From helpful, practical tips for families and nannies, to innovations in childcare philosophy and creative play, Smart Sitting draws from our many years of expertise to create a welcoming place where our community can find information and inspiration.
Is a nanny or daycare cheaper for two kids in NYC in 2026? We compare real childcare costs, babysitting expenses, and what parents should consider.
How much should you charge for babysitting in 2026? Explore current babysitting rates, what affects your hourly pay, and tips for setting your rate.
How much should you pay a nanny in 2026? All you need to know about current nanny and babysitting rates in NYC and other major cities, plus benefits and compensation trends.
Compare our favorite on-demand babysitting platforms for urban families, with vetted sitters, last-minute care, and options for finding childcare fast.
Learn how to increase your nanny rate by building in-demand skills, gaining valuable experience, and finding families who value your expertise.
Need childcare for a shifting work schedule? We’ve got you – here’s what to consider and a few top services that might fit your bill.
Who decides about your vacation time? Learn about nanny PTO and family vacations, including guaranteed hours, vacation scheduling, holiday travel and what to check in your nanny contract.
Learn how accrued sick leave works for nannies and caregivers in New York State, including eligibility, accrual rates, NYC rules and off-the-books employment.
Is gentle parenting over? Explore what research says about positive parenting, boundaries, empathy, discipline, and finding a healthy balance.
Feeling intimidated by unstructured time? Learn how outdoor play can inspire meaningful, low-pressure days with your nanny kids.
Is your child overscheduled? Learn why free play matters, how to ease activity overload, and why doing less can help your kid thrive!
Celebrate Analog August with simple nanny-approved ideas to reduce screen time and make summer more creative, active, and connected.
Concerned about your child's screen time? Try simple ways to create a more analog summer with balanced, family-friendly habits.
Does parenting get easier as kids grow? Explore how the challenges change with each stage – or just find a bit of acceptance no matter where you are.
Driving with kids? Discover practical safety advice, car activities, and real life tips from our team for calmer family journeys.
New to nannying in NYC? Discover summer tips, apartment-friendly activities, and ways to keep kids cool, happy, and engaged.
Explore summer opportunities for nannies transitioning from after-school to full-time summer roles and travel positions.
Parenting in the age of AI: a practical guide to future-proofing your children through critical thinking, media literacy, and healthy skepticism around AI.
Stay-at-home parent or working parent, is one better than the other? Let’s take a look at how you might choose.
Everything you need to plan your nanny summer, from schedules and travel to PTO, camps, and family expectations.
Summer nanny tips, activity ideas, outings, and projects to keep kids engaged, creative, and happy all season long.
Parents, we see you: the mental load of parenting is exhausting – especially around childcare. Here’s how you can lighten the load.
Many nannies are earning higher rates than ever but still struggling to make ends meet. See our recent study results and learn about what's behind nannies' financial struggles.
You’re home – but are you really there? Why a few minutes of true presence can matter more than hours, and why quantity time may be worth more to your child than quality time.
Navigating life as a nanny? Learn how to balance a family’s values while being your authentic self – and raising happy, secure kids in your care.
A nanny agency placement feel can feel steep. What are you really getting out of the investment? Here’s what you’re actually paying for.
Leaving a nanny job can be emotional. Learn how to support the child through the transition, say goodbye thoughtfully, and care for your own feelings along the way.
Learn how to help your kids understand money through everyday habits, age-appropriate lessons, and a mindset that builds confidence, responsibility, and long-term perspective.
Not sure what “on the books” means? Find out how legal pay works for nannies, why it matters, and how it protects your income, benefits, and long-term security.
Here’s how to navigate a sick day with ease – including how to think about child care, when nannies might work, how to talk to your employer, and a 3-part game day plan