Level of education: I have a BFA in Drawing with Teaching Certification from Edinboro University of PA, graduating in 1993. A career in education requires continuing education credits. Additional courses outside of local offerings include studies with Seattle Pacific University in coordination with my participation in Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Scholarship to Japan, in 2004. Also, I received credits for my studies at Penland School of Craft in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and Arrowmont School of Arts and Craft in 2015. Additional: I have a variety of trainings through USA Gymnastics, including Safety and Risk Management, SafeSport Training, TOPs Diamond Coach, Region 3 and National Congress attendance, Kinder Accreditation. Locally, I did a two year self-created, part-time apprenticeship to learn glassblowing.

Additional skills or certifications: CPR & First Aid. I am fully vaccinated and follow Covid protocols.

Experience: 30+ years of working with children, including 20 years as an elementary art educator. I taught preschool-grade five, and high school photography. On average, I taught 150 children a day. 30+ years coaching all levels of gymnastics. I have experience coaching preschool, recreation and team levels. I coached events and did floor and beam choreography for both USAG levels 4-10 and Xcel. I was a nanny right out of college and went back to nannying, four years ago. 2. Aug. 2017-Apr. 2020, I was a part-time nanny, two days a week, for two boys. I started with the family when the youngest was 3 months. The oldest had severe food allergies. He has EOE, he is allergic to egg, dairy and gluten. We carried an EPI pen and Benadryl with us, wherever we went. I was also a part-time gymnastics coach. I coached mainly team, 20 hours a week, and competitions on the weekends. Jan. 2017-June 2017, I worked a six month, full-time contract for a family with three children. A six year old girl, in first grade, a four year old boy who attended afternoon preschool, four days a week, and a two year old girl, watched all day. And, I coached gymnastics 18 hours a week. 1995-2016, I was an elementary art educator (and three of those years I taught High School Photography as part of my position). As a “Specials Teacher” on average, I taught 150 students a day. I taught most special needs students within a regular class setting, without support of paraprofessionals. Occasionally, some students needed additional support. I collaborated with regular classroom teachers and other specialists to create extension activities, special focus days, all-school events and after-school clubs. I supported with math club, as the Rubik’s cube specialist. I am happy to help with House Manager duties as well including laundry, errands, grocery shopping, meal prep/cooking etc.

Experience with the following age groups: I have nannied for ages 0-6. I have taught elementary art to ages 3-11. As a coach, I worked with gymnasts ages 3-16. As a high school teacher, I taught ages 14-18.

Interests and hobbies: In my down time, I am a fused glass artist and a member of a local gallery. I have a kiln and I work out of my home studio. My most recent solo show was in June-July 2020. I like yoga, I enjoy walking my adopted German Shepherd, Bella and doing small home improvement projects.

Describe your childcare style:I set clear expectations and encourage thoughtful, polite interactions with others. I take the time to explain the reasons for changing a behavior and nurture awareness of oneself in relationship to the world and people around them.

What activities do you like to do with children:I enjoy making art, reading, and drama activities with children. This includes making up silly songs, acting like monsters, creating art using our imagination. I like creating picnics for walking/hiking, visiting outdoor parks and trails. I enjoy helping children with baking and trying new recipes, to see what they like. Personally, I love games and puzzles. I can still solve a Rubik’s cube. Before Covid 19, I loved facilitating field trips.

Why are you interested in working as a Nanny or Babysitter? My favorite part of working with children, one-on-one or in small groups, is watching the growth that happens when children begin to make connections. They become confident and inquisitive, beyond the ordinary. They start to formulate their own answers and develop higher level thinking skills. They become fearless learners. They learn independence and love to try new things. I am able to supervise and support with online/remote learning. I can provide creative extension activities for any subject matter. I highly encourage learning through play and self-discovery, especially in an outdoor setting. I enjoy the opportunity to create special moments that when available, parents can join in.

What qualities are important in a Nanny or Babysitter?Qualities of a good nanny are similar to those of a good teacher. Be patient, understanding, and trustworthy. Come to work prepared, attentive and with a positive mindset. First thing, assess the day’s needs, formulate a plan and be creative. Throughout the day, provide companionship, be open to humor and be flexible on how to execute the day’s objectives. Be open to suggestions and be honest when communicating with children and parents. Model a love of learning for the children you care for. Create a setting that nourishes that love of learning.

Additional comments:I look forward to meeting your family!