When I decided to make one of my characters a nanny, I needed to do a little research. I wanted to share some of my thoughts about Nikki as well as some of the research with you. There’s more involved in being a nanny than just loving kids so I’ve also put links with the pictures to give you some more options about childcare. Let’s take a look.
This image is one that played through my mind often as I was writing about Nikki Bradford and Carson in Her Master Match. I know, I know. You’re saying but Nikki had brown hair and Carson’s was super blond. Well, I say, I’m glad you paid so much attention to detail while reading, but the physical attributes aren’t what I’m talking about here. I’m thinking more of how Carson adored her and loved when she would play with him. This image has the woman enjoying her time with the child. It doesn’t look like just a job. I imagine being a nanny is more like a calling.
Having raised two sons of my own, and babysat for many children growing up, I can tell you it isn’t a picnic. Granted, I 
wouldn’t change it for the world, but then, the sons were mine. Being wrapped up in loving and caring for them was an amazing blessing. Focusing such intense love and care on someone else’s children all the time, I’m not sure it would work for me. Let’s face it. In this day and age, there are so many small things a person can do that can be misinterpreted with their own children; it would be scary raising kids of your own. Throw the fact that they aren’t your own into the mix, and it gets even more difficult.
Oh, I’m sure there are people out there who ARE nannies but shouldn’t be. I’m also certain there are people out there who would be wonderful nannies but are afraid to do so. Why?
- Possible accusations of abuse
- Possible abuse by the family
- La
ck of knowledge in emergencies - First aid for injuries to children while playing
- Broken heart syndrome when they have to leave (yeah, I made that one up, but it would probably be #1 on my personal list).
I’m sure there are many more bullets we could add to this list. These were just some that popped into my mind when I was writing the s
tory. Nikki overcame most of these through practice and education. I know I don’t go into detail in the story, but I did have her work in a daycare facility while she was in boarding school with Gina. Knowing what a caring individual she is I imagined she had also taken classes (as my oldest took the Red Cross Babysitting Classes) and more. Thinking about that made me realize that some of my readers might be interested in more information about Nikki’s chosen career field. Therefore, without further ado, here are five sites I found with various information on nannies.
5 Websites about Nannies
- How to Become a Nanny: Career Guide:
- “Research the requirements to become a nanny. Learn about the job description and duties, and read the step-by-step process to start a career in as a nanny.”
- Nanny Training Courses & Certifications:
- “Why do you need nanny training? The 2013 Nanny of the Year, Joanne Barrow, says that the courses she took “immediately doubled my salary and opened up a lot of doors.” Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned pro, there’s always more to learn about being a nanny. Luckily, there are lots of certifications, courses and education programs out there to help. While there is no formal training required for nannies to actually become nannies, these specialized classes will turn you into a more professional and knowledgeable caregiver.”
- America’s Nannies:
- “Since 1984, Amerca’s Nannies has been using a unique and careful screening process for both nanny and family to ensure a perfect fit.”
- Nanny Institute:
- “Our database contains a nationwide registry of the best rated nanny agencies in the country and includes all major and small local agencies as well as independent nannies.”
- Nanny Agencies in Colorado:
- Reviews of nannies and nanny agencies in CO from the Nanny Institute.
- Be a Nanny Overseas:
- “Global Aupair & Nanny is a specialized division of The Global Work & Travel Co. working together with various international aupair & nanny agencies to offer you the opportunity to get out there and see the world!”
I hope these sites have given you a new insight into the world of being a nanny. I think broken heart syndrome would be my biggest worry if this were my career. What about you? Do you think you’re up to the ‘nanny challenge’?
rlan’s Haven
se the butterfly on the front of
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