10+ families, in 5 cities, across 3 continents… that’s what my 12+ year nanny career has given me, so far. That’s 5 overseas moves, too many goodbyes, and a lot of new beginnings. It’s countless magical moments speckled with some downright heartbreaking
ones. It’s a unique responsibility of forming solid bonds with children (and parents) and making yourself invaluable for a time, but then allowing them to carry on when you slip seamlessly out of their daily lives… Not something many people are cut out for,
or would even want to attempt! But although I find myself currently mourning the loss of my place in one family’s house, and navigating the tricky balance of a positive but very temporary presence in another, I am thankful for these bonds. The joy I get to
share in with my nanny kids is priceless.
There is also another thing my nanny career has given me - a community of “co-workers”. It’s a very unique community, and not one that a traditional office worker would understand. Throughout my career I’ve connected with many other nannies. The shared
nanny bond has brought me a few of my closest friends, and so many other great ones. I’ve met them in online nanny groups, at parks, through friends… even by stalking agency Facebook pages for nannies new to town that I could welcome into my close-knit nanny
group! I’ve also met many others through professional development events. I’m passionate about continued learning and get excited about sharing in knowledge with others from the community - whether by discussing with (and observing) the caregivers working
around me, or in classes and workshops.
These gifts of my career are why I’m a nanny - the people. From kids to “co-workers”, and everyone we are connected with through our work.
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