GENUINE NANNY: DANA S.
Fulltime - San Francisco Bay Area
MEET OUR RESILIENT, THOUGHTFUL, GENUINE NANNY DANA S.!
Hi there! I’m Dana, a 25-year-old with a zest for life and a passion for nurturing young minds. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Business MIS, I bring a unique blend of creativity and analytical thinking to my role as a nanny. Nestled in sunny San Jose, I share my home with my loving husband and our adorable pup, Gus. When I'm not busy crafting unforgettable adventures for little ones, you can find me indulging in my creative pursuits – whether it's painting, writing, or exploring the vibrant world of art. And let’s not forget my faithful companion in all endeavors – coffee! Fluent in both English and Arabic, I'm excited to not only provide top-notch childcare but also introduce the wonders of language and culture to your little ones. Let's embark on this journey of growth and discovery together!
MY BELIEFS AS A GENUINE NANNY
I believe... That every experience, whether joyful or challenging, offers an opportunity for growth and learning.
I believe... In the power of kindness and compassion to create positive change in the world around us.
I believe... That embracing curiosity and staying open-minded leads to a richer, more fulfilling life.
PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY, STRENGTHS,
WORK ETHIC, AND VALUES:
I exude warmth and enthusiasm in all aspects of my life, effortlessly blending creativity with a strong sense of responsibility. My vibrant personality shines through in my interactions, as I approach each task with genuine passion and dedication. With a sharp intellect honed through my background in Computer Science and Business MIS, I possess keen problem-solving abilities and meticulous attention to detail. My work ethic is characterized by unwavering commitment and a drive for excellence, ensuring that every project is completed to the highest standard. Beyond my professional skills, I believe empathy, integrity, and continuous self-improvement form the cornerstone of my character, guiding my actions with grace and integrity.
WHY DO YOU WANT TO BE A NANNY?
I want to be a nanny because I have a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact on the lives of children. I find joy in nurturing their growth and development, cherishing the opportunity to be a guiding presence during their formative years. My love for creativity and exploration aligns perfectly with the dynamic nature of childcare, allowing me to create enriching experiences that foster imagination and curiosity. Additionally, my bilingual abilities provide a unique opportunity to introduce children to different cultures and languages, further enriching their learning journey. Ultimately, being a nanny allows me to combine my passion for nurturing with my natural talents and skills, creating a fulfilling and purpose-driven career path.
AVAILABILITY & COMPENSATION
Spoken languages: English, Arabic & Spanish
Compensation: $45/hr.
Available start date: May 6, 2024
Preferred Schedule: F/T (M-F, 10:00 AM start time, but
flexible with end time)
TRANSPORTATION DETAILS
Neighborhood/Area: Currently live in Willow Glen but open to San Jose, Menlo Park, Woodside & Palo Alto
How will you commute to work? Vehicle I own
Are you comfortable driving a family car with children? I would prefer to use the family vehicle
FAMILY PETS
Are you allergic to any pets/animals? Love them!
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
College Degree: Yes
Child Development: Yes
CPR Certificate Training?: Yes
Montessori: Yes
WORK EXPERIENCE
Twins Experience:
Multiple Children/Siblings Experience: 4 years
Family Assistant:
Infant Experience: 8 years
Toddler Experience: 8 years
School Age Experience: 8 years
MOST RECENT CHILDCARE POSITION
Full-time Nanny | October 2023 - Present | 2 children (4 & 7)
Reason for position ending: N/A
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Provided attentive care and supervision for children, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times.
Engaged in educational and stimulating activities tailored to their developmental needs, such as reading, crafts, and outdoor play.
Additionally, meal preparation, feeding, and assisting with hygiene routines.
Maintained effective communication with parents regarding children's progress, activities, and any concerns.
Kept a clean and organized environment, including children's bedrooms and play areas.
Will we be able to speak directly with this family for a reference call? Yes!
Full-time Nanny | October 2020 - October 2023 | 2 children (1 & 4)
Reason for position ending: Children went to school fulltime and a nanny was no longer needed
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Created engaging and educational activities tailored to developmental stages
Fostering a safe and nurturing environment for play and learning
Organizing fun outings to parks, museums, and playdates
Preparing nutritious meals and snacks
Implementing age-appropriate routines for naps and bedtime
Providing gentle guidance and support with toilet training and other milestones
Maintaining open communication with parents to ensure consistency in care and development.
Will we be able to speak directly with this family for a reference call? Yes!
Classroom Nanny | May 2017 - October 2020 | infant to 7 years of age
Reason for position ending: Center closed due to COVID
RESPONSIBILITIES:
As a Classroom Caretaker for children aged 0-7 my responsibilities included:
Maintaining a safe and clean environment conducive to learning and play.
I ensured the classroom was organized and stocked with age-appropriate materials and supplies.
Supervising children during activities and free play, I fostered a nurturing atmosphere while promoting social interaction and development.
Additionally, I collaborated with teachers to implement daily routines and assist with classroom management.
My role also involved addressing the needs of individual children, including comforting them when necessary and assisting with personal care tasks.
Will we be able to speak directly with this family for a reference call? Yes!
YOU CAN FIND DANA’S RESUME HERE SOON!
WHAT IS YOUR COMMUNICATION STYLE WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR EMPLOYERS? ANY EXAMPLES TO SHARE?
My communication style with employers is characterized by transparency, professionalism, and proactive engagement. I prioritize clear and open communication channels, ensuring that my employers are always informed about the well-being and activities of their children. For example, I provide daily updates on the children's milestones, activities, and any concerns that may arise, fostering trust and peace of mind. Additionally, I welcome feedback and constructive criticism, viewing it as an opportunity for growth and improvement in my caregiving role. Whether it's through in-person conversations, written reports, or digital communication platforms, I strive to maintain a collaborative and respectful dialogue with my employers, building strong and lasting relationships based on mutual trust and understanding.
WHAT TYPE OF NANNY ROLE ARE YOU LOOKING FOR AND WHAT ENVIRONMENT YOU WOULD BE MOST SUCCESSFUL IN
The type of nanny role I am looking for is a full-time role with a private family who thrives on enrichment and dynamic environments. I want to be an extension of the family in terms of support and understanding- I believe it takes a village to raise children and it’s a privilege to join a family that believes this philosophy!
PLEASE DESCRIBE HOW YOU HAVE TAKEN INITIATIVE AS A NANNY OR WHILE WORKING WITH A FAMILY?
In my past nanny positions, I consistently demonstrated initiative by proactively identifying and addressing the needs of both the children and their families. For instance, I took the initiative to create and implement engaging educational activities tailored to each child's interests and developmental stage, fostering their cognitive and social-emotional growth. Additionally, I regularly initiated open communication with parents to discuss the children's progress, preferences, and any concerns, ensuring a collaborative approach to their care. In one particular instance, recognizing the family's busy schedule, I volunteered to take on additional household tasks such as meal preparation and light housekeeping to alleviate some of their stress and contribute to a smoother daily routine. Overall, my proactive approach to problem-solving and willingness to go above and beyond in my nanny duties have consistently earned the trust and appreciation of both children and parents alike.
WHAT ARE YOUR DISCIPLINE PHILOSOPHY AND CHILD-REARING VALUES?
My discipline philosophy revolves around positive reinforcement, clear communication, and setting age-appropriate boundaries. I believe in fostering a nurturing and supportive environment where children feel respected, heard, and encouraged to express themselves. Rather than focusing solely on punitive measures, I prioritize teaching and guiding children towards understanding the consequences of their actions and making positive choices. This involves using gentle redirection, constructive feedback, and modeling appropriate behavior. Additionally, I believe in promoting empathy, cooperation, and problem-solving skills, empowering children to resolve conflicts peacefully and develop strong social-emotional intelligence. My child-rearing values center around fostering independence, creativity, and a love for learning, while also emphasizing the importance of respect, kindness, and inclusivity in all interactions.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE AS A NANNY OR WHILE WORKING WITH A FAMILY?
One of my biggest challenges as a nanny has been navigating and adapting to different family dynamics and parenting styles. Each family has its own unique set of expectations, values, and communication preferences, which can sometimes present a learning curve as I strive to integrate seamlessly into their routines and meet their specific needs. Building trust and establishing effective communication channels with both parents and children requires patience, flexibility, and a willingness to continuously learn and adjust. However, I've found that maintaining open and honest dialogue, actively listening to concerns, and proactively addressing any issues that arise have been key in overcoming these challenges and fostering strong, harmonious relationships with the families I've worked with.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES & INTERESTS?
Outside of my nanny duties, I have a diverse range of hobbies and interests that keep me engaged and inspired. I'm deeply passionate about anything creative, whether it's painting, drawing, writing, or exploring different forms of artistic expression. I find joy in immersing myself in the vibrant world of art and discovering new ways to channel my creativity. Additionally, I have a love for the outdoors and enjoy spending time hiking, gardening, or simply soaking up the beauty of nature. As a lifelong learner, I'm always eager to expand my horizons and delve into new subjects, whether it's through reading, attending workshops, or taking up new hobbies. And of course, no day is complete without indulging in my love for coffee – whether it's trying out new brewing methods or discovering cozy cafes to unwind in. Overall, my hobbies and interests reflect my vibrant personality and insatiable curiosity for the world around me.
WHAT MAKES YOU SPARKLE?
What makes me sparkle is my genuine passion for nurturing and fostering growth in children. I thrive on creating moments of joy, wonder, and discovery in their lives, whether it's through imaginative play, creative activities, or simply being a supportive presence during their milestones. Seeing their faces light up with excitement and hearing their laughter fill the room is what truly ignites my spirit and reminds me of the magic of childhood. Additionally, my dedication to building strong, trusting relationships with both children and parents allows me to shine as a dependable and compassionate caregiver. It's the heartfelt connections and meaningful interactions that make me sparkle and bring warmth to every moment I spend with the families I'm fortunate to work with.
