Received Monday, March 3, 2008-Rant
I just phoned one of the most reputable nanny/domestic agencies in New York City in search of a nanny. I was informed that their nannies were being paid between $18 and $30 per hour, depending on the position. I won't say the name of the agency, least Isend them any business but $30 per hour for a nanny?
Monday
Lexington and East 21st. in NYC
Received Monday, March 3, 2008AA Nanny with short hair, large curls, blue jeans, pink button up sweater pushing girl in a black and silver Bugaboo stroller on Lexington and East 21st. Girl was 1-1.5 with white blonde hair and standing up in stroller. She was not strapped in the stroller. A little boy had been walking with them holding a handle of the stroller. Nanny answers her phone and child takes over both handles. The girl who was standing fell back, into the stroller, seemed just fine and the nanny yelled at the child calling him a "ninkimpoop". The child should have been strapped in regardless of who was pushing the stroller. Children should not be standing in their strollers! I sensed the nanny's dislike for the male child right away. The boy was dark haired, wearing a varsity looking jacket with black sleeves and a cream colored body. It reminded me of the brand Avirex by design, but I don't think it was. He had on blue jeans and yellow tennis shoes (should stand out for a parent) and was about 3.5 years of age. This was at approximately 12:20 PM today, (3/3).
Celebrity Nannies...
Monday, March 3, 2008
Quiz: Do you have what it takes? Could you be a Celebrity Nanny?
Are you a nanny for a celebrity? Here is the application to be on the television show Celebrity Nanny "If you think you have what it takes to star in the new Celebrity Nanny show, drop those diapers and apply online. This is your chance to be a real celebrity. Celebrity Nannies applying MUST already be working for a celebrity and will need to have approval from their celeb bosses to star in the series.”
Random Celebrity Nannies:
David Letterman's Nanny
Geri Halliwell's Nanny
Heidi Klum's army of (3) Nannies and (2) Nannies
Crown Princess Mary of Denmark's Nanny, (in blue denim)
Marcia Cross's Nanny
Patrick Dempsey's Nanny, (in pink, tank sweater)
Claudia Schiffer's Nanny, (in green sweater)
Michelle William's Nanny
Gwyneth Paltrow's Nanny, (in yellow sweater)
Denise Richard's Nanny
Courtney Cox's Nanny
Michael Jackson's Nanny
Marva, former nanny of Reese Witherspoon, Julia Roberts and currently Sheryl Crow
Will Ferrill's Nanny
Kevin Federline's Nanny
Nannies as Stepmothers (to their former charges):
Robin Williams and wife, Marsha
Ryan Shawhughes, girlfriend of Ethan Hawke, is expecting a baby, his publicist has announced. Ryan Shawhughes met Hawke when she was the nanny to Hawke and his former wife, Uma Thurman.
Joe Piscopo met wife Kimberly when she worked as a nanny to his son, Joey, from his marriage to his first wife, Nancy. Joe and Kim had three children of their own Alexandra, Michael and Olivia before divorcing in 2007.
Nannies as Playthings:
Daisy Wright (Jude Law)
Ozzy Osbourne cheated on his wife Sharon with their children's nanny the night their son Jack was born.
Quiz: Do you have what it takes? Could you be a Celebrity Nanny?
Are you a nanny for a celebrity? Here is the application to be on the television show Celebrity Nanny "If you think you have what it takes to star in the new Celebrity Nanny show, drop those diapers and apply online. This is your chance to be a real celebrity. Celebrity Nannies applying MUST already be working for a celebrity and will need to have approval from their celeb bosses to star in the series.”
Random Celebrity Nannies:
David Letterman's Nanny
Geri Halliwell's Nanny
Heidi Klum's army of (3) Nannies and (2) Nannies
Crown Princess Mary of Denmark's Nanny, (in blue denim)
Marcia Cross's Nanny
Patrick Dempsey's Nanny, (in pink, tank sweater)
Claudia Schiffer's Nanny, (in green sweater)
Michelle William's Nanny
Gwyneth Paltrow's Nanny, (in yellow sweater)
Denise Richard's Nanny
Courtney Cox's Nanny
Michael Jackson's Nanny
Marva, former nanny of Reese Witherspoon, Julia Roberts and currently Sheryl Crow
Will Ferrill's Nanny
Kevin Federline's Nanny
Nannies as Stepmothers (to their former charges):
Robin Williams and wife, Marsha
Ryan Shawhughes, girlfriend of Ethan Hawke, is expecting a baby, his publicist has announced. Ryan Shawhughes met Hawke when she was the nanny to Hawke and his former wife, Uma Thurman.
Joe Piscopo met wife Kimberly when she worked as a nanny to his son, Joey, from his marriage to his first wife, Nancy. Joe and Kim had three children of their own Alexandra, Michael and Olivia before divorcing in 2007.
Nannies as Playthings:
Daisy Wright (Jude Law)
Ozzy Osbourne cheated on his wife Sharon with their children's nanny the night their son Jack was born.
Sunday
Nanny's Breast Augmentation...
Received Sunday, March 2, 2008- Perspective & Opinion
OK so i didn't spot a bad nanny or any neglect but I have a question of perspective and hopefully respectful opinion.
I am hoping some mom's/caregivers could give me insightful opinions. I am interested in having a breast augmentation to even out my breasts and to SLIGHTY enlarge them while im at it, im like hardly a b cup and would like to be a full b so don't worry fellow readers I'm not going to flaunt them around in the little girls face or wear low cut things. I'm very modest. At most i wear knee lenght shorts and a way above non-existing cleavage neckline shirt.
As a nanny taking care of a 8 month old baby I would like to know how woman have dealt with a baby post breast augmentation surgery. More spesific how did any of you deal with the lifting your child factor.
I am considering doing this about 5 months from now and wondering how this will affect my job. I know nurses who have gone back to work 2 days after surgery even though it is recommended 1-2 weeks. I'll be taking 10days (weekend incl) off. I'm hoping my baby will walk by then, even though she was premature. Though I realise the crib will mean lifting as well as the stroller. I've thought of how to deal with lifting situations... such as using the high chair on the low floor setting and myself sitting on the floor to eat so that i don't have to do too much lifting in that aspect. Playing on the balcony with the baby pool for the next couple of weeks instead of long trips that stresses the body.
Any tips perhaps? Do i tell my employers what i'm having done? Would they think of me as inappropriate? It really matters to me what they think as I respect them a lot though we aren't exactly so close as to share private matters but at the same time they need to be prepared for my situation as well.
OK so i didn't spot a bad nanny or any neglect but I have a question of perspective and hopefully respectful opinion.
I am hoping some mom's/caregivers could give me insightful opinions. I am interested in having a breast augmentation to even out my breasts and to SLIGHTY enlarge them while im at it, im like hardly a b cup and would like to be a full b so don't worry fellow readers I'm not going to flaunt them around in the little girls face or wear low cut things. I'm very modest. At most i wear knee lenght shorts and a way above non-existing cleavage neckline shirt.
As a nanny taking care of a 8 month old baby I would like to know how woman have dealt with a baby post breast augmentation surgery. More spesific how did any of you deal with the lifting your child factor.
I am considering doing this about 5 months from now and wondering how this will affect my job. I know nurses who have gone back to work 2 days after surgery even though it is recommended 1-2 weeks. I'll be taking 10days (weekend incl) off. I'm hoping my baby will walk by then, even though she was premature. Though I realise the crib will mean lifting as well as the stroller. I've thought of how to deal with lifting situations... such as using the high chair on the low floor setting and myself sitting on the floor to eat so that i don't have to do too much lifting in that aspect. Playing on the balcony with the baby pool for the next couple of weeks instead of long trips that stresses the body.
Any tips perhaps? Do i tell my employers what i'm having done? Would they think of me as inappropriate? It really matters to me what they think as I respect them a lot though we aren't exactly so close as to share private matters but at the same time they need to be prepared for my situation as well.
Jungle Java in Ann Arbor, MI
Update:
Sunday, March 2, 2008 5:39:49 P.M.
A recent post on your blog has been written about me and one of my charges. The post (Jungle Java in Ann Arbor, MI) makes ridiculous false statements. My lawyer began looking into this today. There will most likely be a libel suit against this woman. I'd like to see the post removed, if possible. I have read and understood the disclaimer you have on your blog.
Thank you.
Received Friday, February 29, 2008
On Wednesday morning, February 13, my son and I went to Jungle Java, an indoor playground on Jackson Ave. in Ann Arbor, MI.
We saw a very blond toddler named Gigi; she is 23 months old. She was with her nanny. I believe the nanny's name is Candace, or Candice, but I'm not certain. Her last name begans with an S- again, I'm not sure, because I got this information off of Jungle Java's sign-in sheet. The nanny is not very tall, and is extremely heavy. I think she was wearing glasses, but I don't remember. She appeared to be 20-25 years old.
I chatted with the nanny briefly in a friendly way, so I could gather some information (and confirm that she is the nanny, and not the mother.)
The nanny was completely ignoring Gigi. In fact, she was sitting in the coffee area doing homework. She rarely looked up from her book. There were many times that Gigi was nowhere in sight. The nanny had no idea whether Gigi was climbing in the play area, in the snack area, in the party rooms, or if she'd been snatched by a stranger. Jungle Java is a large indoor playground and the play structures are pretty advanced. A child Gigi's age could be injured easily on the play structure and NEEDS supervision when climbing on this type of structure. Finally, the nanny was not interacting with Gigi in any way. She was not nurturing, loving, or attentive. She rarely looked at or talked to Gigi; indeed, she wasn't even anywhere near Gigi most of the time, and she rarely looked up from her book.
From the sign-in sheet, I saw that Gigi and her nanny had been at Jungle Java for approximately 2.5 hours already. (From about 9:30 until about noon.)
After my friendly chat with the nanny, I asked her if Gigi's parents know that she completely ignores Gigi and does her homework while letting Gigi wander, completely unsupervised. The nanny said, "yes," that this was their "down time" (2.5 hours of "down time"!), and gave me a short speech about "different parenting styles." I told her that I would fire her on the spot if she were my nanny.
I hope that Gigi's parents will find out about this. I have been so sad and upset about what I saw. My husband, our nanny, and I are keeping our eyes open, in hopes that we'll run into Gigi and her parents around town somewhere.
Sunday, March 2, 2008 5:39:49 P.M.
A recent post on your blog has been written about me and one of my charges. The post (Jungle Java in Ann Arbor, MI) makes ridiculous false statements. My lawyer began looking into this today. There will most likely be a libel suit against this woman. I'd like to see the post removed, if possible. I have read and understood the disclaimer you have on your blog.
Thank you.
Received Friday, February 29, 2008 On Wednesday morning, February 13, my son and I went to Jungle Java, an indoor playground on Jackson Ave. in Ann Arbor, MI.
We saw a very blond toddler named Gigi; she is 23 months old. She was with her nanny. I believe the nanny's name is Candace, or Candice, but I'm not certain. Her last name begans with an S- again, I'm not sure, because I got this information off of Jungle Java's sign-in sheet. The nanny is not very tall, and is extremely heavy. I think she was wearing glasses, but I don't remember. She appeared to be 20-25 years old.
I chatted with the nanny briefly in a friendly way, so I could gather some information (and confirm that she is the nanny, and not the mother.)
The nanny was completely ignoring Gigi. In fact, she was sitting in the coffee area doing homework. She rarely looked up from her book. There were many times that Gigi was nowhere in sight. The nanny had no idea whether Gigi was climbing in the play area, in the snack area, in the party rooms, or if she'd been snatched by a stranger. Jungle Java is a large indoor playground and the play structures are pretty advanced. A child Gigi's age could be injured easily on the play structure and NEEDS supervision when climbing on this type of structure. Finally, the nanny was not interacting with Gigi in any way. She was not nurturing, loving, or attentive. She rarely looked at or talked to Gigi; indeed, she wasn't even anywhere near Gigi most of the time, and she rarely looked up from her book.
From the sign-in sheet, I saw that Gigi and her nanny had been at Jungle Java for approximately 2.5 hours already. (From about 9:30 until about noon.)
After my friendly chat with the nanny, I asked her if Gigi's parents know that she completely ignores Gigi and does her homework while letting Gigi wander, completely unsupervised. The nanny said, "yes," that this was their "down time" (2.5 hours of "down time"!), and gave me a short speech about "different parenting styles." I told her that I would fire her on the spot if she were my nanny.
I hope that Gigi's parents will find out about this. I have been so sad and upset about what I saw. My husband, our nanny, and I are keeping our eyes open, in hopes that we'll run into Gigi and her parents around town somewhere.
Saturday
Saturday, March 1, 2008
I really enjoy the blog Passive Agressive Notes, do check it out. Jennifer Le Carlo is hooked on Great Olan Mills Photos and Elaine, one of the geniuses behind Meebo recently turned me on to the electronic pinball game, Peggle. I'd love for you to share some of your favorite blogs and websites.
I'm heading to the Children's Museum of Manhattan to spend the afternoon with my nephew and a group of wonderful children who are very excited about the Dora exhibit. Before, I take off I have just a few words about LOVE OUR CHILDREN.
National Love Our Children Day, an initiative of Love Our Children is like Mother's and Father's Day for children and is celebrated across the U.S. This day was created to acknowledge the value of children and to educate parents on the importance of giving them love, protection and respect, the three essential elements children need to become strong and successful adults. An initiative of Love Our Children USA, this special day is celebrated annually on the first Saturday of every April to honor children, strengthen families and raise awareness for efforts to keep children safe. This year, National Love Our Children Day will be celebrated on Saturday, April 5. To be a part of the celebration, please click here. This organization is a personal favorite of mine and they are always happy to have volunteers and of course, donations. Please take a moment to visit the Love Our Children site and see for yourself all of the amazing things they are doing for children and families.
Below is a great video called, "People in Order".
Have a wonderful weekend. -JD
I'm heading to the Children's Museum of Manhattan to spend the afternoon with my nephew and a group of wonderful children who are very excited about the Dora exhibit. Before, I take off I have just a few words about LOVE OUR CHILDREN.
National Love Our Children Day, an initiative of Love Our Children is like Mother's and Father's Day for children and is celebrated across the U.S. This day was created to acknowledge the value of children and to educate parents on the importance of giving them love, protection and respect, the three essential elements children need to become strong and successful adults. An initiative of Love Our Children USA, this special day is celebrated annually on the first Saturday of every April to honor children, strengthen families and raise awareness for efforts to keep children safe. This year, National Love Our Children Day will be celebrated on Saturday, April 5. To be a part of the celebration, please click here. This organization is a personal favorite of mine and they are always happy to have volunteers and of course, donations. Please take a moment to visit the Love Our Children site and see for yourself all of the amazing things they are doing for children and families.
Below is a great video called, "People in Order".
Have a wonderful weekend. -JD
Friday
Michael Wolfe and his Sitter Located...
Missing Toddler Recovered Unharmed
The nanny, described by police as a Gilbert runaway and a suspected drug user, was taken after her detention to Sun Health Del E. Webb Hospital in Sun City West complaining of stomach problems. Police declined to discuss where the boy and the nanny were for the 24 hours they were missing, or whether the nanny would be charged with a crime. Rody said the troubled teenager has a spotty past and was reported missing by her mother in December.
Click here for afternoon updates to this story.
The nanny, described by police as a Gilbert runaway and a suspected drug user, was taken after her detention to Sun Health Del E. Webb Hospital in Sun City West complaining of stomach problems. Police declined to discuss where the boy and the nanny were for the 24 hours they were missing, or whether the nanny would be charged with a crime. Rody said the troubled teenager has a spotty past and was reported missing by her mother in December.
Click here for afternoon updates to this story.
Thursday
It wasn't a "Bad Nanny", but a "Bad Mommy"
Received Thursday, February 28, 2008-Perspective & Opinion
I need suggestions. Someone reported a "bad nanny" that turned out to be a "bad mommy" I am writing in response to the nanny reported in Golden, Colorado. Someone forwarded me the post because they know the mom and know I am well acquainted with the mom. She adopted a child and is about to give birth to a child. The person who posted was right on with how this woman treats her kid- very harsh mean, unloving and cold. I would love some guidance on how to help this situation. I have prayed about it for a year and just am beside myself. The mom does treat the kid like an object and is very self centered. I do not know how to help the mom? What can I do to provide support? What makes it hard is she is very quick to judge and mistreat everyone around her? We are not good enough friends where ending the relationship would be noticeable, but I really worry about her daughter. The mom degrades the little tot and says horrible things about her husband, family and friends in front of the tot. I know even trying to help is playing with fire (I think the mom might be borderline personality). Should I contact the grandparents? Contact the adoption agency (she adopted through to see if the do post placement support?) The daughter's spirit is being broken every day.
I need suggestions. Someone reported a "bad nanny" that turned out to be a "bad mommy" I am writing in response to the nanny reported in Golden, Colorado. Someone forwarded me the post because they know the mom and know I am well acquainted with the mom. She adopted a child and is about to give birth to a child. The person who posted was right on with how this woman treats her kid- very harsh mean, unloving and cold. I would love some guidance on how to help this situation. I have prayed about it for a year and just am beside myself. The mom does treat the kid like an object and is very self centered. I do not know how to help the mom? What can I do to provide support? What makes it hard is she is very quick to judge and mistreat everyone around her? We are not good enough friends where ending the relationship would be noticeable, but I really worry about her daughter. The mom degrades the little tot and says horrible things about her husband, family and friends in front of the tot. I know even trying to help is playing with fire (I think the mom might be borderline personality). Should I contact the grandparents? Contact the adoption agency (she adopted through to see if the do post placement support?) The daughter's spirit is being broken every day.
Wednesday
Lorna Lane Park in Ramapo, NJ
Received Wednesday, February 27, 2008Could you get this on the blog straight away? I was just at Lorna Lane Park in Ramapo and I witnessed the following. One nanny, African American, tall, with orangey colored hair. She had it far back off her forehead, but it was short. She looked young, probably 25 or so. She was pushing a stroller that was blue with a blue and green plaid lining. It looked like a boy's stroller but she was pushing a little girl who did not want to ride in the stroller. The little girl was wearing a fleece jacket. The jacket was pink and white and did not have buttons but wooden pegs to secure it. The little girl had a Pebbles hairdo. She was probably 2 or 3. She was a White girl, with dark blonde hair. The girl was in the stroller but was whining and fussing to get out. The nanny eventually yanked her out and told her she could walk. The nanny was carrying a bottle of poland springs water that had a squirt top. I wasn't watching but I heard the girl cry out and she cried the nanny threw water on her. The girl's back of her head and jacket was wet. The nanny told her she was telling tales. She then said something like, 'so you want this water or what'. I know she was only covering for throwing water on the girl. It is about 35 degrees outside. The nanny was mad that the girl wanted out of her stroller. So yanking her out wasn't enough. Look, the girl was being whiny, I heard it. But come on! And I just watched Prime time live last night, What would you do, and still I was stumped about what to say and do. Mostly on account of not wanting to make it worse for the little girl. I don't think I was wrong about what I interpreted. If you know this girl, have the parents show up unexpectedly to see how that nanny treats her.
Horror Nanny-Why?
Received Wednesday, February 27, 2008-Rant
Caution-video is highly disturbing-I could not watch it myself.-JD
Video and rant submitted by: Nanny in The Know, who found the story on Greta Van Susteren.
What type of background checking did the parents do before they hired her? I guess we are all going to assume she is illegal, because she does not speak English?If so, she does not have an SS- how can you do a background check?If something happened to the child- would she call 911- or be afraid to call, because she maybe found to be illegal?
I know this type of story gets parents out running to buy nanny cams…
Nanny Cams have their place, and do catch negligent/abusive childcare givers out there, but it is ALWAYS -AFTER the abuse has occurred. NOTHING can replace careful and thorough screening by the parents before hiring a nanny.
The most essential thing a parent can do to keep their children safe is to do extensive interviewing, background checking, and reference checking to find a nanny they are comfortable with. Making sure the nanny has the proper training, CPR, 1st Aid, etc. is also key.
I personally would not leave a child under the age of 4 with any caregiver who does not have at least 2-3 years full-time nanny experience and a stellar background. I am not saying that nanny cams are a bad idea…but they should NOT be and CANNOT be a parent’s first line of defense.
It’s a parents responsibility to keep their child safe, therefore, they should rely far more on interviewing, reference checking, and background checking to find the best possible nanny for their family. Parents should never leave their child with anyone they have concerns with. Make sure the nanny has the knowledge and background to be a qualified child caregiver.
Caution-video is highly disturbing-I could not watch it myself.-JD
Video and rant submitted by: Nanny in The Know, who found the story on Greta Van Susteren.
What type of background checking did the parents do before they hired her? I guess we are all going to assume she is illegal, because she does not speak English?If so, she does not have an SS- how can you do a background check?If something happened to the child- would she call 911- or be afraid to call, because she maybe found to be illegal?
I know this type of story gets parents out running to buy nanny cams…
Nanny Cams have their place, and do catch negligent/abusive childcare givers out there, but it is ALWAYS -AFTER the abuse has occurred. NOTHING can replace careful and thorough screening by the parents before hiring a nanny.
The most essential thing a parent can do to keep their children safe is to do extensive interviewing, background checking, and reference checking to find a nanny they are comfortable with. Making sure the nanny has the proper training, CPR, 1st Aid, etc. is also key.
I personally would not leave a child under the age of 4 with any caregiver who does not have at least 2-3 years full-time nanny experience and a stellar background. I am not saying that nanny cams are a bad idea…but they should NOT be and CANNOT be a parent’s first line of defense.
It’s a parents responsibility to keep their child safe, therefore, they should rely far more on interviewing, reference checking, and background checking to find the best possible nanny for their family. Parents should never leave their child with anyone they have concerns with. Make sure the nanny has the knowledge and background to be a qualified child caregiver.
Tuesday
Could She Be A Klepto?
Received Tuesday, February 26, 2008-Perspective & Opinion
I have a problem that I am not sure what to do about. First a little history.
I have 2 children, one with special needs. After going through several sitters, we found one we love. She comes everyday M-F Three to Eight PM. We pay her 20.00 per hour. She is wonderful! Our kids love her, she's never late or out sick. She does the dishes and cleans up after the kids and herself. She takes them great places and does all sorts of crafts with them. The problem. I think she is a Kleptomaniac! Since she started, I noticed small things disappearing. Nothing of real worth. A ream of paper from my home office, packags of wipes, pens, staples, toilet paper, etc. Even pampers though she has no babies in her family! Oddly enough, if I leave money, or jewelry lying around, that is never gone. I know it's the nanny because of the rate we go through things now that she's working here and the other day when I realized I was out of printer paper my Son said Nanny X took it. I know this is no big deal and I am not trying to be cheap here. I would gladly give this woman anything out of my home because other than this little issue, she's wonderful. But I am curious as to other parents and nannies opinions. Is it worth losing a great nanny over petty crap or could this be a sign of things to come? I'm not sure as she's been with us nearly a year.
I have a problem that I am not sure what to do about. First a little history.
I have 2 children, one with special needs. After going through several sitters, we found one we love. She comes everyday M-F Three to Eight PM. We pay her 20.00 per hour. She is wonderful! Our kids love her, she's never late or out sick. She does the dishes and cleans up after the kids and herself. She takes them great places and does all sorts of crafts with them. The problem. I think she is a Kleptomaniac! Since she started, I noticed small things disappearing. Nothing of real worth. A ream of paper from my home office, packags of wipes, pens, staples, toilet paper, etc. Even pampers though she has no babies in her family! Oddly enough, if I leave money, or jewelry lying around, that is never gone. I know it's the nanny because of the rate we go through things now that she's working here and the other day when I realized I was out of printer paper my Son said Nanny X took it. I know this is no big deal and I am not trying to be cheap here. I would gladly give this woman anything out of my home because other than this little issue, she's wonderful. But I am curious as to other parents and nannies opinions. Is it worth losing a great nanny over petty crap or could this be a sign of things to come? I'm not sure as she's been with us nearly a year.
Still Angry at the Sound of My Child Left Crying...
Received Tuesday, February 26, 2008-Perspective & Opinion
My regular nanny went home to her family for 7 days and I used a nanny that I am friendly with. The first week went okay. The nanny had been having some pain and went to the emergency room on Friday after she was relieved by my husband. She wasn't admitted, rather was released later that night and told she needed to have follow up tests to see what was wrong with her. She even stopped and filled her own prescription before returning home.
During the weekend, she wasn't really working. My husband told her to take it easy and rest up. We were aware she had a prescription for percocet.
On Monday morning, the nanny mentioned she was in pain but said that she wouldn't take the pill until she put my daughter down for a nap. I didn't give it much thought as I was worried about getting to my job. This is why I was utilizing her services, so I could get to my work as usual and of course she was being compensated for her time. I came home for a break around 12:30 on Monday and heard my daughter crying in her crib. The nanny was asleep in the guest room next to my daughter's, (where she had been staying all week). I was absolutely livid that my daughter had been crying. I pushed open the nanny's door which was ajar and said, "hello"?. The nanny looked at me and said, "She keeps throwing everything out of her crib. I just picked it up and put everything back in". I picked the stuff up she had thrown out of the crib and told her it was naptime and she went to sleep. I went back to work and the day seemed to finish okay. The nanny left last night.
My problem is this. This nanny is not my own nanny, she is someone I see on a regular basis. I just saw her this morning and I am so angry that she allowed my child to cry in her crib, I could only smile a terse smile. I am still paying her but I want to include a note that really documents how disappointed and shocked I was by her mid day nap taking. What do you think?
2/26 PM, 10:30 PM Thank you all for your perspective. I wasn't thinking at all of her and now I regret that. In my head I was thinking, I only needed her for these seven days, she should be here for me. The crying in itself was not a bad thing. I think I just walked in at the wrong moment. And I let other stressful situations going on in my life overwhelm me and affect the way I treated another person, a person I have genuine regard for. Again, thank you for your perspective. If you are wondering what I have decided, I am going to attach a note with her money and it will be thanking her for sticking it out with me when she wasn't feeling her best. -OP
My regular nanny went home to her family for 7 days and I used a nanny that I am friendly with. The first week went okay. The nanny had been having some pain and went to the emergency room on Friday after she was relieved by my husband. She wasn't admitted, rather was released later that night and told she needed to have follow up tests to see what was wrong with her. She even stopped and filled her own prescription before returning home.
During the weekend, she wasn't really working. My husband told her to take it easy and rest up. We were aware she had a prescription for percocet.
On Monday morning, the nanny mentioned she was in pain but said that she wouldn't take the pill until she put my daughter down for a nap. I didn't give it much thought as I was worried about getting to my job. This is why I was utilizing her services, so I could get to my work as usual and of course she was being compensated for her time. I came home for a break around 12:30 on Monday and heard my daughter crying in her crib. The nanny was asleep in the guest room next to my daughter's, (where she had been staying all week). I was absolutely livid that my daughter had been crying. I pushed open the nanny's door which was ajar and said, "hello"?. The nanny looked at me and said, "She keeps throwing everything out of her crib. I just picked it up and put everything back in". I picked the stuff up she had thrown out of the crib and told her it was naptime and she went to sleep. I went back to work and the day seemed to finish okay. The nanny left last night.
My problem is this. This nanny is not my own nanny, she is someone I see on a regular basis. I just saw her this morning and I am so angry that she allowed my child to cry in her crib, I could only smile a terse smile. I am still paying her but I want to include a note that really documents how disappointed and shocked I was by her mid day nap taking. What do you think?
2/26 PM, 10:30 PM Thank you all for your perspective. I wasn't thinking at all of her and now I regret that. In my head I was thinking, I only needed her for these seven days, she should be here for me. The crying in itself was not a bad thing. I think I just walked in at the wrong moment. And I let other stressful situations going on in my life overwhelm me and affect the way I treated another person, a person I have genuine regard for. Again, thank you for your perspective. If you are wondering what I have decided, I am going to attach a note with her money and it will be thanking her for sticking it out with me when she wasn't feeling her best. -OP
Bench Opposite the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park, NYC
Recieved Tuesday, February 26, 2008
It was too cold to be sleeping-you would think. But that did not stop this nanny in charge of a child nestled in a stroller from dozing off at around 2 PM yesterday, (2/25). The stroller was a Perego that had black, red, white and grey in it. The child had a mint green blanket around him (or her?). The nanny was heavyset, medium height, maybe 50 years old, hair was brownish and looked like it had been set on rollers and not combed out. The child was Caucasian, the nanny African American. The nanny drifted off for about 10-15 minutes.
It was too cold to be sleeping-you would think. But that did not stop this nanny in charge of a child nestled in a stroller from dozing off at around 2 PM yesterday, (2/25). The stroller was a Perego that had black, red, white and grey in it. The child had a mint green blanket around him (or her?). The nanny was heavyset, medium height, maybe 50 years old, hair was brownish and looked like it had been set on rollers and not combed out. The child was Caucasian, the nanny African American. The nanny drifted off for about 10-15 minutes.
Monday
Bathroom at Ancient Playground in NYC
Received Monday, February 25, 2008
This may or may not be anything. A nanny or sitter took a boy of about 2.5-3. into the bathroom at Ancient playground at about 1PM today, (2/25). The boy had apparently messed his pants. The babysitter asked him if he went number 1 or number 2. The boy said "2" and the nanny said, "then you know that is two spanks". I was washing my hands and she was in there with him and I heard her thwack him twice, over his pants as I heard fabric. The boy started crying, not outrageously, just normally. The babysitter called the boy, "Benny". At one point she said, "Benny, why"? She was not mad or out of control with the child, more so she simply informed him of the punishment and dispensed that punishment. I would never want such for my child but she may be doing what the parents asked. Right? That is what I somewhat convinced myself.
The babysitter was black, about 45-50 years of age, medium build, with a bun in her hair, dressed very neatly. The boy was wearing a green jacket, army green color specifically and I think blue jeans. He had brown hair that was cut short on the sides, but somewhat longer on the top.
This may or may not be anything. A nanny or sitter took a boy of about 2.5-3. into the bathroom at Ancient playground at about 1PM today, (2/25). The boy had apparently messed his pants. The babysitter asked him if he went number 1 or number 2. The boy said "2" and the nanny said, "then you know that is two spanks". I was washing my hands and she was in there with him and I heard her thwack him twice, over his pants as I heard fabric. The boy started crying, not outrageously, just normally. The babysitter called the boy, "Benny". At one point she said, "Benny, why"? She was not mad or out of control with the child, more so she simply informed him of the punishment and dispensed that punishment. I would never want such for my child but she may be doing what the parents asked. Right? That is what I somewhat convinced myself.
The babysitter was black, about 45-50 years of age, medium build, with a bun in her hair, dressed very neatly. The boy was wearing a green jacket, army green color specifically and I think blue jeans. He had brown hair that was cut short on the sides, but somewhat longer on the top.
Sunday
Fun4All Park in Port Jefferson Station, NY
Received Sunday, February 24, 2008
Saturday, (2/23) at approximately 10:45-11:15, I witnessed a nanny and her charge at the Fun4All Indoor Play park in Port Jefferson Station. The nanny was upset because she gave the child orders to meet her by a certain yellow slide and he was not there while she waited for about three minutes and then went to find him- at another yellow slide waiting for her. He was only about three years old and when he was taking off his shoes, I helped him put his shoes back on (the rules). Also my husband was on hand to help give him a boost on a climbing structure. The little boy tried to bond with us, asking us to watch him do this and that. The fact that the nanny was upset because he wasn't there was ridiculous given his age. She was on her cell phone, even as she waited and adult supervision is one of the rules of the place. He was a sweet boy and I didn't mind the interaction with him, but even in a child friendly place such as this, predators lurk looking specifically for the child who is left alone.
Nanny: Approximately 5'5, 150 lbs, straight medium brown hair, medium skin color, Hispanic, brown corduroys, white thigh length sweater with tied sash, black cell phone in a black leather flip case.
Child: Approximately 3 years old, Caucasian, straight white/blonde hair, pale skin, blue eyes, Caucasian, has a very sweet talking voice, was wearing Cakewalk cargo pants with a zipper and pocket on the front of each leg, eggplant color and a striped shirt with many colors and stripes and a silk screen of a tiger on top of that. He had on Adidas short socks and blue leather sneakers with double velcro and the letter N on it. I am not familiar with the brand but the child was clearly well dressed.
Saturday, (2/23) at approximately 10:45-11:15, I witnessed a nanny and her charge at the Fun4All Indoor Play park in Port Jefferson Station. The nanny was upset because she gave the child orders to meet her by a certain yellow slide and he was not there while she waited for about three minutes and then went to find him- at another yellow slide waiting for her. He was only about three years old and when he was taking off his shoes, I helped him put his shoes back on (the rules). Also my husband was on hand to help give him a boost on a climbing structure. The little boy tried to bond with us, asking us to watch him do this and that. The fact that the nanny was upset because he wasn't there was ridiculous given his age. She was on her cell phone, even as she waited and adult supervision is one of the rules of the place. He was a sweet boy and I didn't mind the interaction with him, but even in a child friendly place such as this, predators lurk looking specifically for the child who is left alone.
Nanny: Approximately 5'5, 150 lbs, straight medium brown hair, medium skin color, Hispanic, brown corduroys, white thigh length sweater with tied sash, black cell phone in a black leather flip case.
Child: Approximately 3 years old, Caucasian, straight white/blonde hair, pale skin, blue eyes, Caucasian, has a very sweet talking voice, was wearing Cakewalk cargo pants with a zipper and pocket on the front of each leg, eggplant color and a striped shirt with many colors and stripes and a silk screen of a tiger on top of that. He had on Adidas short socks and blue leather sneakers with double velcro and the letter N on it. I am not familiar with the brand but the child was clearly well dressed.
5 Minutes Late...
Received Sunday, February 24, 2008-Perspective & Opinion
Hi, Everyone
I have been working as a part time nanny with a family for 3 months. They live approx 40 minutes away from me and with traffic, generally an hour. The mom is a stay at home mom of 3 childeren and does not work from home or anything. Basically, my duties involve taking care of the two infants, while she takes the toddler out for some alone time together. I am suppose to arrive at 8 am but sometimes I get there at 8:05. The traffic is seriously brutual in the area. Last week, we had a big ice storm and I almost got into a accident getting to there house. However, I made it there and was about 10 minutes late. Like I stated, this mom never has a specific scheduled time to be anywhere.
Last week I walked into her home approx 8:03 and she looked at me (not even saying hello) and with a very snippy tone said "YOU ARE LATE AGAIN, THIS IS LIKE EVERYDAY NOW,,,UNREAL...So I felt terrible and of course stated that I would stay the extra 5 minutes to make up the time. (and I did) Then she turned around and stated to me that she only needed me for 2 hours that morning (instead of the usual 5 hours) because she was having a woman come over to evaluate the kids for a school project. She said sorry I didnt give you notice but I have been busy. So she kept me for 2 hours and then sent me home without paying me for the full 5 hours. I thought that was extremely rude but I just kept my mouth shut. Also, I generally work for her approx 8-1 and then leave that job and go to another job right in town around 1:15 (she also knows this) So basically I was stuck hanging around the area with nothing to do for 3 hours. There was no point of me driving all the way home and going back in another hour or so (especially with gas prices).
I understand that being on time is very important with any job. However, I feel that providing great care and love to kids is much more important than being 5 minutes late every once in a while. I am a very laid back loving indvidual. Where she is very High strung with a TYPE A personalitly!! I dont feel like we click at all and I generally feel very uncomfortable working with her. I love and adore her kids so much!! I would love to hear some nannies and parent views of this situation. Should I give it another shot or should I leave?? I feel like she lied to me because I was late and sent me home just out of spite. However, I would really like to hear some more opinions before making a final decsion. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks for taking the time to listen to me!!
Hi, Everyone
I have been working as a part time nanny with a family for 3 months. They live approx 40 minutes away from me and with traffic, generally an hour. The mom is a stay at home mom of 3 childeren and does not work from home or anything. Basically, my duties involve taking care of the two infants, while she takes the toddler out for some alone time together. I am suppose to arrive at 8 am but sometimes I get there at 8:05. The traffic is seriously brutual in the area. Last week, we had a big ice storm and I almost got into a accident getting to there house. However, I made it there and was about 10 minutes late. Like I stated, this mom never has a specific scheduled time to be anywhere.
Last week I walked into her home approx 8:03 and she looked at me (not even saying hello) and with a very snippy tone said "YOU ARE LATE AGAIN, THIS IS LIKE EVERYDAY NOW,,,UNREAL...So I felt terrible and of course stated that I would stay the extra 5 minutes to make up the time. (and I did) Then she turned around and stated to me that she only needed me for 2 hours that morning (instead of the usual 5 hours) because she was having a woman come over to evaluate the kids for a school project. She said sorry I didnt give you notice but I have been busy. So she kept me for 2 hours and then sent me home without paying me for the full 5 hours. I thought that was extremely rude but I just kept my mouth shut. Also, I generally work for her approx 8-1 and then leave that job and go to another job right in town around 1:15 (she also knows this) So basically I was stuck hanging around the area with nothing to do for 3 hours. There was no point of me driving all the way home and going back in another hour or so (especially with gas prices).
I understand that being on time is very important with any job. However, I feel that providing great care and love to kids is much more important than being 5 minutes late every once in a while. I am a very laid back loving indvidual. Where she is very High strung with a TYPE A personalitly!! I dont feel like we click at all and I generally feel very uncomfortable working with her. I love and adore her kids so much!! I would love to hear some nannies and parent views of this situation. Should I give it another shot or should I leave?? I feel like she lied to me because I was late and sent me home just out of spite. However, I would really like to hear some more opinions before making a final decsion. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks for taking the time to listen to me!!
Saturday
Pollyanna?
Received Saturday, February 23-Perspective & Opinion
I wouldn't call this a question of a nanny being too good, she is good and that is why we love her. She is an American from a fairly religious background, she sets and adheres to a very high moral code. This is wonderful for our three children. We have no set regulations on television, so long as the child are not wasting away in front of it, we have no problem with occasional television. Our nanny never watches television, ever.
We also try to eat reasonably healthy but we do not want to make food an issue. I grew up in a home where there was never any sugar and became obsessed with junk which I began to sneak in the home and hoard and binge on. Our nanny eats a very strict macrobiotic diet. And while I would not call this a problem compared to the real problems of everyday life, I cannot help feel that everything we are doing in the nanny's eyes is wrong. I didn't initially feel like that, we had a sense of humor at the beginning. The children eat with the nanny and they ask why she eats x,y and z and when you listen to her explain why honestly, I feel we should be eating her way.
When my youngest asks her to come and watch her favorite cartoon with her on a snow day, (recently), nanny said, "I won't let myself waste away like that, but I will make snowflakes crafts with you".
If the nanny by being such a stellar example, because that is all I can fault her for-makes me feel badly about myself, should I worry that the children too may feel bad about themselves? It isn't a problem, per say and I am not looking for a solution, I am just curious how other employers would feel about these issues. Keep in mind, we do have a very honest, diligent person working for us and all of the many positives she brings to the table are not lost on any of us. And as a nanny who would surely be highly sought by others, I also too wonder if she may be deciding that we are not the right family for us. She has been with us 6 months.
I wouldn't call this a question of a nanny being too good, she is good and that is why we love her. She is an American from a fairly religious background, she sets and adheres to a very high moral code. This is wonderful for our three children. We have no set regulations on television, so long as the child are not wasting away in front of it, we have no problem with occasional television. Our nanny never watches television, ever.
We also try to eat reasonably healthy but we do not want to make food an issue. I grew up in a home where there was never any sugar and became obsessed with junk which I began to sneak in the home and hoard and binge on. Our nanny eats a very strict macrobiotic diet. And while I would not call this a problem compared to the real problems of everyday life, I cannot help feel that everything we are doing in the nanny's eyes is wrong. I didn't initially feel like that, we had a sense of humor at the beginning. The children eat with the nanny and they ask why she eats x,y and z and when you listen to her explain why honestly, I feel we should be eating her way.
When my youngest asks her to come and watch her favorite cartoon with her on a snow day, (recently), nanny said, "I won't let myself waste away like that, but I will make snowflakes crafts with you".
If the nanny by being such a stellar example, because that is all I can fault her for-makes me feel badly about myself, should I worry that the children too may feel bad about themselves? It isn't a problem, per say and I am not looking for a solution, I am just curious how other employers would feel about these issues. Keep in mind, we do have a very honest, diligent person working for us and all of the many positives she brings to the table are not lost on any of us. And as a nanny who would surely be highly sought by others, I also too wonder if she may be deciding that we are not the right family for us. She has been with us 6 months.
Death in the Babysitter's Family...
Received Saturday, February 23-Perspective & Opinion
Our wonderful babysitter recently had a very close member of her family pass away. We love her like one of our own children, and want to be there for her in every respect. My question is, how can I make sure that she knows I am there if she needs anything without making her uncomfortable? All opinions appreciated; thank you.
Our wonderful babysitter recently had a very close member of her family pass away. We love her like one of our own children, and want to be there for her in every respect. My question is, how can I make sure that she knows I am there if she needs anything without making her uncomfortable? All opinions appreciated; thank you.
Friday
This is not a nanny question, but...
Received Friday, February 22, 2008-Perspective & Opinion
This is not a nanny question, but I really need some advice, please. About 2 wks. ago my 5 y.o. son came home really upset and I could tell that he had been crying. I asked what happened and he said a Teacher in the cafeteria at his school yelled at him to eat because the class was running late and needed to head back. He told me he didn't get a chance to eat and I was very upset.I went to the school the next day and spoke to one of the other Teachers that my son said was in the cafe at the time. She verified my sons story completely and said that she would keep an eye on him and make sure he got to eat. (She is very nice and is very fond of my son).
Today, my son said the same Teacher as before grabbed him by the back of the neck (not hard, but still left a tiny scratch) and told him to "eat now"! My son started to cry, never got to finish more than 2 or 3 bites (and was starving by the time he got home), and another kid took his icecream.
I am so pissed, I don't know what to do. I'm afraid of going in and saying the wrong thing and getting my son ostracized, but I can't believe this woman is putting her hands on my kid! And on top of that, I'm worried she's going to cause my son to have an issue with food because he says: she forces me to eat.What should I do? My husband says to go to the Principal, but I think it might make it worse. I would go back to the other Teacher that helped my son last time, but he said she was there and did nothing this time! At least I have the weekend to cool off because right now I know I'd say something I'd regret.Please help me. What should I do?
This is not a nanny question, but I really need some advice, please. About 2 wks. ago my 5 y.o. son came home really upset and I could tell that he had been crying. I asked what happened and he said a Teacher in the cafeteria at his school yelled at him to eat because the class was running late and needed to head back. He told me he didn't get a chance to eat and I was very upset.I went to the school the next day and spoke to one of the other Teachers that my son said was in the cafe at the time. She verified my sons story completely and said that she would keep an eye on him and make sure he got to eat. (She is very nice and is very fond of my son).
Today, my son said the same Teacher as before grabbed him by the back of the neck (not hard, but still left a tiny scratch) and told him to "eat now"! My son started to cry, never got to finish more than 2 or 3 bites (and was starving by the time he got home), and another kid took his icecream.
I am so pissed, I don't know what to do. I'm afraid of going in and saying the wrong thing and getting my son ostracized, but I can't believe this woman is putting her hands on my kid! And on top of that, I'm worried she's going to cause my son to have an issue with food because he says: she forces me to eat.What should I do? My husband says to go to the Principal, but I think it might make it worse. I would go back to the other Teacher that helped my son last time, but he said she was there and did nothing this time! At least I have the weekend to cool off because right now I know I'd say something I'd regret.Please help me. What should I do?
Treehouse Social Club in Beverly Hills, CA
Received Friday, February 22, 2008
Today at Treehouse Social Club in Beverly Hills, CA - small male red headed boy, about 6 months, just learning to crawl, left alone in toddler area. When Nanny returned she sat in chair starring off into space. did not engage, speak to, touch or address child in any way the entire time they were there. Child picked up a piece of paper and placed in his mouth and was playing with it. when nanny finally noticed she shoved her hand in childs mouth repeatedly and severely scolded him. The piece of paper was very, very small which did not require the repeated efforts of forcing his jaw open and sweeping him mouth with all of her fingers. This was not done in a manner that someone certified in CPR would do. when she became aware that I was watching, she gave me quite a glare as she quickly packed up child and left. Child was left alone for quite some time. this is a supervised play situation. I was with my child very close by and there are other parents present so no child would get seriously injured but this child was much too young to be left alone and scolded in such a manner. He was far too young to be completely ignored for extended periods of time. also, nanny was very aggressive with regard to handling child. nanny was hispanic with heavily highlighted hair and faux leaopard jacket. child was male, very young, 6 months with bright red hair.
Today at Treehouse Social Club in Beverly Hills, CA - small male red headed boy, about 6 months, just learning to crawl, left alone in toddler area. When Nanny returned she sat in chair starring off into space. did not engage, speak to, touch or address child in any way the entire time they were there. Child picked up a piece of paper and placed in his mouth and was playing with it. when nanny finally noticed she shoved her hand in childs mouth repeatedly and severely scolded him. The piece of paper was very, very small which did not require the repeated efforts of forcing his jaw open and sweeping him mouth with all of her fingers. This was not done in a manner that someone certified in CPR would do. when she became aware that I was watching, she gave me quite a glare as she quickly packed up child and left. Child was left alone for quite some time. this is a supervised play situation. I was with my child very close by and there are other parents present so no child would get seriously injured but this child was much too young to be left alone and scolded in such a manner. He was far too young to be completely ignored for extended periods of time. also, nanny was very aggressive with regard to handling child. nanny was hispanic with heavily highlighted hair and faux leaopard jacket. child was male, very young, 6 months with bright red hair.
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