Level of education: Since then, I have emphasized my education in the art of mindfulness, and holistic health. I am a Reiki Teacher, and have completed an apprenticeship in Indigenous Medicine. I have an interest in education and health, and will always be learning in some capacity! In January, I begin school as a teacher in the holistic and healing arts, specifically a deep immersion into femininity, plant medicine, and the intuitive arts.

Additional skills or certifications: As a child counselor, I completed extensive training in creating a safe and therapeutic environment for children. Here is a list of the training I have completed: Art & Science of Mindfulness by Lora Matz, LICSW Basics of Applied Behavior Analysis Basics of Trauma-Informed Care Basic Water Safety Cultural Diversity Child Passenger Safety Defensive Driving Developmental Assets Developing Competence with LGBT Youth Employee Stress Management First Aid/CPR HIPPAA Life Skills Certification Ropes Course Training Sexually Reactive Children Therapeutic Recreation “There’s No Such Thing as a Bad Kid” by Charles Applestein, M.S.W Youth and Family Services Anxiety Disorders Art Therapy Cognitive Development Conduct Disorder Contracting & Incentive Systems Defensive Driving (Carseat Safety) Development Disorders Developmental Model and Assets Discipline and Behavior Management DSM IV Family Assessments Mood Disturbances Oppositional Defiant Disorder Personality Disorders Psychotic Disorders Social/Emotional Development Suicide Prevention System Perspective of the Family Therapeutic Milieu

Experience: I have 10+ years of professional experience with children as a child counselor, ESL teacher, nanny, babysitter, and in-home daycare provider. I have extensive experience with special needs children Prior to my professional experience, I babysat for countless families. From the time I was a child myself, I was watching children. More recently, I have become a mother myself! The experience of parenthood has given me a deep compassion and empathy for other parents. I aim to be the nanny that brings peace and calm to a home, and makes the parents (and children) feel more relaxed and at ease.

Experience with the following age groups: I have experience with children ages newborn-17 years. All developmental ages bring unique joys and challenges. I love the process and being part of the unfolding.

Interests and hobbies:Being outside and making everyday an adventure is one of the best parts of my job! I love including art, movement, yoga, outside time, and free-play into our regular routine. I love making and listening to music (and live music, until recently).

Describe your childcare style:My approach overall is nurturing, strength-based and holistic. I like to teach nutrition by focusing on how the body feels, exploring new foods, and including the children on the process. I enjoy helping children work through their feelings using their breath, feeling words and coping skills. I enjoy teaching new skills to children, and reinforcing positive learning. I believe it is important to teach children their strengths and help them find their own identities.

What activities do you like to do with children:A few of my favorite activities include painting, playing outside, going to the park, going swimming, cooking together, imaginative play, building blocks and forts, singing, dancing, creating and listening to music, doing crafts and being silly! As part of a strength-based approach, I also find it important to let the child direct play regularly. I allow them to lead how they like to play often, and teach social skills, reciprocal play, and friendship-building skills as we navigate their inner world through play of their choice. I enjoy learning their hobbies and encouraging and strengthening their own intelligence, and confidence around their natural skills. Every child's intelligence is so different, and I find it important to help them understand their unique talents and intelligences.

Why are you interested in working as a Nanny or Babysitter? The world of children is fun and fascinating! It is a privilege to witness children develop their own sense of self, and be a part of the developmental process. I've been working in the world of children since I was a child myself. My parents nicknamed me "small mother" at five years old, because I was constantly trying to help the mothers around me with their babies. Being part of the world of children has always been natural for me.

What qualities are important in a Nanny or Babysitter?A nanny should bring the following qualities to the table: open and honest communication, promptness, mindfuless, cleanliness, respect and fun! I believe it is important to understand the values of the parents for the child, and accommodate as needed. As a nanny, I strive to be patient, genuine, present in the moment, open minded and prompt.

Additional comments:As I am starting school in January, I will need some flexibility. All coursework will be completed outside of work, with the exception of retreats, roughly 5-6 weeks out of the year. Retreats will be planned with far advance notice. A good match would be a family who is comfortable providing backup care during this time.