Level of education: I have a bachelors degree in environmental biology and a masters degree in early education.

Additional skills or certifications: I am CPR certified and have an infant certification as well.

Experience: I started babysitting very young and nannied in Boulder throughout college. I taught elementary school (primarily Kindergarten) for 7 years. After teaching, I was a principal at a middle school for girls and then an elementary school for a total of 5 years. I have extensive knowledge in early childhood development, both socially and academically. I spent the last year nannying a 2 year old boy. He developed an extensive vocabulary and academic skills, while learning social skills and manners. I also now have experience potty training.

Experience with the following age groups: I have worked with all elementary school age children, as both a principal and teacher. I briefly nannied a 5 month old baby full time while mom transitioned back to work. My most recent experience is the year I spent with a 2 year old boy.

Interests and hobbies:I love to be outside! At my previous position, we spent time hiking, biking, walking and playing at the park. We also took trips to museums and the botanic gardens. I regularly searched for new experiences for him. I personally love to hike, play soccer, and read.

Describe your childcare style:I rely heavily on interacting with the children I care for and taught. I try to find activities we both enjoy, so that we have fun together. It is important to me to have a strong relationship with the child. Once that is established, I don't have to discipline often. I can usually change my tone of voice or end our activity until the child is redirected. I do believe in time out if necessary, but utilize other age appropriate strategies first. I am not one to be overly bubbly. However, I love to laugh and genuinely engage with the children I'm around.

What activities do you like to do with children:As mentioned before, I love to hike, walk, bike, and play outside. I find activities that we can do in the yard or in the park. I use this time to talk and develop oral language skills. I love to frequent the library or bookstores for story time! The Children's Museum, the Museum of Nature and Science and the Botanic Gardens are a few of my favorites. I also enjoy art projects (although I cannot promise that they will beautiful!), reading together, games and puzzles.

Why are you interested in working as a Nanny or Babysitter? I spent many years in education and love working with kids. Nannying gives me the opportunity to work in a more one on one setting. I also then get to plan fun, adventurous activities with the child. I'd like to continue nannying as I am expecting my first child in May. I would love to meet a family who has a similar aged child; a family who wants their infant or toddler to receive quality attention, as well as participate in age appropriate activities. I will continually read and research best practices in order to keep my child and another child safe, happy, loved, and nurtured.

What qualities are important in a Nanny or Babysitter?It is important for a nanny to be professional: punctual, organized, efficient and communicative. I also believe a nanny should be caring, nurturing, fun, and loving. If I were hiring a nanny, I would also want her to have experience with discipline and providing boundaries for my child. Providing a safe environment is also important.

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