Listed below are some of the various roles I have performed and what I believe is involved with each of them.
INDIVIDUAL
*CPR/First Aid Certification
*Do not smoke or drink
*Do not take drugs
*Clear medical history
*No criminal record or civil issues
*Exellent hygiene
*Physically fit
*Socially at ease, casual or formal
*Emotionally stable
*Intellectually sound
*Happy to relocate
*Responsible lifestyle
CAREGIVER
Dedication: Every decision I make is weight by its effect on the children in my care. I am always considering how best to nurture and guide, and each day I work to be sure I follow the course to achieve this. You need never fear that your children are merely a job to me.
Entertainment: Fun, fun, fun! Piggy-back rides, games, laughing and joking, playing ball, dancing, singing, and all-in-all trying to make the time spent with me truly enjoyable. (I must admit, I have fun, too!)
Protection: The children's safety would be priority number one. Additionally, I am not the type to be intimidated but will always fight for them should the occasion call for it. Nor am I needlessly aggressive, and whatever action I take will be measured by the goal of protecting them.
Patience: To me, this is no more, no less, than remembering. Remembering my job (it is easier to be patient as an aupair, as caring for the children is the whole of one's duty), remembering that the child is a child, remembering that the children will be learning from my example, and perhaps most of all, remembering my goal - their well-being, not my convenience.
Specialised attention: Each child is unique and has something to offer that no one else can. I am attentive to each child as an individual and build my relationships with them on that basis. I listen, and mutual respect and love both grow strong in this way.
Open Affection: I believe in plenty of hugs, kisses, and obvious indications of approval and enjoyment for each child.
Structure: I provide a high level of organisation, offering predictability and security.
Creativity: I am inventive and (can be) spontaneious - schedules assist, they do not dictate.
Diversity: I can expose your children to a variety of subjects with an enthusiasm and perspective that should enable them to understand and enjoy those things as well.
Love: Last, but far from least, I care - very strongly. Your children's feelings are important to me!
EMPLOYEE
Ethics: I am perfectly responsible. I welcome a "nanny-cam" as it will enable you to see first hand how I am with children at all times.
Commitment: I have just as much of an interest in remaining with your family long term as you have in finding an aupair who will remain. As you have no desire for your children to undergo perpetual upheaval each time you must switch caregivers, I don't want them to go through that either.
Discretion: Your personal business is yours and absolutely will not be discussed with friends, family, or anyone else.
Straightforwardness: If there is something disturbing me that I believe needs to be discussed, I will explain my concerns and listen to yours in order to find a resolution.
Accepting of Instruction: I welcome your direction regarding the position I fill, and I will never lose sight of the fact that your children are your children. I also have a love of learning, and your experience will have led you to gain a different understanding than I might possess. I have every expectation that I will learn from you, and I am prepared to impart what I have learned should you desire it or refrain.
LIVE-IN
I have had experience in this area from my previous nanny/aupair positions. I don't know that it would be possible to declare all that I have learned about how to live in another's home, but I'll mention some highlights:
*It is your property, not mine, and I will respect that
*Not every unpleasant aspect needs to be addressed
*A friendly attitude goes a long way
*"Everybody needs a little time away..."
*I try to never add to untidiness but diminish it where I can
*I can enjoy spending time with your family or retreat to my space
*Whatever you choose to tell me in confidence goes no farther
*I keep my problems to myself
*I will share with you almost any information about me
