NANNYJuly 2018 MAGAZINEteach | play | love
SUMMER IN YOUR CITY BALACING YOUR CAREER The Siblings Issue INTRODUCING NEW SIBLINGS { MORE THAN NIGHTMARES? EDITOR IN CHIEF Amanda Dunyak
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Michelle Galetta
MARKETING/SOCIAL MEDIA EDITORS Stephanie Magrisso and Nicola Manton
NEWSLETTER & INSTAGRAM EDITOR Jill Ciganek
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chelsey Bahe, Jamie Chilton, Marie Chir, Jill Ciganek, Iris Gohn, Stephanie Felzenberg, Sarah Elaine Kennedy, Matthew Lister, Kate Mulligan (MS, RDN), Nico- la Manton, Natalie Paniashavilli, Lynn Poules, Carol Slager, Dr. Michael Warmoth, Alexaraye Vallejo
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Lori Koblanski, Natalie McKnight, Brianna Smith
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PUBLISHER Jennifer Kuhn, MPS
ADVISORY BOARD Daniel Butcher, Stephanie Bauchum, Lisa DesBoine, Sheila Fortson, Stephanie Felzenberg, Jennifer Gay, Michelle LaRowe
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2 | JULY 2018 ContentsJULY 2018
FEATURE FOOD 8 Meet Stephanie 7 Blueberry Felzenberg Obsession
14 Summer in the City 40 Beautiful Picnics 18 Your Personal Brand 44 They See 20 Nannying for Me Rollin’ Singletons 46 Homemade 22 A Balancing Act Cold Treats
24 Big Brother, Big Sister FUN 11 Data Blitz 26 Goodbye, Sibling Rivalry 12 Poem: If You Wake with Fright 38 Nannies and Pets 28 Summer Writing Challenges ADVICE 5 Kids’ Health 32 Explore Nature
6 Misbehaving 33 Collective Wisdom Neighbors 43 Sippy Cup Slam
Photo via Unsplash. NANNY MAGAZINE | 3 Editor’s Note What is it about summer that makes memories come flooding in? This time of year always takes me back to childhood, when school was out and the days And so with the seemed like they’d stretch ahead forever. It always came as such a surprise when late August rolled around with its quickened pace and that rush that sunshine and the comes with back-to-school shopping, the excitement over the endless possi- great bursts of bilities of a fresh new Trapper Keeper. My siblings and I would pose for our parents in front of our little house, a shoe size bigger, a nice bronze glow. We leaves growing held up placards to document what grades we would be starting that morning, on the trees, just heading back to a place that was at once familiar and yet somehow so foreign. as things grow Our own childhoods can be like that as they slip away in the rearview mirror. Thinking back, it’s easy to recognize it as distinctly your own, but it grows in fast movies, I distant and the essence fades. Those memories I made with my siblings, building our own rickety “carnivals” in the back yard (in case my parents had that familiar were ever wondering what happened to all our laundry baskets, they became conviction that “rides…” sorry), swimming in our pool, watching fireworks from the bed of Dad’s truck, driving up to Maine to visit family, drinking Slush Puppies and life was beginning waiting for the ice cream truck to come by, my sister bringing home stray over again with animals from just about everywhere, the closeness... I miss those things now. In those days all I ever wanted was my own room, away from my younger the summer. sister. These days, my siblings and I live several states away and see each other only a few times a year. Isn’t it funny how priorities shift? F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby This issue highlights siblings: what it means to be one, what it means to never be one, how to care for them, and how, in some ways, nannies are a lot like siblings. Also included, we have a special interview with Stephanie Felzenberg, tips for a perfect nature walk this summer, and Iris Gohn dishes about trendy stir-fried ice cream. Mr. Manny Matthew Lister helps us define personal brand, and our kids’ health column features tips for keeping the littles safe outdoors this summer. We top it all off with our usual suspects, like our fun-filled data blitz, to make for a perfect poolside read whether you choose the print or online format.
Anyhoo, that’s enough for now. Grab your favorite ice cream and pool float and read on for more!
Jennifer Kuhn NM’s Publisher
4 | JULY 2018 Photo via Unsplash. Kids’ Health Dr. Michael Warmoth, Pediatrician at Heal Photo via Brianna Smith.
SUN If any of the children are younger than six months old, shade is your best option. A sunscreen with a SPF rating of 15 or higher is recommended Dear Dr. Warmoth, if some amount of exposure is unavoidable. For kids over six months, a wide-brimmed hat or swim shirt in addition to sunscreen would be helpful. I nanny for three Remember that sunscreen should ideally be applied 20 minutes before sun kids under 6, and exposure and reapplied after two hours, or sooner if just getting out of the all of them are water. Look for sunscreens with protection against UVA as well as UVB rays. significantly engaged in outdoor activities HEAT during the summer Common sense is important here. If you check the weather forecast and there is a heat advisory, plan some indoor or shaded activities. You are right months. What are the about the need for hydration. For the ages you mentioned, water breaks ev- precautions I should ery 20-30 minutes consisting of a couple ounces or more are recommend- take to ensure that ed. Having breaks is crucial for their bodies as well, as it allows them to cool everyone has a down a little from constant activity. fun-filled and safe WATER summer? How much Swimming is one of the best things about summer for kids. For children fluid intake is five and under, recommendations are to have them no more than an arm’s- appropriate for length away. Older children who are good swimmers can have a little more room to swim. Consider life jackets that are USCG-approved for those who children? Is it based are not strong swimmers. Bring some responsible friends if you’re outnum- on age, weight, bered to help watch the kids if you are heading to the beach. Swim where physical exertion, there are lifeguards (if possible) and obey flag warnings, swimming only on outdoor temperature? green flag days. BITING INSECTS It is great to hear that Mosquitoes and ticks can certainly put a damper on summer fun. For mos- you and the kids will be quitoes, avoid dawn and dusk outdoor activities, as these tend to be when active this summer. the pests are most active. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can be your first line of defense. For additional protection, bug spray can be effective. DEET Here are some tips: and Picaridin are perhaps the most effective in this regard. If using DEET, I recommend no more than 10% strength and reapplication after two hours. This article does not constitute medical advice An alternative to these is bug repellants with oil of lemon eucalyptus or 2% and should not be taken as such. Dr. Warmoth and Nanny Magazine Publication, LLC do not soybean oil. If hiking or playing in a known “tick area,” be sure the kids are endorse this information as medical advice. checked before bedtime for any ticks on their skin. Always use your best judgment and refer medical issues to your charge’s parents and pediatricians. Always call 911 in an emergency. Best of luck making wonderful summer memories with your charges!
NANNY MAGAZINE | 5
Dear Stephanie, Dear Not Their Nanny, My NannyFamily's neighbor kids This is a difficult situation because you need to stand up for yourself and don't have a nanny, but one or the children left in your care, without seeming rude toward the members both of their parents are always of the family living next door. home with them. They're roughly You should talk with your employers and ask them to help you brain- the same ages as my charges, so storm for solutions. List the specific issues you are having with the neigh- they are often getting together for bor and how her behaviors are negatively influencing your 9-year-old play dates during the school year. charge. Now that it's summer and school Then, I suggest making clear rules that should be expected of all visi- is out, the neighbor kids are over tors to your NannyFamily’s home while you are working. Let the children my NannyFamily's house all the you care for, and all of their friends, know the behaviors that are expected time (almost every day, in fact, for when they are visiting the NannyFamily’s house. For instance, if the neigh- several hours at a stretch). I know bor’s child is using offensive language, be specific and tell the child that from some of the online nanny using this language is against the rules. groups I'm part of that I should Tell the neighbor child if she breaks the rules or behaves inappropriate- be asking for additional compen- ly that playtime will be over and the child will be sent home. If you need to sation for this, but the thing is, I send the child home you should tell her parents that she broke the house- actually just don't want to be in hold rules and that is why she needs to go home for the rest of the day. charge of these kids. The oldest The key is to be assertive by being kind and respectful while asking for girl seems to be a bad influence what you need rather than being passive by letting them take advantage of on my 9-year-old charge. Is this you and your nanny kids any longer. Hopefully by opening up about your something I should address with concerns, your employers will support you and back you up in enforcing my employers, or should I mention the rules that children must follow while having play dates in their home. it directly to the neighbors? Good luck! -Not Their Nanny -Stephanie Felzenberg
Nannies Ask Stephanie Felzenberg of Be the Best Nanny Newsletter talks rude neighbors in this issue.
6 | JULY 2018 Photo via Pexels. AND YOUAND TOO SHOULD BLUEBERRIES LOVE WE little blobs of goodness. blue favoriteour tiny these about things knew?! That here are some said, of month. Who is July blueberry muffin. Mark your with calendar a blueberry include your refrigerator…) given the right conditions. (But that doesn’t Blueberries can survive for up to years 60 that won’t wreck your eating plan. nutritious a for calories, making snack A cup of blueberries contains only 85 never goes out of style. child, amother, blueberries, and abear a about children’s book classic This for Sal Blueberries The dusty coating dusty The on blueberries helps climates. Maine is the #1 producer of Blueberries prefer to prefer Blueberries grow in cooler Blueberry pancakes.Blueberry said. ‘Nuff them stay fresher longer. for
blueberries inblueberries the world.
NANNYMAGAZINE | 7 INTERVIEW We’re interviewing someone very special with this issue of NM: champion of the nannying industry Stephanie Felzenberg. Get to Know Nanny Extraordinare You know her as the mastermind behind Be the Best Nanny, a go- to blog and Facebook page for STEPHANIE nannies. Find out what this long- time friend of the magazine has to say on where she thinks the FELZENBERG profession is heading.
NANNY MAGAZINE: Tell us tions substantially. about the road toward Be the Several years ago I started Best Nanny. How did you decide sharing some of the articles on to start it? What was your pro- the “How to Be the Best Nanny cess? What is the history of your blog.” I continue the blog at my project? leisure. Nannies continue to send STEPHANIE FELZENBERG: I en- me questions to ask anonymously joyed graphic design in college. I on social media for them. was the first editor at the univer- sity to use desktop publishing to NM: What inspires you to this lay out the yearbook personally day to continue to working on without sending it to a publishing this amazing resource? house. I shared the one Macin- SF: When I do a fun science tosh computer in the journalism experiment with my nanny kids, lab for all the editors of stu- learn something new from a dent-run publications on campus. childcare expert, find a great rec- I loved working as a nanny ipe that my NannyFamily loves, and found myself sharing ideas collating the monthly newsletter read an excellent book with the and resources with other nannies was time consuming and expen- children, or if there is exciting and parents in person. I found sive. news in the nanny industry, I still myself repeating the same After many years of only enjoy writing and sharing proj- information over and over to offering a printed monthly pub- ects on my blog. Although I no different people. I decided to lication, I was eventually able to longer make money publishing a use desktop publishing to create publish a digital version of the newsletter, I do still make a little a newsletter to share the ideas newsletter. I created a PDF ver- bit of pocket change each month more efficiently. sion that I sent to subscribers via publishing the blog. There weren’t digital publi- email, which was offered for less cations at that time. Printing and money and increased subscrip- NM: What are some of the gaps
8 | JULY 2018 you see in available resources that has been raised by different SF: A professor told me, “Do what for nannies? parents and taught different val- you love and the money SF: More accredited nanny ues and discipline methods added will follow.” training courses and certifi- to the mix. Essentially working as a third parent can be a tough job. cation of nannies are needed. NM: Have you ever heard from I get a lot of questions from Certification and even licensing one of your followers whose life nannies that feel they know how of nannies would give in-home your resource has impacted in a to raise the children left in their childcare providers more positive way? professional credibility. And of care better than the parents who SF: I felt proudest when Judi course there is so much fake hired them. I see a lot of in-home Merlin of the nanny placement news online we have to discern childcare providers struggle with agency, “A Friend of the Family” if the resources we turn to are following the parents’ directives in Atlanta, would praise the pub- trustworthy. when they personally would lication. She was a pioneer in the Regulation of nanny agen- not raise their own children in nanny industry and she helped cies and nanny job listing the same manner. But, even the bring dignity and professional websites would help the nanny most educated, experienced and wages to those who provide care industry. A huge problem for confident nanny must still have for others. I felt it was a great parents and nannies is that humility. Nannies must always honor that she strongly support- some of the most important keep their attitude in check and ed the newsletter and offered a resources we use to find nanny support the parents in how they subscription to any nanny that jobs don’t all support the pro- choose to raise their kids. applied with her nanny agency. fession properly. Due to the informal and She begged me to continue pub- For example, there are casual nature of most nanny jobs, lishing the newsletter. Sadly she some individuals that call their many in-home childcare provid- passed away in February 2018. business a nanny agency with- ers forget that they are employ- Several nannies have per- out good knowledge of labor ees, not family members. When sonally expressed how difficult laws. These so-called “nanny employees get too comfortable it is for them to negotiate their agencies” and some nanny job being a friend to their employ- job duties, salary, and benefits listing websites post jobs that er, I have seen nannies get their of with new employers. They offer less than minimum wage feelings hurt when the family thanked me for making the pro- and allow parents to offer jobs requires them to respect profes- cess easier by using the negotia- that pay cash, as opposed to sional boundaries. tion chart I created with the help being tax compliant. A lot of resentment between nannies and parents could be of a teacher’s union leader. avoided if all parties had properly Nannies still ask for archived NM: Every day it seems like negotiated job duties, salary, and issues and for homework charts, nannies approach you asking benefits prior to starting the nan- sample contracts, and daily log some really complicated, com- ny job. Signing a work agreement sheets. I truly appreciate their plex questions on your Face- with clear job expectations could interest. book page. What is it about this help much of the acrimony I see field that you think makes it so expressed by nannies. NM: Tell us about the changes unique and challenging? Another huge problem is you've seen in this industry over when nannies forget to respect SF: It is very difficult for two the past 10, 15, 20 years. parents who have different their employer’s confidentiality — SF: The Internet has changed parenting styles, different hot especially on social media. everything. The ease of using the buttons, and different expec- Internet in nanny job searches tations than their spouse to NM: What's the one piece of ad- can’t be overlooked. Job seekers always agree on how to raise vice you received in life that has can apply to brick and mortar their children. When they hire a stuck with you the most? nanny placement agencies online. nanny there’s a third personality
NANNY MAGAZINE | 9 Caregivers can look for nanny nasty comments pop up in nanny eldest current nanny kid, who just jobs, and parents can look for job groups and pages on social media. graduated high school and will candidates, 24/7, wearing their What's your one piece of advice start college this fall. pajamas using nanny websites. for someone who perpetuates this For me, there is simply Social media can help inform culture of cruelty? nothing better than knowing I am nannies of training events and SF: How you act on social media making a positive influence in the provide support for isolated shows your friends, family, and lives of the children in my care. caregivers. Unfortunately, social potential employers your true media also brings its pitfalls of nature. When you are mean on NM: What's your educational trolls and flamers, which can ruin social media, you are mean. background? the experience as well. Nannypalooza and National SF: I have a bachelor’s degree in Nanny Training Day have been NM: Tell us about yourself outside psychology from Rider University, developed since I started work- of BTBN. and am a graduate of Newborn ing as a nanny. Attending those SF: I have worked as a nanny Care Solutions. I’m also CPR and training opportunities and at- for 25 years. I have been at my First Aid certified. tending the International Nanny current job for almost 11 years. Association conferences provide I adopted a cat and live a mile NM: Where will you be in 10 amazing learning and networking from my job. I enjoy dating a man years? opportunities for nannies. I actually met at work a few years SF: In 10 years, I’ll be working as ago. I’m lucky it is just a short a nanny and always continuing drive to see my immediate family. NM: Do you think nannying is my education. For example, in the moving in the right direction? short-term I would love to take SF: Absolutely. Knowledge is NM: Why nannying? cooking classes, have doula train- power. With the Internet and SF: As Harvey MacKay said, “Find ing, and earn a Child Passenger social media access, nanny something you love to do, and Safety Technician certification. educators and professional you’ll never work a day in your There is always more to learn. nanny organizations can reach life.” more nannies than ever before. I love working as a nanny NM: What's your favorite Nannies can take college cours- because my office is the kitch- kid-friendly joke? es, nanny training courses, and en, playroom, beach, pool, and SF: I don’t deliver jokes well so I newborn care specialist courses playground. I love a newborn’s find myself constantly telling the online. They can get some certi- innocence, vulnerability, and kids: fications online as well. Creative sweetness. I love the way their ideas and informative articles are fingers and toes curl around my “Knock, Knock” now easier to find, simply using fingers. There is no better feeling “Who’s there?” a smartphone or laptop. When than hugging and rocking a warm “Freddy.” used properly, the Internet al- infant who is full of love. I love lows us quick access to so many a toddler’s wide-eyed curiosity “Freddy who?” opportunities we didn’t have 20 to learn. I love when they mis- “Freddy or not, here I come!” years ago. pronounce words and common phrases, that they celebrate NM thanks Stephanie for every milestone with enthusiasm, NM: What's next for BTBN? her dedication to the nanny and just praising them makes industry, and for her time SF: I only publish a blog now but them feel so good about them- during this interview. You will continue to write articles selves. I enjoy seeing children can keep up to speed with her work online via her Be the for other publications and nanny mature and develop different Best Nanny Facebook page. blogs when asked. interests as they grow older. I am NM: From time to time we see beyond thrilled and proud of my
10 | JULY 2018
Siblings spend more time with one an- The other than they do with anyone else! A Vaca- summer study by Pennsylvania State Univer- tion time! In heat causes sity found that by the age of 11, the U.S., the top the iron in siblings spend an average of five summer vacation France's Eiffel 33% of their time together; destinations are: 1. Beach Tower to expand, that is more than they (45%), 2. A famous city causing the tower to spend with friends, (42%), 3. National grow more than parents, teach- Parks (21%), 4. A 6 inches. ers, or even by lake (17%), 5. A factretriever.com themselves! resort (14%). cafemom. factretriever. Bring com com out the fly swatters! Mosquitoes are most preva- lent during summer The oldest public school in the U.S. is months. Did you know Boston's Latin School, which was mosquitoes have been founded in 1635. Some of its on earth for more than 30 famous students include: million years? Benjamin Franklin, John blog.vitalchek.com Hancock, and Sam- It's not uel Adams! all in your surfnetkids. head! Parents com will deny they have a 'favorite' child, but research from the Uni- Back versity of California says to otherwise! 65% of mothers school and 70% of fathers pre- time! There fer one sibling over are approxi- another. mately 480,000 msn.com school buses on the road when school is DATA in session, carrying 25 million children, making the school bus industry the largest BLITZ form of mass transit in the U.S.! americanschoolbuscouncil.org SUMMER 2018
BY JILL CIGANEK Photo via Unsplash.
NANNY MAGAZINE | 11 ouPOEM W BYa NATALIEke u PANIASHVILIp with F I f Y right If you wake up with fright Baby’s cry so strong and loud In the middle of the night Made the dog to bark aloud And run with all your might Dogs should bark if there's a cry To the room that's on your right Even in a remote Shanghai.
If you open the door Dog is barking That is squeaky no more Baby is crying Throw yourself onto the bed, Coffee has just finished grinding Putting Froggy under head Sounds move like a rattlesnake The whole building is awake. Mama would jump off her side: "Is it morning? Is it night?" Everyone is up and ready Is it time to get up? Go to work and school already Where is my coffee cup?" Once they're out, they all sight Stars are twinkling Hearing all this commotion Moon is bright. Wakes up Papa whose devotion To his dream, now passed away. Disbelieving, still in shock, Morning? Night? So hard to say! Everyone looks at the clock. And with bits of tiny fright Papa is a big risk taker They realize… it's still midnight! He turns on a coffee maker He decides: "It's morning time!" So, next time And starts peeling a clementine. If you wake up In the middle of the night, Coffee makers are rather loud Please, It takes time till coffee's ground don't you run with all your might Searching for sugar in side drawer To the door that's on your right! Papa hears a sound next door. But instead, Papa's morning coffee making Just yawn once more, Woke up baby wrapped in blanket. Pick the blanket from the floor, Once he's up, what’s there to do? Fluff the pillow under head Smile or cry or a thumb to chew... Hug your friends, Go back to bed!
12 | JULY 2018 That’s why a subscription to Nanny Magazine is the perfect welcome gift, nannyversary present, or raffle item. It’s the nanny gift that keeps on giving. Support Professional a nanny-owned business and show your appreciation for the work your nannies do when you partner with ake up wi development NM for agency discounts of up to 55% on subscrip- ou W th F tions. As the only periodical just for nannies, Nanny f Y righ Magazine keeps nannies updated and energized all I t should happen year long and helps agencies to reinforce gratitude for the wonderful work nannies do. all year long. Subscribe by October 15, 2018 to save an extra 10% Visit nannymag.com/agencies to learn more.
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www.nannymag.com | [email protected] | 1.315.316.2669 Summer is here, nannies, and you know what that means? No school and family vacations! The days will be longer and full of sunshine and we'll Summer all be looking for things to do with our charges, IN THE CITY whether we're staying local or traveling. Good news! We've rounded up a selection of activities in cities from coast to coast across the US, so whether you're working in one of these locations 2018 or traveling with your NannyFamily, we've got you covered with plans that are sure to keep your By Jill Ciganek charges entertained.
E as t C oa st
14 | JULY 2018 WASHINGTON, DC BOSTON NEW YORK CITY Our nation's capital is surprisingly If you're working or traveling If you're headed to NYC this child-friendly. DC is home to 17 around Boston this summer one summer, you will not want for Smithsonian museums and the thing you're sure to get a healthy things to do. You'd need weeks National Zoo, which are not only dose of is history. With Boston's to experience everything the educational and fun, but FREE. rich colonial history comes a host city has to offer, but make sure Score! For older children, a walk of educational and fun activities to hit some of the biggest at- through the National Mall is a that let you and your charges tractions and landmarks while must where they can see mon- step back in time. Check out the you're there. Your charges will uments and landmarks they've Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile brick never forget seeing the Statue only read about in History class, route that leads to 16 different of Liberty in person or standing like the Lincoln and Jefferson historical sites throughout the city, atop the Empire State Building! memorials, as well as the Wash- like Faneuil Hall, the Paul Revere New York is of course loaded with ington Monument. A visit to the House, the USS Constitution, and museums of every kind as well. White House is a great photo op so much more. Nearby Harvard Whether your charges are into art, too (and it always look smaller in University has a host of museums history, science or anything else person than you imagined!). Oth- of all kinds as well if you want – there's a museum for that! NYC er fun ideas include paddle-boat- to continue the learning. Boston has got its shares of zoos as well. ing in the Tidal Basin or seeing also has its own great Children's Check out the zoos in the Bronx, how money is printed at the U.S. Museum. If you and your charges Queens, or the Central Park Zoo. Bureau of Engraving and Printing. are more into wildlife, Boston is You could spend hours playing, home to the Franklin Park Zoo and biking or having a picnic in Central the New England Aquarium. And Park, NYC's iconic green space. of course, for sports fans, any time A subway or ferry ride would be of year is a great time to check out fun for your charges, especially if a Red Sox game at historic Fenway they've never experienced public Park! transport. A stroll through Times Square is sure to amaze children of all ages – there's so much to look at it! And, if your charges are being E extra well behaved, why not treat a them to a little something from st famed Dylan's Candy Bar? Lastly, you probably don't think 'beach' C when it comes to NYC, but many oa of the boroughs do have beaches with access to the Atlantic! They'll st be crowded this time of year, but a trip to one like Coney Island and its accompanying boardwalk may be worth the trip. The possibilities in the city are endless but the big attractions will surely give your charges something to talk about when they head back to school.
NANNY MAGAZINE | 15 16 2018JULY | iconic Piedmont Park downtown. their energy,to off run including outdoor spaces for your charges you're if free for where looking grounds nearly every and parks Center.Nature play are There Chattahoochee the and Gardens, like Stone Mountain, the Botanical attractions with child-friendly city Center. Atlanta is an outdoorsy and is to home Legoland Discovery children's great a has also museum city around The the world. from Coke to and fun sample products children aneat tour older it's for crowdedget but times, at peak can factory Coca-Cola The largest. Aquarium of isthe world's one Georgia the 1,000 and animals, Atlanta to is andhome over huge games in the city.Olympic Zoo a site commemorating the 1996 Park, at Centennial Olympic tains foun the are your charges with to spot off andfun cool A perfect this summer? to Hotlanta Heading ATLANTA Southeast
likes! Denver? Aphoto there Wild! is sure to land tons of Instagram of the original Chipotle near theknow University is located to of trivia here's bit throw alittle down at lunchtime: did you And Sanctuary. Animal Wild and aquarium, zoo, own its has got dren's museum, andMuseum of Nature andScience. Denver Chil museum, Art the including area, the in museums several is sureRidge to and there are also scientists, delight your little West Amphitheatre), Rocks Red there's but much more. Dinosaur your for charges andhiking to enjoy of parks (don't missplenty lover's to an outdoor is be Colorado known dream, there's so DENVER - - - Pier. Pier. at Navy Ferris wheel 200-foot and riding thethe Riverwalk, lennium strolling Park, along Bean' ina photo Mil with 'The not to miss include:attractions Other above the city! feet onto glass boxes seated 1,000 you walk where can Skydeck, Willis out check Towerheights, of andaren't afraid safe!) tally risk-taking (toare alittle in for you and the (older) children If separate zoos. to home two being also while planetarium, also own aquarium has its and Western Hemisphere. Chicago the in museum science largest of Science andIndustry, the like the Museum of all types, world renowned museums children;for to home many its and entertainment options educational of greathas a mix lovely in the summer. Chicago City.Ahh the Windy It’s quite CHICAGO Midwest - - - touring and berry picking intouring the and berry forhas several open farms Austin fun, For outdoor more you don't encounter day! every something there's Now Cave. lovers there, out the Austin Bat animal adventurous more the for and aquarium, and zoo own its offers their Austin own. itself of unique attractions each offer Antonioand San –andthey cities Dallas, –namely Houston of Texas' ofdle some biggest smack dabwiched in the mid ner? Austin is sand almost You're West, out pard headed AUSTIN Southwest Galleria Mall! Mall! Galleria ice skating inside Houston'stry the summer heat, you've can you'reif to beat really looking center,museum, a butterfly and children's hasa also Houston Space Center is sure to ahit. be while in Star the Lone state, the if you're traveling to Houston own aquariumits and zoo. And Dallas has also Adventure Park. inthe high Trinity ropes Forest Warren climb or in Klyde Park, steam off burn your charges Village, let in Heritage history to Texas Dallas,ed experience dare!).charges you're If head toura ghost (if you andyour or maybe evenRiverwalk, book the along Alamo, stroll historic tonio, you tour where can the side Austin, you'll hit An San over Just off. cool an out hour to ready are your charges when summer, and for water parks ------Pier 57 hit. will abig surely be on Ferrisgiant Wheel Seattle ence center, while a ride on the love the aquarium andthe sci Yourshops. also will charges kinds of allsights and offers walk through Pike Place Market above. from A the city and see them for a ride on the Monorail take intoare transportation, Center.Seattle your charges If off cool fountainsin the Or at during the summer. Score! water inthe warmest the city Beach boasts Lake really! Green tosummer head so the beach... a lot to there as do well. It's there's to Seattle, quitenorth you'reIf even further headed Nanny the day! for surely rank you as World's Best Voodoo Doughnut shop will treat, at astop the infamous asugary for are in the mood your charges you and if And above? from the city perience Tram Aerial Portland ex and the ordinary, why the not ride try. of out For abit something in the coun amusement parks continuouslyoldest operating Pacific of the one Amusement Park, visit andgames, Oaks fun for mood the in are your charges muchand so you more. If and massive a playground,retum, arbo an Children's Museum, Zoo,to Portland the Oregon home is area This children. Northwest is with amust attractions many Washingtonof Park's at astop in one Portland, mer you'reIf the sum spending SEATTLE & PORTLAND - - - - - 100,000 toothpicks!).100,000 Bay The asculpture fromabout made sure to wow (how your charges museum with over exhibits 500 andscienceatorium art is amega Explor and amirror maze. 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Pier topica out will probably and avisit to Mon the Santa Walk of Famethe Hollywood you'rewhen your on out own, crowds summer of throngs and want to brave touristy per you're If su feeling Bookstore. Last andThe Public Library LA the lovers, out check For book also own zoo. has its and LA over 11,000houses animals, AquariumThe of the Pacific your group. in archaeologists & Museum will excite little Brea Tarwhile the La Pits (photosign here op!), from NANNYMAGAZINE | 17 - - - MR. MANNY
DEFINING YOUR PERSONAL BRAND
By Matthew Lister
When you look at the brand of ADHD, ODD, and/or problem be- Having a personal brand allows products in a store, you think haviors. I help parents to address you credibility, name recognition, “quality and trusted” or “not quali- specific goals (problem behaviors, greater opportunities, and can ty, and not trusted.” You think “buy aggression, toileting, etc.) and work even provide financial benefits. or not buy.” A brand is a design, either short term or long term con- Having a personal brand allows name, or other feature that will tracts. I’m here for the child and you to become known for your distinguish a product, company, or family as a whole.“ expertise and understanding, organization from all rivals in the This is my personal brand and allowing you to stand out when eyes of the consumer. As nannies, how I define it. Note how detailed interviewing for a position. Being we have to create a personal brand and specific it is. That is what personally branded also allows you to make ourselves marketable, I have the education, training, to find a better fit when seeking giving us the greatest employment and experience in, and what I am nanny positions because it allows opportunities in our field. known for (well, that and my expe- you to have better control over A personal brand is who you rience in toilet training). A consum- your own career and destiny. are and is what you are recognized er who reads that brand descrip- Think about those who have for. It not only defines you as a tion will know immediately whether personal brands: Andrew and Mary nanny but makes you distinguished they could use my services or not. from Sensory Swim, Jo Frost aka from all other nannies. It is a term, Some have personal brands as Supernanny, the nannies from phrase, or few sentences that a postpartum doula, sleep special- Nanny 911, Rachel Ray, The Baby define you and your nanny career. ist, lactation specialist, and some Guy, and so many more—what do A personal brand should be as as working with two household they all have in common besides specific as possible to ensure the families (such as divorced parents). name recognition? They have consumer has the best opportunity Others are special needs nannies, a backstory (essentially a short to know you before initiating the hotel nannies, and military family narrative about who they are and contact. nannies. There are so many differ- what they specialize in) and they “I am a special needs nanny ent personal brands, but surprising- have a clean reputation that has with an education and focus on ly still very few have created their a focus in their fields of cooking, families of children with ASD, own personal brand. child care or child gear. They have
18 | JULY 2018 been careful to carefully sculpt and protect their personal brand. Marketing our personal branded self requires time and effort, and sometimes even money. It’s about name recognition and credibility. Money is necessary to register for the continued education and career development courses, and money to get the word out via child care websites and other marketing tools. Time, education, and sometimes money are the key ingredients. It is also vital to become a part of the community in which you serve. If you are an in- fant sleep specialist, then it is vital to become a part of the infant care community. Special needs nannies (such as myself) need to remain involved in the special needs (or in my specialty) autism spectrum communities. It is vital to be in and help the community in which we serve. Associate yourself with others who already have strong brands, but that does not necessarily mean other nannies- it could be national or international childcare profes- sionals, educators, or those who you can learn from and can offer you great referrals through. With personal branding, you have to be careful in what you put out there online: no using foul language or having arguments on your social media accounts. Things written online never disappear. Do not post photos of your charges (most parents do not appreciate that) nor post photos of yourself partying or engaging in adult activ- ities. Remember, you are branding yourself as a professional in child Photos via Unsplash. care. What you do and who you do it with is vital to personal branding and can either make or break your branded career. Personal brands are fragile. Find your niche so you are able to build and protect yours today!
NANNY MAGAZINE | 19 20 | JULY 2018JULY | 20 Being One,NannyingforOne of concerns. It’s no secret that what it takes to be an only child and raise It’s secret itof takes no and that what concerns. child to only an be both are only children themselves, and now use their first-hand now use their and appreci themselves, children both only are fostering development. Explore two perspectives from two nannies who nannies two from perspectives two fostering Explore development. future partner in family matters related to aging parents fill the top related family tier matters in fill to parents aging future partner ation to of singleton charges. status raising sole approach their their in an only child requires a special approach to relationship building and to building relationship approach aspecial requires child only an opportunities that children with siblings—and their caregivers—don’t experience. Among the differences, a lack of alack abuilt-in the differences, Among playmate and experience. Being an only child comes with its own set of unique challenges and challenges with own set its comes of unique child only an Being BY JAMIE CHILTON AND SARAH ELAINE KENNEDY Only Children: -
Photo via Pexels. JAMIE CHILTON SARAH ELAINE KENNEDY Growing up as an only child had "So, how many siblings did you have growing up?" some major perks and some minor disadvantages. Yes, I had all of the "None! I am an only child." attention, but I did miss having sib- lings around who would cater to my As a nanny I answer this question at least once a week; it childlike whims more so than an adult seems that people assume that because I am a childcare could. worker, I must have taken care of many younger siblings, when in fact I simply did a lot of babysitting as a teen. Being a nanny for an only child is a major responsibility but also a major Only children have different relationships with the adults honor. I know he will undoubted- and other children in their lives than many of their peers. ly go through those same feelings They spend more time being the center of attention with and that’s why I am here; to provide the adults in their life and sometimes don't know the so- guidance so that he can grow up into cial rules of being with other children. a confident and brave human being, while navigating his way through life It is very important as a nanny for an only child to find knowing how to be independent. opportunities for their charge to play with children their own age outside of school. Nannies of only children can An only child can feel lonely at times explore allowing their charges to gain more socialization and boredom often strikes. An active through extracurricular activities, playdates, or simply adult presence can help relieve those through unstructured play at the local park. This allows feelings and that is why I feel my job only children to see that there are social rules when as his or her nanny is so very import- playing with children, allowing them to learn how to take ant. I am responsible for teaching him turns, share toys, and explore new ideas. This type of independence, but I am also here to socialization also allows them to be a follower instead of a help him figure out how to use their leader, the default role singletons often find themselves in creativity. I am here to help encour- simply by virtue of there not being anyone else there age age him how to ask others to play, as nearby. social interaction is important for only children. As a nanny to an only child, I find that they may too be bossy and demanding that it is their way or no way, es- My wish for him is that when he is pecially when playing. It is your job as a nanny to remind older, he will look back fondly at his them gently that it's okay to feel frustrated when things days of being an only child and realize do not go their way, but it's also important they realize that he grew in immense ways that they can't control everything. Remain calm and allow them can only help further his future. He to express how they are feeling. They will eventually allow will grow into a strong and successful you to join in their games and you'll be surprised at how person and I am truly flattered that I much they want to include you and share with you while was chosen to be a part of his life. playing.
NANNY MAGAZINE | 21 Nannying: The Art of Balance By Nicola Manton
I started nannying because I’m naturally drawn to caring for little ones. I have never not been around small children, never not been changing diapers, or playing with and loving other people’s children. My mom ran a day care from our family home, and with three siblings our house was always full to the brim with children. It was a natural choice for me to go into psychology at school and graduate with my bachelor’s degree in psychology in education followed by gaining a master’s in school counseling. As much as I loved being in schools in a teaching ca- pacity and considered getting my license as a school counselor, there was never anything that appealed more to me than working one on one with a family; helping them learn how to navigate the somewhat tumultuous task of raising children.
When you’re working in a school, you have clear boundaries of where your role as a teacher begins and ends, and where the parents and family step in. You can develop strong relationships with the chil- dren in this capacity of course, and this career path comes with its own stresses and responsibilities. However, it could never prepare you for going into a family’s home and becoming immersed in their particular set of joys and challenges.
22 | JULY 2018 Just as consistency and routine • Plan to meet friends and family on your days off. are essential to children’s de- Get out and do something not related to children velopment and daily happiness, with the adults in your life. I crave structure and routine in • Go on a trip. I find that even a night away from my job, and generally nannying the mundane can really help to refocus and re- gives me that. It can be a strug- charge my body and mind. Keep it simple, but go! gle to find that line between where my job ends and the par- • Use your vacation time! This is a must. It’s easy to ents take over. I’ve been lucky get so invested in your NannyFamily that you can’t enough to work with families bear the thought of leaving them to handle every- who respect my work and see thing for a week without you. No matter how much that I am effective in how I disci- nanny guilt you might feel, book that vacation! pline, play, engage, and facilitate Give the family a good amount of notice to arrange their children's development. cover and organize the time, but know that you are However, it can be a strug- entitled to your vacation time as much as anyone gle sometimes to manage the (maybe more), and you need it in order to continue feelings that come with these being your best nanny self. responsibilities. A lot of the time, as nannies, we run the family • Meditate, exercise, read a book... Find some- home as well as caring for the thing that is just for you that helps you to relax and children; we buy the groceries, recenter your thoughts. For me it's hitting the gym stock the pantry, set the sched- after work. I find that by doing this for myself a few ules, communicate with teach- times a week (okay, so I don’t always make it that ers, book and attend doctors often), I’m able to remind myself that I’m important visits, and more. This is on top of too; my health and wellbeing are made a priority the typical duties of facilitating and I’m so much better for it. development, maintaining a safe • Remind yourself that its not all on you. One of my learning environment and gen- biggest flaws as a nanny is that I completely take erally ensuring the children are over responsibility. If an issue comes up within the healthy and well cared for. family unit (even if it's when I’m not on duty), I feel compelled to “fix” it. I put it all on my shoulders and Over the years I’ve learned that I’m having to learn (slowly but surely) that I am not it is important to take the time the only adult in the home; it’s not even my home! to take care of yourself, to take I have to remind myself that it's ok to let the par- a step back and realize that no ents deal with certain things. I can offer my advice matter how much you love and and share my experience, but they are the parents care for this family and in partic- and need to also take on the responsibilities that ular the children, you can’t invest shouldn’t all fall on me. all that you have into their needs alone. Yes, put your best into • Communicate. Let your bosses know if you’re your role, and love those tiny feeling overwhelmed or if an issue comes up that humans with all your heart, but you feel doesn’t fall under your umbrella of respon- save a little for you too! Here are sibility. We are human, and raising children is not an some tips to get you started in easy job. Sharing your concerns with your bosses finding yourself again; to refocus can help lift some of the burden and show you that on yourself and your needs: you have more support than you may have thought.
NANNY MAGAZINE | 23 Preparing a Firstborn for a New Sibling
BY CHELSEY BAHE PHOTO BY LORI KOBLANSKI
For a child who is about to become a big brother or big sister for the first time, this happy occasion can also come with challenges. Whether the family is growing through birth or through adoption, there are several ways a nanny can help prepare a singleton charge for the changes ahead.
24 | JULY 2018 Not sure where to start? Books just as happy and excited feel- A preschool-aged child may are a great first step in helping ings would be. Nannies should benefit from having a special the child explore what it means meet their charge’s worries with baby doll to play with. The to have a younger sibling. The li- empathy. If the nanny cared for child can play at holding, burp- brary is one resource for finding the child as an infant, showing ing, changing, and caring for age-appropriate books that deal pictures and sharing stories the doll. Play is the way that with new babies, families, and about what it was like to care kids of all ages make sense of the adoption process. Reading for them as a baby can help the their world, so ensuring they stories is a simple way to start child relate to their new family have a plenty of opportuni- a conversation about what member. ties to process through play is is soon to come. If the child important. has questions about the baby, For a kid who lacks experience Mom’s pregnancy, or adoption, with babies, it can be helpful Every child will go through it is best to be honest, but keep to visit other nanny friends some kind of transition period explanations simple. Of course, who care for infants. This will as they adjust to this major life a nanny should always check give the child an idea of what change. Remind them that they with the child’s parents regard- to expect when their young- still have an important role in ing how to word things. er sibling arrives. It can come the family, and reassure them as a surprise that new babies that they’ll always be loved. A firstborn child may go through sometimes cry and usually sleep Talk about the ways in which a wide range of emotions upon a lot. They don’t come out ready things are different, but also learning that a new sibling is on to play in the way that an older point out the ways in which the way. The child may grieve sibling may hope. By spending they are the same. Patience, the loss of their only-child sta- time with other little babies, the understanding, and open com- tus, and should be encouraged future big brother or big sister munication between the child, to express all of their feelings in can start learning the ways in the parents, and the nanny a healthy manner. Sad or angry which they can interact with a will help make the adjustment emotions should be honored, new baby. easier for everyone.
family wedding lifestyle
oksana lucaci 916.835.8651 photography// d e s i g n www.oksanalucaci.comNANNY MAGAZINE | 25 SIBLING RIVALRY:
A Tale as Old as Time BY NICOLE PANTELEAKOS
Sibling rivalry is a theme as old Whether the children are iden- this was that the other children as… well… siblings! From Cain tical twins or born a decade then have that same amount of and Abel to King Lear’s three apart, one key way to avoid time during which they need to daughters to the half-dozen falling into the trap of rivalry entertain themselves, which is K-name Kardashians, history is to give each child individual also developmentally important. is full of tales of brothers and attention. Says Krickett Reyn- (Note, if the other children are sisters fighting for attention, olds, a mother of two from too young for time alone, this is fighting for dominance, and just Attawaugan, CT, “Make sure best scheduled during a regular plain fighting. As most nannies you plan out time for each child. nap or when they’re out of the of siblings can attest, this is true Never compare one to another home with a parent.) of today’s kids, too. and never take one side over the other.” When fights inevitably break MRI scans have shown that out, no matter the cause, listen sibling squabbles start as early This is expert advice. When I objectively and be fair in your as in the womb, and they often was a young nanny of three little response. If the battle between continue up through childhood ones, ages 2, 4, and 6, I used to two little ones is who will push and the teen years, much to set aside certain times each day the button on the elevator the chagrin of many a parent during which I’d play one on one (something I’ve dealt with on and caregiver who often hope with each child. Later during the numerous occasions with more that having more that one child day we’d all play together, with than one New York City family), means built-in forever friends, one child in charge of choos- take turns or perhaps even cre- not foes. This can pose partic- ing the activity (taking turns). ate a standing rule: “When we ular challenges for nannies, but This meant, if my girl charge (6) go down, your brother always do not despair, there are a num- wanted to play with dolls as a pushes the button. When we go ber of ways to avoid long sum- group for thirty minutes, that’s up, your sister always pushes mer days spent saying things what we would do, then if she the button.” As long as there is like, “Stop hitting your brother wanted to play a board game consistency, the children will with that stick!” and “Yes, your during her solo time with me, learn and accept this, and you’ll rendition of Chopsticks is just as we would also do that for half save everyone tears and head- good as your sister’s.” an hour. An added benefit of aches.
26 | JULY 2018 Photo via Pexels.
Older children tend to have by the younger one. Also, be of sibling rivalry is to highlight quite different battles, ones in sure to teach the little one each child’s individual talents, which a solution is harder to to respect the space, pos- while not placing one child’s come by. For example, fights sessions, and privacy of the talents above another’s. over friends may erupt. Some- elder. For example, sometimes For example, if your older times a neighborhood playmate you have to say, “No, you may charge is an excellent bowl- will gravitate toward one of not use her markers, they are er and your younger paints your charges or the other, and for middle schoolers,” instead like Picasso, it’s important to they will need help to play as a of, “Oh, can’t you just let him recognize that these are both trio so that everyone is includ- scribble with your markers?” worthy of praise rather than ed. This is where talks about While the older child should dismissing one as less deserv- empathy and being a true be expected to be more ing of appreciation than the friend may come into play. mature and understanding, it other. is also unfair to require him Sometimes fights erupt be- or her to regularly acquiesce Let children stand out as indi- tween siblings with a bigger to the younger one simply to viduals and give them one- age difference. These are often stave off a toddler tantrum. on-one attention, but also set the result of disproportionate aside time in which they can attention. For instance, your While it is key to never pit interact together as a group, twelve-year-old charge may be children against each other, both with and without you at less needy than the two-year- healthy competition is fine. All the helm. Take care to never old, thus she or he may feel kids need to learn to be good let one charge feel as though lost or ignored. Find time to do winners and good losers. you care more about the wel- more grown-up activities with One way to do this is to play fare of the other. Siblings can the older child, and, if possi- a board game as a group. be each other’s best friends, ble, create special privileges to Everyone should congratulate and you can help foster those help celebrate the fact that she the winner at the end, but not friendships from babyhood or he is more mature rather be unkind to the losers. But through the teenage years, than letting the older child ultimately, the greatest way setting them up for a lifetime feel passed over or burdened to avoid falling into the trap of having someone to lean on.
NANNY MAGAZINE | 27 SENSATIONAL SUMMER WRITING TIPS: Keeping Kids Writing Through the Summer BY SARAH ELAINE KENNEDY
It is quite possible when summer rolls around that writing assignments are one of the furthest things from children's minds. The summer is meant for playing outside, hitting the pools, going camping, exploring the nearest park, and play dates. While that is very true, it is also very important to keep those writing skills honed and sharp over the sum- mer months. Here are some tips to keep those skills sharp for when school starts without missing out on summer fun and without making it a chore.
Photo via Unsplash.
28 | JULY 2018 NANNY MAGAZINE | 29 Daily Summer Spelling Journaling Storytelling on the Go Journaling is a great activity Summer allows children to Another fun way to help build for kids of any age. Starting a have a little more freedom to vocabulary and help children daily (or maybe weekly) journal let their imagination run wild learn and spell new words is is a great way for children to and this is a great thing to cap- to play spelling games on the document their summer through ture and have children write go. When you're on a walk their own eyes. For some chil- down. They may have spent or maybe out in the car, have dren, this will be very easy, and their day fighting the mud children spell out what they they will be able to just write monster at the park or fleeing are seeing (dog, tree, house for about their days, while other from dragons in the backyard. younger children, or highway, children may need a little bit hospital, or playground for more help. A very simple format When you see creative play older children). would be to have the child write that the child is involved in, jot about three things they enjoyed it down on a piece of paper for On the flip side, play a ver- about the day and one thing them and when you have time sion of “I spy” by spelling out they are looking forward to (maybe a quiet afternoon or a words and have children try tomorrow. rainy day) sit down together and figure out what you are and have them pick one of looking at. Say, "Hey, I see a For younger children, you can their ideas from a jar and have yellow t-a-x-i." and see if they start this process by making a them flesh it out in a story. can figure out what you are simple list of things they did looking for. While this isn't throughout the day and they The younger the child, the writing per se, it helps children can add a drawing of their day. more involved you may need think on their feet as well as For older children, you can ask to be, but for older children, increases their knowledge of them to write a certain amount this is a perfect time to let what letters spell out what for each item and they can add their imagination flow onto the word; this can be a lot more photos or drawings of their day paper. It could even work as fun to a child than doing lists as well. a group storytelling process of spelling words to keep their where all the children and spelling sharp. At the end of the summer, it's yourself add to the storyline. a great way to look back on You'll be amazed how much everything they've done and a insight they already have into wonderful memento for parents their story's world and you or children themselves to look might even see their creative back on. play grow too.
30 | JULY 2018 Outdoor Exploration Summer is all about exploring new things or old favorite spots, so on one of your adventures somewhere out in nature, pack some pencils and some paper. Find a comfortable spot and give each child the task of describing what they are experiencing right here in this spot. Encourage them to use new words and lots of adjectives.
A child might say, "The tree is big and the leaves are green." You may want to encourage synonyms for those words such as, "The tree was enormous and the leaves were emerald."
Encourage children of all ages to use their senses to describe what is around them (i.e., what they see, what hear, smell, and feel). However, maybe try encouraging them to save using what do they taste for describing their snack.
Keeping up with writing throughout the summer can seem like a momentous task for the caregiver and the child but finding a way to do these activities can help encourage creativity, literacy, and good writing habits. And if all else fails, try doing the writing activities outside, because everything is more entertaining while sitting in the shade of a humongous tree.
NANNY MAGAZINE | 31 The benefits of spending time in nature are numerous. A nature walk is a simple way to get kids outdoors. Here are 8 tips for getting started.
BE PREPARED Pack a backpack with plenty of snacks, water, sunscreen, bug spray, a small first aid kit, diapers, and wipes. Don't forget a carrier for babies or new walkers.
LET THE CHILDREN TAKE THE LEAD Kids are more excited about being outside when they get to make decisions about which way to go. Ensure that the route is safe and allow your charge to choose TAKE A where the path leads. HAVE A GENERAL PLAN HIKE But also be willing to go with the flow. Avoid setting expectations about time (such as “we must walk for an hour!”) or distance.
or a STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES Or watch the worms. Or talk to the toads. Let the children observe and explore the things that catch their eye.
Nature PLAN AN ACTIVITY Scavenger hunts or a camera can be fun for older or Walk reluctant nature walkers. A "Let's see who can find the coolest thing" game can be fun. Everyone can find something cool, whether it's just a stick, or a rock. WORDS AND PHOTOS BY CHELSEY BAHE LEAVE NO TRACE Strive to leave no trace (such as damaged plants or disturbed habitats), but realize that young children are curious. Model respectful interactions with the environment, and always take your trash with you.
TICK CHECK Do a tick check after each excursion in the woods, especially if you live in an area of the United States where Lyme disease is prevalent. Check hair, armpits, and even under sleeves.
BE AMAZED Bring your own sense of wonder, and try to see the world through the eyes of a child. From fireflies to flowers, everything can be magical with the right attitude. 32 | JULY 2018 We posted a question on our Facebook page, asking nannies to share their best expert ad- vice on how to curb sibling rivalry. Find out what tips and tricks your peers swear by!
“I work a lot with younger “The method I like best is to children, and I have found that address the rivalry as an argu- you can work on prevention of fu- ment occurs. Most of the time each ture sibling rivalry when they are still sibling simply wants to be heard, so very little. I have toddlers and pre- I let them speak their mind to each school-aged children draw pictures, other in a calm manner and ask each make special cards, or write stories to to consider the other person’s stand- encourage their brother or sister. It is point. The goal here is not to simply so much easier when they are little to stop the fight, but to try to create get siblings to appreciate one another an atmosphere of respect and love as part of the same team, not as iso- amongst siblings. Throughout the lated parts.” days and weeks, I try to encourage -Eli Bell, Albuquerque, NM each one on an individual basis to 12 years as a nanny love the other more deeply that day. Learning to love each other and focus on the betterment of the other is the answer to all sibling rivalries in my opinion!” -Ashley Miller from Knoxville, TN “I’m the middle child of three 7 years as a nanny girls and I can tell you, one-on-one time is key to curbing sibling rivalry. Collective Wisdom Collective Every child wants to feel like they have their moment to shine and have their parents’ attention. Make it a “Take a moment to teach the point to find something the child is children how to empathize. Talk to really into and take them to do it with them and then ask them to vocalize them sans siblings. Time is precious ways they can lift each other up, rath- and they will thrive knowing you gave er than tear each other down. Teach it to them. It will help the sibling rela- them that siblings share a tionship tremendously when special bond and are a constant in they don’t feel the need to each other’s lives.” compete all the time!” -Chez Arruti Werner, -Valerie Weddle from Dayton, OH Albuquerque, NM 10 years as a nanny 15 years as a nanny
NANNY MAGAZINE | 33 Is it Just a Night Fright or Something More? By Lynn Poulos
Photo via Unsplash.
34 | JULY 2018 We went years without sleeping through the reading time, period for settling down. His night. I’d hear the creak of my bedroom door room was uncluttered and was painted a opening and I knew what was coming. My soothing blue. He had his favorite stuffed adorable 7, 8, and then 9-year-old son (yes, animals and night light. He knew his older it went on for years) would be at my bed- brother was in the room next door and that side sobbing. “Mommy,” he’d cry in between I was down the hall. gasps for breath, tears streaming down his face while wiping his nose with his pajama One night was particularly upsetting. He sleeve, “I can’t sleep. There are (gasp) scary dragged his pillow and comforter off his bed people (gasp) in my room.” Time after time, I into the hallway, and was curled in a ball responded the exact same way. “Oh honey, screaming and sobbing, “Please make them you’re having a bad dream. It’s just a night go away! They’re scary and ugly!” I was at a fright. Let me lie down with you.” complete loss and began to worry about his mental health. On that particular night, I had And so, the bed hopping began for the night. him come into my room to calm down. As He would come to my room, I would ush- he settled onto his side of the king size bed er him back to his room, lie down with him he let out a deep sigh, “Your room is locked until he fell asleep, and then stumble back down, they don’t come in here.” I had no to my bed. I hesitated to glance at the clock. idea what he was talking about. Exhausting. Then there were the nights that he refused to go back to his bed. “I hate my We seemed to live dual lives. During the day room! I’m not going in there! There are scary my son was upbeat, active, loved school, people in my room!” “Oh honey, it will be was outgoing, had friends, and was a good fine,” I would assure him. Many nights I was student. He was one of those kids that was so tired that I’d just let him sleep in my bed. a bright light with great compassion for Some nights, I was so tired and knew I had other kids and people. He was a happy kid. a busy workday ahead that I just didn’t care Then, at night, he was inconsolable. It broke where I slept, as long as I slept. my heart to see him going through this and I felt I was failing him as a mother. I sought I called the pediatrician. “My son has night feedback from therapists. frights,” I’d share. I was told that it is very common, there really is nothing to do, they When I look back on those years, I’m both- will pass, and he will outgrow them. Well, ered that it took me so long to understand when? The frequency and intensity of my and fully accept what was going on with son’s night terrors were troubling, and I him. Today he is a vibrant, well- adjust- learned from his dad that he experienced ed college freshman. We somehow made them at his house as well. An occasional bad it through elementary, middle, and high dream I understood, but we had moved well school. beyond that. That said, it took me much longer than I’d What to do? I began with adhering to a wish for any parent or caregiver to under- healthy bedtime routine. I made sure he stand and embrace that there was no mental didn’t have access to anything scary on TV, health diagnosis nor were these simply bad and, as much as possible, that all the stories dreams. My son was a highly sensitive child and books he read had nothing to do with with a heightened ability to see, hear, and scary monsters. He had a regular bath time, sense the unseen world.
NANNY MAGAZINE | 35
Yes, in hindsight I was slow to figure syndrome. Interestingly, it is not uncommon things out. When he said there were scary for there to be overlap; for example, intuitive people in his room, he was literally seeing kids frequently have a diagnosis of ADHD. departed spirits. It was once described to me that kids with this ability appear to the TRAITS OF INTUITIVE CHILDREN spirit realm like a bright light, shining in As with any talent or ability, traits vary dra- the night. Since he was not yet skilled in matically, and no two children will seem the learning how to dim the light, so to speak, same. These are some of the more common he attracted a lot of activity at night. behaviors shared by highly intuitive children:
Admittedly, I was slow to understand what • Empathetic, sensitive, and compassionate. was going on as I struggled with my own • Feels things deeply. belief system regarding his “ability.” I was skeptical and somewhat fearful. It was • Difficulty at bedtime; going to sleep not until one very exhausting and rather and staying asleep. bizarre night involving my departed father, that I was forced to start challenging my • May experience frequent night-frights. own belief system. My son had no insight • Expresses that people are in his/her into my father, who had passed when I was room at night. a teen, and who I rarely talked about. I’d like to say I became an overnight believer • Has an imaginary friend. in the possibility that he was experiencing a different realm, but I can’t. What I can • Frequently “tuned-in” to parents’, family say is that as his mother, I was deeply com- members’, teachers’, and classmates’ mitted to getting him the help he needed well-being, moods, and stress. whether I fully believed it or understood • Can be prone to stomach aches, headaches. it. As I started my outreach to learn more about these abilities, I kept hearing the • Overwhelmed, possibly agitated in crowds. same thing, “Kids who are like this strug- gle.” Every time I heard that, I took it as • May be sensitive to fabrics, clothing labels. a bit of a challenge and thought, “Not my • Can be the one interpreting on behalf kid.” His well-being and learning how to of younger siblings or family pet. integrate this aspect into the family unit, while balancing his brother’s needs, was • Experiences stress during traumatic world my top priority. We needed resources that events, even earthquakes or storms, even were beyond the traditional and main- without hearing about them. stream health care community, and I set out to find them. • Expresses insights that are advanced for his/her developmental age. Fortunately, today there is greater aware- ness of psychic, highly intuitive, indigo, or • Expresses feeling “different” from crystal children. More has been written his/her peers. and there is greater openness toward these • May talk about angels, past lives, and sensitives. Certainly, we see more children reincarnation. with a spectrum of special considerations whether it be ADHD, autism, or Asperger’s • May be a child with ADD/ ADHD/ ASD.
36 | JULY 2018
SUPPORT FOR AN INTUITIVE CHILD? of the day. Liken it to scraping off mud Ideally the nanny and the parents are aligned from his/her body and surrendering it with a shared understanding of a child’s nature. back to earth. This also helps the child If you believe your charge is a psychic or highly from taking on other’s energy. intuitive child, here are a few suggestions based on my personal experience. Always share • Have a practice of using sage; in the with parents and follow the request of the home, the child’s room, and around the parents before proceeding child to clear energy frequently. with anything on your own. • Vet and network your support resources • Create a safe place. Be open to what the as if you are selecting a brain surgeon. child expresses. While it took me awhile to I can’t stress this enough. You as the understand my son’s abilities, after I did, I guardian need to trust your own instincts was careful to listen and not pass judgment. to find the best intended resources for the Discounting what a child shares, telling him child. I was fortunate to find highly ethical, not to say or talk about such things will knowledge-able, and heart-centered indi- only push the abilities underground and viduals to turn to. This is an “industry” potentially create an isolating feeling for the where referrals are a must. child. My son once told me that he was • Depending on the nature of your child’s grateful that I “got him.” Isn’t that what all experiences, and your comfort level, it can children deserve? feel quite isolating. Find a community. We • Teach the child how to ground his/her were very discerning about what we energy. Grounding is probably one of the shared with whom. That said, I was able to most important things a sensitive child can find a wonderful group of people that not learn how to do. Many of these intuitive kids only helped my son, but who were also a can be hyper-active and their energy spirals parenting support system for me. up out of their bodies. Bringing it back into Some of these children, these amazing their body gives them a sense of power and old souls, may be chronologically young helps them calm. There are a number of yet express profound wisdom that can be ways to ground. It may sound funny, but one startling. Remember to stay balanced your- of the simplest ways to do this is to hug a self. Having these heightened abilities are tree or walk barefoot on the earth. Another only one aspect of these children being technique is to invite the child to give him/ fully integrated, well-adjusted children. herself a hug, connect with their breath, and Having chores, doing homework, and learn- imagine themselves as a tree with roots ing how to navigate this world is a big part traveling down into the core of the earth. of helping these children put their abilities • Play outdoors and be in nature as much in perspective, becoming well integrated as possible. children and young adults.
• Teach them to “zip up” their energy fields. My son once said to me, “Mom, I’m glad Children who are sensitive can inadvertently I have these abilities, but I know they don’t pick up other’s energy when out in public. We make me better than anyone else.” practiced a visual of a zipping up, like a sleep- Right on. ing bag, from his toes to the top of his head. The views expressed in this article are the author’s • Practice “scraping off” energy at the end alone, and do not reflect the views of Nanny Magazine. How in Love with Pets Are You, Anyway?
BY ALEXARAYE VALLEJO
In the wonderful world of being find ourselves holding wherever months later three dogs and a nanny, we wear many hats we go. two toddlers are becoming while we’re on the clock. One Imagine this scenario. much more than you had may minute you’re playing personal You’ve just interviewed for have anticipated or experi- chef to a toddler who’s decided a new nanny position. You’re enced before. The human in he absolutely detests corn (his excited! The job responsibilities us can begrudgingly want to favorite food yesterday!), and related to your future charges travel back in time to revisit the next you may be signing were clearly defined and man- the definition of nanny respon- for packages. We are lucky our ageable, your pay and health sibilities with our NannyFamily. profession allows us to give so benefits have been negotiated To avoid the possible strug- much of our hearts and energy to your satisfaction, and the gle outlined in this scenario, every day. And for a nanny who kids and parents are lovely and we have to venture back to is also an animal lover, no other friendly. Oh, and they have before we even got the offer thing makes our hearts tick quite three cute dogs. How neat! or started the job. I’m talking like cute pets and the kiddos we You get the job, then three about the interview.
Photo via Pexels. MUST-ASK QUESTIONS FIRSTBORN PETS EXTRA WORK Set yourself up for success In most of my experiences, the In a nanny’s world, the com- in your future job to the best pets I’ve greeted as I walked in plaint of extra work isn’t always of your abilities by asking the the home for the first time is about the extra work itself. It’s tough questions about care for usually the couple’s “first child.” that our main job is now being pets before the end of your This makes it much easier to compromised. My job no longer first interview. approach the conversation of meant just letting the dog out a what pet responsibilities you will few times a day or feeding the Ask questions like: be responsible for in the home. fish a few flakes in the morn- They themselves understand the ing. I was now responsible for How many pets are in the hard work of caring for a pet and another life—the life of some- home? adding the addition of their new thing that peed… everywhere! I sweet baby to the family. found myself mopping up pud- What will be my level of Early in my career as a nanny, dles while the children enter- responsibility for their care? my NannyFamily showed me pic- tained themselves, too busy at Is the pet known to bite or tures of a super cute puppy and times for the role of my primary be aggressive in any way? told me the Christmas secret that job, caring for children. the pooch would be a present As I peeled the wet sock off, Will you be expected to walk for the children that year. I was I thought about how difficult the pet outdoors during elated. I looked forward to having it can be to strike that balance inclement weather? a work pet of my own, especial- between being a team player ly being an apartment dweller and taking on extra respon- What is the pet’s feeding whose building didn’t allow dogs. sibility without risking your or bathroom schedule? main focus. I thought about If there are no pets present, HE DOES THAT A LOT how important it is to have a that doesn’t mean there may Then Christmas came. The solid foundation of commu- not be one in the near future. puppy and children met for the nication with your employer. Always ask if you aren’t sure, first time. I quickly realized this Tailoring your job requirements especially if you have allergies. was not what I was anticipating. and knowing your employers’ My employers gave the usual expectations ahead of time is Setting aside the time to cul- breakdown before grabbing their what keeps us motivated so tivate strong communication coffees and heading out the door that we can see around the habits with your employers to work. I started about my usual next bend and anticipate our from the start helps you in the morning routine with the kids. As hurdles. long run. I am running to grab the brush in the bathroom, I feel a wetness LESSONS LEARNED underfoot. My sock was soaked. Thirteen years later, my les- “Is that urine?” I asked. “Yup,” son has been well learned. says little B. “He does that a lot.” I now work in a home with Cue the dramatic superzoom. three dogs, and I adore them Dun dun dun. all the more because I’m not the one cleaning their poop from the yard once a month—a paid service takes care of that detail. This has really given me the freedom to focus on the aspects of my career I am best at: caring and developing the young minds of our future. Let’s Picnic! BY CAROL SLAGER
Photo via Pexels.
40 | JULY 2018 The notion of a picnic brings to mind many scenes, all of them being outdoors. As I thought Food Safety about the word "picnic," I won- Coolers with ice packs offer a dered about its origin and found safe way to enjoy foods that that it comes from the French need to be kept cold on a "pique-nique," meaning eat warm summer day. The gen- outside. eral rule is that after sitting out for two hours, perishable One scene is that of the typical foods should be discarded. French picnic: a beautiful grassy When the temperature is 90 spot nestled along the banks of degrees Fahrenheit or above, the Seine, red and white check- food should not sit out longer ered tablecloth, a large wicker than one hour. basket containing baguettes, as- sorted fruits, cheeses, and Quiche Any food that has been kept Lorraine, paired with the perfect cold is safe to make the trip wine. home and be returned to the refrigerator; this is a good rea- son to only take out as much Real-life American picnic scenes as you need at a time. range from peanut butter and jelly sandwiches at a city park, to barbecued ribs, potato salad, and corn-on-the-cob in the Midwest. And yes, ants and bees always seem to crash the party, espe- Practical Picnics Whether you are attending cially when someone is highly a summer barbecue or would allergic. like to imitate the French scene, here are some ideas Is it possible to come up with a to make your picnic tasty, blend of ideas that make a picnic nutritious and easy to pull possible wherever you live, with together. food that will be sure to please? Of course!
NANNY MAGAZINE | 41 SaladsPotato and macaroni salads are popular, even those with a DessertsHomemade trail mix with your mayonnaise base. For variety, try a quinoa salad. Cook one cup favorite raw, unsalted nuts, dried of quinoa in two cups of water according to package directions. fruit, and chocolate chips makes a Chop a variety of fresh vegetables, such as grape tomatoes, fun snack. Dessert can be a vari- colored sweet peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, etc. Use whatever is ety of hard and soft cheeses with plentiful, colorful, and in season. You could add a can of black or honey or jam on crackers, nuts, as garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained, for more protein and fiber. well as dried or fresh fruits, such as Mix all of this with the cooked quinoa and toss with a dressing apricots, grapes, peaches, or straw- made from ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, juice from 2 lemons or berries. limes, 1 teaspoon salt, 1-2 teaspoons cumin, and (optional) ½ Banana or zucchini bread teaspoon red pepper flakes. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjust- (presliced for picnic ease) or muf- ing any seasonings according to what your family likes. Bottled fins, with soft goat cheese is anoth- or homemade Italian or balsamic vinegar dressing works too. er simple dessert. Sweet and tart is This salad is very versatile because you can make it any way your a flavorful combination. creative heart desires. It is good chilled or at room temperature, All of these suggestions may which makes it picnic perfect, and is my go-to for gatherings and be modified according to any food potlucks. allergies or sensitivities. Years ago, I was reading a cooking magazine that highlighted how to have a fabulous picnic while rafting somewhere out West. In the picture was a beautiful cake sitting on a pedestal plate. The menu and Mainstays presentation were rather elaborate When grilling meat BaguetteA Simple or flavored Picnic flatbread for a picnic. At the time, I had two (chicken, pork, etc.), sandwiches with assorted meats young sons at home who thrived on keep it cold until and cheeses, hardboiled eggs, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. you’re ready to roasted vegetables (think as- When I saw the cake on the pedes- cook it and pack up paragus, green beans, Brussels tal with the rafts and rushing water any leftovers with- sprouts, or any such assortment), in the background, I laughed aloud. in the food safety fresh fruit, cucumber sandwich- So, while the French may end guidelines. If using a es, crackers, crudités with Greek their picnic with a lovely apple tart, marinade, marinate yogurt (flavored with your favorite we were, and are still, content with at home so it’s ready seasonings,) or hummus. a chocolate chip cookie or a Lemon for the grill. Lovely. About those ants and bees, well, maybe they’ll follow the folks Sources: https://www.foodsafety.gov/blog/2015/06/picnic.html, with the cake. https://dairygood.org/content/2016/how-long-can-cheese-sit-out, https://www.inkwellcoaching.com/recipes/?treats for Lemon Lovely recipe
42 | JULY 2018 I’m just going to come out and say it...
Sippy cups drive me insane! There’s something about them that I simply despise. I’m fine with SIPPY bottles (even though they can be a pain to clean). I’m even okay with water bottles, but there is something about sippy cups that make me want to CUP scream. I can’t be the only one who cringes when the sippy sup slams onto the ground. It’s a haunting sound. You hear the “tiiiimberrrr,” then it’s fol- SLAM lowed with the roll off the table that seems to happen in slow motion. You feel like you’ll be able BY MARIE CHIR to reach it before it descends to the floor, but alas, you fail and the cup falls. Next, you hear the blood-curdling scream your charge issues because MARIE IS A NANNY WITH A her cup fell. No matter what brand, they all even- tually slam. With the slams come the busted lids SENSE OF HUMOR WE THINK and leaks. YOU’LL RELATE TO. CRAWL Know what else really gets my goat about sippy INTO HER WORLD AND BE cups? They’re nowhere to found when you need them the most! Oh no, dear nanny, you search can AMUSED BY JUST ANOTHER search, yet you always end up back at Target to DAY IN THE LIFE, buy a fresh batch of sippy cups. Who created this horrific sippy cup vortex of doom? Did my charges #NANNYLIFE STYLE. open a portal in the playroom? That could very well be. Sometimes I feel like a pig sniffing out for truffles around the house on the endless quest to find the lost sippies. It’s a scary job, but someone has to do it.
Can someone also explain to me why there are car seat cup holders for children, but for some myste- rious reason every sippy cup ever invented ends up under my driver’s seat for months on end? I swear I am a neat and tidy nanny, but, my good- ness, I have found so many sippy cups underneath my seat. Can someone please invent a product that prevents sippy cups from becoming trapped under my driver’s seat? Can it also keep the lids from disappearing and cracking? That would be amazing and a sure-fire way to earn millions. I’ll look for it on Shark Tank.
I know there needs to be something for that in-between stage of bottles and regular cups. I just don’t want to dry heave anymore when I discover a cup buried in the mound of stuffed animals in the playroom. Moldy milk isn’t my jam.
NANNY MAGAZINE | 43 A Note-worthy dessert: stir-fried ice cream
WORDS AND PHOTO BY IRIS GOHN
44 | JULY 2018 The blistering rays of sunlight tion, largely in part to viral vid- thing your heart desires. If you beat down upon the shining fac- eos demonstrating the mouth- are adventurous, try adding a es of both children and adults watering treat being made. mango flavored jelly or popping alike as the freedom of the dragon fruit for texture, flavored summer months envelope us. Walking into one of the many boba pearls like lychee fruit to The midafternoon snack desired shops cropping up in the U.S. give it a different chewy expe- before the scorching heat starts devoted to stir-fried ice cream, rience than gummy bears, or to subside, the lagging energy the typical start to your expe- if chocolate is your jam, go for perk after a long day of work, rience is being welcomed by a mini cookies and candies with a or the last minute much needed board with a wide selection of drizzle of chocolate. pick-me-up most often reached choices and friendly employees for during the hotter months to help guide you. The menu For an entertaining way to sat- has traditionally been a sweet board will offer a selection of isfy your sweet tooth to break confection like ice cream, gelato, base flavors, from vanilla, choc- through the haze of summer shaved ice, or even Boba Tea. olate, or coffee, to traditional heat, stir-fried ice cream is While those classics remain go- popular Thai offerings such as a perfect little outing. From toʼs in everyday life, in recent lychee, matcha, or mango. Then, selecting exactly the concoction years, there has been a sweep- if you are so inclined, you select you want to sink your teeth ing popularity of an incredibly your add-ins which can vary into, the flashy Teppanyaki-style inventive, delicious, and show from fresh fruit to flavor the banging the tools beat out while stopping presentation of a new base or concentrated, flavored the mixture gets frozen, to the sweet confection known as syrups. The base is then poured delight of picking out exact- “stir-fried ice cream.” onto an intensely cold flat-top ly what textures and favorite (think -7 to -35 degrees Cel- toppings to decorate the pretty Stir-fried ice cream, also re- sius), given roughly 30 seconds swirls of the ice cream, the en- ferred to as rolled ice cream, to a minute to start firming up, tire experience is something not originates from Thailand and is then scraped, flattened, and to be missed. After such a show, known in Thai as “ไอติมผัด" “chopped” repeatedly to both the light, cool ice cream is not (pronounced “I-Tim-Pad”). This incorporate air and create its quite as creamy as a traditional sweet confection is created in signature creamy texture. The churned ice cream, but much front of you in a dazzling show, fruit or flavorings are then smoother than a fruit sorbet with two razor sharp paint added on top of the mixture and adds to the magical expe- scraper shaped tools flashing, when it is in a thin, wide sheet, rience. No matter the reason banging, and scraping togeth- and then scraped, mashed, for walking in to grab stir-fried er your choice of either a milk and stirred again to thoroughly ice cream, you walk out having or soy milk base, flavorings, incorporate the ingredients to experienced something unique, and add-ins such as fruit or flavor the sweet treat. with a customized, completely whatever your heart desires to delicious, and beautiful little create a unique hand-crafted ice Once the fruit and flavorings treat for about the price of cream experience. This signa- and other add-ins are incorpo- a cup of fancy coffee. Who ture treat is handed to you in rated into the base, the mixture wouldn’t want THAT in the a cup filled with delicate little is then flattened into a thin midst of a summer heat wave?! rolls of ice cream and topped sheet again on the cold surface. with traditional fruits like lychee The worker then scrapes the or mango, candies, cookies, or mixture up and away from them Iris is a classically trained soprano marshmallows. Though stir-fried with gentle and firm pressure, who loves food. She blogs at The ice cream was first popular in creating a neat little spiral roll Intrepid Cookie where her original Thailand around 2009, it took that looks akin to a skinny recipes, photography, and journey a few years to gain popularity spiraled rose. These little ice of life after vision loss are chron- in different parts of Asia before cream rolls are then placed in icled. Check our her creations becoming an overnight sensa- a cup and topped with any- at www.theintrepidcookie.net.
NANNY MAGAZINE | 45 Refreshing, Fun… and Healthy Summertime Treats
WORDS AND PHOTOS BY KATIE MULLIGAN MS, RDN.
Katie is a Rhode Island-based registered dietitian nutritionist and mom of two girls. In her business, WellFamily Nutrition Coaching, Katie helps families navigate the ins and outs of childhood feeding and nutrition. Connect with Katie on Facebook @KatieMulliganNutritionCoaching and Instagram @katieswellfamilynutrition
46 | JULY 2018 Popsicles are a popular PINEAPPLE summertime treat, especially for little ones. Not much else COCONUT is as simple, delicious, and provides Vitamin C, manganese, nutritious... when done right. 4-6 ounces of water Unfortunately, some of the Makes about 6 popsicles store-bought pops can give a hefty dose of high fructose 2 cups fresh or frozen corn syrup, artificial flavor- pineapple ing, blue 1, and red 40 dyes, ½ cup full fat unsweetened among other controversial coconut milk ingredients. Not exactly the 2 tbsp honey ideal refreshment for young 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice children. You can always pour some orange juice into ¼ cup unsweetened coconut a paper cup and add a wood- flakes (optional) en stick if you want, but where is the fun in that? If Directions neither of those options con- Add the pineapple, coconut jure up the nourishing treats milk, honey, lemon juice, and you want dripping down flaked coconut (if using) to a the chins of your charges blender. Blend until smooth. on sweltering summer days, CANTALOUPE then give these fresh popsi- STRAWBERRY Pour the mixture into the cles a try. The three flavors provide Vitamins A and C, 4-6 ounces popsicle molds. Freeze 3 to each had a fan during taste of water (depending on the size of the 4 hours. testing, so they all made the popsicle cut. Makes about 8 popsicles CHERRY Making popsicles with fresh ½ cup water provides Vitamin C, potassium, fruit is a fun and healthy 2 tbsp sugar 4-6 ounces of water activity to do with children ½ medium cantaloupe, cubed Makes about 8 popsicles of all ages. The children can infuse creativity into their 1 cup ripe strawberries 2 cups of frozen dark cherries, recipes by adding any kind 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon no sugar added of fruit to the juice base and drop in chopped fruit, Directions 1 cup water or 100% white grape juice (grape juice will granola, mini chocolate chips, Add water and sugar to a small add more natural sugar, but or yogurt chips to the molds saucepan over medium heat. will give a sweeter popsicle) for a surprise inside each Bring to a simmer and cook until popsicle. These treats have sugar is dissolved. Remove from 1 tbsp honey a touch of extra sweetness heat. 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice from either granulated sugar or honey, making the amount Allow sugar water to cool to room Directions of added sugar minimal. temperature. Add cherries, water (or grape Fresh fruit popsicles pro- juice), honey, and lemon juice to vide important vitamins, Add cubed cantaloupe and straw- a blender. Blend until liquefied. minerals, and hydration in berries to a blender and blend a fun, refreshing way and until smooth. Add the sugar water Pour juice into popsicle molds. they are the perfect amount to the blender and blend. of sweetness for little ones Note: This would be a good whose diets are already low Pour the mixture into the popsicle recipe to add mini chocolate in added sugar. molds. Freeze for 3 to 4 hours. chips or yogurt chips.
NANNY MAGAZINE | 47 FRIENDS ARE EVERYTHING
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