Frequently Asked Questions
About My Approach
What makes your approach different from other nannies or household managers?
Unlike traditional services that separate childcare from household management, I recognize these elements as interconnected aspects of family wellbeing. I begin by observing how your family naturally moves through the day before suggesting any systems or routines. This ensures that support enhances what's already working rather than imposing external standards that feel foreign to your family's rhythm.
Do you follow a specific childcare philosophy?
Rather than adhering to a single methodology, I draw from various approaches while honoring each child's unique temperament and your family's values. That said, my foundation includes aspects of RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers), Waldorf Steiner principles, and nature-based learning—all implemented with awareness and respect for your family's preferences.
How do you handle discipline and boundaries?
I believe children thrive with clear, consistent boundaries delivered with warmth and respect. Rather than relying on rewards and punishments, I focus on connection, natural consequences, and creating environments where children can succeed. I work closely with parents to ensure consistency in approaches to behavior and will always honor your preferences in this sensitive area.
What ages do you work with?
I work with children of all ages from newborn up, with specialized experience in infant care, postpartum support, and toddler/preschool development. Each age brings its own joys and challenges, and I adjust my approach accordingly.
Practical Considerations
How do you typically structure your time when working with a family?
My approach is flexible and tailored to each family's needs. Generally, I focus on childcare when children are present and household management tasks during nap times, school hours, or when children are otherwise engaged. For families with multiple children of different ages, I balance individual attention with group activities that benefit everyone.
Do you offer light housekeeping as part of your services?
Yes, I offer household management that goes beyond traditional "light housekeeping." This includes laundry, tidying spaces, kitchen maintenance, organization systems, and other tasks that contribute to a harmonious home environment. I can also oversee cleaning services, schedule and coordinate with professional cleaners, and ensure their work meets your standards—providing a seamless integration of all home services without you needing to manage these relationships. These household services are thoughtfully integrated with childcare rather than treated as separate functions, creating a holistic approach to family support.
How do you handle family dietary preferences and food preparation?
I respect all dietary preferences, whether based on allergies, cultural traditions, ethical choices, or personal taste. I'm comfortable preparing meals according to various dietary needs (vegetarian, egg, dairy, gluten-free, etc.) and can adapt recipes to suit your family's preferences while ensuring nutritional balance.
What is your approach to technology and screen time?
I respect each family's guidelines regarding technology. Generally, I emphasize creative play, outdoor exploration, and hands-on activities rather than screens. For older children, I can help implement balanced approaches to technology that honor both your values and the realities of growing up in a digital world.
Getting Started
How do you typically begin working with a new family?
I start with an in-depth conversation to understand your family's unique needs, values, and current challenges. Once we decide to work together, I begin while simultaneously observing your family's natural rhythms. This "active observation" approach means I'm fully engaged in providing practical support from day one—handling childcare, organizing spaces, or managing household tasks—while thoughtfully noting patterns, preferences, and potential opportunities for enhancement. Rather than a passive observation period, this integrated approach ensures you receive immediate value while I gather the insights needed to refine my support over time. This thoughtful foundation ensures that my approach evolves to perfectly complement what already works in your home.
Do you have a minimum hour requirement?
Yes, I have a 4-hour minimum per session to ensure enough time for meaningful engagement and support. I find that most families benefit most from at least 8 hours weekly, as this allows for deeper relationship building with children and the creation of sustainable household systems that truly reduce mental load. Longer sessions provide the time needed for both immediate support and thoughtful implementation of systems that create lasting harmony in your home. I'm happy to discuss your specific situation to find an arrangement that works best for your family's unique needs and schedule.
How do you approach pricing?
I offer customized quotes based on the complexity of services needed, number of children, and specific household requirements. Rather than a one-size-fits-all rate, this ensures that families pay for exactly what they need while valuing the breadth of experience I bring. Please contact me for a personalized quote.
What happens if you or someone in our family becomes ill?
Health and safety are priorities. I maintain a clear illness policy that I'll share during our initial conversation, including guidelines for when to cancel due to illness and how those situations affect billing. I never work when contagious and appreciate the same consideration from families.