About me
In 2011 I moved from my home in California to NYC, where I earned my B.A. in Urban and Food Studies at The New School. During and for several years after, I worked as a pastry cook. However, I realized I found more joy spending time with the four year old I had been babysitting on the side. So, I became a full-time nanny, putting my baking skills to use by teaching little ones what their own two hands could create.
I babysat often in California for kids ranging from 6 months to 10 years old. I also spent summers working at a circus and performing arts camp where I taught art, face painting, magic, and clowning! In the past four years, I've worked as a full-time nanny and developed skills as a household/personal assistant. The first family I worked for had a 9 year old (who loved experimenting in the kitchen), and a 13 year old (with Aspergers and exceptional STEM skills). Here, I developed my patient but firm communication skills, helping both children become more self-sufficient. Next, I worked for an energetic family of six: a 4 year old, 8 year old, and twin 10 year olds. I provided homework help (especially for one child with ADHD), scheduling and travel assistance, staff management, and extensive household administrative tasks. Most recently, I worked for a family with a 9 year old (who loves presidential facts and making music videos). Once covid flipped our world, my role required lots of creative flexibility! I took care of their needs in the city, hosted read-alongs over Zoom, sent at-home activity idea lists, donated outgrown clothes-- sewing the sentimental items into masks, and used FaceTime to show the boy his home city under quarantine.
Recently I began a 2 year MA program in Forensic Psychology. Upon graduation, I hope to work in court-related assessments. My academic interests are rooted in my interests in childhood development. For me, one of the most satisfying aspects of working with children is my ability to help them learn independence, emotional security, and behavioral regulation. It amazes me how all this is supported through everyday interactions: as we learn to tie shoes, resolve conflicts, and whip up batches of homemade marshmallows!
