My first job as a nanny was based in West Sussex with a family in unusual circumstances. I had sole charge of a little girl aged 2 years who had tragically lost her parents in a plane crash and had been adopted by family members. I was a Probationary Nanny, working toward my diploma at Norland College (or the Norland Nursery Training College as it was then). I was also 20 years old. A baptism of fire, certainly, but also the most satisfying job that I think I have ever undertaken.
You see, I always knew I was born to be a nanny and work with children. Growing up Mary Poppins was my idol and I would play act her all the time, caring for my toys, my brother and younger cousins, imagining that I was their nanny and they were my charges.
The nanny role appealed to me because I am a naturally caring person and was happy to take on the responsibility of others; as a child I was allegedly quite bossy and no doubt that helped a little too! I knew that someday I would want children of my own, but also that starting a family could wait until I had spent time working with other families and seeing how each one was different.
Now, 30 years later, and a graduate of Norland, I still find myself enjoying the company of children and their families. I always look to understand how their unique dynamics makes them who they are. I am proud to call myself a childcare professional.
Parents want the very best for their children, and that incorporates everyone who supports their childcare needs – what could be more important than influencing children as they grow and develop? The responsibility is vast — but then so are the positives as you become part of a family unit, observing, guiding and caring for children in their most impressionable years.
For parents choosing a carer, it can be a daunting task- who could care for your children in exactly the way that you want? It’s one of those decisions that is critical and has a lifelong effect, so getting the right match- your childcarer to your family- is critical. My best piece of advice when searching for a childcarer has always been to look for the ‘right fit’, even if this takes longer than you’d planned, because just ‘good enough’ never is. Using the range of expert services that Care.com can offer will help your family find the right fit for you. I hope I can help you along the way.
Mother and Norland nanny, Rosemary Albone has been working as a child care expert for over 20 years. She is passionate about working with children and understands the joys and challenges that come with being a care provider.
