Enjoying the Day When Charges Are Sick

            Seasonal colds are at a high during the winter months. Caring for a sick charge does not mean the day can’t be entertaining, it just means that the plans must be altered to fit the mood of the day. Upon arriving to the home, be sure to discuss the details of the child’s illness with the parents. Understand all expectations in terms of medication boundaries, sleep schedules, and routine check-ins. Before the parent leaves the home, be sure to ask about the child’s mood and where have they been in terms of activity level. Do they have an appetite? Are they sleeping more than usual? Once established, plan the day accordingly.

            Being indoors with a stuffy nose, slight fever, and tickled cough does not mean playtime won’t happen, just plan on a “gentle play” kind of day. Some great sick day activities include:

• Story time
• Eye Spy
• Coloring books 
• Soothing music 
• Creating a stuffed animal doctor’s office
• Board games for older children

A day full of calm play and relaxation may be just what your charge needs to get back on their feet. Be sure to monitor their symptoms throughout the day to ensure that they do not overexert themselves. If capable, try some of these fun, but calm, suggestions to take their mind off of being sick because laughter truly is the best medicine!

Holiday Tips For Household Employees!

Almost everyone is in high gear for holiday cheer and celebration.  It's a fun time of year and with a little planning, stress levels can be calmly maintained.  We want to offer a few ideas to consider that are particularly important this time of year.  While a nanny feels at home in her work place, each family may approach the holidays a little differently in their home.
 

• Families travel, and schedules change.  With everyone so busy, parents may forget to tell an employee about a change or a travel plan.  It is advisable to be proactive.  Ask your employer about their holiday travel plans and ask if there will be any change in schedule that you can help accommodate. This will serve two purposes. It will help your employer focus on these items.  And, you will minimize the chance of being blindsided by the "Oh, I forgot to tell you but tomorrow...." 

• Over the holidays, many families have an influx of guests from out of town.  This could be relatives, step children, or friends.  Be proactive and ask if there are any plans for guests and ask if there is anything you can do to help prepare for their arrival. It could mean anything from picking up a few additional groceries, to help wrap a few extra gifts. 

• Each home celebrates the holidays unique to their family "culture".  Check in with the parents about how they want you to emulate their practices.   Ask about their traditions, activities, and if there are any boundaries on decor or craft projects.  Some parents may love that you want to take the kids to have a picture with Santa, while others may not.  It's better to ask and get a clear idea of how you can align your activities with the family's traditions.  

• Help to minimize stress and keep the household running smoothly.  Ask if there are any special holiday clothes for the kids that you can help prepare by making sure they are cleaned and pressed. If it's a "hand-me-down" from an older sibling, does it need any mending?  Ask about assisting in gift wrapping or home decorating.  A less stressed employer makes for a less stressed employee! 

Be proactive! Thinking ahead will always be a mark of your quintessential professionalism!Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for the New Year!