Having worked as a nanny and babysitter for 7 years I have spent countless afternoons taking the children I watch on hikes, picnics in the park or staying in and playing with toys and reading. I always strive to come prepared with activities to engage the kids, like crafts or reading from a book of stories from my childhood. My philosophy as a caregiver is that my job is to create a personal connection with whomever I am working. It is up to me to create activities and experiences for people to get excited about. I have experience with children ranging 3 months to 12 years and my duties have included preparing meals, performing mild household chores, driving kids to school and practices and more. I am also CPR/First Aid certified. Over this time I have worked with children and have taken college courses on working with children with special needs, ranging from physical handicaps to personality disorders. I also have experience with children who have only been cared for by there own parents, and have learned how to mediate the transition to a babysitter. In addition, I have experience as a pet sitter and am comfortable with cats and dogs of all sizes and personalities.