Welcome back to our new series, “Meet Nanny”! Through this series, we will get to know some amazing nannies from all over the country. While each of us have a different journey we share some similar passions. We hope that these stories will encourage you! You are part of a large community of wonderful professionals!
Meet Nanny Becky
1. What is your daily nanny life like?
As over 20 years as a nanny with the same family I have had an every changing “daily routine” and it’s run the gammit – newborn, infant, toddler, preschool, gradeschool, home schooling, middle school, high school, college and graduate school. Ok, I know what your are thinking . . . it must come to an end sometime, you can’t be a nanny to a 23 year old med student . . . I can tell you they keep coming back to you for advice, guidance and a special connection. I’ve transported children thousands of miles to school, home, activities, lessons, camp, events and their friends homes – it’s a good thing I love to drive. At one point I thought they would stop introducing me as their nanny, but it never happened. I also expected that at some point in grade school they wouldn’t come running with a big huggle and call my name out it that giddy voice they have, again it never happened. Oh by the way, a huggle is a cross between a hug and a cuddle – very nice, I recommend them. I think the most amazing thing happened a few years ago when I attended the final campfire at a camp they all go to each summer and now are on the staff. The oldest who was probably 20 or so was introducing me to another staff member by saying, “This is Becky, my nanny – she raised me.” All this with her dad standing right next to me . . . and nodding his head because he agreed. I’ve got a million of these little moments. Being a nanny is SO special!
2. What are 3 unique characteristics that about you that you strive to live for the children in your care?
To be Kind and Trustworthy. EVERYONE needs plenty of Loving (which also includes not jumping to conclusions about others). There is always room for FUN!
3. What is the most rewarding thing about your career as a nanny?
Making a difference in the lives of children who grow into amazing adults!
4. What is one thing that you wish you would have known your first day as a nanny?
How deeply I’d love this family. It’s simply incredible!
5. What is something that others maybe surprised to know about you?
Some of you know this but it is a little unusual . . . I can whistle like a bird, especially a baby bird, through my teeth. Freaks out little kids and a great party trick!
Thanks so much to Becky Kavanagh of Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Becky has received awards for her exemplary work including the 1998 Parents Magazine Childcare Award, 2006 INA Nanny of the Year Award , and the INA Service Award for 20 years! She is also a Placement Counselor for Nannies of the Heartland, and enjoys writing their blog. She is has served on the INA Board over the years (about 9 in total), filling many roles including Vice President, President and for the last four years, Secretary. A true veteran in the industry!
Kudos to a job well done Becky. This year will be 10 years with my family.. Its amazing how they grow and our jobs change right in front of your eyes. Yes we do have a very big impact on children’s lives. More than we will ever know!
Hi Becky…
I have a very serious question
)
If you had to give new nannies 5 tips on how to help make a lasting nanny/emplyer relationship0.. what advice would you give them?
I really enjoyed reading about Becky! What an amazing Nanny experience she has had….brought a little tear to my eye while reading.
Thanks for all your warm remarks! I appreciate them all.
kri – my 5 tips would be:
1) Communicate, communicate, communicate – which includes a healthy dose of listen, listen, listen.
2) Focus on what is best for the children. A nanny position is SO intimate that boundaries are blurred easily. Centering on the children keeps you in touch with the journey you are on.
3) See things through the parent’s eyes – try to see their side of the equation. I think this is part of mutual respect.
4) Be flexible – not “be a dormat.” Again, I think this is part of mutual respect. And working with children really requires flexibility and flow – you know how they are never static but always moving and growing. So, too, is the family and by extension your position.
5) Seek the Joy – the fun, the humor, the little smile coming to your face – don’t miss this because some little frustration or irritation is bugging you. Examine the “negatives,” see what you can learn from them and move on.
Enjoy your nanny journey everyone! Can’t wait to hear your stories!!
Awesome to read about you Becky. You are always someone I truly admire and respect. I think you are not only a fantastic nanny, but someone who is especially gifted with kids and for that matter, with people of all ages! Thanks for all you give!
Becky! I am so excited I finally met you at INA and I loved reading this profile and finding out more! Staying with a family for a long time requires all kinds of special skills — congrats!! I can’t wait to see you again and hear the bird whistle!
Becky, you are just an inspiration. Period. When I think about what I strive for as a nanny, I think of you. You have done this with such grace, charm and humor, and done it for over 20 years! I’ve been with my family for 8 years and my MB always jokes that I’ll be with the kids when they go to college. You make me believe that I can – although I’m much older and will probably require a cane or a walker. Thanks for being an amazing roll model and mentor.
Becky you are just so awesome. I am so glad I have known you for several years now via INA. I remember meeting you and how welcoming and warm you were to me. Now you are this “Raffle Lady’s” favorite ticket buyer
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Alice Shaffer, Regarding Nannies. Regarding Nannies said: Table Talk Thursday: Meet Nanny Becky – http://b2l.me/ae5sqc [...]
Becky is my nanny! She is wonderful! I love her very much! : )
p.s. (to Becky) B-CAW!
Becky,
I got chills when you said they still introduce you as their Nanny.
Those children looked well raised and happy. Thank you for making such a contribution to the well being of those very important grown children.
Nanny Betsy
Becky
When you said that your charges still introduce you as their nanny, I had a little tug at my heartstrings. I am a few years behind you with 17 years with my family but my oldest charge refuses to call me anything but nanny. It is so endearing.
You are a true inspiration to nannies old and new!
Thank you for sharing yourself with us!
g