My Fellow Nannies,

Our world as we know it seems to have changed overnight—right before our eyes. From country to country and from one coast of America to the other, we all bear witness to the dire effects of COVID-19.

Undoubtedly, we have always been on the frontlines when it comes to providing care for children all across America. Some of the families of the children we care for are first responders—like doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals who themselves are on the frontlines providing care to sick people, some of whom have the Coronavirus. Some of the families we work for are public servants and government officials who are busy coordinating plans to help the great people of America get through this incredible crisis.

…the power of human connection is real, and therefore, it’s important for us as nannies to come together like never before, to be an anchor for each other.

This is a reminder of how truly interdependent we are as people, and how much we need each other. This is a reminder about the significance of our work as nannies. This is a reminder of how instrumental our service is to American society. This, my peers, is a reminder that at critical times in human history when everything seems bleak, the power of human connection is real, and therefore, it’s important for us as nannies to come together like never before, to be an anchor for each other.

While I remind you of all this, it’s equally important to remind you to always practice self-care, today and always (it bears repetition), but especially throughout this very challenging time that we are all in. You will need to make very important decisions at this time, along with your nanny families, about what the best work situation may be, with the goal of ensuring the safety of yourselves, your own families, your charges, and their families.

Nannies, I salute you and want you to know that your selfless acts during this time are noticed and valued by me as well as Sittercity, and the vast nanny community out there.

It’s important as a community for us to operate with the idea that all work situations are different; while one work model during this time may work for a nanny and the nanny employer, this model may not work for another nanny and the nanny family. Nannies, some of you have shifted your work situations from that of a full-time live-out nanny to now working as a live-in nanny to help your nanny families who are in dire need of childcare at this time. Again, some of these families are those who are providing healthcare needs at hospitals throughout America. Nannies, I salute you and want you to know that your selfless acts during this time are noticed and valued by me as well as Sittercity, and the vast nanny community out there. They should also be noticed by all of America—for we are on the frontlines in the fight to help Americans save other Americans during this pandemic.

My fellow nannies, the time that we are operating in will test our resolve; the way of life for some of us has changed drastically and will be that way for some time based on the information given by the medical experts. Some of you may experience heightened stress levels as a result. While it’s natural to feel anxious during times of uncertainty, it’s very important to manage your stress levels, no matter where you are. Harness the support of online nanny community groups, practice in-home yoga, read a book, and use technology to connect with loved ones, both in America and abroad.

Know that we are stronger together.

Nannies, every day, we show children the best of who we are as people and the best that there is in humanity through our care and love we give to them. Young children especially love consistency, and therefore, if you are a nanny who’s now at home, away from your charges, you can use technology to connect with them through FaceTime and other means. Sing songs, read a book depending on the children’s attention span, or play games like “freeze dance,” which could be such fun and will also help maintain consistency for the children you love and care for.

Last but not least, whatever you decide during this time, ensure that you are comfortable with any decision that you make. Stay abreast of current news, and know that you are not alone. Know that we are stronger together.

Alene Mathurin
My Nanny Circle

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