Self Care as a Nanny

It’s common to hear people talk about self-care. It’s all over the news, your social media feed and even getting coffee with your friends. For some, it’s become such a common mention, that they forget to apply it to their own lives. Sound familiar?

For the busy nanny, self-care isn’t just about mental health and how we show up at the workplace, but the way our over-all health effects little hearts and minds. When your needs are being met, you are better equipped to handle the setbacks; the curveballs we all know are coming. When you take time to tend to your own needs, you show up as your best self, for both you and the people around you. It’s ok to slow down, to take time for yourself and respect your limits. Say, “No,” when you are already overwhelmed.

Everyone is so busy looking for the next big score, the next item on an agenda. It’s good to take a step back and care for yourself as well. 

Here are some ways to tend to your busy mind, during your busy day. 

// Taking a walk Studies show that just 10 minutes of movement can increase mental alertness, energy and a positive mood. A great way to work this into 

your day is to get to kids in a stroller, or riding a bike while you stroll along the sidewalk. This gets the both of you outside for some fresh air, beautiful sunshine - Hello Vitamin D! - and some easy exercise. 

Pro Tip: head out before nap time to help little ones expend some of that pre-

            nap energy.  

// Connect Being a nanny can be a lonely job when you consider that your only 

            co-workers are children. Most communities have a network of nannies that meet up at parks, with the kids, but also who get together on their off hours. 

This is a great way to engage with other professionals who can relate to your unique role and the trails and excitement that come with it. 

// Dive into Imagination  Take a book with you everywhere! Your nanny bag, or the car, it should always be closely. Reading while the kids are awake, is not always an ideal choice. However, older children enjoying independent play with you reading in the next room is a great way for you to take a quick breather and indulge your imagination. With younger children, we suggest waiting until nap time. Once your little one is sound asleep make yourself a cup of coffee, or tea, grab your book and take a deep breath. And when they wake up, let them choose a book you can read together. 

Reading has been proven to spark creativity and encourage understanding, two things a nanny should never be short of. 

// Music is the universal language of joy. One of my favorite things to do when I start feeling overwhelmed, or the kids are getting a little extra crazy, it to turn on some music and have an impromptu dance party. Everyone gets a little exercise, some endorphins flowing, and don’t forget those wiggles! Let the kids choose songs from their favorite movies, or introduce them to a fun new beat. 

While these ideas might seem like no-brainers, they can have a huge impact on how you show up for yourself and the little ones in your life. We don’t need to overcomplicate self-care. Instead, let’s take moment to slow-down and lean in to what already works. This list is meant to inspire and encourage where you are and how you can best take care of you.