FAQs

Nanny Questions

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Q:  What areas are you willing to commute to?

A:  Anything within 30 minutes of my home in Kirkland, typically north of 520 and east of I5.

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Q:  What is your stance on vaccines?

A:  I'm fully vaccinated (Including Covid-19) I appreciate it if the children and families I work with are, too, when possible.  

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Q:  Are you willing to work with sick kids?

A:  My answer to this has always been: Yes!  I think this is one of many advantages of hiring a nanny.  You don't have to take time off work every time your child gets sick.  Unfortunately I have to make an exception to this rule for COVID-19.

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Q:  How does COVID-19 affect your ability to work?

A:  My husband and I are taking all the necessary precautions including wearing a mask in public, washing my hands thoroughly and frequently, and avoiding unnecessary public outings.  I hope that the family I work with will do the same.  I have not yet had a reason to wear a mask at work, as my employer and I consider my job part of my "COVID bubble"

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Q:  Are you willing to work date-nights or overnights?

A:  Typically, no.  I prefer to work during the day and enjoy my evenings and weekends with my own family.

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Q:  Are you willing to travel with us?

A:  Yes!  I have a number of requirements that I will outline in detail, but I have a passport and I'm comfortable with travel.

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Q:  Do you speak any other languages?

A:  Sadly, no.  I use sign language with infants and young children, but I'm not fluent in any language other than English.

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Q:  Are you comfortable working with pets in the home?

A:  Yes!  I'm an experienced dog owner and I'm comfortable with dogs of different sizes and temperaments.  I'm also happy to work with cats and other animals.  

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Q:  What kind of pay and benefits are you looking for?

A:  My pay rate can vary depending on how long my commute will be, and what the job requirements are including household chores, number of kids, and other responsibilities.  I'll be happy to discuss this during the interview process.  I do expect a competitive wage based on my education and experience, as well as a benefits package including guaranteed hours, sick and vacation time, paid mileage, etc.  

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Q:  What are guaranteed hours?

A:  This is an industry standard that protects the nanny from loosing hours and pay.  If a family decides to use the nanny less than their guaranteed hours (say they go on vacation), the family pays the nanny for those unused hours anyway.  If the nanny works more than the guaranteed hours, the nanny will be paid for those hours as well as the guaranteed hours.

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Q:  When are you available to start with a new family

A:  I'll be available November 1st, 2021

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CPST Questions

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Q:  How much do you charge to check my child's car seat?

A:  Nothing!  While tips are welcome, I don't charge for car seat checks.  I just want kids to be safe!

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Q:  What is involved with a car seat check?  Will you install the seat for me?

A:  I do not install the car seat for you, but I teach you how to install it your self.  We will meet somewhere that your vehicle can be parked on a flat, dry surface (perhaps your garage or driveway, or a parking garage someplace).  It's best if all children are present so I can properly fit the seat to them and make the needed adjustments.  I teach you how to properly use the seat with your child, and how to install it.  I also check for recalls and answer any questions you have.

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Q:  How do I make an appointment with you to get my child's seat checked?

A:  Please send an email to jmshipman818@gmail.com and include the year, make, and model of your vehicle, the child seat being used (example:  Chicco Key Fit 30), and the age, height, and weight of the child.  If there are multiple vehicles, seats, or children, please include this info for all of them.  Also include any other questions or concerns you have, and we will set a date where I will teach you how to install the seat, how to properly buckle, and what adjustments you need to make as the child grows.

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IFS Questions

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Q:  I've never heard of an Infant Feeding Specialist, is that like a lactation consultant?

A:  An IFS is meant to be a support person who can help fill the gap between the postpartum doula or nanny, and the IBCLC.  While I can provide breastfeeding support and can help recognize problems, I would still refer a family to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for the most thorough medical care.  My personal scope of practice is much more about supporting a breastfeeding parent as they return to work, introducing solid foods, managing allergies, and weaning, which are all aspects of nannying I feel very confident in supporting as an IFS.  

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Q:  Are you available for consultation work as an IFS?

A:  Not right now.  I'm using this training to support families I nanny for.  I may consider doing consultation work in the future.