Teaching Children Responsibility

I don’t know a parent or nanny who doesn’t place a high priority on building responsibility in children, but encouraging skills can be a challenge. Knowing how to incorporate building skills into the daily routine and what to expect from all ages of children are important considerations. We should start by defining responsibility. Responsibility can be thought of as respect for the rights of others and personal accountability for one’s actions.

Responsible children need the opportunity to practice and learn skills from adults who are patient through the process. There are several areas where adults can make an impression in the area of responsibility.

First Aid and CPR Class for Nannies

Twin Cities Professional Nannies is hosting a First Aid and CPR certification class on Saturday, November 7 from 9:00 to 4:00. The training will be targeted at nannies and situations you may encounter on the job. All are welcome, though TCPN members receive a significant discount. For more information please visit here (PDF).

"Why?"... the Question that Opens Opportunities

Children are experts on asking “Why” and have a natural curiosity. Although sometimes frustrating, “why” questions are vital for stretching and growing. Encouraging questions is an excellent way to promote exploration and understanding.

Fall Nature Crafts

Here are some great kids' craft ideas involving leaves, sticks, and other natural objects. Take your children on a nature walk to gather materials, then cozy up inside to work on these art projects!

Pine Cone Critters

Leaf Painting Projects and Matching Game

Campfire Caps

Seed Necklaces and 11 Other Pumpkin Projects

Leaf Suncatcher

Autumn Mobile

Acorn Pumpkins

Smoothing Out Your Day

Transition: “Passing from one condition or place to another.” A day with a child is full of transitions. How are you handling them? Some are manageable, even positive, while others create “bumps” in our day or week. Here are a few helpful hints that can make those transitions work for you, not against you.

Nanny Conference - Professional Development

Twin Cities Professional Nannies is hosting the 8th Annual Nanny Conference day on Saturday, October 10 in Eden Prairie.  For more information about speakers, location, and how to register see their website at www.tcpnannies.org.

Invest in Nanny Screening – Worth Every Penny

Over the years we’ve heard so many stories of families trying to screen and hire on their own or with an online service. They cite all the hours of work to prescreen candidates, call references, interview, do criminal background and driving checks in order to feel “ok” hiring a nanny who might not be a good fit or even worse, a negative experience for the family.

Families said the number one advantage of looking on their own came down to the expense. However, many concluded that the time and energy they expended in the process, with often less than desirable results, were really costing them in the long run.
While online services usually have some type of membership fees with the option of ala carte ordering for reference, background, or driving record checks, families still put in hours of work – and ordering add-on services doesn’t come cheap.