interrupted throughout the day, and the children can have a better understanding of the distinction between work and family time. As a Nanny, this will also allow you more autonomy to look after the children without having the parents constantly monitoring and, potentially, micro-managing.

Establish roles and boundaries with parents

With parents being present in the home, there is a natural tendency for them to feel a sense of responsibility for tasks related to childcare. It is important to discuss boundaries with the parents and have a mutual understanding of what your duties are, as well as where and when they can step in. For example, if you are there to provide childcare from 8:00AM until 4:00PM, you are responsible for feeding the children breakfast, lunch, and snacks; doing indoor and outdoor activities with them; taking them to playgroup; etcetera. If the parent is working from home and wants to have some involvement during that time, it should be pre-determined and not interfere with the children’s routine. Does Mom may want to have lunch with the children each day while she takes her break? Great! This is easy to work into the children’s daily schedule. Having Mom pop in and say “hi” while you’re trying to put the two-year-old down for a nap? Not so great.

Manage behaviour

We have heard from countless parents that their children are on their best behaviour when they’re with other people, and they save their “challenging” side exclusively for their parents. This may not necessarily be true, but you can see what we’re getting at here — children are more likely to act out and demand attention when their parents are around, especially if they’re preoccupied with work. They may ignore your role as a Nanny and come back at you with “you’re not my mother” or throw temper tantrums if they’re not that articulate yet. This will certainly be a challenge, especially if it is a new working relationship or the parents have just recently transitioned to working from the home. You can prepare for this by familiarizing yourself with positive discipline methods and having proactive conversations with the parents about how they would like you to approach these situations.

Provide comfort and show compassion

Finally, it is important to keep in mind that this is a difficult, confusing time for everyone and especially for children. Be patient, show compassion, answer questions, provide comfort, and help them develop coping strategies. We don’t know when this pandemic is going to end and parents may be working from home indefinitely — we all need to be flexible and learn to adapt to the “new normal”.