New York Nanny Center » sitter

A Lil’ Thank You from our Leader…

Lindsay Bell — Fri, 11 Oct 2013 21:01:11 +0000

I’m not yet a mama, I’m what I like to call a mama in the making. Like all LLD sitters, I care for the children around me like they were my own until my own moment of glory happens! Since working on LLD full time, I have not had as much time to babysit like I used to. I sure do miss it, but luckily my lil’ twin nieces keep the Aunt Linny requests coming in.

As our phone continues to ring, I was thinking how nice it is hearing from families I have cared for 6, 7, 8 years ago calling to now be placed with a nanny or sitter. The LLD network really has come full circle; from sitters becoming mothers themselves and using our sitters for their own children, to children I used to babysit for who are now old enough to offer their babysitting services. Each day that happens, it is a reminder of why this group is so special. The sitters that come through our door to interview continue to be professional, happy, experienced & smart, and our internal team continues to be hardworking, dedicated, loyal & caring. So a BIG thank you to everyone that has made LLD what it is today! We couldn’t have done it without you!

-LB

Lindsay Bell is a proud President, Co-Founder, and fearless leader of LLD. She loves spending her free time babysitting her lil’ nieces, running, and traveling the east coast to visit her four sisters.

Henry Takes Flight

Alison Gore — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 17:39:12 +0000

I’ve heard about it. I’ve seen people do it many times. I feared it to be honest, but the time had come. It was unavoidable. We were taking our first flight with a baby. I quickly sent out an S.O.S. memo to my “Baby Mamas” asking them for any travel tips they had, what to do about food/formula/gear for Henry, and how to get through security in the quickest and most efficient way—if that’s even possible for parents with young kids. Most of them had traveled and offered me a lot of great advice. I took their advice and packed a bottle for take off and landing, got some new toys that would entertain a 7 month old, had an extra change of clothes in case he had an explosion in his diaper (please, God, no!), and had everything strategically placed so I could unload it quickly while going through security.

I was still a tad nervous about how Henry would do on the plane. He doesn’t like to be held still for long periods of time, would be traveling during his fussiest time, and doesn’t fall asleep easily while being held. The kid likes to eat, move, poop, and move some more. None of those things are easy to deal with on a plane, let me tell you!

Henry looking out of our hotel room window

Surprisingly we got through security pretty quickly and painlessly. I was in charge of all the carry-on bags, and Bob was in charge of getting Henry, the stroller, and car seat through. We only had to wait about 25 minutes before we boarded the plane. Once we were on, Henry seemed happy and ready for his first flight. I laughed inwardly when I noticed no one making eye contact with us as we walked down the aisle. I knew what they were thinking, as I had thought it before myself, “please do not let them be sitting by me!” We made it to our very cramped and small seats and got settled in on our United Airlines flight.

Needless to say, Bob spent the majority of the flight in the back rocking Henry to sleep. Every time he got him asleep, an announcement would come on and Henry would wake up! Oh well, we survived! We even survived the flight back!

Our first ride on the NYC subway!

I was so confident in Henry’s abilities that I traveled by myself only a few weeks later to see my family in Detroit. This time I flew Southwest, which meant I could fly out of Midway instead of O’Hare (always a better choice…) I don’t know if it’s just because it was Southwest or because I was traveling alone, but everyone bent over backwards for me! The flight to Detroit wasn’t full so they let me bring the carseat on! Then the flight attendant told me how to place my bags so no one would sit with me and therefore i’d have a row to myself. I’m not sure if this was for my benefit or she felt sorry for anyone who would have to sit next to a mother and child! Either way, I wasn’t going to argue. Henry did pretty well. It wasn’t as stressful as I thought, and people actually smiled and commented on my “well-behaved child!” I didn’t get a row to myself on the way back, but Henry was in a super good mood, had the people around him enamored with his giggling and smiling, and a nice gentleman helped me with all my bags. (Thanks, stranger!)

Like all things in parenthood, you learn as you go. We’ve checked off flying with a baby off our list and look forward to the next adventure Bob and I take with Henry! Let’s keep our fingers crossed that our trip to Hawaii in December goes as well!

-Maureen is the Chicago city coordinator for LLD and a new mommy!

Scrub-a-Dub-Dub. . . It’s Bath Time!

Alison Gore — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 17:45:37 +0000

Dear Ask-A-Sitter,

What are some tips and reminders for bathing infants that you can share with me?

Sincerely,

Scrub-a-Dub-Dub

Dear Scrub-a-Dub-Dub,

Bath time with your lil’ one can be a great way to show your lil’ one that getting clean can be fun! But, before you get to the fun splashy toddler age, it’s good to know a few things about bathing infants.

Sometimes the kitchen sink is the best place for an impromptu bath!

Choose the right baby bathtub. Make sure your baby won’t slide around in the tub, and use a no-slip mat under the tub.
Check the temperature, the water shouldn’t be too hot or too cold. Remember that a baby’s skin is more sensitive than a grown-ups.
Make a bathing schedule. Babies don’t necessarily need a bath every day, aim for a few times a week. If baths make your baby energetic, make sure to do it in the morning. If baths make your lil’ ones sleepy, save the bath for right before bedtime.
Find soaps without any harsh additives to keep your lil’ one’s skin soft and healthy!
Keep everything you’ll need for bath time within arm’s reach so you can always keep one hand on your lil’ one during a bath.
Take a refresher course on infant CPR and remember to always empty the tub completely!

Once your lil’ one gets a little older, make bath time fun with toys, bath crayons & paint, and fun bath games! Teach your lil’ ones that getting clean can be fun when done safely!

-Ask-A-Sitter

How to Find a Sitter for your Newborn

Alison Gore — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 17:11:53 +0000

Dear #AskaLLDSitter,

As a new mom, I’m wondering what type of questions I should ask my potential new sitter. Do you have any suggestions or a checklist for effective methods of interviewing new sitters to ensure I find the best fit for my family and newborn? What are your top must-ask questions?

Best,

Question Block Mom

Dear Question Block Mom,

This is a great question! Even when you are using a babysitting service like LLD which performs background checks, reference checks, and in-person interviews, as a new mom you want to perform your own personal interview before you hire a new sitter. Firstly, you want to make sure you and your sitter click and that he or she will make a great addition to your family. Secondly, every family has a different philosophy regarding childrearing, so you want to individually talk with a sitter to make sure he or she is on the same page as you and your family. LLD does the initial vetting process and suggests only the best in childcare, but as a new mom you want to be comfortable with your new sitter. So if you are conducting your interview with an LLD sitter in person, over the phone, or via Skype these are my go-to tips on conducting an authentic and meaningful interview.

First and foremost: Trust your gut!!! If an answer to a question does not feel right to you, or if you immediately click with a sitter and feel comfortable, trust that initial reaction. One interview technique I have used is asking fill-in-the-blank questions. For example, ask the sitter to complete sentences like: “Children are _____,” these kinds of questions give you a chance to really see what a sitter thinks.
Make sure to ask about his/her personal philosophy about raising children, discipline as well as past experience with siting for children of all ages. Even though some questions might not exactly pertain to caring for a newborn, they are still vital for understanding a potential sitter’s overall childcare philosophy.
Ask a scenario question. I tend to ask sitters what they would do in a variety of both emergency and daily situations to see their level of preparedness in dealing with a newborn.
Is the sitter CPR trained for infants? If not, would he/she be willing to receive the necessary training before beginning work?
I highly recommend asking about the vaccines a sitter has. When dealing with infants, it’s important for a sitter to have the flu shot and pertussis booster.
Finally, I recommend starting your search for a sitter early to reduce stress! Give yourself ample time to interview candidates, get to know him/her & find the best fit for your family!

As always thank you so much for your amazing questions and we hope to see you hear same time next week on

#AskaLLDSitter from LLD and Renee Pena.

-Renee is a lifelong learner of parent’s education,creativity, special needs and early childhood. She is addicted to Pinterest, organizing, and the color purple. She is honored to be a guest blog for LLD as their go to sitter expert via #AskaLLDSitter. Renee is currently working on an upcoming blog on education, you may follow her launch and tips on Reneepedia. You can also chat with her via twitter at @enrichingkids.

Elmo’s Super Heroes Save the Day!

Alison Gore — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 16:40:10 +0000

Sesame Street Live brings an educational adventure to the stage with Elmo’s Super Heroes! Lil’ ones learn how good hygiene, healthy eating, exercise, and a good night’s sleep can turn them into a Super Hero! Shannon, one of LLD’s sitters, took 3-year-old twins to see the show, and she and the boys loved the captivating and entertaining show. The lil’ boys thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the show were enthralled by the high energy, amazing costumes, and bright lights! The crowd was filled with kids of all ages who enjoyed the singing, dancing, and storytelling from beloved Sesame Street characters.

Elmo’s Super Heroes was a big hit with the lil’ ones!

Shannon and the boys especially loved the participation portions of the show when the characters ask the lil’ ones in the crowd to join them in dancing and singing. The “Fabulous 5″ team of characters, with Super Elmo at the lead, remind our kids of 4 important daily regimens- eating healthy food, being active, practicing good hygiene, and getting plenty of sleep. What parent or sitter doesn’t want those ideas to be encouraged by some of their kids’ most beloved and trusted characters? Shannon and the boys were smiling from beginning to end and had a blast! This show is a definite crowd pleaser and will keep your lil’ ones engaged with captivating characters and, most importantly, will teach them the importance of good habits!

Sesame Street Live, Elmo’s Super Heroes will be at The Theater at Madison Square Garden this February 7-18. LLD Families can click here & use code 4ELMO at check out to save 25% on tickets!
Leave a comment on this post with your favorite Sesame Street character by Feb 12 for a chance to win a family pack of 4 tickets!

Leaving On a Jet Plane

Alison Gore — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 18:12:34 +0000

Dear Ask a Sitter,

I am starting to worry because Spring Break is so soon and we are heading off to our family vacation. And I haven’t gotten my sitter prepared for our trip and my brain is fried after figuring everything out regarding the kids, my husband, and the dog! Do you have a fabulous checklist that I can use to ease my stress?

Best,

Dying for some fun in the sun

Dear Dying for Some Fun in the Sun,

It’s hard to believe Spring Break is here! Well as per your request, we are more than happy to provide you with a easy how-to checklist for some peace and serenity before and after your fun in the sun!

And we wish you a wonderful amazing vacation,

Renee Pena

Ask A Sitter

Renee is a lifelong learner of parent’s education,creativity, special needs and early childhood. She is addicted to Pinterest, organizing, and the color purple. She is honored to be a guest blog for LLD as their go to sitter expert via #AskaLLDSitter. Renee is currently working on an upcoming blog on education, you may follow her launch and tips on Reneepedia. You can also chat with her via twitter at @enrichingkids.

Spring Break is Just Around the Corner!

Alison Gore — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 18:10:01 +0000

Dear Ask a Sitter:

I am freaking out because Spring Break is around the corner and we have a family vacation booked. Do I really need a sitter? Won’t that detract from family time? If I do need one, when should I book one?

Best,

Dying for some fun in the sun

LLD sitters with some lil’ darlings in Massachusetts

Dear Dying for Some Fun in the Sun,

I can’t believe it’s almost Spring Break as well! 2013 is off to a fast start. Here’s the thing having a sitter is ALWAYS a plus. Even if you only have one or two kids and think you’ve got everything covered, an extra pair of hands on a trip is never a bad thing! In fact, bringing along a sitter makes a trip run a little more smoothly and gives you a chance to spend more time as a family. LLD sitters have accompanied families on vacations around the world and are great at entertaining the lil’ ones on long car rides, overnight flights, or unexpected layovers. Forgot something? Your sitter can run quick errands for you so you don’t have to leave your family. Want to go on a special date? Your sitter can entertain the kiddos so that you and your partner can have a night or afternoon out. Your sitter can help plan the trip and include family friendly activities. If you are interested in booking a sitter you’d better act fast!

And we wish you a wonderful amazing vacation,

Renee Pena

Renee Eva Pena

Under the Weather?

Alison Gore — Fri, 25 Jan 2013 16:37:37 +0000

Dear Ask A Sitter,

You did an informative post last week on how to prevent our lil’ ones from catching the flu, but I’m wondering what kind of care LLD sitters can provide if my lil’ darling gets sick and I’m away.

Yours Truly,

Under The Weather

Dear Under The Weather,

One important thing LLD sitters do is routinely check your lil’ ones’ temperature. If he/she has a high fever for an extended period of time, our sitters know to notify the parents and take your child to the doctor as a high temperature can be dangerous and potentially lead to something more severe. For less severe illnesses, LLD sitters are happy to follow your instructions for TLC while you are away.

Tender: How do LLD sitters provide tenderness to a sick child?

If you can’t be at home, a trusted LLD sitter can take tender care of your sick lil’ one. Sick lil’ darlings like to be treated gently and affectionately. Sitters will sing a song while they try to fall asleep, read lots of books to them, and be extra sweet!

Loving: How do LLD sitters provide love to a sick child?

LLD sitters are great at keeping an upbeat and positive attitude which will help your lil’ sick one to feel better in no time! Sitters will rub their back, read them a story, or watch their favorite shows. A day or two of R&R will have your lil’ one up and running in no time.

Care: What kind of care will an LLD sitter provide for my sick lil’ one?

Flus and fevers dehydrate, so LLD sitters know that extra fluids are a necessity. Water is always good, but once your child gets bored with that, our sitters try ice pops, fruits, gatorade, or 100% fruit juices to maintain steady hydration. Warm broths and crackers are also an LLD go-to for keeping upset tummies full and happy. Our sitters keep their hands clean and wash regularly to avoid spreading germs. LLD sitters will keep you updated throughout the day with how your lil’ one is doing and keep them positive!

Last but not least, LLD sitters will ask about any medications your child is taking, how often they should take them, and what dosages should be administered. Let them know what over-the-counter medicines your child can take (aspirin, tylenol, cough drops etc.) and if there are any medicinal or food allergies to be aware of. Keep a list of doctors and emergency contacts on the fridge (or somewhere else central) in case of emergency.

Hope your lil’ darling feels better soon!

Renee Pena

Ask A Sitter Expert

Got a Question? Ask a Sitter!

Alison Gore — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:09:29 +0000

Every Friday LLD and Renee Eva Pena are teaming up to answer some of our families’ questions about sitters! These are some common questions that we frequently get regarding expenses, duties, communication, etc. that every family has probably come across at some point. If you have a question… Ask a sitter expert!

Question of the Week: What expenses is the family responsible for paying when the sitter travels with the children?

Dear Traveling About Mama/Papa,

The family does not cover the cost of the sitter’s metrocard to and from the babysitting appointments. However, families are required to cover cab fare home after 9pm & before 7am as a safety precaution. We always want our sitters to get home safe & sound. The maximum cab fare provided is $20.

Our sitters go on overnight trips to CT or weeklong trips to Europe. LLD has you covered for every kind of travel!

Per the families request of places to go & things to purchase, the cost will be covered by the family. Examples include lunch, museums, carfare to and from the house, etc. Parents cover the cost of all expenses involving the children. The sitters are usually comfortable using their own money & getting reimbursed at the end of the appointment. If you are going to require this type of arrangement just let LLD know in advance & we will give the sitter a heads up for you!

Best of Luck in your travels,

Renee Eva Pena

Creative Mind of www.encycloPena.com

Tweet with me @enrichingkids and #AskaLLDSitter

-Renee is an educator. She loves to share resources and ideas. She is working on a new site aimed to document her applications and thoughts about education.

Keeping it Healthy in the New Year

Alison Gore — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 16:33:52 +0000

New York is on high alert for the flu this winter and colds are spreading like wildfire, so LLD put together a list of things to keep in mind when caring for lil’ darlings that are beneficial to both our sitters and our families during this time of year.

Sitters, if you are too sick to work with kids, please let Lindsay know! It is cold & flu season so there are a lot of sick sitters, parents & kids. Just give us a heads up of your condition so we can accommodate everyone as quickly and easily as possible. Parents, are you sick and need a sitter? Please let Lindsay know! We can find a sitter to take the kids to school, after-school activities, cook dinner, etc. while you rest and recover!
Getting your flu & pertussis shots is important, especially when working or living with kids! Pertussis shots are even more important for sitters working with newborns and infants. Simply contact local pharmacies and ask if they have certain shots available. You can also ask for price information with regard to which shots are covered by health insurance, no insurance, etc.

Be sure to wash your lil’ darlings’ hands after playing in public places to lower the risk of getting sick

Practice good hygiene. ALWAYS wash your hands! Sitters, As soon as you get into a family’s home, you should wash your hands. The subway & cabs can be gross and are full of germs. Stress the importance of covering your mouth to the kids you look after, and show them how to do it (into your sleeve- NOT your hands!). Never underestimate the power of praise- shower the kids with admiration and “thank-you’s” every time they follow your instructions and cover their mouths. Have a non-toxic hand sanitizer on-hand (spray, gel etc.) for both you and the kids- not only for use with lots of sneezing and coughing, but for general use because we all know kiddies can be stubborn about washing their hands!

It’s important to get lots of sleep to keep your immune system strong

Take care of yourself! Allot time for plenty of rest and make sure you take your vitamins and get vital nutrients. Your body needs the good stuff for your immune system to stay strong and fight! Take some Emergen-C or Airbourne if you feel yourself coming down with something, and always drink plenty of fluids.
Sitters, especially during flu season, remember NEVER to give medicine to a child without being specifically instructed to do so by the parents. A child can insist they are allowed or supposed to receive medicine- but that’s not enough. Your number one priority is the child’s safety so be sure to contact parents before getting involved with administering the children’s medicine. It never hurts to ask the parents upon arrival if the children are sick and if they have any particular instructions regarding their care.
Another thing to be aware of during winter weather is road safety! When hailing for a cab, beware of ice, puddles, bikers, and anything else that could be hazardous to you and the children. ALWAYS buckle the kids up- ask the driver not to drive until everybody is buckled. Kids will be wearing lots of warm accessories like gloves, hates, scarves, etc- so try and keep track of everything when you’re moving from place to place.

Flu season is a tough time of year, but we hope these tips will help keep families and sitters as healthy as possible and hopefully remain flu and cold free!

-Photo credit: Caroline Jackson Photography