Nannies hold a special place in the lives of the children they care for and children are like mirrors, reflecting the behaviors and attitudes of the adults around them. Nannies can be powerful role models who shape little ones into compassionate, curious, and responsible individuals. Whether you’ve just started a job or have worked with a family for years, we invite you to take this self-evaluation of key role model behavior. Rate yourself from a 1 (lowest) to a 5 (best) in each area:
- Positivity: You approach challenges with a positive attitude—like turning a rainy day into a fun indoor project—showing children how to see the silver lining in life. This helps kids develop resilience and optimism!
- Empathy: You comfort a sad friend or help a child understand another’s feelings, teaching the importance of being kind and considerate. This builds strong social skills and encourages children to look out for one another.
- Emotional Intelligence: You openly discuss feelings—like frustration over a tough situation—helping kids recognize that it’s okay to feel a range of emotions. This guidance teaches children to identify their feelings and develop coping strategies for dealing with them.
- Health and Nutrition: You prepare nutritious meals and snacks while explaining the benefits of various foods, they teach children the importance of taking care of their bodies. Incorporating fun cooking activities or discussions about where food comes from can make healthy choices exciting and engaging for kids.
- Kindness and Caring: You teach the value of being caring and considerate by encouraging acts of kindness, giving compliments, sharing, and helping others in need. This fosters a nurturing, loving environment.
- Cleanliness: You demonstrate good hygiene and cleanliness by teaching children the importance of washing hands, keeping their spaces tidy, and maintaining personal hygiene. By incorporating fun routines around cleaning up after playtime or involving them in simple chores, nannies help kids understand that cleanliness is an important part of health and well-being.
- Curiosity: You embrace your own curiosity and enthusiasm for learning! By asking questions or exploring new topics together, you encourage kids to be adventurous and inquisitive.
- Accountability: You own up to mistakes! When nannies apologize for a misstep, it teaches children that everyone makes mistakes and that it’s essential to take responsibility. This kind of honesty encourages kids to be accountable for their actions.
If you see any areas where you could improve, that’s fantastic news—you’re already taking the first step! If you are below a 3 in any area, we encourage you to start your development there, and move up to 3s and 4s. Nannies have the amazing opportunity to positively influence the children in their care. Remember, kids are always watching and learning, so being a great role model can make a lasting impact on their lives!