Frequently Asked Questions
Background and Experience
How many years have you been working with children?
20+ years
What childcare roles have you done in the past?
Children’s Progressive Swim Instructor, Lifeguard, Previous Volunteer with The Fresh Air Fund, Full Time Nanny, Temp/ Travel Nanny, Special Events Nanny
How many families have you cared for and how old were the children?
Children Ranging in ages for 2 weeks- preteen. I have worked with multiple families. Upwards of 40 (Not including swim classes.) I have been teaching for over 20 years with each class averaging 10 students ages 3- Teen. I work with families for full time needs, occasional needs, special events, local vacationing families and as a Temp/ Travel Nanny. Willing to travel Domestically & Internationally. Passport ready. Global Entry
What is your favorite age group to work with?
I have extensive experience with infants, toddlers, school age and preteens and although I love those little ones and the challenge of teaching Social Emotion Learning and tracking development, I also love the joy in experiencing many "firsts" with my charges such as teaching confidence and passing on the love I share in exploring my environments.
I also love the older children even more because they are physically able to do more and often up for just as much adventure as I am!
Do you have specific childcare experience in Special needs, potty training, infant care?
I have experience with autistic children and welcome special needs children. I often try not to treat them any different while being aware of their abilities and we end up having a blast! I have successfully potty trained two children, a girl and 3 boy and have advanced training in infant care as a trained Newborn Care Specialist. I am also a Certified Positive Parenting Educator and a Pediatric Sleep Consultant.
I welcome unique situations and often create an individualized game plan for the time I spend with your children.
Nanny Circumstances
Can you expand on your educational experience?
Children's Progressive Swim Instructor, Previous Fresh Air Fund volunteer, Red Cross CPR, AED, First Aid and Lifeguard Certified, Lifeguard 20+ Years, Previous Long Term Full Time Nanny, Newborn Care Specialist, Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator, Youth Mental Health First Aid USA Certified
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Communication Essentials for Nannies & Family Assistants, International Travel Preparation, Safety and Wellness, Top Notch Family Assistant Training, Respectful Care for Newborns, Infants & Toddlers, Loving Boundaries, Car Seat Safety, International Travel Preparation Safety and Wellness, Beyond Newborn Care, Foundations and Resiliency in Infants and Toddlers, Child Nutrition and Cooking, National COVID Ready Caregiver Certification, Teaching Young Children Virtually, Encouraging Curiosity Using A Play Based Curriculum, US Nanny Association Member, International Nanny Association Member, Pediatric Sleep Training, Parenting from Love Workshop, Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events Training, Child Led Curriculum/ Lesson Plans Workshop, Child Abuse Prevention for Professional Caregivers, Connection Centered Discipline Nanny Certification, Conscious Discipline: Building Resilient Schools and Homes, Red Cross Advanced Child Care Training, International Nanny Training Day 2017, 2018, 2019, Nannypalooza 2021
2021 US Nanny Institute graduate for Professional Childcare. US Nanny Association Certified Professional Nanny, International Nanny Association Credentialed Nanny
I have fulfilled course requirements in General Psychology, Child Development, Principles of Sociology, Health, YMCA Listen First Training and YMCA Working With Families; providing an essential educational background to successfully perform your job requirements.
Please refer to my resume for a complete list of credentials.
Do you have any allergies to cats, dogs or other animals?
No
Are you uncomfortable around or scared of any particular pets?
No, well maybe spiders and snakes. Please keep them caged!
Do you have any particular religious affiliation that might affect the way you care for our children?
No
Covid-19 Safety
I am fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 (Pfizer) and can provide the Client with verification of vaccine. I consider myself a level 2 on the COVID-19 Risk Tolerance Scale provided by The Association of Premier Nanny Services.
https://theapna.org/covid-19-risk-tolerance-scale/
All clients must certify that they are currently fully vaccinated against COVID or will be fully vaccinated prior to start of any Agreement.
I live self isolated (alone) in my home of 20 years in Upstate New York, in a county 3.5 hours north of NYC with a population of 61,500 versus NYC at 8.3 million people. Our active cases are tracked on a daily basis.
For daily reports of Covid-19 statistics for Washington County New York, please visit https://www.facebook.com/WashCoNYDPS911/
To become better educated on safe practices to combat Covid-19 and better serve my clients, in April 2020, I became certified in National Covid Ready Caregiver Certification by Nextstep and National Domestic Workers Alliance.
Do you have any visible tattoos or piercings?
YES, I have a small eye brow piercing that is permanent (not removable) and I do have several visible tattoos all done in good taste, taking professionalism into account.
Side Hand: quote
Inner Forearms: snowflakes, rose, large angel wing that also wraps a portion of front arm
Chest: inspirational quote, watercolor birds
Shoulder: abstract flowing lines, heart
Foot Base: Inspirational quote, simple graphic monkey
*I support body art as a form of character and integrity expression. It is possible to cover most pieces with a long sleeve shirt, if needed, to be presentable in formal environments and cultures where body art is not acceptable. I welcome clients that support my personal decisions in regards to self expression through tastefully chosen body art.
**I am willing to sign a release of liability or injury for the presence of the non-removable eye brow piercing.
The piercing is so tiny (3 times smaller than average piercing), it presents minimal threat of injury to children or myself. My corrective eyeglasses are much more a risk to being compromised in an employment setting.
Do you have a social media account?
Facebook @NYTravelNanny
Training and Safety
Do you know First Aid? Do you know Pediatric & Infant CPR?
Yes, Certified Red Cross Lifeguard
During initial conversations with a client, I always state that I am a Lifeguard FIRST and then a Travel Nanny. I will likely be more in tune to safety than the average Travel Nanny as I’ve worked as an active first responder for over 25 years.
Are you familiar with the Heimlich maneuver?
Yes, Certified Red Cross Lifeguard
Can you swim?
Yes, Certified Red Cross Lifeguard- Active Lifeguard for 20+ years, Children’s Progressive Swim Instructor, Adult Aquatic Fitness Instructor
Are you familiar with emergency numbers?
Yes, and I require client's to complete emergency forms prior to the start of an Agreement.
Can you drive in an emergency?
Yes.
Job Specifics
What families make the best clients?
The enjoy working with families that have a positive, warm and inviting family structure focused on connection and support.
I love working families that foster a healthy, positive employment relationship and open communication allowing the nanny autonomy to navigate their responsibilities. I am open to families that wish to maintain privacy and would rather the nanny be in the background and a family that welcomes the nanny into the family dynamic.
What are your responsibilities? What are the biggest challenges in your job?
As a Temp/ Travel Nanny, it is essential that I am energetic, enthusiastic, flexible, patient, travel-savvy, safety conscious, and demonstrate respect for the family's parenting styles, diversity and personal values by working in daily partnership with parents to address the needs of their children.
Each position is different, but with all positions it is my responsibility to be proactive by taking initiative to create solutions without direction, research your destination, evaluate the environment, address safety concerns and provide suggested activities for the whole family. As standard with Nanny duties, I will also cover light housekeeping, errands and track child related supplies. It is also my responsibility to help your children with sleep adjustments due to travel and setting routines.
Prior to the start of any position, I create a personalized plan of developmental, physical and cultural immersion activities, designed exclusively for your children to keep them happy and engaged during our time together.
Traveling with children is unpredictable, so it is important that I am able to adapt quickly to change and not get overwhelmed. Traveling as a family unit presents unique challenges, and an experienced Temp/Travel Nanny should be prepared to handle unexpected moments. I have navigated natural disasters, cancelled and rerouted flights, cultural/ language barriers, child sickness and even limitations with supply resources. Quick thinking, being resourceful and being a source of calm in unexpected moments helps my clients feel confident and ease stressors.
Are you OK if a job runs later than planned?
Yes, I usually confirm with my clients prior to the booking or at the end of a work week with a full time family about times/schedules and discuss if I can allow the booking to run over. Often, I tell parents that they have no curfew and to enjoy their time away. For a Full Time position, I would communicate regularly with the parents of any needed scheduling adjustments. For Travel/Vacation/Temp positions, I remain flexible with scheduling needs as to provide a wonderful travel experience. Open lines of communication are essential to a successful Nanny experience!
Do you have reliable transportation?
Yes, however the vehicle will not be available for work purposes other than commuting as it does not carry the appropriate business rider for Nanny care.
If asked to drive the children in the Client’s vehicle, the client will keep the car in good working condition and assume all responsibility for insurance, maintenance, repairs, and gas. If I am not added as an additional driver to the vehicle’s insurance rider per the Client’s decision, and I will not be held liable for any damage incurred to the vehicle or injury/death of the children in Provider's Care as it is recommended to add an additional driver to a policy. The Client will pay the deductible resulting from any accident occurring during working hours regardless of fault.
Are you comfortable driving kids in the car?
Yes
May we obtain a copy of your driver’s license?
Yes, Absolutely!
How many years have you been driving?
30 years
Do you have any marks against your driving record (speeding tickets, accidents, etc)?
No
Do you require a retainer to book services?
Yes, as a general rule, I require a non-refundable retainer in the amount of no more than 1/3 the total anticipated Agreement Value for any Travel Nanny Services, Short Term Nanny Services, Special Events Nanny Services, Newborn Care and Private Lifeguarding.
*No retainer will be requested for Occasional Use Nanny Services in lieu of the client abiding by the provider's cancellation policy.
Adjustments (decreases) and waivers to the amount of retainer requested are at the discretion of the Provider.
Any retainer received shall be applied to payments due at the back end of the Agreement and will not be refunded as the Client agrees that the retainer fairly compensates the Provider for committing to provide the Services, Service Dates of the Agreement and turning down other potential projects/ clients.
Are you OK assisting with homework, possibly making dinner and/or doing light housework?
Yes, my Occasional Services come with a sweep of your floors (for the safety of your children in an environment I am not familiar with) counters cleaned and dishes washed. I often come with educational as well as physical activities and would be very willing to help with homework.
Within a Full Time Nanny Position, I comply with the Industry Standards using the accepted definition of "Light Housekeeping Duties of a Nanny."
The Standard Quote used by most Nanny agencies to describe appropriate Light Housekeeping Duties for a Nanny states "Any duties directly related to the children can be included as responsibilities of your Nanny."
Examples: Preparing child meals, Maintaining the kitchen, maintaining common area floors used by the children, children's rooms, children's laundry and organizing play areas and toys.
**Other tasks can be accommodated as a Family/Household Manager or for Travel Nanny Services**
I am very flexible to a client's needs.
Please describe your comfort level and experience with cooking for families.
I love to research and implement healthy food choices within the clients I work for. By looking up a single ingredient, it becomes an adventure to see what creativity and inspiration can create. By getting children involved in the process, they are more apt to try new, healthy foods. I am grain free and sugar free and enjoy sharing healthy meal ideas with my employers.
Are you comfortable working for a parent that works from Home?
Yes, I am extremely comfortable working right along with parents and extended family. My preview Full Time Nanny Employer's worked from home. It’s great to have them present for the children anytime their children need them.
Can you travel with a family if we need you to?
Yes, with prior notice. I can accommodate any needs! I gladly welcome the opportunity to work and travel! Passport ready. Global Entry
Newborn Care
Are you comfortable sitting for newborns?
Yes, I have experience working with newborns (references can be provided) to teens. Newborn Care Specialist
What is your experience caring for newborns?
I have taken on Occasional Bookings for families with newborns and began employment with my previous and current Full Time Nanny Family when their child was 6 months old. I am an "Auntie" to 4 boys and many of my friends have children. I am very comfortable around infants and have even assisted in infant lead swim classes.
Newborn Care Specialist
Can you change a diaper?
Yes, with my eye’s closed! I have mastered the stand-up technique!
Do you know about SIDS and how to prevent it?
Yes, my previous Full Time Nanny Mom was terrified during her daughter’s 1st Year. The kids slept on their backs with no blankets or accessories in the sleeping area until they were 2 years old. Always use a fan on to circulate the air flow and a humidifier in dry weather. They slept in sleep sacks for safety and I had video monitor I carried everywhere. I performed sleep checks every 30 minutes.
Do you have experience preparing and heating formula?
Yes, use luke warm water Only, to warm a bottle. Do not use a microwave. Always test it on your forearm. Same with bath water and sink water.
Are you familiar with Shaken Baby Syndrome?
I have also completed course requirements for Child Abuse Prevention For Professional Caregiver. I am a mandated reporter by law as a Nanny in New York State. I firmly believe that behavior can be altered by distraction to another environment such as moving to another room or by implementing positive child care approaches. I am certified in Positive Discipline for Nannies and I come with a pocket full of distractions. Music being a very positive way to distract a child that is having a difficult time.
Do you know the proper size for baby chewables and how to prevent choking?
I am an active lifeguard of 20+ years. I once took a CPR certification with long time Medics. They said the number one choking food was hot dogs followed by grapes and the public could help them out and save lives by cutting them in four vs in half. I will never forget that comment.
During initial conversations with a client, I always state that I am a Lifeguard FIRST and then a Travel Nanny. I will likely be more in tune to safety than the average Travel Nanny as I’ve worked as an active first responder for over 25 years.
Can you tell if a room is childproofed?
That’s the 1st thing I do when arriving on a job! I am lifeguard. My #1 job is to ensure the safety of the children in my care.
I will arrive on a job and immediately ensure the environment is safe, as I am not familiar with your home. I will then occupy the children with an activity and immediately address any concerns to correct the environment and make it safe for the children.
Get To Know Me
Can you tell us a little about you?
I'm Nanny Jess, a Travel Nanny expert and founder and CEO of www.NYTravelNanny.com. I cover temp and travel positions domestically and internationally.
I was raised in an All-American Family with a strong focus on Traditional Core Family Values, Community Service, Volunteerism and Cultural Experiences. I am an "AUNTIE" to four boys and a Big Sister to three siblings. I live in one amazing location, my forever home, the Lower Adirondacks, Lake George Region in Upstate NY.
I wear many hats within my career that include Credentialed/Certified Professional Career Nanny, Lifeguard, Newborn Care Specialist, Pediatric Sleep Consultant and Certified Positive Discipline Parenting Educator.
What hobbies do you enjoy?
Swimming, Competitive Cycling, Pilates
I'm an adventurer and world traveler at heart, often checking off extreme bucket list checks such as zip-lining world record sets.
What makes you stand out from other people in your field?
What makes me stand out from other colleagues in my field is my attention to professionalism, customer service and continued commitment to professional development.
I encourage a sense of belonging, self-awareness, self-esteem and promote character foundational skills such as honesty, respect, caring, kindness, and responsibility within the children I care for and provide care with a strong focus on positive connection and social emotional learning.
If you asked a child, the answer would be "Nanny Jess" is fun, she always comes prepared with a game plan or lesson plan along with supplies and we never even notice mom and dad are away! We're having too much fun!
What is your goal behind your services?
I believe in creating a nurturing, positive, inclusive family environment with an emphasis on safety, fun, excitement, and laughter within my positions.
How did you come up with idea to become a Temp/Travel Nanny? How did it all start?
My previous career was in large scale events management with a touring motorcycle rally. I absolutely loved my career and learned the value of marketing, destination research and topography that became essential to my work as a Temp/Travel Nanny and a unique skillset that sets me apart from other Travel Nannies.
Image planning a tour for 250 motorcycle enthusiasts thru the Adirondack Mountains toward the Green Mountains of Vermont to treat them to a breakfast at a Maple Sugar House. Not only do you have to plan a route that allows for safe travels and road conditions but inspecting parking conditions and other fine details became essential to a successful event. Motorcycles can’t park on gravel!
I live between two tourist destinations in Upstate NY, Saratoga Springs and the Lower Adirondacks, Lake George Region. Initially, I would meet my clients locally and after an amazing experience, I recognized the value in offering my services to them outside my local area.
My career as a full-time nanny began in 2013 and after my first travel nanny experience in 2016, I began the process of marketing for NY Travel Nanny with the goal to transfer exclusively to the Travel/Temp Nanny market. I successfully made that leap at the beginning of the pandemic. Due to the pandemic, my clients were buckling down at locations outside their everyday homes and the Travel Nanny Industry grew substantially in requests for nannies to quarantine at long term, alterative locations with a family.
Becoming a Temp/Travel Nanny was an easy, natural fit as it combined my previous career and professional childcare. It’s the best of both worlds!
What do you enjoy most about your career?
The best joy for me when caring for children is to see the children excel in their abilities, behaviors, personal growths and milestones. I’m usually the one jumping up and down right along with mom and dad. I am a big kid at heart, often showing my enthusiasm for life by having just as much fun as the children. This enthusiasm for the simple pleasures in life has made me a favorite role model amongst many little ones.
Each position and needs of a family are different and I’ve come enjoy the variety in my positions and locations I am lucky to work in. I often need to prepare for a trip at a moment’s notice and have bags packed to pick up and go. I was never much of a risk taker but becoming a Temp/Travel Nanny has helped me grow in that strength. I look forward to all the unknown adventures and lasting connections that being a Temp/Travel Nanny has given back to me.
What has been your most memorable on the job experience?
What makes an opportunity memorable are those uncandid, non-scripted moments I witness my clients connecting as a family unit. I can remember taking some down time on an ocean-side balcony and watching my clients’ and their children ride bikes on the beach. The wind blowing and everyone laughing and smiling. Wow, that’s how I grew up too! Family is everything! I am so lucky to witness moments like that and to be present to help create them!
What is next in your plans?
I continually source out opportunities that will enhance my field knowledge and will allow me to stay up to date on child developmental and professional caregiver curriculum. I always have a full roster of courses that will keep me busy in my free time as well as focusing on fitness. I look forward to growing my client base and expanding newborn care and sleep consulting services.
The sky is NO limit for NY Travel Nanny! I am excited to see what the future holds!