Wishing everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year.
We will return Tuesday, January 2, 2007.
Friday
Wednesday
Worth Checking Out....
ABC's Primetime -Basic Instincts asks the question "What would you do?" How willing are people to get involved in a situation where someone is being mistreated? This blog is evidence that although many people want to do the right thing and are bothered after the fact for having not done or said something, taking action isn't as easy as we would like to think. If you haven't seen the series so far, it is worth checking out. The limited 5 part series airs on Wednesdays at 10 PM EST on ABC.
Holiday Bonuses 2006 Part 1
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Thank you to all of you who have responded to our survey thus far. If you have not, but would like to participate; please email us with this information.
Thank you to all of you who have responded to our survey thus far. If you have not, but would like to participate; please email us with this information.
(click here to read part 2 of Holiday Bonus 2006)
Position:Full-time Nanny
Bonus: $1200 (after tax)
Your Weekly Salary: after tax about $800
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: 5 days paid time off (not part of my 2 weeks vacation- just a nice surprise)
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family: March '06
City, State and Country: San Francisco, CA
Position: Full-time Nanny
Bonus: None
Your Weekly Salary: No response
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: None
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family:3 months
City, State and Country: San Francisco, CA
"I have been working for 1 family in SF for 3 months. I didn't get any bonus. Not even a Christmas gift. They said, they very lucky to have me and the baby loves me very much.
I was so shocked !!!, I didn't get anything. I'm trying to look for another job. I just wanna share w/ you about my problem. Thank you !!."
Position: Nanny
Bonus: See below
Your Weekly Salary: No response
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: None
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family:Not long
City, State and Country: North Austin
"I live in North Austin. I received full weeks pay for two weeks when I only worked three days of each. I felt this was fair due to not have been working for them a long time."
Position: Nanny
Bonus: $300
Your Weekly Salary: $440
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: None
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family: 16 months
City, State and Country: No response
"I was a nanny for a family from Aug. 05 until Dec. 11 of this year. They gave me a $300 bonus even though they knew I was leaving. I thought this was fair considering I was leaving. I was being paid $11/hour at 40 hours a week."
Position: Full-time Nanny for three children
Bonus: None
Your Weekly Salary: $300
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: Candle from the Dollar Store
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family: 3 years
City, State and Country: Sacramento, CA
"My Christmas bonus was a candle and nothing else. It really sucked considering I gave all 5 of them nice Christmas gifts and they gave me a candle from dollar tree. I'm from Sacramento ca and I have been with this family for 3 years. I make $300 a week for them they have 3 children. I work from 7 am to 8PM".
Position: Nanny
Bonus: None
Your Weekly Salary: $1000 per week on the books (take home around $750) (corrected 12/28 10:18 AM-JD)
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: $250 gift card to family owned spa
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family: 8 months
City, State and Country: No response
"Bonus? What's that? I worked for my last family for 2 1/2 years and never received a bonus from them while every other nanny I know received in the $500 range. I have been working for a billionaire family for the past 8 months. I am on salary for 50 hours and consistently work 70+ hours per week with no further compensation. I work late without notice, I work last minute weekend hours. During this time I have figured I would be getting one great holiday bonus....well, the holidays came, and I got a $250 gift card to the spa that they own. They own the place! It cost them nothing! Not to mention that I will never use this gift certificate because every time I have to go to this spa for work purposes (drop something off, etc.) I feel completely out of place among the millionaires in their Armani suites waiting to get Botox....ugh! That was their last chance...I'm looking for a new job!"
More After the Jump
Click here to continue Reading Holiday Bonuses, Part I.
Click here to read PART II of the Holiday Bonus Survey (01/02/07)
Position:Full-time Nanny
Bonus: $1200 (after tax)
Your Weekly Salary: after tax about $800
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: 5 days paid time off (not part of my 2 weeks vacation- just a nice surprise)
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family: March '06
City, State and Country: San Francisco, CA
Position: Full-time Nanny
Bonus: None
Your Weekly Salary: No response
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: None
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family:3 months
City, State and Country: San Francisco, CA
"I have been working for 1 family in SF for 3 months. I didn't get any bonus. Not even a Christmas gift. They said, they very lucky to have me and the baby loves me very much.
I was so shocked !!!, I didn't get anything. I'm trying to look for another job. I just wanna share w/ you about my problem. Thank you !!."
Position: Nanny
Bonus: See below
Your Weekly Salary: No response
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: None
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family:Not long
City, State and Country: North Austin
"I live in North Austin. I received full weeks pay for two weeks when I only worked three days of each. I felt this was fair due to not have been working for them a long time."
Position: Nanny
Bonus: $300
Your Weekly Salary: $440
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: None
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family: 16 months
City, State and Country: No response
"I was a nanny for a family from Aug. 05 until Dec. 11 of this year. They gave me a $300 bonus even though they knew I was leaving. I thought this was fair considering I was leaving. I was being paid $11/hour at 40 hours a week."
Position: Full-time Nanny for three children
Bonus: None
Your Weekly Salary: $300
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: Candle from the Dollar Store
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family: 3 years
City, State and Country: Sacramento, CA
"My Christmas bonus was a candle and nothing else. It really sucked considering I gave all 5 of them nice Christmas gifts and they gave me a candle from dollar tree. I'm from Sacramento ca and I have been with this family for 3 years. I make $300 a week for them they have 3 children. I work from 7 am to 8PM".
Position: Nanny
Bonus: None
Your Weekly Salary: $1000 per week on the books (take home around $750) (corrected 12/28 10:18 AM-JD)
Any Supplementary Gifts aside from The Bonus: $250 gift card to family owned spa
Length of Time you Have worked for the Family: 8 months
City, State and Country: No response
"Bonus? What's that? I worked for my last family for 2 1/2 years and never received a bonus from them while every other nanny I know received in the $500 range. I have been working for a billionaire family for the past 8 months. I am on salary for 50 hours and consistently work 70+ hours per week with no further compensation. I work late without notice, I work last minute weekend hours. During this time I have figured I would be getting one great holiday bonus....well, the holidays came, and I got a $250 gift card to the spa that they own. They own the place! It cost them nothing! Not to mention that I will never use this gift certificate because every time I have to go to this spa for work purposes (drop something off, etc.) I feel completely out of place among the millionaires in their Armani suites waiting to get Botox....ugh! That was their last chance...I'm looking for a new job!"
More After the Jump
Click here to continue Reading Holiday Bonuses, Part I.
Click here to read PART II of the Holiday Bonus Survey (01/02/07)
Sunday
Saturday
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Ex-Nanny Sues Billionaire Supermarket Magnate.... (read more)
Nanny's 4-Year-Old Son Causes Fire That Leaves Family Still Struggling 15 Months Later... (read more)
Nanny's 4-Year-Old Son Causes Fire That Leaves Family Still Struggling 15 Months Later... (read more)
Friday
Friday, December 22, 2006
We don't anticipate having many sightings to
post this week, as most people are with their
families at this time of the year.
post this week, as most people are with their
families at this time of the year.
Thursday
Bloomingdale Branch of New York Library
Received Friday, December 22, 2006
Thursday afternoon. Short nanny with short red/brown hair in a specific style. Very thin/high arched eyebrows. Toting little boy about 4/5 with her.Little boy wore a green/blue jacket and had thick/dark/curly hair and blue eyes. The nanny let child wander while she plopped down to read Spanish language newspapers in one section. I helped him look for books for himself. I was with my own son. The nanny-after 20 minutes came to our section and yelled at the child for talking in the library and bothering an adult. I wanted to say something harsh to her, but in the spirit of the holidays I did not. Seems to me that it would be basic common sense/kindness to assist the child to find his books and then sit down and read your newspaper while he looked at his books. Not abusive-but generally just not nice. Also, I noticed the boy was wearing what looked like brand new tennis shoes which were mostly white with a small amount of red and resembled/or may have been KSwiss and I am fairly certain the nanny called him "Ben".
Thursday afternoon. Short nanny with short red/brown hair in a specific style. Very thin/high arched eyebrows. Toting little boy about 4/5 with her.Little boy wore a green/blue jacket and had thick/dark/curly hair and blue eyes. The nanny let child wander while she plopped down to read Spanish language newspapers in one section. I helped him look for books for himself. I was with my own son. The nanny-after 20 minutes came to our section and yelled at the child for talking in the library and bothering an adult. I wanted to say something harsh to her, but in the spirit of the holidays I did not. Seems to me that it would be basic common sense/kindness to assist the child to find his books and then sit down and read your newspaper while he looked at his books. Not abusive-but generally just not nice. Also, I noticed the boy was wearing what looked like brand new tennis shoes which were mostly white with a small amount of red and resembled/or may have been KSwiss and I am fairly certain the nanny called him "Ben".
Wednesday
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
TO: Dear I Saw Your Nanny:
FROM: Nanny Molly, Co-CEO NannyWorld International
Nanny Tina and I are starting a complementary site titled, I Saw A Mom!!!. It will be a pull-back-the-blankie reportial blogsite to list for public view all the lazy, self-indulgent women who care for children themselves. These are women who don't care enough about their children to hire Nannies and get jobs. They are very rare indeed in Tribeca, but yes, we have routed out a few, often seen talking inanely, feeding slowly, and even cuddling the little ones. Unlike a Professional Nanny who understands that children want to go to Filene's Basement during the sales and to congregate with other Nannies for coffee and endless conversation, these outrider moms actually treat their charges as as extensions of themselves! Is it any wonder that our culture is collapsing before our eyes!
Our site, I Saw a Mom!!! will encourage all readers to report moms who scab as childcare workers and put those of us with credentials out of work.
Wishing you the best for the holidays and continued success.
Nanny Molly
NannyWorld
FROM: Nanny Molly, Co-CEO NannyWorld International
Nanny Tina and I are starting a complementary site titled, I Saw A Mom!!!. It will be a pull-back-the-blankie reportial blogsite to list for public view all the lazy, self-indulgent women who care for children themselves. These are women who don't care enough about their children to hire Nannies and get jobs. They are very rare indeed in Tribeca, but yes, we have routed out a few, often seen talking inanely, feeding slowly, and even cuddling the little ones. Unlike a Professional Nanny who understands that children want to go to Filene's Basement during the sales and to congregate with other Nannies for coffee and endless conversation, these outrider moms actually treat their charges as as extensions of themselves! Is it any wonder that our culture is collapsing before our eyes!
Our site, I Saw a Mom!!! will encourage all readers to report moms who scab as childcare workers and put those of us with credentials out of work.
Wishing you the best for the holidays and continued success.
Nanny Molly
NannyWorld
Tuesday
Baby-sitters in the News..........
An Ohio babysitter is facing child endangerment charges after going bar hopping with a toddler in the car...... (read more).
A two-year-old Glendale boy left with his 25 year old babysitter is in critical condition after being pulled from the bottom of his backyard pool...... (Read more)
Miami Sitter questioned in death of boy she was minding...... (read more)
Babysitter's Husband returns missing 3 & 4 year old boys... (read more)
Warning:
Don't leave your child in a car seat indoors..... (read more)
A two-year-old Glendale boy left with his 25 year old babysitter is in critical condition after being pulled from the bottom of his backyard pool...... (Read more)
Miami Sitter questioned in death of boy she was minding...... (read more)
Babysitter's Husband returns missing 3 & 4 year old boys... (read more)
Warning:
Don't leave your child in a car seat indoors..... (read more)
Baby Nurse - False Identity
Received Tuesday, December 19, 2006
I recently hired a baby nurse through Absolute Best Care agency to help me care for my newborn baby for three weeks. I was assigned to a Jamaican woman named Monica (last name available). When she arrived on the day we came home from the hospital, everything seemed fine. After the first week I started to question whether she was as experienced as her resume indicated... By the end of the second week, I began to question whether she really fit the description given to me by the agency...Midway through the third week I became suspicious that she was actually not Monica (-) at all...Finally, I confronted her and she broke down crying with regret for what she had done... I asked to see her identification - and she was a completely different woman. The real Monica (-) had sent this woman in her place as "a favor for a friend in need of the money" (and charged the gal a small fee for the favor). While the woman caring for our son was pleasant and loving, she had never actually worked as a baby nurse before (she had no green card or authorization to work in the U.S. / her passport indicated that her occupation was a "dressmaker"). We were horrified - an imposter had been in our home for eighteen days impersonating a baby nurse sent to us by a reputable agency. We sent her home immediately and paid her a portion of what we owed her in cash. We are grateful that nothing happened to our child, however, we hope that the real Monica (-) is never placed by an agency again. While Absolute Best Care waved our placement fee, they never refunded us the cash.
I recently hired a baby nurse through Absolute Best Care agency to help me care for my newborn baby for three weeks. I was assigned to a Jamaican woman named Monica (last name available). When she arrived on the day we came home from the hospital, everything seemed fine. After the first week I started to question whether she was as experienced as her resume indicated... By the end of the second week, I began to question whether she really fit the description given to me by the agency...Midway through the third week I became suspicious that she was actually not Monica (-) at all...Finally, I confronted her and she broke down crying with regret for what she had done... I asked to see her identification - and she was a completely different woman. The real Monica (-) had sent this woman in her place as "a favor for a friend in need of the money" (and charged the gal a small fee for the favor). While the woman caring for our son was pleasant and loving, she had never actually worked as a baby nurse before (she had no green card or authorization to work in the U.S. / her passport indicated that her occupation was a "dressmaker"). We were horrified - an imposter had been in our home for eighteen days impersonating a baby nurse sent to us by a reputable agency. We sent her home immediately and paid her a portion of what we owed her in cash. We are grateful that nothing happened to our child, however, we hope that the real Monica (-) is never placed by an agency again. While Absolute Best Care waved our placement fee, they never refunded us the cash.
Monday
NY Kids Club in NYC
Received Monday, December 18, 2006
NY Kids Club, approx 2:25 pm, Friday, 87th st location, white mid 20s sitter, reddish brown curly hair pulled back in a pony tail, watching 4 yo blonde girl before her 2:30 gym class. Sitter was being nasty and had a foul look on her face. Kid was not misbehaving, sitter was just in a bad mood. After the gym teacher came out to pick up 2:30 class, she walks out and actually said out loud :"One whole hour of freedom from watching the brat". I was shocked and one of the nannies waiting near me (our kids are in another class) heard it too and said she was going to try to follow up with the staff as to who the parents were. No physical abuse, but the girl was quiet and subdued, even when the other kids were getting riled up for gym class so I would guess being around this ray of sunshine sitter sucks for this little girl.
NY Kids Club, approx 2:25 pm, Friday, 87th st location, white mid 20s sitter, reddish brown curly hair pulled back in a pony tail, watching 4 yo blonde girl before her 2:30 gym class. Sitter was being nasty and had a foul look on her face. Kid was not misbehaving, sitter was just in a bad mood. After the gym teacher came out to pick up 2:30 class, she walks out and actually said out loud :"One whole hour of freedom from watching the brat". I was shocked and one of the nannies waiting near me (our kids are in another class) heard it too and said she was going to try to follow up with the staff as to who the parents were. No physical abuse, but the girl was quiet and subdued, even when the other kids were getting riled up for gym class so I would guess being around this ray of sunshine sitter sucks for this little girl.
Joyce in Raleigh/Durham
Received Monday, December 18, 2006
Nanny Joyce in Raleigh/Durham area spends entire day on myspace.com, not watching kids. Neglect led to injury of young infant that she tried to get away with (didnt call parents). Computer logs show the days she was with kids she was literally on the computer from the minute the parents left to 30 mins before they were expected home. This was a nanny of 7 years experience, screened by a nanny service, 6 references!! Parents: check your computer logs! Put unbreakable passwords on your laptops, your desktops, everything. Who wants to pay $600 a week for someone to ignore kids, put their wellbeing in jeopardy, so that they can chit chat with their myspace buddies????? Parents be wary!!
Nanny Joyce in Raleigh/Durham area spends entire day on myspace.com, not watching kids. Neglect led to injury of young infant that she tried to get away with (didnt call parents). Computer logs show the days she was with kids she was literally on the computer from the minute the parents left to 30 mins before they were expected home. This was a nanny of 7 years experience, screened by a nanny service, 6 references!! Parents: check your computer logs! Put unbreakable passwords on your laptops, your desktops, everything. Who wants to pay $600 a week for someone to ignore kids, put their wellbeing in jeopardy, so that they can chit chat with their myspace buddies????? Parents be wary!!
Sunday
Saturday
5th Ave and 97th Street in NYC
Received Saturday, December 16, 2006
Walking today, I crossed the paths of many sitters and parents with children. Two of these encounters stood out.
One was a very cross, African American Nanny, over the age of 50 who demonstrated a lack of patience and even contempt for her three year old charge. (On 5th Avenue by St. Bernard's School). She said "you are a bad, bad boy" With this the boy apologized and then the nanny said, "You will be sorry when you get nothing from Santa Claus". This made the boy burst in to tears. The nanny was now just past me and I heard her say "oh too late, it is too late now, bad boy". The stroller was blue and had a striped seat, I think made by Volo.
As I pushed my daughter around the corner and through the park (across 97th) I pushed off to the side to dig for my cell phone. It was then I chances across a real live manny chasing two children, a boy and a girl- the boy about 8 and the girl perhaps 6. They were laughing hysterically and running. They had a Frisbee. He had so much energy. He was young with dark blonde wavy hair, a thin build and may have had a German accent. I am not certain about that. It was past time to go home and he then challenged the children to race to the tree for an extra ten minutes. He let them win the race. As I pushed on my way, he said he had to call their parents to let them know they were still at the park.
Walking today, I crossed the paths of many sitters and parents with children. Two of these encounters stood out.
One was a very cross, African American Nanny, over the age of 50 who demonstrated a lack of patience and even contempt for her three year old charge. (On 5th Avenue by St. Bernard's School). She said "you are a bad, bad boy" With this the boy apologized and then the nanny said, "You will be sorry when you get nothing from Santa Claus". This made the boy burst in to tears. The nanny was now just past me and I heard her say "oh too late, it is too late now, bad boy". The stroller was blue and had a striped seat, I think made by Volo.
As I pushed my daughter around the corner and through the park (across 97th) I pushed off to the side to dig for my cell phone. It was then I chances across a real live manny chasing two children, a boy and a girl- the boy about 8 and the girl perhaps 6. They were laughing hysterically and running. They had a Frisbee. He had so much energy. He was young with dark blonde wavy hair, a thin build and may have had a German accent. I am not certain about that. It was past time to go home and he then challenged the children to race to the tree for an extra ten minutes. He let them win the race. As I pushed on my way, he said he had to call their parents to let them know they were still at the park.
Boston Public Library at Copley
Received Saturday, December 16, 2006.
At the 10 am Friday sing along music class at the main branch of the Boston Public Library. The nanny was in her early 20s, Asian, wearing a yellow long sleeved polo, a black hat, eye glasses, and was very slender. She was with a boy with brown curly hair wearing a shirt that said something like "winter waves". He looked to be about 2 to 4 years old. I was sitting next to this nanny during the sing along and she caught my attention because she was so enthusiastic! She knew all of the songs, was singing them, moving about, trying to make the class really enjoyable for the little boy. She was just so sweet that she even caught the attention of the little girl I take care of. I was really impressed by her and hoped that her employers realized what a great job she was doing. She looked to be so happy and when the nanny is happy, the child is happy.
At the 10 am Friday sing along music class at the main branch of the Boston Public Library. The nanny was in her early 20s, Asian, wearing a yellow long sleeved polo, a black hat, eye glasses, and was very slender. She was with a boy with brown curly hair wearing a shirt that said something like "winter waves". He looked to be about 2 to 4 years old. I was sitting next to this nanny during the sing along and she caught my attention because she was so enthusiastic! She knew all of the songs, was singing them, moving about, trying to make the class really enjoyable for the little boy. She was just so sweet that she even caught the attention of the little girl I take care of. I was really impressed by her and hoped that her employers realized what a great job she was doing. She looked to be so happy and when the nanny is happy, the child is happy.
Friday
Durham, NC
Received Friday, December 15, 2006
On December 12, Nanny Ashley admitted to me that she was lying to the parents of her 21 mo. old charge. She showed him t.v. against their wishes, was not honest about the places she took their child, and gave him medication without telling the parents. She took the child to the Emergency Room for six hours one day without contacting the parents. Ashley was fired, but is still seeking a nanny position in the Durham, Raleigh, Chapel-Hill area. She also has a nursing degree.
On December 12, Nanny Ashley admitted to me that she was lying to the parents of her 21 mo. old charge. She showed him t.v. against their wishes, was not honest about the places she took their child, and gave him medication without telling the parents. She took the child to the Emergency Room for six hours one day without contacting the parents. Ashley was fired, but is still seeking a nanny position in the Durham, Raleigh, Chapel-Hill area. She also has a nursing degree.
Nannies in the News 12/15
San Jose Teen working as a nanny in Paris falls to her death from a high rise.....
Long Island live-in nanny conceals her pregnancy and dumps baby.....
Danville, CA hit and run nanny appealing conviction again.....
OJ Simpson's former nanny.....
Tiggy Legge-Bourke, the former nanny to prince William and Prince Harry.....
Long Island live-in nanny conceals her pregnancy and dumps baby.....
Danville, CA hit and run nanny appealing conviction again.....
OJ Simpson's former nanny.....
Tiggy Legge-Bourke, the former nanny to prince William and Prince Harry.....
Coldwater Canyon Road in Beverly Hills, CA
Received Friday, December 15, 2006
Looking for the person on Coldwater Canyon Road (Beverly Hills/ Beverly Glenn area)who is allegedly now employing my former nanny Monica. She would have started working for you between November 27-Dec. 1, 2006. She worked for me from September 17- November 22, 2006 (in Bel Air). I would be interested in speaking with you. Please email me at jordanmonclair@hotmail.com. Please verify it is my former employee by supplying her last name. I have some information that I think you need to know about.
Looking for the person on Coldwater Canyon Road (Beverly Hills/ Beverly Glenn area)who is allegedly now employing my former nanny Monica. She would have started working for you between November 27-Dec. 1, 2006. She worked for me from September 17- November 22, 2006 (in Bel Air). I would be interested in speaking with you. Please email me at jordanmonclair@hotmail.com. Please verify it is my former employee by supplying her last name. I have some information that I think you need to know about.
Santa Barbara, California
Received Friday, December 15, 2006
It was a sweet sight. She had 3 children with her, all of them under 2 or 3, although I think at least one of them had to be hers because I think I heard one say "Ma". She was pulling a wagon, one of those that have an extra extention to hold 3 kids, but only one was in the wagon, another was "helping" her pull the wagon, and the youngest (maybe 8-9 months old?) was being held. She wasn't irritated by the fact that they weren't all in the wagon, she made the best of it. She seemed happy to be around the children and you could tell the children felt that she wanted to be there. She kept talking to them all, telling them how funny they were and how nice it was to take a walk. I wish I would have stopped and talked to her, because good child care is so hard to find. I am going to the community garden on the Westside of town everyday next week in hopes that I find her. You should be so lucky to find someone who seems to be so in to your kids!
It was a sweet sight. She had 3 children with her, all of them under 2 or 3, although I think at least one of them had to be hers because I think I heard one say "Ma". She was pulling a wagon, one of those that have an extra extention to hold 3 kids, but only one was in the wagon, another was "helping" her pull the wagon, and the youngest (maybe 8-9 months old?) was being held. She wasn't irritated by the fact that they weren't all in the wagon, she made the best of it. She seemed happy to be around the children and you could tell the children felt that she wanted to be there. She kept talking to them all, telling them how funny they were and how nice it was to take a walk. I wish I would have stopped and talked to her, because good child care is so hard to find. I am going to the community garden on the Westside of town everyday next week in hopes that I find her. You should be so lucky to find someone who seems to be so in to your kids!
Thursday
Starbucks at Broadway & 42nd Street in New York City
Received Thursday, December 14, 2006
Bad nanny sighting today! (Wednesday, December 13, 2006) Leaving Starbucks and I know it was crowded. This little, brown haired girl in a pretty pink, puffy jacket who was about 6 was walking out ahead of her nanny who wore a long sleeve striped shirt, very short straight black hair and African American. The nanny was carrying her frozen drink and a bottle of water (one in each hand). The little girl was I guess supposed to hold the door open and didn't. This did shut on the nanny's shoe, but only barely. I was coming in so I caught the door. The nanny transferred the bottle of water to the same hand she had the frozen drink in and using the back of her right hand she wacked the little girl in the upper arm and said something like "thanksalot". Because the girl was wearing a vinyl puffy jacket, I heard the thwack but I don't think she really hurt the kid. It just demonstrated a lack of patience to me. And if you were the mother of that girl, I don't think you would like to have seen that.
Bad nanny sighting today! (Wednesday, December 13, 2006) Leaving Starbucks and I know it was crowded. This little, brown haired girl in a pretty pink, puffy jacket who was about 6 was walking out ahead of her nanny who wore a long sleeve striped shirt, very short straight black hair and African American. The nanny was carrying her frozen drink and a bottle of water (one in each hand). The little girl was I guess supposed to hold the door open and didn't. This did shut on the nanny's shoe, but only barely. I was coming in so I caught the door. The nanny transferred the bottle of water to the same hand she had the frozen drink in and using the back of her right hand she wacked the little girl in the upper arm and said something like "thanksalot". Because the girl was wearing a vinyl puffy jacket, I heard the thwack but I don't think she really hurt the kid. It just demonstrated a lack of patience to me. And if you were the mother of that girl, I don't think you would like to have seen that.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
My nanny experience. I have only had two full time nannies. One was good; the second was great. She was the nanny from the time my youngest was 2 until he was 6. He is now 8. I also have a 10 year old. Now that they are all in school full time, I have a college student that helps after school with the children. She is good but fortunately our old nanny is still in our lives.
My previous nanny is now married with a seventeen month old child of her own. We are fortunate that she has remained close to us and we consider her to be like family. My own family lives in California and my husband is from London. On those rare occasions my husband and I travel without the children, the children stay with our former nanny. This is a treat for them and affords me incredible peace of mind. This summer our former nanny came and spent a week with us with her child at our summer house.
I can't imagine what my life would have been like without her. And to all of you who seem content to settle for less at your children's expense; I am ever so sad for your children. The best thing for a child is to be raised by his own parents, if you have to work or you choose to work, you owe it to your children to leave them in the very best hands you can find!
-R
My previous nanny is now married with a seventeen month old child of her own. We are fortunate that she has remained close to us and we consider her to be like family. My own family lives in California and my husband is from London. On those rare occasions my husband and I travel without the children, the children stay with our former nanny. This is a treat for them and affords me incredible peace of mind. This summer our former nanny came and spent a week with us with her child at our summer house.
I can't imagine what my life would have been like without her. And to all of you who seem content to settle for less at your children's expense; I am ever so sad for your children. The best thing for a child is to be raised by his own parents, if you have to work or you choose to work, you owe it to your children to leave them in the very best hands you can find!
-R
Wednesday
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Cecelie S. Berry and
Jennifer Bingham Hull have written of their experience with nannies for Salon.com. If you would like to share your own story, please email us!
Jennifer Bingham Hull have written of their experience with nannies for Salon.com. If you would like to share your own story, please email us!
Tuesday
Playground at Ancient Park in NYC 12/12
Received Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Nanny/ Au Pair/ Sitter Caucasian with reddish-brownish hair, somewhat disheveled looking, wearing an orange and navy jacket. The nanny was pushing a child in a stroller. I saw her from the back. The stroller was I think one of those Bugs in an orange color with an orange canopy and black wheels and handle. I didn't get a good look at who was in the stroller when she passed. Walking next to her was a little girl who was oh I would say 3. She had on denim jeans with hearts on the cuffs of the jeans and pink Ugg style boots. Her jacket was black and red. What caught my attention was as she was walking away from us the Nanny/ Au Pair/ Sitter seemed to be unsteady on her feet. This was about 10:30/ 11:00 this morning.
As I watched her on her exit, the Nanny/ Au Pair/ Sitter again lost her footing literally knocking the 3 year old into the iron gates. And I don't mean a slight /unnoticeable nudge. She really was dizzy or something. I mean I exchanged looks with another mother standing at the opposite side of me. The look was "what is going on". I don't think this is abuse but something was wrong with that Nanny/ Au Pair/ Sitter. Something was wrong! Yes I probably should have stopped her and asked her if she was okay & I feel terrible!
Nanny/ Au Pair/ Sitter Caucasian with reddish-brownish hair, somewhat disheveled looking, wearing an orange and navy jacket. The nanny was pushing a child in a stroller. I saw her from the back. The stroller was I think one of those Bugs in an orange color with an orange canopy and black wheels and handle. I didn't get a good look at who was in the stroller when she passed. Walking next to her was a little girl who was oh I would say 3. She had on denim jeans with hearts on the cuffs of the jeans and pink Ugg style boots. Her jacket was black and red. What caught my attention was as she was walking away from us the Nanny/ Au Pair/ Sitter seemed to be unsteady on her feet. This was about 10:30/ 11:00 this morning.
As I watched her on her exit, the Nanny/ Au Pair/ Sitter again lost her footing literally knocking the 3 year old into the iron gates. And I don't mean a slight /unnoticeable nudge. She really was dizzy or something. I mean I exchanged looks with another mother standing at the opposite side of me. The look was "what is going on". I don't think this is abuse but something was wrong with that Nanny/ Au Pair/ Sitter. Something was wrong! Yes I probably should have stopped her and asked her if she was okay & I feel terrible!
Gymboree in Hamden, Connecticut
Received Tuesday, December 12, 2006
I know many people think that I saw your nanny should be about negative nanny sightings, but no where in the title do I see that. With that said, I wanted to take the time to mention a great nanny I saw today (Monday 12/11) . I was in Gymboree for free play (at 10:30 a.m.)with the little boy that I nanny for when I observed the love and care that this nanny was giving to her charges. The children were named Annika (who was about 3 or 4) and Ronan ( Around 2 or 3) and did not look related to eachother. The nanny was African American and wearing jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt material shirt. Her interaction with the children was better then some of the mother's that I see there. She was playing with both children equally and had them playing together nicely. You could tell these children adored their nanny. What also caught my attention was what she told another mother. The mother had mentioned that it was very warm in there, and the nanny told her that she agreed but the Gymboree that she used to take the children to (which is about 30 minutes away) was far too warm. One day she looked at the thermostat and it had read 80 degrees and that was when she decided to switch them to this Gymboree. Now this is an assumption, so I hope noone jumps all over me on this, but I'm guessing that the familes live near Milford, the location of the other Gymboree, which means that she travels that extra half of an hour just so they can play and not get overheated. I just couldn't help but post about this good nanny, because being a good nanny myself, I know one when I see one!
I know many people think that I saw your nanny should be about negative nanny sightings, but no where in the title do I see that. With that said, I wanted to take the time to mention a great nanny I saw today (Monday 12/11) . I was in Gymboree for free play (at 10:30 a.m.)with the little boy that I nanny for when I observed the love and care that this nanny was giving to her charges. The children were named Annika (who was about 3 or 4) and Ronan ( Around 2 or 3) and did not look related to eachother. The nanny was African American and wearing jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt material shirt. Her interaction with the children was better then some of the mother's that I see there. She was playing with both children equally and had them playing together nicely. You could tell these children adored their nanny. What also caught my attention was what she told another mother. The mother had mentioned that it was very warm in there, and the nanny told her that she agreed but the Gymboree that she used to take the children to (which is about 30 minutes away) was far too warm. One day she looked at the thermostat and it had read 80 degrees and that was when she decided to switch them to this Gymboree. Now this is an assumption, so I hope noone jumps all over me on this, but I'm guessing that the familes live near Milford, the location of the other Gymboree, which means that she travels that extra half of an hour just so they can play and not get overheated. I just couldn't help but post about this good nanny, because being a good nanny myself, I know one when I see one!
Monday
Broadway between 96 & 97th in NYC
Received Monday, December 11, 2006
1:00 pm , today, Broadway between 96-97 Sts., near Gourmet Garage. The temperature is 55'. A woman steering very overdressed infant twins in a high end carriage. Babies (in striped caps) were pointed directly into the noon sun and whipping their heads from side to side, attempting to shut it out. No response from the caretaker.
1:00 pm , today, Broadway between 96-97 Sts., near Gourmet Garage. The temperature is 55'. A woman steering very overdressed infant twins in a high end carriage. Babies (in striped caps) were pointed directly into the noon sun and whipping their heads from side to side, attempting to shut it out. No response from the caretaker.
Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, Illinois
Received Monday, December 11, 2006
Hallmark on the lower level today at 2:30 PM. As I was paying, I noticed a little girl who was between 2-4 lingering just outside the entrance. I got closer to her. She had tears in her eyes and looked panicked. I approached her cautiously. I asked her if she needed some help. She opened her mouth to talk. She started crying. No one was immediately around her. I got down to her level. I asked her if again if she needed some help. I assured her it would be okay. She struggled to get the words 'I can't find my...' out. By now only a about 90 seconds had lapsed. All of a sudden her arm was seized at the elbow by the person I assume was her caregiver. She started to yell at the girl telling her 'I told you to hold my hand'. I won't pass judgment on the caregiver for getting angry. I can understand being panicked. Although, it does takes two people to hold hands. In a crowded mall, someone with negative intentions had a good amount of time to abduct that girl. I am glad that your little girl will be home safely today.
Description: Little girl-under 3 feet tall, possibly Hispanic with dark hair, straight past her shoulders, dark eyes, wearing green denim pants, a white & yellow jacket and white tennis shoes that had a velcro snap and an M logo.
Caregiver: Between 5'4"-5"6", 140 lbs, African American, light brown hair combed back off of her face and worn behind her ears and wearing a navy blue peacoat and black slacks.
If you are interested in submitting a nanny sighting, click here!
Riverside Park in Lyndhurst, New Jersey
Received Monday, December 11, 2006
I work part time. On the days I am home with my child, I am overjoyed to be able to go to the park with her. Three days a week I am stuck indoors for 10 hours a day. On my days off, weather permitting I go to Riverside Park in Lyndhurst. I have often observed nannies; great and not so great as I made my rounds with my daughter. Last week when it was so cold, the nannies were involved with and laughing with the children. Possibly because they knew that they didn't have to spend an extended period at the park? Today the weather is not quite so cold. I have to wonder if what I see as disregard and unkind behavior is really caused by micromanaging working mothers who mandate that the nanny must take the child to a park or "outside" for a certain period of the day. While that may be well intentioned, I think you miss the boat when you don't hire a nanny who is first of all enthused to be outdoors with your child herself. At noon today it was about 52 degrees. Very pleasant weather for a child to be running around on the equipment, but the nannies look so unhappy.
At this time of the day, the children present are babies and toddlers. Not a single one of the nannies looked as if they wanted to be there, in fact their grim faces brought me down. If you are a parent to a nanny that goes to this park, please make a surprise visit there and see how your nanny interacts with your child. These nannies were looking at the sky and hoping (praying) for rain. I don't know how that transcends to other areas of their job performance, but I have to imagine the lack of enthusiasm and apparent dread carries over into other aspects of their work.
I work part time. On the days I am home with my child, I am overjoyed to be able to go to the park with her. Three days a week I am stuck indoors for 10 hours a day. On my days off, weather permitting I go to Riverside Park in Lyndhurst. I have often observed nannies; great and not so great as I made my rounds with my daughter. Last week when it was so cold, the nannies were involved with and laughing with the children. Possibly because they knew that they didn't have to spend an extended period at the park? Today the weather is not quite so cold. I have to wonder if what I see as disregard and unkind behavior is really caused by micromanaging working mothers who mandate that the nanny must take the child to a park or "outside" for a certain period of the day. While that may be well intentioned, I think you miss the boat when you don't hire a nanny who is first of all enthused to be outdoors with your child herself. At noon today it was about 52 degrees. Very pleasant weather for a child to be running around on the equipment, but the nannies look so unhappy.
At this time of the day, the children present are babies and toddlers. Not a single one of the nannies looked as if they wanted to be there, in fact their grim faces brought me down. If you are a parent to a nanny that goes to this park, please make a surprise visit there and see how your nanny interacts with your child. These nannies were looking at the sky and hoping (praying) for rain. I don't know how that transcends to other areas of their job performance, but I have to imagine the lack of enthusiasm and apparent dread carries over into other aspects of their work.
Sunday
Cross County Mall in Yonkers, NY
Received Sunday, December 10, 2006
I am a nanny doing my shopping at the Cross County Mall in Yonkers, New York on Saturday afternoon. Mostly I was looking for a gift for my employer who I have been with 10 months, but I still didn't find anything! I noticed something at the mall worth mentioning.
A woman dressed in capris length tight jeans, with black high heeled boots and a cream colored fluffy sweater was at one point standing next to a very well dressed little boy about 6. He had dark, very short short hair, and a blue jacket but I can't remember anything else specific about the clothes. They were looking at some jewel items laid out on a table at the middle of the mall. The woman was about 26. I hate to say this but she looked like she had money so I don't know if she was the nanny. As I was standing there a well dressed man came up to her and said something like "can you take her, I have to go on the outside to get into Verizon". With that he left a little girl about 3 who I think was the sibling. She was also well dressed. They kind of seemed out of place at this mall. Left with both kids the woman looked displeased and didn't try and hide it. I would go so far as to say she gave the little girl a dirty look when she was left with her.
I go in to Home Goods and come out. There is the woman now outside Home Goods walking around. I see the little girl now but not the boy but don't think anything of it. The woman is now sipping on a straw in a drink and just looks like she can't wait to leave that mall. She seems to roll her eyes at everything and everyone in the mall, including me as I pass her by. I leave Home Goods to go down a level to leave through the exit I came in.
As I am walking towards the door, I see the father stroll in the door. He is now coming from the outside parking garage which has I believe 4 floors. I keep walking. As I get near the door to go outside, the boy pushes the door open and screams "Daddy, Daddy, wait". (He is coming in from the outside of the mall). I kind of gasp and stop and turn around as his Dad spins around surprised. His reaction is "Jackson.. What the...Come here". Not mean, just shocked. Then the woman comes around the corner first sipping her drink. The three year old is about 5 feet behind her and she comes around the corner. The father says to the woman "how did Jackson get outside? You scared me half to death" or something like that. The woman said something like, "It is too crowded in here, this is impossible". The father looks at her with disbelief. I realize now she isn't the mother but she also isn't the nanny. The father looks at the woman with his mouth kind of agape. I am thinking he is thinking "these are my children" by the look on his face. Then he says, obviously not happy "well I got the phones you (<---emphasis) wanted". So while he left her with the kids, he was doing something for her. She isn't the step mom either. She is like Daddy's new girlfriend. And if you are the mother of Jackson and a little 3 year old girl with dark, curly hair that were at that mall on Saturday between 1:20-2:30, this is a warning for you. That woman didn't care at all about those kids. If I was the mom, I would make sure she wasn't intrusted with their care in the future. I don't know how, but I would! I stood there for a minute trying to make sense of the whole scene but there was no sense to be made of it!
And if anyone has any ideas about what to do for my employers for Christmas, please respond. I am 22 and this is my first nanny gig. Thanks in advance.
I am a nanny doing my shopping at the Cross County Mall in Yonkers, New York on Saturday afternoon. Mostly I was looking for a gift for my employer who I have been with 10 months, but I still didn't find anything! I noticed something at the mall worth mentioning.
A woman dressed in capris length tight jeans, with black high heeled boots and a cream colored fluffy sweater was at one point standing next to a very well dressed little boy about 6. He had dark, very short short hair, and a blue jacket but I can't remember anything else specific about the clothes. They were looking at some jewel items laid out on a table at the middle of the mall. The woman was about 26. I hate to say this but she looked like she had money so I don't know if she was the nanny. As I was standing there a well dressed man came up to her and said something like "can you take her, I have to go on the outside to get into Verizon". With that he left a little girl about 3 who I think was the sibling. She was also well dressed. They kind of seemed out of place at this mall. Left with both kids the woman looked displeased and didn't try and hide it. I would go so far as to say she gave the little girl a dirty look when she was left with her.
I go in to Home Goods and come out. There is the woman now outside Home Goods walking around. I see the little girl now but not the boy but don't think anything of it. The woman is now sipping on a straw in a drink and just looks like she can't wait to leave that mall. She seems to roll her eyes at everything and everyone in the mall, including me as I pass her by. I leave Home Goods to go down a level to leave through the exit I came in.
As I am walking towards the door, I see the father stroll in the door. He is now coming from the outside parking garage which has I believe 4 floors. I keep walking. As I get near the door to go outside, the boy pushes the door open and screams "Daddy, Daddy, wait". (He is coming in from the outside of the mall). I kind of gasp and stop and turn around as his Dad spins around surprised. His reaction is "Jackson.. What the...Come here". Not mean, just shocked. Then the woman comes around the corner first sipping her drink. The three year old is about 5 feet behind her and she comes around the corner. The father says to the woman "how did Jackson get outside? You scared me half to death" or something like that. The woman said something like, "It is too crowded in here, this is impossible". The father looks at her with disbelief. I realize now she isn't the mother but she also isn't the nanny. The father looks at the woman with his mouth kind of agape. I am thinking he is thinking "these are my children" by the look on his face. Then he says, obviously not happy "well I got the phones you (<---emphasis) wanted". So while he left her with the kids, he was doing something for her. She isn't the step mom either. She is like Daddy's new girlfriend. And if you are the mother of Jackson and a little 3 year old girl with dark, curly hair that were at that mall on Saturday between 1:20-2:30, this is a warning for you. That woman didn't care at all about those kids. If I was the mom, I would make sure she wasn't intrusted with their care in the future. I don't know how, but I would! I stood there for a minute trying to make sense of the whole scene but there was no sense to be made of it!
And if anyone has any ideas about what to do for my employers for Christmas, please respond. I am 22 and this is my first nanny gig. Thanks in advance.
Saturday
Friday
Mckinley Park in Sacramento, CA
Received Friday, December 8, 2006
There was a large, Hispanic babysitter in grey pants and a sweatshirt with a child walking from McKinley Park in Sacramento. The little girl was very fair and had on a vinyl purple raincoat with big flowers and butterflies. The little girl wanted to stay at the playground or something because the nanny got angry and turned around and slapped her hand twice. Then she pointed her pointer finger in her face and said some kind of warning to her. I don't slap my child even on the hand so if I was this child's mother, it would bother me. Whether it bothers you or not-well only that matters if you are the mom. The little girl was also wearing black ankle boots.
There was a large, Hispanic babysitter in grey pants and a sweatshirt with a child walking from McKinley Park in Sacramento. The little girl was very fair and had on a vinyl purple raincoat with big flowers and butterflies. The little girl wanted to stay at the playground or something because the nanny got angry and turned around and slapped her hand twice. Then she pointed her pointer finger in her face and said some kind of warning to her. I don't slap my child even on the hand so if I was this child's mother, it would bother me. Whether it bothers you or not-well only that matters if you are the mom. The little girl was also wearing black ankle boots.
Bridget in Baltimore County, Maryland
Received Friday, December 8, 2006
I thought I would take a moment of my time to tell this story: There is a nanny/babysitter named "Bridget" who I saw and see often through my window.
I am a neighbor and when she is outdoors with the children, I watch. She is always playing with them, the kids hugging her, she actually plays basketball and soccer and catch with the two children (under ages of 6) and she seems very happy as a babysitter/nanny. It's not often that you find/see this. I just thought that I would like to honor "Bridget" for her hard work and her beautiful smile. It makes me smile to know that the babies that grew up to be children -are in good hands when mom and dad are busy!
I thought I would take a moment of my time to tell this story: There is a nanny/babysitter named "Bridget" who I saw and see often through my window.
I am a neighbor and when she is outdoors with the children, I watch. She is always playing with them, the kids hugging her, she actually plays basketball and soccer and catch with the two children (under ages of 6) and she seems very happy as a babysitter/nanny. It's not often that you find/see this. I just thought that I would like to honor "Bridget" for her hard work and her beautiful smile. It makes me smile to know that the babies that grew up to be children -are in good hands when mom and dad are busy!
Thursday
Plea from a mother regarding letters of reference....
Received Thursday, December 7, 2006
Many nannies will be leaving their positions this time next year or not returning after the Holidays. I don't know why this is but it seems that January and September are the big hiring times for nannies. Some of these nannies will leave of their own volition, perhaps even because you failed to show your appreciation to them at the Holiday time. And for those nannies, I am sorry because if you are lucky enough to have a nanny that takes good care of your children and you trust her; there is no dollar amount that is worth.
However I am aware that many families make changes to their nanny/child care situation in January (and September). Some of you decide to go with daycare. Others decide to stay at home. In attempting to end things amicably, most of you will give the nanny severance pay and a letter of reference.
I am asking that you please show due diligence when writing a letter of reference for the nanny. If you have fired her because she endangered your children, please don't put in writing that she was wonderful and trustworthy. In small towns, we sometimes give a letter of reference that comes from a name we recognize more credit than it deserves. I appreciate you wanting to end things well with your nanny but do not provide a false reference for her just to get her out of your hair.
We had the misfortune this September of hiring a mother's helper/housekeeper type that came with a glowing child care references from someone who I knew of. During the first week, the employee left a full bucket of ammonia filled water in the laundry room which I was directed to when I found my child splashing in it! (We keep a very childproof home). I brought it to her attention and she apologized profusely and said she forgot so I let it go. The next time I left to run to the post office, I returned home to find my four year old had plugged in a hair straightened and curling iron and was using a cosmetic sponge to put on "pretend makeup" which was a bowl of water on her face! This person was not a horrible person, but she was no kind of child care provider. Upon investigation, I found out that the previous employer who wrote the glowing letter of reference for her had never ever left her alone with her child. (Although in her reference letter she speaks of how she was able to do just that and with tremendous ease!)
I was originally going to provide the first name of this person who is again looking for work. But I won't. I just ask all of you who are terminating employees to say as many great things as you want about them, but please do not overstate or outright lie about their experience with your children. It is unfair to put someone else's children in danger and for what? So you can feel better about firing someone who most likely deserved to be fired.
Thank you,
Lynnette
Many nannies will be leaving their positions this time next year or not returning after the Holidays. I don't know why this is but it seems that January and September are the big hiring times for nannies. Some of these nannies will leave of their own volition, perhaps even because you failed to show your appreciation to them at the Holiday time. And for those nannies, I am sorry because if you are lucky enough to have a nanny that takes good care of your children and you trust her; there is no dollar amount that is worth.
However I am aware that many families make changes to their nanny/child care situation in January (and September). Some of you decide to go with daycare. Others decide to stay at home. In attempting to end things amicably, most of you will give the nanny severance pay and a letter of reference.
I am asking that you please show due diligence when writing a letter of reference for the nanny. If you have fired her because she endangered your children, please don't put in writing that she was wonderful and trustworthy. In small towns, we sometimes give a letter of reference that comes from a name we recognize more credit than it deserves. I appreciate you wanting to end things well with your nanny but do not provide a false reference for her just to get her out of your hair.
We had the misfortune this September of hiring a mother's helper/housekeeper type that came with a glowing child care references from someone who I knew of. During the first week, the employee left a full bucket of ammonia filled water in the laundry room which I was directed to when I found my child splashing in it! (We keep a very childproof home). I brought it to her attention and she apologized profusely and said she forgot so I let it go. The next time I left to run to the post office, I returned home to find my four year old had plugged in a hair straightened and curling iron and was using a cosmetic sponge to put on "pretend makeup" which was a bowl of water on her face! This person was not a horrible person, but she was no kind of child care provider. Upon investigation, I found out that the previous employer who wrote the glowing letter of reference for her had never ever left her alone with her child. (Although in her reference letter she speaks of how she was able to do just that and with tremendous ease!)
I was originally going to provide the first name of this person who is again looking for work. But I won't. I just ask all of you who are terminating employees to say as many great things as you want about them, but please do not overstate or outright lie about their experience with your children. It is unfair to put someone else's children in danger and for what? So you can feel better about firing someone who most likely deserved to be fired.
Thank you,
Lynnette
Wednesday
Three Questions- December 6, 2006
Hi so having read this site - how do I go about doing a good background check on a nanny? I am in NJ/NY. Even calling references doesn't really seem like enough. Thanks!
A background check is fast and easy to do online. I have had great success using Akiba which offers diverse search options and Intelius which at $49.99 is one of the lowest priced options for online background checks. Additionally, many private detectives agencies, such as ASG will complete the background check for you. JD
NYC what is the going rate for a live in Nanny?How many days a week does a live in Nanny usually work?
Most nannies work a five day work week, either Monday thru Friday or Tuesday thru Saturday. According to the International Nanny Association in Houston, the average salary for a live-in nanny is $500 a week, while a live-out nanny makes $550 a week. The National Alliance of Professional Nanny Agencies in Seattle puts the starting hourly wage for a nanny without nanny-school training ranges between $10 and $15, while an experienced nanny with a degree may earn $16 to $25 an hour. The going rate in New York is dependant on the qualifications you seek in the nanny, her background and experience and the number of children she will be responsible for. For Nannies.Com offers additional information on nanny salaries and compensation packages. JD
What is the average bonus for a great nanny? We hired an amazing nanny seven months ago and hired her away from a family she really loved. We want to make sure we don't shortchange her this holiday.
Nanny bonuses vary from one week's to one month's salary based on tenure and customs in your area, plus a personal gift. (Source)
Battery Park Playground, NYC
Received Wednesday, December 6, 2006
'Missy' the nanny was acting angered towards your child who was little and less than three. The child cried 'Missy please, please, please' for five minutes. The little child wanted more of her juice that was in plain sight but 'Missy' didn't want her to have an accident. Missy had a stiff face and kept saying 'no, you have to learn' 'no, you will learn'. I don't know what she had to learn because the little girl was as sweet as could be. 'Missy' just wanted to read the newspaper and nothing else. That was obvious from the way she treated the girl.
'Missy' the nanny was acting angered towards your child who was little and less than three. The child cried 'Missy please, please, please' for five minutes. The little child wanted more of her juice that was in plain sight but 'Missy' didn't want her to have an accident. Missy had a stiff face and kept saying 'no, you have to learn' 'no, you will learn'. I don't know what she had to learn because the little girl was as sweet as could be. 'Missy' just wanted to read the newspaper and nothing else. That was obvious from the way she treated the girl.
Tuesday
Tuesday, December 5, 2006
There are no sightings to share with you today. Many people still don't realize that this free database is in existence. The more people who are aware of the existence of this site and our email address; the more submissions we will be able to gather. So please take the time to email today's entry to someone you know and spread the word! And don't hesitate to share your observations of those amazing nannies that cross your path (or are in your life). 
Until Tomorrow,
Jane Doe
Until Tomorrow,
Jane Doe
Monday
Herald Square in NYC
Received Monday, December 4, 2006
I saw your nanny today at approximately 11:30 a.m. in the Herald Square area with your two children. She had a Macy's shopping bag, so she had already been to Macy's. She was pushing two young children, both under three, one as young as 10 months. She was pushing a silver 3 wheeled double stroller that had black handles and the name /brand [?]"Jane" on it. It was cold, and crowded before lunch and your nanny was singing with the older child. Singing. As she walked down the street. And smiling. And both children were bundled up and smiling. The older child that was singing was a fair haired boy who was also laughing. In a crowd of pedestrians, the three of them stood out and brought a smile to my face.
The medium height, heavyset, African American nanny wore her straight hair shoulder length & was wearing a mint & cream colored jacket, black jeans & brown shoes or boots. In response to your anticipated question, yes I am certain she was the nanny. And no, I am not the nanny writing about myself. I have enclosed my contact information as I submit this [do not publish] so that the blog proprietor may verify this account.
-Helen
I saw your nanny today at approximately 11:30 a.m. in the Herald Square area with your two children. She had a Macy's shopping bag, so she had already been to Macy's. She was pushing two young children, both under three, one as young as 10 months. She was pushing a silver 3 wheeled double stroller that had black handles and the name /brand [?]"Jane" on it. It was cold, and crowded before lunch and your nanny was singing with the older child. Singing. As she walked down the street. And smiling. And both children were bundled up and smiling. The older child that was singing was a fair haired boy who was also laughing. In a crowd of pedestrians, the three of them stood out and brought a smile to my face.
The medium height, heavyset, African American nanny wore her straight hair shoulder length & was wearing a mint & cream colored jacket, black jeans & brown shoes or boots. In response to your anticipated question, yes I am certain she was the nanny. And no, I am not the nanny writing about myself. I have enclosed my contact information as I submit this [do not publish] so that the blog proprietor may verify this account.
-Helen
Saturday
Starbucks in Scarsdale, NY
Received Saturday, December 2, 2006
I went to Starbucks this morning and I was sitting having hot chocolate with my daughter. A nanny came in with a child that was 2-3 years old. He was a little boy with black curly hair, in a jacket that was dark blue on the bottom half and light blue on the top. The hood was dark blue with a white stripe going down it vertically, he had on nondescript blue jeans and tan hiking style boots. They sat down. The child was just playing with his hands on the table and didn't respond. The nanny said "you scream as loud as you can". I thought she was going to go get more cream or something BUT she went to the back to go to the bathroom and was gone for TEN MINUTES. I don't know why she would take that long. And I don't know why she didn't take the child with her to the restroom! Does that feel safe for the child to be left alone? She could have asked someone nearby to keep an eye on him. I wish I would have said something at the time. If this was my nanny, she would be FIRED! This is the busy Starbucks on Central Ave!
I went to Starbucks this morning and I was sitting having hot chocolate with my daughter. A nanny came in with a child that was 2-3 years old. He was a little boy with black curly hair, in a jacket that was dark blue on the bottom half and light blue on the top. The hood was dark blue with a white stripe going down it vertically, he had on nondescript blue jeans and tan hiking style boots. They sat down. The child was just playing with his hands on the table and didn't respond. The nanny said "you scream as loud as you can". I thought she was going to go get more cream or something BUT she went to the back to go to the bathroom and was gone for TEN MINUTES. I don't know why she would take that long. And I don't know why she didn't take the child with her to the restroom! Does that feel safe for the child to be left alone? She could have asked someone nearby to keep an eye on him. I wish I would have said something at the time. If this was my nanny, she would be FIRED! This is the busy Starbucks on Central Ave!
Friday
December 1, 2006
The Giants, FED EX and New York Cares will host their ninth annual Coat Drive on Sunday when the Giants play the Cowboys. Fans are encouraged to donate their gently worn coats by bringing them to any of the FED EX trucks that will be parked at each entrance to the stadium prior to the game. New York Cares is a non-profit organization that helps warm thousands of men, women and children by providing winter coats to homeless shelters, community organizations, centers for battered women, and agencies serving senior citizens across the metropolitan area. For additional drop off locations in New York State, click here.
For national coat drive programs and locations, click here.
4th Avenue in San Diego, California
Received Friday, December 1, 2006
Approximately 9:30 A.M. southbound on 4th. Avenue between Broadway and market Street in San Diego, driving a Mazda Tribute in white with a gray bumper, lower door and exterior. I saw a woman reached in the back seat and smacked the older child. 5?6?7? And she struck the boy hard. I saw the child's head flop when the nanny smacked him.The nanny was white, 40's, dark hair pulled into a pony tail and she had bright red finger nail polish. My thought was that it was a babysitter, but this could of course be a mother, passing by in a car doesn't give me the best vantage point. But if it was you and you're the mom-that was most definitely uncalled for. In which case I hope your husband sees this and knows you are hitting children.
*the little girl was sitting behind the driver and wearing a head band and something pastel (?). the little boy had dark hair and was wearing something blue. I wish I had gotten the lic. plate.
Approximately 9:30 A.M. southbound on 4th. Avenue between Broadway and market Street in San Diego, driving a Mazda Tribute in white with a gray bumper, lower door and exterior. I saw a woman reached in the back seat and smacked the older child. 5?6?7? And she struck the boy hard. I saw the child's head flop when the nanny smacked him.The nanny was white, 40's, dark hair pulled into a pony tail and she had bright red finger nail polish. My thought was that it was a babysitter, but this could of course be a mother, passing by in a car doesn't give me the best vantage point. But if it was you and you're the mom-that was most definitely uncalled for. In which case I hope your husband sees this and knows you are hitting children.
*the little girl was sitting behind the driver and wearing a head band and something pastel (?). the little boy had dark hair and was wearing something blue. I wish I had gotten the lic. plate.
Houston article on a Nanny Service Accused of Faking References
Received Friday, December 1, 2006
This is a link to a story that our local KPRC in Houston aired Wednesday on a nanny agency that helped candidates fake their references. (Click here)
I thought this would be of interest to parents.
Madeline
This is a link to a story that our local KPRC in Houston aired Wednesday on a nanny agency that helped candidates fake their references. (Click here)
I thought this would be of interest to parents.
Madeline
Wednesday
Jodi's Gym in NY, NY
Received Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Gym class that ends at 11:00 on Wednesday. Child (girl) is dirty blonde with short hair and navy Maclaren stroller, about two years old. Nanny is dark olive skin with short hair. Nanny grabbed the child and threw her in stroller with angry force. If I see this again I will report this to management.
Gym class that ends at 11:00 on Wednesday. Child (girl) is dirty blonde with short hair and navy Maclaren stroller, about two years old. Nanny is dark olive skin with short hair. Nanny grabbed the child and threw her in stroller with angry force. If I see this again I will report this to management.
Tuesday
Pemberwick Park in Greenwich, CT
Received Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Your new nanny started on Monday and is taking care of a little girl who is ten months old. The nanny is trying her hardest to take care of that little girl. She is driving your car. She was trying to meet one of your friends but wasn't even at the right park. She had no idea where she was. She told me she started yesterday and she arrived on Sunday from Florida. This whole area is new to her. On her first day, she was alone at the house all day with the baby. Today you gave her the keys and a grocery list and made a playdate for her with a friend of yours at what I think is the park off of exit 3. After driving on unknown streets and with your child in the backseat, she ended up at Pemberwick Park. She didn't even have a cellphone! She was like a fish out of water trying to adapt to a new baby and a new town. She is a live in nanny. Couldn't you have taken one day off of work? If not for the nanny- but for your baby? What is wrong with you? She seems like a really great find & I can think of a handful of people who would be grateful to have such a nanny!
Your new nanny started on Monday and is taking care of a little girl who is ten months old. The nanny is trying her hardest to take care of that little girl. She is driving your car. She was trying to meet one of your friends but wasn't even at the right park. She had no idea where she was. She told me she started yesterday and she arrived on Sunday from Florida. This whole area is new to her. On her first day, she was alone at the house all day with the baby. Today you gave her the keys and a grocery list and made a playdate for her with a friend of yours at what I think is the park off of exit 3. After driving on unknown streets and with your child in the backseat, she ended up at Pemberwick Park. She didn't even have a cellphone! She was like a fish out of water trying to adapt to a new baby and a new town. She is a live in nanny. Couldn't you have taken one day off of work? If not for the nanny- but for your baby? What is wrong with you? She seems like a really great find & I can think of a handful of people who would be grateful to have such a nanny!
Westchester County, NY
Received Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Dear Nanny in the (new) silver Chevy Blazer (Westchester County),
Please slow down! We have many children under 6 in the neighborhood as well as a deaf child. You have been asked two times by two mothers to control your speed as you drive down the street. The next step is to publish a picture of you (in your employer's car) and post it to this website.
Thank you,
(Yet) Another Mother
Dear Nanny in the (new) silver Chevy Blazer (Westchester County),
Please slow down! We have many children under 6 in the neighborhood as well as a deaf child. You have been asked two times by two mothers to control your speed as you drive down the street. The next step is to publish a picture of you (in your employer's car) and post it to this website.
Thank you,
(Yet) Another Mother
Monday
Lincoln Park Zoo, in Chicago IL
Received Monday, November 27, 2006
This morning around 10:30 am, we were leaving the gorilla house and enjoying the day at the zoo when I saw a little girl (who was probably around 2, no older than 2.5) wearing a pink fleece type sweater with 3D flowers dangling from the bottom, pink pants, light brown/dark blonde hair with a ponytail on top of her head and pink Velcro geox shoes, running around from the zebras heading towards one of the exits to the parking lot with no adult in sight. She was sobbing and it was clear that she had been crying for an extended period of time, her eyes were all read and her nose was runny all over her face. She crying mommy, mommy so I assumed she had slipped away from mom and asked if she wanted help. She latched onto my hand and we started walking back towards the animals. I saw lots of women with strollers but they all had children in them.
Then I saw a woman, brown curly hair, brown pants, a black shirt and a gold bandanna type headband. She saw us with the little girl and began calling Sophie, Sophie come on Sophie what are you doing? She was with another nanny and had an accent, polish perhaps? The other nanny's child was named Owen, he had blonde hair and a navy blue sweatshirt with yellow stripes. She did not seem at all concerned that Sophie had wandered off and it broke my heart to see such a small child running lost at the zoo. There are plenty of spots to escape and run off....
If your nanny was at the zoo today with your daughter named Sophie, pushing a dark grey/silver/black Zooper jogger with a black diaper bag, perhaps you want to talk to your nanny or drop in unannounced to see what is going on. It was a scary moment for me, I can't imagine how the little girl felt!
This morning around 10:30 am, we were leaving the gorilla house and enjoying the day at the zoo when I saw a little girl (who was probably around 2, no older than 2.5) wearing a pink fleece type sweater with 3D flowers dangling from the bottom, pink pants, light brown/dark blonde hair with a ponytail on top of her head and pink Velcro geox shoes, running around from the zebras heading towards one of the exits to the parking lot with no adult in sight. She was sobbing and it was clear that she had been crying for an extended period of time, her eyes were all read and her nose was runny all over her face. She crying mommy, mommy so I assumed she had slipped away from mom and asked if she wanted help. She latched onto my hand and we started walking back towards the animals. I saw lots of women with strollers but they all had children in them.
Then I saw a woman, brown curly hair, brown pants, a black shirt and a gold bandanna type headband. She saw us with the little girl and began calling Sophie, Sophie come on Sophie what are you doing? She was with another nanny and had an accent, polish perhaps? The other nanny's child was named Owen, he had blonde hair and a navy blue sweatshirt with yellow stripes. She did not seem at all concerned that Sophie had wandered off and it broke my heart to see such a small child running lost at the zoo. There are plenty of spots to escape and run off....
If your nanny was at the zoo today with your daughter named Sophie, pushing a dark grey/silver/black Zooper jogger with a black diaper bag, perhaps you want to talk to your nanny or drop in unannounced to see what is going on. It was a scary moment for me, I can't imagine how the little girl felt!
Seattle Aquarium in Seattle, WA
Received Monday, November 27, 2006
6-8 year old boy with your sitter at the Seattle Aquarium. Saturday, November 25, 2006.
I am writing this because what I observed was a nanny who quite obviously didn't even like the child she was caring for. It was a sad sight. If you sent your young son to the aquarium on Saturday wearing a quilted brown & blue jacket and gave him a $20 souvenir limit, time to talk to the nanny. Or your child!
6-8 year old boy with your sitter at the Seattle Aquarium. Saturday, November 25, 2006.
I am writing this because what I observed was a nanny who quite obviously didn't even like the child she was caring for. It was a sad sight. If you sent your young son to the aquarium on Saturday wearing a quilted brown & blue jacket and gave him a $20 souvenir limit, time to talk to the nanny. Or your child!
Ridge Road Park in Hartsdale, NY
Received Monday, November 27, 2006
2 things. Your housekeeping/nanny 45-60, short, hispanic goes to this park with and without your child, boy 3, curly dark hair, dark eyes,. Your nanny is always screaming at and after your little boy. Your nanny sometimes bring your dog with the child and sometimes walks the child without the child. The dog is either full or part Australian shepherd and the nanny/housekeeper doesn't pick up after the dog- even though the park provides bags and makes it easy. She also chews chewing gum and tosses the foil wrappers in the grass. The housekeeper/nanny speaks 12 words of English and is very gruff with the dog AND the child.
2 things. Your housekeeping/nanny 45-60, short, hispanic goes to this park with and without your child, boy 3, curly dark hair, dark eyes,. Your nanny is always screaming at and after your little boy. Your nanny sometimes bring your dog with the child and sometimes walks the child without the child. The dog is either full or part Australian shepherd and the nanny/housekeeper doesn't pick up after the dog- even though the park provides bags and makes it easy. She also chews chewing gum and tosses the foil wrappers in the grass. The housekeeper/nanny speaks 12 words of English and is very gruff with the dog AND the child.
American Airlines Passenger, Dallas/Ft Worth Airport
Received Monday, November 27, 2006
Saturday, 2 PM MST-restroom near terminal 24. A very young au pair took a little girl,who was under 2 to use the restroom. They went in to the stall together. I don't know what has happening in there. It seemed like the au pair was changing her diaper, while the child was standing. The floor was filthy, and two times the little girl fell on the floor. She was whining and fussy and tired, but the au pair's mood was far worse and less tolerant. The little girl's plastic drinking cup fell to the floor twice. The aggravated nanny shouted at her for allowing it to drop. The little girl scooted under the door to get the plastic cup. She scooted across the brown and wet floor. At this point, I was exiting a stall and making my way to the sink. The little girl had now scooted across the floor, to sit against a wall by the counter. It was a full minute until the au pair came out of the restroom. During that time, she did not call out to the child. The airport was thronged that day. There was much traffic in the restroom and someone could have easily walked off with the child! This au pair was clearly too young and too easily overwhelmed, to be appointed to the care of such a young child. I saw the au pair fifteen minutes later, standing with a father and a boy who was likely 6 or 7. The little girl was blonde headed and wearing a one piece striped dress,with green in it and white tights. Her hair was a close cut bob style with very blunt bangs and green eyes. The au pair was very young,likely under 20, attractive, thin, blonde with medium length hair and blue eyes, 5'5"-5'7" and I was not able to place her accent. She was likely working for a single father, who seemed to be waiting for a flight going into Newark, NJ.
Saturday, 2 PM MST-restroom near terminal 24. A very young au pair took a little girl,who was under 2 to use the restroom. They went in to the stall together. I don't know what has happening in there. It seemed like the au pair was changing her diaper, while the child was standing. The floor was filthy, and two times the little girl fell on the floor. She was whining and fussy and tired, but the au pair's mood was far worse and less tolerant. The little girl's plastic drinking cup fell to the floor twice. The aggravated nanny shouted at her for allowing it to drop. The little girl scooted under the door to get the plastic cup. She scooted across the brown and wet floor. At this point, I was exiting a stall and making my way to the sink. The little girl had now scooted across the floor, to sit against a wall by the counter. It was a full minute until the au pair came out of the restroom. During that time, she did not call out to the child. The airport was thronged that day. There was much traffic in the restroom and someone could have easily walked off with the child! This au pair was clearly too young and too easily overwhelmed, to be appointed to the care of such a young child. I saw the au pair fifteen minutes later, standing with a father and a boy who was likely 6 or 7. The little girl was blonde headed and wearing a one piece striped dress,with green in it and white tights. Her hair was a close cut bob style with very blunt bangs and green eyes. The au pair was very young,likely under 20, attractive, thin, blonde with medium length hair and blue eyes, 5'5"-5'7" and I was not able to place her accent. She was likely working for a single father, who seemed to be waiting for a flight going into Newark, NJ.
Wednesday
Tuesday
Boyle Playground in Philadelphia
Received Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Alert if your nanny pushes Black and grey stroller with a red rim around the hood and takes care of your little boy- 2- who was wearing a dark blue jacket yesterday with dark blue tennis shoes with velcro, please take it upon yourself to observe your nanny when she doesn't expect it and make your own decision.
The nanny got very angry with the child for kicking off his shoes. After the nanny shoved the shoes back on his feet, he fussed a bit and tried to kick them off again. She grabbed both feet with two hands and squeezed and shook them so that the whole stroller shook back and forth. The nanny would be described as over 40, high waisted denim jeans and a cream shirt with a paisley design.
Alert if your nanny pushes Black and grey stroller with a red rim around the hood and takes care of your little boy- 2- who was wearing a dark blue jacket yesterday with dark blue tennis shoes with velcro, please take it upon yourself to observe your nanny when she doesn't expect it and make your own decision.
The nanny got very angry with the child for kicking off his shoes. After the nanny shoved the shoes back on his feet, he fussed a bit and tried to kick them off again. She grabbed both feet with two hands and squeezed and shook them so that the whole stroller shook back and forth. The nanny would be described as over 40, high waisted denim jeans and a cream shirt with a paisley design.
Monday
A question for other mothers....
I have a wonderful nanny who has lived with and worked for us since my son was born five years ago. During that time, other nannies in the neighborhood have come and gone. Fortunately, most of these nannies were in the category of great to excellent. There is a working mother who lives in the neighborhood who is away a good lot of the time and I feel the need to call attention to some issues of her nanny's driving. I am torn between the MYOB sentiment (which I do not particularly agree with) and my concern that if something potentially happens to those children while the nanny is driving, I would not be able to live with myself. The nanny does not drive my child, so this does not involve my son on any level. The behaviors I have observed include running a stop sign, speeding, talking on her mobile phone frequently (which is illegal here), driving with only her parking lights on (at night). (??) The nanny has been with the family for about three months and I don't have any knowledge about how she is in any other area except her driving. Have any other mothers ever had this situation arise and if so, what is the best way to broach it? Understand of principle concern is that this mother relies very heavily on her nanny so there is a good chance that she will not choose to do anything about it and I will have succeeded only in making two enemies in the neighborhood. TIA for your input.
Swings in Central Park, NYC
Received Monday, November 20, 2006
In central park on Saturday; I saw you nanny with your daughter "Molly" or "Holly" (?). She had blonde hair, medium skin, light eyes, pants that were striped in about 6 colors and a shirt with little handbags on it. She was between 12-24 months. The nanny was white, light skin, dark hair, short, thin legs, heavy upper body, between 40-50 and wore what looked like prescription sunglasses. When the nanny lifted the little girl out of the swing and placed her on the ground, the little girl fell into the metal pole that supports the swings. The little girl grabbed her head and started crying. I was 30 feet away and heard the noise made by her head hitting the pole. The nanny "shushed" the child. Repeated telling her "shhhh, shhhh. shhhh, you are fine". I am not writing this necessarily to report abusive behaviors but to warn parents to encourage honest communication between themselves and the nanny. Several years ago my sister employed a nanny who was too afraid to tell her that her then 3 year old had fallen on the concrete and struck her head. The nanny went home at her scheduled time and later that evening my sister and brother-in-law were awoken by their daughter having seizures. The child ended up spending several days in the hospital. The child's fall on the concrete was not the result of the nanny at all. In fact, the nanny was watching the child when it happened, but she apparently didn't feel my sister would have believed that story. So do stress to anyone taking care of your children to report any head injuries that occur while they are watching your children. I think I saw something similar on this or another page previously and just wanted to stress the importance on reporting head injuries to children.
In central park on Saturday; I saw you nanny with your daughter "Molly" or "Holly" (?). She had blonde hair, medium skin, light eyes, pants that were striped in about 6 colors and a shirt with little handbags on it. She was between 12-24 months. The nanny was white, light skin, dark hair, short, thin legs, heavy upper body, between 40-50 and wore what looked like prescription sunglasses. When the nanny lifted the little girl out of the swing and placed her on the ground, the little girl fell into the metal pole that supports the swings. The little girl grabbed her head and started crying. I was 30 feet away and heard the noise made by her head hitting the pole. The nanny "shushed" the child. Repeated telling her "shhhh, shhhh. shhhh, you are fine". I am not writing this necessarily to report abusive behaviors but to warn parents to encourage honest communication between themselves and the nanny. Several years ago my sister employed a nanny who was too afraid to tell her that her then 3 year old had fallen on the concrete and struck her head. The nanny went home at her scheduled time and later that evening my sister and brother-in-law were awoken by their daughter having seizures. The child ended up spending several days in the hospital. The child's fall on the concrete was not the result of the nanny at all. In fact, the nanny was watching the child when it happened, but she apparently didn't feel my sister would have believed that story. So do stress to anyone taking care of your children to report any head injuries that occur while they are watching your children. I think I saw something similar on this or another page previously and just wanted to stress the importance on reporting head injuries to children.
Friday
A Good Nanny always does herself out of a Job.......
Friday, November 17, 2006
Mary Poppins officially debuted last night at the New Amsterdam Theater in NYC. Ashley Brown, who previously starred as Belle in Beauty and the Beast shines in the title role as Mary Poppins. For the NY Times review, click here. For the Theatermania review, click here. For tickets and additional information; including a sneak preview, click here.
Click here to read Caitlin Flanagan's article on Becoming Mary Poppins. (New Yorker 12/2005).
Searching for Mary Poppins by Susan Davis and Gina Hyams is a new book in which twenty-five bestselling and award-winning female writers explore the emotional minefield of mother-nanny relationships. For anyone who has been there, and on either side; it is easy to appreciate the scope of emotions (love, guilt, betrayal, gratitude, insecurity and loss) that can define these often intimate relationships.
Mary Poppins officially debuted last night at the New Amsterdam Theater in NYC. Ashley Brown, who previously starred as Belle in Beauty and the Beast shines in the title role as Mary Poppins. For the NY Times review, click here. For the Theatermania review, click here. For tickets and additional information; including a sneak preview, click here.
Click here to read Caitlin Flanagan's article on Becoming Mary Poppins. (New Yorker 12/2005).
Searching for Mary Poppins by Susan Davis and Gina Hyams is a new book in which twenty-five bestselling and award-winning female writers explore the emotional minefield of mother-nanny relationships. For anyone who has been there, and on either side; it is easy to appreciate the scope of emotions (love, guilt, betrayal, gratitude, insecurity and loss) that can define these often intimate relationships.
D'Agostino Supermarket on York Avenue & 80th., NYC
Received Friday, November 17, 2006
I was in line behind your Jamaican nanny yesterday as she paid for your groceries. She paid with cash and used your D'ag member savings card. She was wearing a striped shirt with rust and green colors,was medium height and thin, wore brown pants and brown boots and had short, blunt cut black hair. Your little girl was at her side. Auburn, curly hair. Black shirt, pink skirt, pink tights-3-4 yrs. The little girl was fiddling with the candy on display nearest the register. The nanny grabbed her hands harshly and threw them off of the product each time she did it. My instinct was that was too harsh. The interesting part of this occurred when the cashier informed the nanny that she had earned enough points for a free turkey and asked if she wanted to get it now. The nanny paused with a weird look on her face. Then she said she would like to get it but wouldn't be able to carry it at present with what she already had, so she asked if they could hold the turkey for her and she would come back for it after 6 PM. I'm guessing that nanny is snatching that turkey up and take it on the cross town bus home to the Bronx. Can't say I approve of the dishonesty involved, but if I could afford a nanny, be certain that I would offer up my accumulated free turkey to the nanny so she wouldn't feel the need to pilfer it on the down low! But of course, I would also want a nanny who seemed to be nicer to my child than this nanny was to yours. So it's a toss up. Or a win-win or a lose-lose. Just check your DAG receipts!
I was in line behind your Jamaican nanny yesterday as she paid for your groceries. She paid with cash and used your D'ag member savings card. She was wearing a striped shirt with rust and green colors,was medium height and thin, wore brown pants and brown boots and had short, blunt cut black hair. Your little girl was at her side. Auburn, curly hair. Black shirt, pink skirt, pink tights-3-4 yrs. The little girl was fiddling with the candy on display nearest the register. The nanny grabbed her hands harshly and threw them off of the product each time she did it. My instinct was that was too harsh. The interesting part of this occurred when the cashier informed the nanny that she had earned enough points for a free turkey and asked if she wanted to get it now. The nanny paused with a weird look on her face. Then she said she would like to get it but wouldn't be able to carry it at present with what she already had, so she asked if they could hold the turkey for her and she would come back for it after 6 PM. I'm guessing that nanny is snatching that turkey up and take it on the cross town bus home to the Bronx. Can't say I approve of the dishonesty involved, but if I could afford a nanny, be certain that I would offer up my accumulated free turkey to the nanny so she wouldn't feel the need to pilfer it on the down low! But of course, I would also want a nanny who seemed to be nicer to my child than this nanny was to yours. So it's a toss up. Or a win-win or a lose-lose. Just check your DAG receipts!
Wednesday
Removed at Author's Request
Received Wednesday, November 15, 2006
*** 11/16 6:24 PM EST
The person who sent this submission in has requested that the entry be deleted citing feelings of vulnerability and fearing possible retribution.
If you have a story to tell, please contact us!
*** 11/16 6:24 PM EST
The person who sent this submission in has requested that the entry be deleted citing feelings of vulnerability and fearing possible retribution.
If you have a story to tell, please contact us!
McDonalds in Savage, MN
Received Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Went to McDonalds in Savage, Mn yesterday. Met a lady there. Seemed nice enough. Shouder length, blonde hair. Not noticeably pregnant. She told me 13 weeks. Glasses. In her late 20's to early 30's .Found out she's a nanny. Had 2 1/2 year old boy (not hers, and 2 year old girl (Hers) Her daughter was being worse than the other child. When they were both doing the same naughty thing, the other child got yelled at. Not her daughter She kept threatening to leave the playland if the boy didn't stop whatever he was doing. He was doing fine. It seemed he was just tired and wanted to be held. She kept telling him to play and stop hanging on her. She said they had been to Chuck E. Cheese's that morning. Said she was on 2nd marriage. Hate to see how mean she is in private.
Went to McDonalds in Savage, Mn yesterday. Met a lady there. Seemed nice enough. Shouder length, blonde hair. Not noticeably pregnant. She told me 13 weeks. Glasses. In her late 20's to early 30's .Found out she's a nanny. Had 2 1/2 year old boy (not hers, and 2 year old girl (Hers) Her daughter was being worse than the other child. When they were both doing the same naughty thing, the other child got yelled at. Not her daughter She kept threatening to leave the playland if the boy didn't stop whatever he was doing. He was doing fine. It seemed he was just tired and wanted to be held. She kept telling him to play and stop hanging on her. She said they had been to Chuck E. Cheese's that morning. Said she was on 2nd marriage. Hate to see how mean she is in private.
Tuesday
Burger King in Jacksonville, Florida
Received Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Nanny named Sandy caring for a boy named Tommy either as a nanny or sitter. She took him to the Burger King in Jacksonville. He seemed very young-not so steady on his feet but wobbled to play area. The nanny/sitter placed an order and then sat down at a table. She went and got the child, he sat with her. He ate for less than two minutes. He asked to go back and play. She said yes. She sat there at the table with her back to him on a very wide, silver phone doing some typing. This was around lunch time and pretty busy. There were many people in and out around that time. The nanny did not think to even look and check on the child. The children in the area were bigger and kind of loud. When she went to throw the tray of food away, she walked out the front door and made a phone call standing off to the side of the front door. She was out for two minutes. Back to the restaurant. She came in and retrieved the child and seemed to actually be pretty sweet to him. This is perhaps a carelessness she does not understand. That child should be more closely supervised. Talk to your sitter.
Nanny named Sandy caring for a boy named Tommy either as a nanny or sitter. She took him to the Burger King in Jacksonville. He seemed very young-not so steady on his feet but wobbled to play area. The nanny/sitter placed an order and then sat down at a table. She went and got the child, he sat with her. He ate for less than two minutes. He asked to go back and play. She said yes. She sat there at the table with her back to him on a very wide, silver phone doing some typing. This was around lunch time and pretty busy. There were many people in and out around that time. The nanny did not think to even look and check on the child. The children in the area were bigger and kind of loud. When she went to throw the tray of food away, she walked out the front door and made a phone call standing off to the side of the front door. She was out for two minutes. Back to the restaurant. She came in and retrieved the child and seemed to actually be pretty sweet to him. This is perhaps a carelessness she does not understand. That child should be more closely supervised. Talk to your sitter.
Supermarket in Watertown, MA
Received Tuesday, November 14, 2006
I was walking back to my car from the gym (which is in the same plaza as a supermarket) in Watertown, MA when I saw a woman packing the back of her Subaru with groceries. Next to her in his stroller was a little boy, no older than a year old, crying. If you live in the Northeast, you know how the weather is, and today it is pouring cats and dogs. I don't know whether or not this was a nanny or just a busy, over-worked mom, but couldn't you have put your kid in the carseat instead of leaving him out in the rain (with only a hooded sweatshirt for protection) while you put the groceries in?
I was walking back to my car from the gym (which is in the same plaza as a supermarket) in Watertown, MA when I saw a woman packing the back of her Subaru with groceries. Next to her in his stroller was a little boy, no older than a year old, crying. If you live in the Northeast, you know how the weather is, and today it is pouring cats and dogs. I don't know whether or not this was a nanny or just a busy, over-worked mom, but couldn't you have put your kid in the carseat instead of leaving him out in the rain (with only a hooded sweatshirt for protection) while you put the groceries in?
Monday
M2/M5 downtown bus in NYC
Received Monday, November 13, 2006
Friday, November 10, about 5:15 p.m., heading downtown on an M2 or M5 going down Fifth Avenue in NYC: I was on my way home from work when I saw two babysitters, with three kids total. One babysitter was a young blonde, wearing an infant in a Baby Bjorn. The other babysitter -- the one I was really impressed by -- was a young woman, around mid-20s, fair skin, long dark brown hair, heavily lined eyes. She was in charge of two blonde girls: Caroline, around 3, bob with bangs, dressed in pink; and Amelia, around 4 or 5, french braid(s) with bangs, red toggle coat. The babysitter was so natural and warm and loving with the two girls, and girls were obviously very comfortable with her. The babysitter pointed out things of interest, got them better seats so that they could see out the window, made sure they were safe, comfortable and not too bored. At one point she took a cell phone call from the mother (Gwyneth?), explaining where they were at the moment and apologizing for not being able to babysit later that evening. The babysitter's manner was so wonderful that I was actually considering approaching her and telling her how great I thought she was with the girls. She seemed almost like a member of the family. If this is your babysitter, please rest assured that your daughters are under very capable, loving care. May we all be so fortunate!
Friday, November 10, about 5:15 p.m., heading downtown on an M2 or M5 going down Fifth Avenue in NYC: I was on my way home from work when I saw two babysitters, with three kids total. One babysitter was a young blonde, wearing an infant in a Baby Bjorn. The other babysitter -- the one I was really impressed by -- was a young woman, around mid-20s, fair skin, long dark brown hair, heavily lined eyes. She was in charge of two blonde girls: Caroline, around 3, bob with bangs, dressed in pink; and Amelia, around 4 or 5, french braid(s) with bangs, red toggle coat. The babysitter was so natural and warm and loving with the two girls, and girls were obviously very comfortable with her. The babysitter pointed out things of interest, got them better seats so that they could see out the window, made sure they were safe, comfortable and not too bored. At one point she took a cell phone call from the mother (Gwyneth?), explaining where they were at the moment and apologizing for not being able to babysit later that evening. The babysitter's manner was so wonderful that I was actually considering approaching her and telling her how great I thought she was with the girls. She seemed almost like a member of the family. If this is your babysitter, please rest assured that your daughters are under very capable, loving care. May we all be so fortunate!
Sunday
Hudson Valley Region of Westchester County, NY
Received Saturday, November 11, 2006
Would it concern you to know that your nanny uses amphetamine diet pills? Did you notice that she has lost a ton of weight since September?
If your normally queen figured nanny cares for your two boys; ages 2 & 5 and has lost a lot of weight and recently joined the gym-you might want to zero in on her dieting "aids". Since her workday is 12 hours long and she lives with you, my best estimate is that her amphetamine usage is affecting her ability to do her job. If this does not reach you, it has been suggested I should drop an anonymous note in the mail to you.
Would it concern you to know that your nanny uses amphetamine diet pills? Did you notice that she has lost a ton of weight since September?
If your normally queen figured nanny cares for your two boys; ages 2 & 5 and has lost a lot of weight and recently joined the gym-you might want to zero in on her dieting "aids". Since her workday is 12 hours long and she lives with you, my best estimate is that her amphetamine usage is affecting her ability to do her job. If this does not reach you, it has been suggested I should drop an anonymous note in the mail to you.
Heckscher Playground in NYC
Received Saturday, November 11, 2006
A beautiful day in the park was marred by the emotional abuse of a very uneducated, ignorant nanny. The nanny was supervising two children and let it be known that she was not in the least bit happy about her job. The children did not appear to be siblings but rather friends.
Child #1 5 yrs old. slim build. denim jeans. hiking boots. long sleeve light blue t-shirt. Male. Brown hair. Busy. Freckles across the nose. Possibly multi racial child.
Child #2 5 yrs +.. Medium build. Black jeans. White Nike tennis shoes with black swoosh. Red t-shirt layered over white long sleeve shirt. Dark hair. Past haircut time. Fair skin. Light eyes. Caucasian.
Nanny- yelled with a Caribbean accent, very shrill, angry face. wore a kerchief over her head, a blue knit sweater, Blue fake Crocs with a yellow strap, a floral print shirt and blue slacks. Her handbag that she had was a blue suede looking Hobo bag.
The nanny called child #2 whom I think was her responsibility- a spoiled brat, "ungrateful", "spoilt", "bratty" and "rotten to the core". The nanny said these things to the child in response to requests for beverages. In response to request that the nanny get the ball when it went to where a group of late teens was hanging. When the child accidentally stepped on the handle of her handbag.
A beautiful day in the park was marred by the emotional abuse of a very uneducated, ignorant nanny. The nanny was supervising two children and let it be known that she was not in the least bit happy about her job. The children did not appear to be siblings but rather friends.
Child #1 5 yrs old. slim build. denim jeans. hiking boots. long sleeve light blue t-shirt. Male. Brown hair. Busy. Freckles across the nose. Possibly multi racial child.
Child #2 5 yrs +.. Medium build. Black jeans. White Nike tennis shoes with black swoosh. Red t-shirt layered over white long sleeve shirt. Dark hair. Past haircut time. Fair skin. Light eyes. Caucasian.
Nanny- yelled with a Caribbean accent, very shrill, angry face. wore a kerchief over her head, a blue knit sweater, Blue fake Crocs with a yellow strap, a floral print shirt and blue slacks. Her handbag that she had was a blue suede looking Hobo bag.
The nanny called child #2 whom I think was her responsibility- a spoiled brat, "ungrateful", "spoilt", "bratty" and "rotten to the core". The nanny said these things to the child in response to requests for beverages. In response to request that the nanny get the ball when it went to where a group of late teens was hanging. When the child accidentally stepped on the handle of her handbag.
Friday
Playground at 96th and Second Avenue in NYC
Received Friday, November 10, 2006
At 2 pm on November 9th 2006, at the playground at 96th and Second Avenue I saw a 2 yo boy with dark hair and dark eyes (full head of hair) and a runny nose. Caucasian with medium skin. He was wearing a green long sleeved t-shirt ( with thin light grey horizontal stripes in a pique fabric) with navy trousers and brown shoes. He was roaming around by himself and my friend and I just assumed he was with another woman who also had a child. When we moved to the swing area he came and was hit by one of the swinging swings because nobody was looking out for him. I wondererd who he was with and realized (once she came over because he started crying after he was hit) that his nanny was sitting on a bench with her back to the swing area completely engrossed in some paperwork and an electronic device - maybe a palm of sorts. She came over to the crying boy and put him on a swing. We moved to the jungle gym area after a while and aftera little he was there too and his nanny had once again sat down to tend to her business. WE kept looking over at her and she NEVER once looked up in the 15 minutes we were there. When we were going home, I tried to ask him his name and he did not answer but was very interested in the Elmo lunchbox I had hanging from the stroller. The nanny was still minding her own business . I COULD HAVE PICKED HYIM UP AND WALKED AWAY WITH HIM and she never would have noticed. She only looked up when he followed us on our way out and went closer to her. This poor little child was obviously starved for attention and seemed sad too. Nanny description: About 5.6 south america ( I think) woman, middle aged or a little older, glasses, navy and cream striped sweater, long navy skirt to mid calf and flats. She had a navy BELL jogger with her black leather jacket draped over it. That's all the detail I have. I hope someone who knows them is reading this.
At 2 pm on November 9th 2006, at the playground at 96th and Second Avenue I saw a 2 yo boy with dark hair and dark eyes (full head of hair) and a runny nose. Caucasian with medium skin. He was wearing a green long sleeved t-shirt ( with thin light grey horizontal stripes in a pique fabric) with navy trousers and brown shoes. He was roaming around by himself and my friend and I just assumed he was with another woman who also had a child. When we moved to the swing area he came and was hit by one of the swinging swings because nobody was looking out for him. I wondererd who he was with and realized (once she came over because he started crying after he was hit) that his nanny was sitting on a bench with her back to the swing area completely engrossed in some paperwork and an electronic device - maybe a palm of sorts. She came over to the crying boy and put him on a swing. We moved to the jungle gym area after a while and aftera little he was there too and his nanny had once again sat down to tend to her business. WE kept looking over at her and she NEVER once looked up in the 15 minutes we were there. When we were going home, I tried to ask him his name and he did not answer but was very interested in the Elmo lunchbox I had hanging from the stroller. The nanny was still minding her own business . I COULD HAVE PICKED HYIM UP AND WALKED AWAY WITH HIM and she never would have noticed. She only looked up when he followed us on our way out and went closer to her. This poor little child was obviously starved for attention and seemed sad too. Nanny description: About 5.6 south america ( I think) woman, middle aged or a little older, glasses, navy and cream striped sweater, long navy skirt to mid calf and flats. She had a navy BELL jogger with her black leather jacket draped over it. That's all the detail I have. I hope someone who knows them is reading this.
Thursday
180th Ave and Greenway in Surprise, AZ
Received Thursday, November 9, 2006
A lady named Roxanne was at the park with 5 children. She drove to the park in her white SUV and only the two infants were in carseats. She had 3 toddlers with her as well – none were in carseats. She admitted to me that she had driving around looking for a more toddler friendly park. I’ve seen her at a park closer to her home and she usually walks. She has a small infant that always has a bottle propped in the stroller. The toddler’s names are Gavin, Ian, and Ian. (I think). I would be furious if I found out my home daycare provider was driving my kids around without carseats, even if it’s only a few blocks.
A lady named Roxanne was at the park with 5 children. She drove to the park in her white SUV and only the two infants were in carseats. She had 3 toddlers with her as well – none were in carseats. She admitted to me that she had driving around looking for a more toddler friendly park. I’ve seen her at a park closer to her home and she usually walks. She has a small infant that always has a bottle propped in the stroller. The toddler’s names are Gavin, Ian, and Ian. (I think). I would be furious if I found out my home daycare provider was driving my kids around without carseats, even if it’s only a few blocks.
Goffle Brook Park in Hawthorne, NJ
Thursday, November 9, 2006
Nanny: 5'6"-5'9", 140-160 lbs, 50-55? hispanic, red cardigan, cream colored pants.
Child: 2-3 years old, dark close cropped hair. Nike blue & white jacket.
The nanny was focused on the sleeping baby in the stroller rather than the little boy who was playing on the equipment himself. On the blue slide, I felt responsible for him because he seemed just to unsteady to be handling it alone. It was hard to distinguish that the nanny was responsible for him at all as he seemed to be on his own. I understand that taking care of two children is hard, but this is a large park with open water as well as many dogs which captured the child's interest. I hate to sound like a mean person, but your nanny might just be too old to chase after your little boy in the park.
Nanny: 5'6"-5'9", 140-160 lbs, 50-55? hispanic, red cardigan, cream colored pants.
Child: 2-3 years old, dark close cropped hair. Nike blue & white jacket.
The nanny was focused on the sleeping baby in the stroller rather than the little boy who was playing on the equipment himself. On the blue slide, I felt responsible for him because he seemed just to unsteady to be handling it alone. It was hard to distinguish that the nanny was responsible for him at all as he seemed to be on his own. I understand that taking care of two children is hard, but this is a large park with open water as well as many dogs which captured the child's interest. I hate to sound like a mean person, but your nanny might just be too old to chase after your little boy in the park.
Tuesday
Oviedo Marketplace in Orlando, Florida
Received Tuesday, November 7, 2006
I was shopping yesterday 10-25 around 6'o clock at the Oviedo Marketplace in Orlando, Florida. For a continued 5 minutes I could hear a child whimpering and sounded very upset. Being a nanny myself I was curious and continued to look for this child. As I went down an aisle there was a little boy probably around 4 maybe 5 in a shopping cart with brown hair kinda choppy cut not really styled, brown pants and i believe a yellow shirt. There appeared to be no one around this boy so I waited by until finally what appeared to be a nanny returned. I looked at her and she grabbed the cart and continued walking. She at no time tried to console the boy or even tell him to stop crying, nothing no interaction at all! I believe this was a nanny because the girl appeared to be maybe 19 and the child seemed to old to be hers. The nanny was short i'd say around 5'2, slightly plump and had a "punk" style. In conclusion if you live in Oviedo and your nanny took your child shopping at target, please be careful because with her behavior he might not make it home next time.
I was shopping yesterday 10-25 around 6'o clock at the Oviedo Marketplace in Orlando, Florida. For a continued 5 minutes I could hear a child whimpering and sounded very upset. Being a nanny myself I was curious and continued to look for this child. As I went down an aisle there was a little boy probably around 4 maybe 5 in a shopping cart with brown hair kinda choppy cut not really styled, brown pants and i believe a yellow shirt. There appeared to be no one around this boy so I waited by until finally what appeared to be a nanny returned. I looked at her and she grabbed the cart and continued walking. She at no time tried to console the boy or even tell him to stop crying, nothing no interaction at all! I believe this was a nanny because the girl appeared to be maybe 19 and the child seemed to old to be hers. The nanny was short i'd say around 5'2, slightly plump and had a "punk" style. In conclusion if you live in Oviedo and your nanny took your child shopping at target, please be careful because with her behavior he might not make it home next time.
Madison & 61st. Street in NYC
Received Tuesday, November 7, 2006
Your nanny just made it outside to the street and pushed carriage off to the side. Furiously dashing through her belongings. For what? Cigarettes. She lit one quickly. Hand shaking. Sucked down a deep drag. Blew out a long stream of smoke. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. While holding cigarette in right hand reached to adjust pacifier with her left hand. Bottom of the barrel for me - a smoking nanny. What happens when the nanny can't get her frenzied fix? Who pays? The darling tow headed child in the navy plaid pram?
Your nanny just made it outside to the street and pushed carriage off to the side. Furiously dashing through her belongings. For what? Cigarettes. She lit one quickly. Hand shaking. Sucked down a deep drag. Blew out a long stream of smoke. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. While holding cigarette in right hand reached to adjust pacifier with her left hand. Bottom of the barrel for me - a smoking nanny. What happens when the nanny can't get her frenzied fix? Who pays? The darling tow headed child in the navy plaid pram?
Monday
Gill Park in the Lakeview section of Chicago
Received Monday, November 6, 2006
Overheard an interesting conversation today between two nannies today. A headset obviously cast the erroneous impression that I was unable to hear their conversation which largely centered around mocking their respective employers. The white nanny may have been named April and she wore a red jacket with black jeans and black boots. The African American Nanny wore a suede jacket with brown pants and brown boots. The white nanny was talking about an air purifier which she claims is the second nanny camera she found in the house. The African American nanny was complaining that her employer checked her vehicle's odometer every evening. More was said. Much had to do with your inability to grasp your children's needs. These nannies made me think, what kind of employer is so careful with his vehicle that he checks the odometer everyday? If the employer doesn't trust the nanny with the vehicle, what is she doing with your child/children? The white nanny who claims she had found the second nanny camera raises the same concern. What are nanny cameras good for? You use a nanny camera if you don't trust the nanny, correct? So there are two question, first-why are you leaving your child with someone you don't trust? And second, when you have a trustworthy nanny, what do you think that does to her relationship with you when she finds the nanny camera? What are you people thinking?
Signed,
A parent who would never leave her child with a nanny she didn't trust
Overheard an interesting conversation today between two nannies today. A headset obviously cast the erroneous impression that I was unable to hear their conversation which largely centered around mocking their respective employers. The white nanny may have been named April and she wore a red jacket with black jeans and black boots. The African American Nanny wore a suede jacket with brown pants and brown boots. The white nanny was talking about an air purifier which she claims is the second nanny camera she found in the house. The African American nanny was complaining that her employer checked her vehicle's odometer every evening. More was said. Much had to do with your inability to grasp your children's needs. These nannies made me think, what kind of employer is so careful with his vehicle that he checks the odometer everyday? If the employer doesn't trust the nanny with the vehicle, what is she doing with your child/children? The white nanny who claims she had found the second nanny camera raises the same concern. What are nanny cameras good for? You use a nanny camera if you don't trust the nanny, correct? So there are two question, first-why are you leaving your child with someone you don't trust? And second, when you have a trustworthy nanny, what do you think that does to her relationship with you when she finds the nanny camera? What are you people thinking?
Signed,
A parent who would never leave her child with a nanny she didn't trust
Sunday
Wendy's on El Cajon Blvd. in San Diego
Received Sunday, November 5, 2006
I was having a late lunch on Friday at Wendy's solo. I sat down with my order and buried my face in my book. There was a very beefy, Hispanic nanny sitting to the left of my with a little girl {brown straight bob with bangs, green eyes, some freckles, navy shirt with flowers across the chest and blue jeans} who was about four. The nanny was acting kind of bizarre. She took a Wendy's frosty drink and using a spoon was "dropping" spat of frosty on the back of the girl's hand. The little girl kept saying "stop it" but in a sheepish way. The nanny was sitting across from her wearing very basic white Reeboks and brown polyester pants (with a seam down the front). The nanny had no food in front of her and could not stop herself from messing with the child's food. I don't know if the child was in trouble for something earlier and this was the nanny passive aggressively taking it out on the child or what. I saw her pluck a french fry right from the girl's hand and then use her fist to pound it flat on the table. This made a very large noise. I was glaring at the woman with a "what is your problem" look on my face but she never looked in my direction. I also saw her take the girl's straw from her drink and use it to poke holes in the girl's burger while the girl had set it down. I would have to assume that if a parent watched this freakish display of behavior on a nanny camera, they surely would be wondering, "WTF"!
I was having a late lunch on Friday at Wendy's solo. I sat down with my order and buried my face in my book. There was a very beefy, Hispanic nanny sitting to the left of my with a little girl {brown straight bob with bangs, green eyes, some freckles, navy shirt with flowers across the chest and blue jeans} who was about four. The nanny was acting kind of bizarre. She took a Wendy's frosty drink and using a spoon was "dropping" spat of frosty on the back of the girl's hand. The little girl kept saying "stop it" but in a sheepish way. The nanny was sitting across from her wearing very basic white Reeboks and brown polyester pants (with a seam down the front). The nanny had no food in front of her and could not stop herself from messing with the child's food. I don't know if the child was in trouble for something earlier and this was the nanny passive aggressively taking it out on the child or what. I saw her pluck a french fry right from the girl's hand and then use her fist to pound it flat on the table. This made a very large noise. I was glaring at the woman with a "what is your problem" look on my face but she never looked in my direction. I also saw her take the girl's straw from her drink and use it to poke holes in the girl's burger while the girl had set it down. I would have to assume that if a parent watched this freakish display of behavior on a nanny camera, they surely would be wondering, "WTF"!
E 84th and First Ave in Manhattan
Received Sunday, November 5, 2006
I tooam a Caregiver/nanny and I wish to mention an exceptional nanny I came into contact with on E 84th and First Ave in Manhattan, New York. Her name is Wendy and she wore locs and her charge was an adorable blond called Stephen. I observed her over several weeks at Gymboree. She is exceptional. I wish to thank her today cause she inspired and mentored me. Today I am a better Caregiver working now in Toronto because of her.
I tooam a Caregiver/nanny and I wish to mention an exceptional nanny I came into contact with on E 84th and First Ave in Manhattan, New York. Her name is Wendy and she wore locs and her charge was an adorable blond called Stephen. I observed her over several weeks at Gymboree. She is exceptional. I wish to thank her today cause she inspired and mentored me. Today I am a better Caregiver working now in Toronto because of her.
Flint Park in Larchmont, New York
Received Sunday, November 5, 2006
Saturday was a beautiful day in New York and marred by the threatening words of one African American nanny who was angry that the child kept calling to her to come and watch her. The child was only about three but each time the child excitedly asked for the nanny to come watch her the nanny made a big display of rolling her eyes and dragging herself across the playground. Out of place was this comment, "maybe if your parents spanked you, you wouldn't need so much attention".
The nanny wore a blue Adidas nylon jacket with white stripes and the child had reddish curly hair, brown eyes, a white sweater and cream colored pants.
PS I know some nannies work six days a week, but this is one reason not to assign your child care provider a six day a week schedule. Perhaps this nanny is overtired?
Saturday was a beautiful day in New York and marred by the threatening words of one African American nanny who was angry that the child kept calling to her to come and watch her. The child was only about three but each time the child excitedly asked for the nanny to come watch her the nanny made a big display of rolling her eyes and dragging herself across the playground. Out of place was this comment, "maybe if your parents spanked you, you wouldn't need so much attention".
The nanny wore a blue Adidas nylon jacket with white stripes and the child had reddish curly hair, brown eyes, a white sweater and cream colored pants.
PS I know some nannies work six days a week, but this is one reason not to assign your child care provider a six day a week schedule. Perhaps this nanny is overtired?
Friday
In praise of the au pair.......
Received Friday, November 3, 2006
Please take the time out of your high-powered, “mover’n’shaker” lifestyle to recognize the maturity and caring nature of the new au pair that recently entered your families lives. She came to this country scared and was totally overwhelmed by the American way of life, and you never took one single moment out of your schedule to welcome or comfort her. I did and I still do. Instead of withdrawing, crying her eyes out, or having an utter breakdown, she has literally grownup overnight and is now successfully shuffling your children (who are not easy to deal with mind you) to and fro, keeping them safe, fed and entertained. Yet you barely acknowledge she exists…let alone the stellar job she is doing! Your callousness to a guest from another country (yeah, I said GUEST, I don’t care if she lives in your house and you’re paying her) is so embarrassing to me as an American, a mother, and a human being in general. I wish you could know how precious she is…but you won’t. Your loss.
Please take the time out of your high-powered, “mover’n’shaker” lifestyle to recognize the maturity and caring nature of the new au pair that recently entered your families lives. She came to this country scared and was totally overwhelmed by the American way of life, and you never took one single moment out of your schedule to welcome or comfort her. I did and I still do. Instead of withdrawing, crying her eyes out, or having an utter breakdown, she has literally grownup overnight and is now successfully shuffling your children (who are not easy to deal with mind you) to and fro, keeping them safe, fed and entertained. Yet you barely acknowledge she exists…let alone the stellar job she is doing! Your callousness to a guest from another country (yeah, I said GUEST, I don’t care if she lives in your house and you’re paying her) is so embarrassing to me as an American, a mother, and a human being in general. I wish you could know how precious she is…but you won’t. Your loss.
Central Park South & Sixth Ave, NYC
Received Friday, November 3, 2006
Thought you would be interested to know that in the area I live in, two nannies have been poached by one ill intentioned stay at home mother. The mother/employer has an English accent and is not an American. For a parent to observe a stellar nanny and do all they are able to persuade that nanny to come and work for them is certainly fair. However, only after having heard of the second poaching was I alerted to the fact that the first nanny- lulled in by the promise of an enormous paycheck and an idyllic job description- lasted only two weeks before she quit. The second nanny also poached from a neighborhood family lasted only three days before calling and requesting her old job back. Once this mother/employer has the nanny ensnared in her home, she is out the door and inaccessible. Nanny #2 tells me that there was no off time or down time, nor was she able to reach the mother when a question came about regarding the children's prescription medication. Being that nanny #2 left with her bags late in the middle of the night, I am guessing this employer will soon be on the prowl again. Central Park South Employers, gird your nannies!
Thought you would be interested to know that in the area I live in, two nannies have been poached by one ill intentioned stay at home mother. The mother/employer has an English accent and is not an American. For a parent to observe a stellar nanny and do all they are able to persuade that nanny to come and work for them is certainly fair. However, only after having heard of the second poaching was I alerted to the fact that the first nanny- lulled in by the promise of an enormous paycheck and an idyllic job description- lasted only two weeks before she quit. The second nanny also poached from a neighborhood family lasted only three days before calling and requesting her old job back. Once this mother/employer has the nanny ensnared in her home, she is out the door and inaccessible. Nanny #2 tells me that there was no off time or down time, nor was she able to reach the mother when a question came about regarding the children's prescription medication. Being that nanny #2 left with her bags late in the middle of the night, I am guessing this employer will soon be on the prowl again. Central Park South Employers, gird your nannies!
Clemyjontri Park in McLean, Virginia
Received Friday, November 3, 2006
I was helping my daughter onto the carousel shortly after 4 pm on
Wednesday, November 1, when I saw a nanny behave in a way that was
shameful. There was a group of 5 girls with two parents trying to
get all 5 girls (about age 5) onto the horses. One little girl was
waiting next to the horse she had chosen for one of the mommies to
help (her own mother was there with two younger children in a
stroller). There was also a nanny there with two other little
girls. The nanny was Filipino and wore dark clothes. She was short,
appeared to be in her 50s, and wore wire-rimmed glasses. Her hair
was short, cut into a bit of a shag, and was brown with lighter brown
highlights. The two girls in her charge looked as if they were 3 and
perhaps 18 months. The older had shoulder length, dark brown hair
with bangs.
The nanny and her two charges approached near the end, when horses
were getting scarce. She clearly saw the little 5 year old waiting
patiently next to a horse, but the nanny went ahead and put the 18
month old on that one, then put her sister on the one next to it.
The little girl burst into tears - there were no other horses
available on the whole ride. Both of the moms spoke to your nanny -
one of them said, "you realize you just took this horse from this
little girl?" The nanny said, "Oh, but she couldn't decide between
the two." No one in earshot thought that was an appropriate - or
valid - response. The mom replied, "So you then took BOTH? That's
not nice." The other mom said something, too, but I couldn't hear
it. The little girl was crying hysterically, and the first mom
picked her up. One of the other little girls from the group
voluntarily dismounted and left with her friend. They were the first
people on the next ride.
If this is your nanny, what kind of person is she? What qualities
and values is she demonstrating to your daughters? What kind of
person takes things from a little girl? Maybe you want your
daughters to grow up to think that their wants are paramount, that
they do not have to wait their turns. If so, I feel even sorrier for
them than I did for that little girl.
I was helping my daughter onto the carousel shortly after 4 pm on
Wednesday, November 1, when I saw a nanny behave in a way that was
shameful. There was a group of 5 girls with two parents trying to
get all 5 girls (about age 5) onto the horses. One little girl was
waiting next to the horse she had chosen for one of the mommies to
help (her own mother was there with two younger children in a
stroller). There was also a nanny there with two other little
girls. The nanny was Filipino and wore dark clothes. She was short,
appeared to be in her 50s, and wore wire-rimmed glasses. Her hair
was short, cut into a bit of a shag, and was brown with lighter brown
highlights. The two girls in her charge looked as if they were 3 and
perhaps 18 months. The older had shoulder length, dark brown hair
with bangs.
The nanny and her two charges approached near the end, when horses
were getting scarce. She clearly saw the little 5 year old waiting
patiently next to a horse, but the nanny went ahead and put the 18
month old on that one, then put her sister on the one next to it.
The little girl burst into tears - there were no other horses
available on the whole ride. Both of the moms spoke to your nanny -
one of them said, "you realize you just took this horse from this
little girl?" The nanny said, "Oh, but she couldn't decide between
the two." No one in earshot thought that was an appropriate - or
valid - response. The mom replied, "So you then took BOTH? That's
not nice." The other mom said something, too, but I couldn't hear
it. The little girl was crying hysterically, and the first mom
picked her up. One of the other little girls from the group
voluntarily dismounted and left with her friend. They were the first
people on the next ride.
If this is your nanny, what kind of person is she? What qualities
and values is she demonstrating to your daughters? What kind of
person takes things from a little girl? Maybe you want your
daughters to grow up to think that their wants are paramount, that
they do not have to wait their turns. If so, I feel even sorrier for
them than I did for that little girl.
Stamford, Connecticut
Receieved Friday, Movember 3, 2006
I am hesitant to reveal to many specifics regarding this American live-in nanny who takes care of two children Monday-Friday for a family where both parents work out of the home. I have reason to see her at drop off and at the youngest daughter's morning ballet class. Many times, including this morning I have heard the nanny going on ad nasueum about the partying she did the previous evening. The nanny is young and attractive but looks beaten up most times I see her. I wonder why the parents are not at all concerned by her haggard appearance? She seems to have no energy left over for the children she cares for. She drags herself from place to place, consistently complaining about how tired and hung over she is. I understand that she is young and what she does on her off time is her business, but it is very apparent that her hard partying lifestyle is affecting the care she is providing your children. Since she is a live-in, you clearly must have some idea what time she is getting in. (She claims this morning that she was at the bar at 4 when it closed and was home in Stamford by 4:30). She was making plans by cellphone for plans this evening, so evidently this is her lifestyle. Parents; there is nothing hip and cool about a nanny with a perpetual hangover.
I am hesitant to reveal to many specifics regarding this American live-in nanny who takes care of two children Monday-Friday for a family where both parents work out of the home. I have reason to see her at drop off and at the youngest daughter's morning ballet class. Many times, including this morning I have heard the nanny going on ad nasueum about the partying she did the previous evening. The nanny is young and attractive but looks beaten up most times I see her. I wonder why the parents are not at all concerned by her haggard appearance? She seems to have no energy left over for the children she cares for. She drags herself from place to place, consistently complaining about how tired and hung over she is. I understand that she is young and what she does on her off time is her business, but it is very apparent that her hard partying lifestyle is affecting the care she is providing your children. Since she is a live-in, you clearly must have some idea what time she is getting in. (She claims this morning that she was at the bar at 4 when it closed and was home in Stamford by 4:30). She was making plans by cellphone for plans this evening, so evidently this is her lifestyle. Parents; there is nothing hip and cool about a nanny with a perpetual hangover.
Thursday
Carl Schurtz Park (84th and East End Avenue) NYC
Received Thursday, November 2, 2006
My son and I were at the playground at Carl Schurtz park for 45 minutes today. (Weds. 11/1) At about noon, I noticed a nanny asleep on a bench. The child she was supposedly watching was in a navy maclaren stroller that had a yellow and light blue Vera Bradley (or Vera Bradley-like) diaper bag. The nanny was African American, middle aged, thin, straight hair in a bun, some smaller gold jewelry, glasses, wearing jeans and a navy windbreaker with white stripes on the sleeves.
Anyway, for 30 minutes, I kept my eye on this nanny. She looked homeless- her feet were out of her shoes, she was slumped over, and somewhat far from the stroller (just a few feet, but still....). I couldn't see the child in the stroller, but think it was a boy and am pretty sure/hopeful that he was asleep this whole time. Regardless, a nanny sleeping at the park is not appropriate in my book.
***I am the woman who posted this sighting. To follow up- I saw the nanny and child again at Carl Schurz at 11:15 am on Thursday November 2nd. The child is a boy, looks to be about 3. He has thick straight blonde hair. Today, November 2nd, he was wearing olive corderoy (sp.) pants and a red jacket. Today, the nanny was wearing white sneakers, gold hoop earrings, a gold wedding band and a grey and black striped hat. She has a Carribean accent and looks to be in her late 40s.
My son and I were at the playground at Carl Schurtz park for 45 minutes today. (Weds. 11/1) At about noon, I noticed a nanny asleep on a bench. The child she was supposedly watching was in a navy maclaren stroller that had a yellow and light blue Vera Bradley (or Vera Bradley-like) diaper bag. The nanny was African American, middle aged, thin, straight hair in a bun, some smaller gold jewelry, glasses, wearing jeans and a navy windbreaker with white stripes on the sleeves.
Anyway, for 30 minutes, I kept my eye on this nanny. She looked homeless- her feet were out of her shoes, she was slumped over, and somewhat far from the stroller (just a few feet, but still....). I couldn't see the child in the stroller, but think it was a boy and am pretty sure/hopeful that he was asleep this whole time. Regardless, a nanny sleeping at the park is not appropriate in my book.
***I am the woman who posted this sighting. To follow up- I saw the nanny and child again at Carl Schurz at 11:15 am on Thursday November 2nd. The child is a boy, looks to be about 3. He has thick straight blonde hair. Today, November 2nd, he was wearing olive corderoy (sp.) pants and a red jacket. Today, the nanny was wearing white sneakers, gold hoop earrings, a gold wedding band and a grey and black striped hat. She has a Carribean accent and looks to be in her late 40s.
Wednesday
SpeedZone on Castleton in LA
Received Wednesday, November 1, 2006
I was at the Speedzone early Tuesday evenning/late afternoon with my son. A very small boy of about three or four was wandering around for some time before his cargiver came and found him. When the caregiver found him, she scolded him and brought him back to where she was observing his older brother. Ten minutes later, the little boy (blue striped shirt and blue jeans) was at my side and the caregiver was nowhere to be found. The child was hovering at my leg when the caregiver returned five minutes later. She was hispanic, mid forties, medium build, medium height, with redish, brown hair and a discernable accent. I can certainly appreciate trying to watch multiple children in such a busy arena, however that child was too lone to be let out of the caregiver's sight.
Kinder Kicks Karate at the Greenpoint YMCA
Received Wednesday, November 1, 2006
Nanny with 4/5 year old boy with dark, wavy hair and medium complexion inquiring about Kinderkicks karate registration. While waiting with another nanny, she discussed the fact that you will be away from Friday through Tuesday and she was advising her nanny/friend to tell "them" not to park anywhere near the house because of "nosy neighbors". She was speaking in code and hushed tones out of earshot of the child.
If she is trying to plan around nosy neighbors and your son, I guess that your AA nanny, 5'5", 140, medium length straight hair nanny doesn't have permission to entertain while you are out of town?
Nanny with 4/5 year old boy with dark, wavy hair and medium complexion inquiring about Kinderkicks karate registration. While waiting with another nanny, she discussed the fact that you will be away from Friday through Tuesday and she was advising her nanny/friend to tell "them" not to park anywhere near the house because of "nosy neighbors". She was speaking in code and hushed tones out of earshot of the child.
If she is trying to plan around nosy neighbors and your son, I guess that your AA nanny, 5'5", 140, medium length straight hair nanny doesn't have permission to entertain while you are out of town?
Tuesday
UES/Dunkin Donuts across from 92nd Y, NYC
Tuesday, October 31, 2006. Around 3:30pm
At the Dunkin Donuts across from the 92nd Y. Nanny was African American. Probably late 30's. She had short, curled hair.No accent. Two Caucasian girls. The one in question was about 8-10 years old. Brown hair. She had a blue rolling backpack with the initials NSF.This is not a bad nanny sighting. Rather there is obviously something seriously wrong with the dynamic between the mom, the girl and the nanny. The girl was sitting in the middle of DD screaming and crying her head off, wailing "I want a donut, I want a donut" over and over. The nanny was waiting outside of the DD with the other girl. Then the crying girl dialed her mother on the cell phone and started sobbing "Mommy, I want a donut," and "SHE's mean to me." She tried to tell the mom that the nanny had left her all alone in the DD. If the mom is reading this, what your daughter told you is not true. The nanny was none to pleased with her behavior, but she was watching her through the window the whole time. BTW, I don't think it's normal for a child this age to still be having tantrums about donuts.I left the store and she was still trying to convince the mother how awful the nanny was for not buying her a donut.About ten minutes later, I spotted them again in front of the Y. The girl was carrying a Dunkin Donuts bag. This girl seemed pretty out of control. The mom and nanny need to get on the same page. If she's behaving like this at 10, what will she be like as a teenager?
At the Dunkin Donuts across from the 92nd Y. Nanny was African American. Probably late 30's. She had short, curled hair.No accent. Two Caucasian girls. The one in question was about 8-10 years old. Brown hair. She had a blue rolling backpack with the initials NSF.This is not a bad nanny sighting. Rather there is obviously something seriously wrong with the dynamic between the mom, the girl and the nanny. The girl was sitting in the middle of DD screaming and crying her head off, wailing "I want a donut, I want a donut" over and over. The nanny was waiting outside of the DD with the other girl. Then the crying girl dialed her mother on the cell phone and started sobbing "Mommy, I want a donut," and "SHE's mean to me." She tried to tell the mom that the nanny had left her all alone in the DD. If the mom is reading this, what your daughter told you is not true. The nanny was none to pleased with her behavior, but she was watching her through the window the whole time. BTW, I don't think it's normal for a child this age to still be having tantrums about donuts.I left the store and she was still trying to convince the mother how awful the nanny was for not buying her a donut.About ten minutes later, I spotted them again in front of the Y. The girl was carrying a Dunkin Donuts bag. This girl seemed pretty out of control. The mom and nanny need to get on the same page. If she's behaving like this at 10, what will she be like as a teenager?
October 31, 2006
There are no nanny sightings to post this morning. Below are some "nannies in the news" stories sent in by I Saw Your Nanny readers.
Nanny accused of affair with Sara Evan's husband seeks record deal.......
Michael Jackson is planning to marry his children's nanny....
First 'monster' nanny ruined a young life, now a marriage....
If you have a nanny sighting to submit, please email us.
Nanny accused of affair with Sara Evan's husband seeks record deal.......
Michael Jackson is planning to marry his children's nanny....
First 'monster' nanny ruined a young life, now a marriage....
If you have a nanny sighting to submit, please email us.
Monday
Serendipity (restaurant) in NYC
Received Monday, October 30, 2006
In line on Saturday 10/28 for a table at Serendipity when your nanny/au pair came along with your 10(?) and 6(?) year old. They were quite behind us in line and also waiting for a table when your nanny/ au pair asked your ten year old to hold the spot in line while she ran over to Dylans with "Sophie". I imagine most of the patrons assumed your 10(?) year old was with us and worry not as I kept my eye on him. Your nanny/au pair returned fifteen minutes later with candy for all. Exceedingly bad judgment on her part!
In line on Saturday 10/28 for a table at Serendipity when your nanny/au pair came along with your 10(?) and 6(?) year old. They were quite behind us in line and also waiting for a table when your nanny/ au pair asked your ten year old to hold the spot in line while she ran over to Dylans with "Sophie". I imagine most of the patrons assumed your 10(?) year old was with us and worry not as I kept my eye on him. Your nanny/au pair returned fifteen minutes later with candy for all. Exceedingly bad judgment on her part!
Turtle Park, Washington DC
Monday, October 30, 2006
I had an amazing nanny sighting this morning while stopping off in Turtle Park this morning. Your nanny was playing in the sand with a little boy who was between 2-4. They were at the park early, bundled up and laughing hysterically over the shapes they were making and the jokes they were sharing. Repeat, yes this nanny was in the sand with the child and not lining one of the side benches and the child could not have been happier!
Nanny:brown medium length hair, glasses, grey fleece, blue jeans.
Boy: blondish hair, fair skin, navy blue jacket, brown cords.
I had an amazing nanny sighting this morning while stopping off in Turtle Park this morning. Your nanny was playing in the sand with a little boy who was between 2-4. They were at the park early, bundled up and laughing hysterically over the shapes they were making and the jokes they were sharing. Repeat, yes this nanny was in the sand with the child and not lining one of the side benches and the child could not have been happier!
Nanny:brown medium length hair, glasses, grey fleece, blue jeans.
Boy: blondish hair, fair skin, navy blue jacket, brown cords.
Saturday
Burger King on Frankford Avenue in Philadelphia
Received Saturday, October 28, 2006
Nanny rushing two boys; maybe 3 & 5 down steps outside of Burger King on Frankford Ave on Friday late afternoon. Very rushed and jerky. The smallest of the children tripped and fell. And her response was "God, Oh God" and some assorted grimaces and grunts. The three year old looked scared. The nanny stood with a very chafed look on her face and waited for him to scurry to his feet. Very definitely a nanny. The boys were both wearing the same color and style of jackets (Columbia blue, black and grey jackets). This might have been an isolated incident or maybe "gruff" is one of the qualities you seek in your nanny.
Nanny rushing two boys; maybe 3 & 5 down steps outside of Burger King on Frankford Ave on Friday late afternoon. Very rushed and jerky. The smallest of the children tripped and fell. And her response was "God, Oh God" and some assorted grimaces and grunts. The three year old looked scared. The nanny stood with a very chafed look on her face and waited for him to scurry to his feet. Very definitely a nanny. The boys were both wearing the same color and style of jackets (Columbia blue, black and grey jackets). This might have been an isolated incident or maybe "gruff" is one of the qualities you seek in your nanny.
Leland Taylor Park in Colusa, Ca
Received Friday, October 27, 2006
I do not consider this abusive or neglectful- just disturbing from the perspective of a germaphobe.
I observed two nannies having lunch with their children today near the picnic areas.
The nanny I had my eye on was middle aged, hispanic, medium weight, short, curly brown hair wearing grey sweatshirt. She had a little boy facing her in a stroller with white frame and green striped fabric. The little boy was over one and under two. Lunch had clearly been packed from home as they were eating out of paper sacks and off of tin foil. The nanny I was watching would take a bite of a hotdog (bun and all) chew it up and then take it out of her mouth and put it in the child's mouth. As a germaphobe, this troubled me.
I do not consider this abusive or neglectful- just disturbing from the perspective of a germaphobe.
I observed two nannies having lunch with their children today near the picnic areas.
The nanny I had my eye on was middle aged, hispanic, medium weight, short, curly brown hair wearing grey sweatshirt. She had a little boy facing her in a stroller with white frame and green striped fabric. The little boy was over one and under two. Lunch had clearly been packed from home as they were eating out of paper sacks and off of tin foil. The nanny I was watching would take a bite of a hotdog (bun and all) chew it up and then take it out of her mouth and put it in the child's mouth. As a germaphobe, this troubled me.
Friday
Ancient Playground (5th Ave & 84th Street in NYC)
Received Friday, October 27, 2006
One nanny bundled up in cream colored jacket that was almost knee length. She had a little girl named "Anna" with her in a light jacket. The girl complained multiple times she was cold. The nanny told her to go play and run around and she would warm up. The little girl had to go to the bathroom at one point and the nanny had been speaking to another nanny who was enroute to the bathroom. The nanny directed the little girl to go with the other nanny. The little girl was clearly uncomfortable but did so anyway. The little girl's nanny was not watching any other children. Parents, make sure if you pay someone to watch your children that they are not handing off responsibility to other people. And take a look at your nanny when she comes inside from being with your child. My nanny overdesses my child to ensure his warmth. A nanny who appears all to comfortable in her padded and lined jacket while her charge shivers- well it doesn't sit well with me.
One nanny bundled up in cream colored jacket that was almost knee length. She had a little girl named "Anna" with her in a light jacket. The girl complained multiple times she was cold. The nanny told her to go play and run around and she would warm up. The little girl had to go to the bathroom at one point and the nanny had been speaking to another nanny who was enroute to the bathroom. The nanny directed the little girl to go with the other nanny. The little girl was clearly uncomfortable but did so anyway. The little girl's nanny was not watching any other children. Parents, make sure if you pay someone to watch your children that they are not handing off responsibility to other people. And take a look at your nanny when she comes inside from being with your child. My nanny overdesses my child to ensure his warmth. A nanny who appears all to comfortable in her padded and lined jacket while her charge shivers- well it doesn't sit well with me.
Thursday
181st Street in Washington Heights, NY
Received Thursday, October 26, 2006
Nanny of fraternal twin African-American or mixed-race boys, about 4
years old, let one of the boys urinate on the sidewalk right in front of
a local business. Not in the street--right on the sidewalk, right in
front of the store's door. Little boy was completely exposed for
several minutes. I happened to see it but didn't feel comfortable
saying anything to the nanny. Group of babysitters witnessed it and
were disgusted.
Nanny of fraternal twin African-American or mixed-race boys, about 4
years old, let one of the boys urinate on the sidewalk right in front of
a local business. Not in the street--right on the sidewalk, right in
front of the store's door. Little boy was completely exposed for
several minutes. I happened to see it but didn't feel comfortable
saying anything to the nanny. Group of babysitters witnessed it and
were disgusted.
Starbucks in Wayland Square -East Side Providence, Rhode Island
Received Thursday, October 26, 2006
Three cute little blond girls with nanny (white with dark brown hair, North Face Fleece, 110 lbs?) she left three little girls at a table alone while she ordered - very busy time- and then she went in the bathroom for 5 minutes and left the little ones alone- the oldest of the three went out of the front door to look for nanny!!!!!
Three cute little blond girls with nanny (white with dark brown hair, North Face Fleece, 110 lbs?) she left three little girls at a table alone while she ordered - very busy time- and then she went in the bathroom for 5 minutes and left the little ones alone- the oldest of the three went out of the front door to look for nanny!!!!!
Ashbury Heights in San Francisco, CA
Received Thursday, October 26, 2006
I know there is a lot of gossip that goes on amongst the nannies and I often choose to ignore what I hear. But the other day I heard something extremely alarming. I was told that your nanny, Amanda, had a seizure while she was walking your young child in their stroller along the panhandle. Someone grabbed the stroller to prevent it from heading into the street. 911 was called and Amanda mentioned something about "not saying anything to the family because she doesn't want to lose her job." I was told she may have epilepsy. She is 25 and Caucasian and works at a house on Piedmont at Masonic. I hope this isn't all true but if she works for you, please investigate.
I know there is a lot of gossip that goes on amongst the nannies and I often choose to ignore what I hear. But the other day I heard something extremely alarming. I was told that your nanny, Amanda, had a seizure while she was walking your young child in their stroller along the panhandle. Someone grabbed the stroller to prevent it from heading into the street. 911 was called and Amanda mentioned something about "not saying anything to the family because she doesn't want to lose her job." I was told she may have epilepsy. She is 25 and Caucasian and works at a house on Piedmont at Masonic. I hope this isn't all true but if she works for you, please investigate.
Panhandle Park in Ashbury, San Francisco
Received Thursday, October 26, 2006
Recently I have been hearing about some of the behaviors by a few nannies that I, as a parent, would want to know about. One babysitter, her name is Paulina, leads you to believe she is only watching your child, when in reality she takes on two to three jobs at once. She is getting paid by each family as if she is focused on their child exclusively. If you wanted your child in a group of three to four kids, you could be paying a cheaper rate at a daycare. She is not honest about this. I have also heard that she and some of her friends drive the kids around with no car seat. These children are young, under the age of 5. Another group of nannies sit in the panhandle park almost every day from 11am-2pm. One nanny is from Nicaragua. She takes care of a four year old Caucasian boy and a baby around 9 months. The four year old is now in school. All of the other nannies talk about this group of nannies and how awful they are to the children. Apparently the woman from Nicaragua screams at the children and often swears at them in Spanish. One of the children has fallen twice off a bench while she was not paying attention. When the child went to her for comfort, she SCREAMED at him in Spanish,"GET AWAY FROM ME YOU LITTLE SH*T"; One day the mother came to the playground and while she was standing there, the nanny said to her friends, "See, I can say whatever I want because she can't speak any Spanish!" This woman also gave the baby a chicken bone to suck on after she was finished eating the chicken, gross. Recently a woman who has grandkids at the park confronted this nanny. She hasn't been at the park recently. We are hoping she returns. We know of an undercover policeman that wants to observe what is happening. As I said, several other nannies talk about this and are concerned because their treatment of the children is so awful, but are afraid to say anything to these women who seem very tough and swear often.
Recently I have been hearing about some of the behaviors by a few nannies that I, as a parent, would want to know about. One babysitter, her name is Paulina, leads you to believe she is only watching your child, when in reality she takes on two to three jobs at once. She is getting paid by each family as if she is focused on their child exclusively. If you wanted your child in a group of three to four kids, you could be paying a cheaper rate at a daycare. She is not honest about this. I have also heard that she and some of her friends drive the kids around with no car seat. These children are young, under the age of 5. Another group of nannies sit in the panhandle park almost every day from 11am-2pm. One nanny is from Nicaragua. She takes care of a four year old Caucasian boy and a baby around 9 months. The four year old is now in school. All of the other nannies talk about this group of nannies and how awful they are to the children. Apparently the woman from Nicaragua screams at the children and often swears at them in Spanish. One of the children has fallen twice off a bench while she was not paying attention. When the child went to her for comfort, she SCREAMED at him in Spanish,"GET AWAY FROM ME YOU LITTLE SH*T"; One day the mother came to the playground and while she was standing there, the nanny said to her friends, "See, I can say whatever I want because she can't speak any Spanish!" This woman also gave the baby a chicken bone to suck on after she was finished eating the chicken, gross. Recently a woman who has grandkids at the park confronted this nanny. She hasn't been at the park recently. We are hoping she returns. We know of an undercover policeman that wants to observe what is happening. As I said, several other nannies talk about this and are concerned because their treatment of the children is so awful, but are afraid to say anything to these women who seem very tough and swear often.
Union Square Park in Manhattan
Received Thursday, October 26, 2006
I was at the Park yesterday (Weds) around 4 p.m. with my daughter. There was a Hispanic nanny wearing a brown, quilted coat with black trim, short reddish hair and in charge of a little girl who was maybe 5 years old. The nanny was sitting on the bench watching the little girl who was climbing on the red domed, metal apparatus. I was with my 2 year old so I had to be right behind her as she attempted to climb. The little girl's leg slipped and her head whacked the metal bar with such a thud. I heard it. I asked her if she was okay and she got down and went running to the nanny. As she was approaching the nanny rubbing her head, the nanny pointed her finger at her directing her to return to play. The child didn't get within five feet of the nanny before returning to play. I took my daughter off the equipment and approached the nanny. I said "you're little girl hit her head pretty hard". I had to repeat myself five times. In the end, her response in broken English was to the effect of "she's fine". Now I go over to the girl who is plopped in the sand, repeatedly scooping up a hand of sand and letting it trickle from her hand and I ask her if she is okay. She says she is. I really wanted to touch her head to see if there was a bump there, but obviously that would have been weird. I told her that it looked like it really hurt and that I was sorry that it happened. I also told her to make sure she told her mother that she hit her head so her mom could have a look at it. I'm hoping she did. The little girl was wearing a baby blue jacket, jeans and blue suede looking boots.
I was at the Park yesterday (Weds) around 4 p.m. with my daughter. There was a Hispanic nanny wearing a brown, quilted coat with black trim, short reddish hair and in charge of a little girl who was maybe 5 years old. The nanny was sitting on the bench watching the little girl who was climbing on the red domed, metal apparatus. I was with my 2 year old so I had to be right behind her as she attempted to climb. The little girl's leg slipped and her head whacked the metal bar with such a thud. I heard it. I asked her if she was okay and she got down and went running to the nanny. As she was approaching the nanny rubbing her head, the nanny pointed her finger at her directing her to return to play. The child didn't get within five feet of the nanny before returning to play. I took my daughter off the equipment and approached the nanny. I said "you're little girl hit her head pretty hard". I had to repeat myself five times. In the end, her response in broken English was to the effect of "she's fine". Now I go over to the girl who is plopped in the sand, repeatedly scooping up a hand of sand and letting it trickle from her hand and I ask her if she is okay. She says she is. I really wanted to touch her head to see if there was a bump there, but obviously that would have been weird. I told her that it looked like it really hurt and that I was sorry that it happened. I also told her to make sure she told her mother that she hit her head so her mom could have a look at it. I'm hoping she did. The little girl was wearing a baby blue jacket, jeans and blue suede looking boots.
FoodStuffs on Park Avenue in Glencoe, Illinois
Received Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Just wanted to mention a fabulous nanny that I saw today. She was with a little girl about 20 months old, the nanny was in blue jeans, a balck puffy vest and a white ski cap with brown hair. The little girl had light brown hair and was wearing pink ugg boots and a white puffy vest. The nanny was so patient and sweet with this little girl. The girl wanted to walk and the nanny put her down and they walked slowly along Park ave towards Foodstuffs and then when they entered the store the nanny made sure to pick up the little girl and continued to talk to her the entire time that they were in the store (about 5 minutes) and then when they were leaving the store she put the little girl down so she could walk. She gave the little girl lots of love, made sure she was safe when they crossed the street again and it was just such a nice change in the nanny scene that I usually witness in the area
Just wanted to mention a fabulous nanny that I saw today. She was with a little girl about 20 months old, the nanny was in blue jeans, a balck puffy vest and a white ski cap with brown hair. The little girl had light brown hair and was wearing pink ugg boots and a white puffy vest. The nanny was so patient and sweet with this little girl. The girl wanted to walk and the nanny put her down and they walked slowly along Park ave towards Foodstuffs and then when they entered the store the nanny made sure to pick up the little girl and continued to talk to her the entire time that they were in the store (about 5 minutes) and then when they were leaving the store she put the little girl down so she could walk. She gave the little girl lots of love, made sure she was safe when they crossed the street again and it was just such a nice change in the nanny scene that I usually witness in the area
Wednesday
GREAT 1st DAY Nanny at Everett Target store, Washington State
Received Wednesday, October 25, 2006
This morning, (10/24 at 9:30 a.m.) while I was waiting in the checkout line at the Target store on Everett Mall Way, I noticed a very young woman (maybe 17-19 years old) in front of me-she had blonde or light brown hair and was very slim, wearing jeans. In the cart she was pushing sat a sweet, pudgy-faced little girl who looked to be about 10-13 months old, and had a dark complexion and curly black hair.The nanny was buying a plastic bib, and nothing else.
The child was happy, and smiling, but had a HORRIBLE cough - she sounded awful!
I commented to the nanny on how cute the little girl was, and she mentioned it was her first day watching the child. I also offered the suggestion that sitting in a nice warm bath with the child might help clear up that cough! (Can't help it-my husband keeps telling me not to offer unsolicited advice-guess it's something I need to work on!) The nanny smiled and said they might try it.
The child looked quite comfortable with her new caretaker, who wasn't being overly playful with her charge, but was obviously doing her best on that busy morning in the crowded store. This nanny was smiling, happy, and looked glad to be with your daughter.
If this is your child & your new nanny, congrats! You've found a keeper!
This morning, (10/24 at 9:30 a.m.) while I was waiting in the checkout line at the Target store on Everett Mall Way, I noticed a very young woman (maybe 17-19 years old) in front of me-she had blonde or light brown hair and was very slim, wearing jeans. In the cart she was pushing sat a sweet, pudgy-faced little girl who looked to be about 10-13 months old, and had a dark complexion and curly black hair.The nanny was buying a plastic bib, and nothing else.
The child was happy, and smiling, but had a HORRIBLE cough - she sounded awful!
I commented to the nanny on how cute the little girl was, and she mentioned it was her first day watching the child. I also offered the suggestion that sitting in a nice warm bath with the child might help clear up that cough! (Can't help it-my husband keeps telling me not to offer unsolicited advice-guess it's something I need to work on!) The nanny smiled and said they might try it.
The child looked quite comfortable with her new caretaker, who wasn't being overly playful with her charge, but was obviously doing her best on that busy morning in the crowded store. This nanny was smiling, happy, and looked glad to be with your daughter.
If this is your child & your new nanny, congrats! You've found a keeper!
Sam Goody -on Colorado Blvd in Pasadena, California
Received Wednesday October 25, 2006
Au Pair: 5'8, 130, 19-21, brown hair, green eyes, mini skirt and short sleeved zipper hoody.
Child: boy, approximately 12, blonde, blue eyes, big build for a child
Observed: Tuesday afternoon and the au pair had clearly taken the boy to Sam Goody to buy some music.
I observed her negotiating with him to let her get a CD too. He was in charge of the credit card. The boy was not easily convinced. The au pair was offering homework help and brownies. If this sounds weird to read, it was weirder still to see. While this was not sinister and more goes to the integrity of the au pair, I find it quite unsettling to witness people in power broker deals with children. Is it just me?
Au Pair: 5'8, 130, 19-21, brown hair, green eyes, mini skirt and short sleeved zipper hoody.
Child: boy, approximately 12, blonde, blue eyes, big build for a child
Observed: Tuesday afternoon and the au pair had clearly taken the boy to Sam Goody to buy some music.
I observed her negotiating with him to let her get a CD too. He was in charge of the credit card. The boy was not easily convinced. The au pair was offering homework help and brownies. If this sounds weird to read, it was weirder still to see. While this was not sinister and more goes to the integrity of the au pair, I find it quite unsettling to witness people in power broker deals with children. Is it just me?
Katzenberg's Deli in Greenwich, CT
Received Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Tuesday, 10/24 around lunchtime
I saw your nanny crying hysterically. Being consoled by an older woman.
How can you treat a human being the way you have treated her?
Tuesday, 10/24 around lunchtime
I saw your nanny crying hysterically. Being consoled by an older woman.
How can you treat a human being the way you have treated her?
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