About me:Mary Poppins of the North. . . Not!
My name is Piroska, but many people (including kids) call me Perry. I have been a professional, full time nanny and adult caregiver for more than 10 years. I've primarily worked in Cypress, New York, and California, and all of my jobs have spanned several years. While I have taken care of children on a temporary basis (from one time to several times over a month), the long term jobs have been very rewarding. I have developed life long friendships with the families and the kids.
Both a temporary care giver and a full-time nanny can have a big influence in a child's development, so I understsand that you will want someone that can adapt to your parenting style. A good nanny, whether temporary or full time, has some empathy for both the parents and the kids and acts accordingly. Most parents that regularly use child care don't want a baby sitter since a sitter is often only a live body that feeds the kids or can call for help if there's a problem. A real nanny is often like a temporary parent.
I am fluent in English and Hungarian. I also study Spanish and Greek as a hobby and I can communicate ok in Spanish. References available on request.
Contact: 3110 Judge Arend Ave. Fairbanks, AK 99709 Phone: 455-4779.
Philosophy
Raising kids is a real art in its own right, and being a nanny also requires skill, effort, and attention to detail. I believe that it's important to learn about the kids in my care so I can make the right decisions as I interact with them. There are no firm and set rules. Every child and situation is different. Whether or not firmness and discipline is required or letting the child have their way when they push a little bit depends on the situation. I believe in rules but am not inflexible; I am giving, but not a pushover. Adults have to guide the kids. After all, the adults are in charge because they have the experience and knowledge.
As far as what activities make up the day, that is up to the parents. Parents should tell me there expectations with respect to TV, story telling, homework, arts and crafts, and other activities.
I am not a maid; however, I am ok with doing light housework if it doesn't interfere with my time with the kids. By nature, I am a neat, clean, and organized person. I also think that its helpful for kids to live in an organized environment. I usually try to emphasize to the kids that they should clean up after themselves.
Arts and Crafts
I first started learning to paint during my high school years and earned my art degree from a college in Szeged, Hungary (Kepzomuveszeti Foiskola). My hobbies include cross stitching, watercolor, faux painting, interior murals, interior design, and gardening and landscaping. For examples, see my portfolio or my personal web site Alaska by Piroska.
One of the most common kid activities I like to engage in is arts and crafts. I make a point of setting up projects so that the kids have a more engaging task than watching TV. If the kids are in school, I can often make school projects part of these activities. For children that have an interest, I like to teach them art and how to paint.
Rates
Rate varies depending on the situation (number of kids, length of committment, time, special circumstances). Please call 455-4779 for more information.
"In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun and - SNAP - the job's a game!" -- Mary Poppins
"I'll get you, my pretty, and your little dog, too! ..." -- Wicked Witch of the West
