State of the Nanny

“So often parents are left feeling like they have to do this alone.”

In this special episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham is joined by Tonya Sakowicz, founder of Newborn Care Solutions, for an in-depth discussion of the challenges faced by new parents and the value of meaningful support. 

Tonya shares practical insights for new parents on how to effectively communicate needs, and the significance of managing expectations and navigating family dynamics. Tonya also provides valuable advice for caregivers and family members on how to offer practical help and create a supportive environment for parents of newborns, as well as discussing the role of newborn care specialists in providing education and support.

Learn more about Placement Solutions here.

"Quality is at the heart of everything we do."

In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham speaks in depth with Lisa McCoy, General Manager of National Projects at ACECQA, about the importance of quality in home-based child care. They discuss the definition of quality, the evolving role of educators, and the significance of safety and relationships in child development. The conversation also covers the integration of evidence-based frameworks, continuous improvement practices, and the need to meet diverse children's needs. Finally, they explore how outcomes are measured and the innovations shaping the future of child care in Australia.

Learn more about Placement Solutions here.

“So often parents are left feeling like they have to do this alone.”

In this special episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham is joined by Tonya Sakowicz, founder of Newborn Care Solutions, for an in-depth discussion of the challenges faced by new parents and the value of meaningful support. 

Tonya shares practical insights for new parents on how to effectively communicate needs, and the significance of managing expectations and navigating family dynamics. Tonya also provides valuable advice for caregivers and family members on how to offer practical help and create a supportive environment for parents of newborns, as well as discussing the role of newborn care specialists in providing education and support.

Learn more about Placement Solutions here.

“It became a moral mission to expose the fault lines in this industry.”

In this episode of the State of the Nanny podcast, host Louise Dunham speaks with Jacalyn Burke, author of 'The Nanny Time Bomb.' In a thought-provoking conversation, Louise and Jacalyn discuss the complexities of the nanny industry in the US, including the lack of regulation, the exploitation of immigrant nannies, and potential solutions for reform. Jacalyn shares her insights on the evolving relationships between nannies and families, the societal implications of childcare dynamics, and the importance of valuing caregiving roles.

Learn more about Placement Solutions here.

"Clear communication and education are key."

In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham speaks with Debra Adamo, president and CEO of Nannies Who Care, about the evolving landscape of the nanny industry. They discuss the changing needs of families, the importance of specialised care for newborns, and how technology has transformed communication and service delivery in childcare. Debra shares insights on the demand for bilingual caregivers and the importance of cultural sensitivity, as well as strategies for navigating family expectations and supporting families through life transitions. The conversation also highlights the creative solutions that can arise in unique childcare situations.

Learn more about Placement Solutions here.

(Note: I made one big mistake for a former English teacher - the quote on Happy Families is from Tolstoy and not Dostoevsky! "All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” The famous first sentence of Tolstoy's Anna Karenina.)

"Yes, males can also cook and clean and fix a boo-boo."

In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham speaks with Daniel Butcher, founder of Angeles Mannies, about the evolving role of male nannies in childcare. Together they discuss the inspiration behind the agency, common stereotypes faced by male caregivers, and the unique needs families have when hiring male nannies. Daniel shares insights on how perceptions of male nannies have changed over time and the importance of challenging traditional gender roles in the childcare industry. The conversation also touches on recruitment practices and ensuring a good fit for families seeking nannies.

Learn more about Placement Solutions here.

"The nanny is the rock in a child's life."

In this episode, host Louise Dunham is joined by Kellie Geres, a seasoned expert in household management and co-parenting dynamics. Together they discuss the vital role of nannies in supporting families in co-parenting situations, emphasising the importance of neutrality, confidentiality, and effective communication between parents and nannies. Kellie shares her insights on the challenges nannies face, strategies to maintain objectivity, and the emotional impact of a nanny's stability on children. Kellie also offers advice for those entering the field, highlighting the need for self-awareness and understanding of family dynamics, while also touching on her personal journey in the nanny industry and her advocacy work.

Learn more about Placement Solutions here.

"You can trust yourself and your baby."

In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham speaks with Pinky McKay, a renowned expert in gentle parenting and breastfeeding support. In this lively conversation, Louise and Pinky discuss the evolution of parenting philosophies, the importance of trusting parental instincts, and the challenges faced by modern parents. Pinky shares her experiences as a mother and grandmother, emphasizing the need for community support and the significance of nurturing both babies and caregivers.

Learn more about Placement Solutions here.

"There's still so much work left to do."

In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham speaks with Katie Provinciano, founder and CEO of Westside Nannies in Los Angeles. They discuss the evolving landscape of the nanny profession, particularly in light of recent societal changes and the impact of the pandemic. Katie shares insights on what families are now looking for in nannies, including flexibility, creativity, and a strong understanding of child development. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by technology in children's lives, the importance of professional standards in the industry and the future of childcare.

Learn more about Placement Solutions here.

"Nannies are superheroes in their own right."

In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham is joined by guest Rachelle Teycheney, Group General Manager of Operations at Placement Solutions, to discuss the essential qualities of nanny educators, the importance of a thorough vetting process, and effective retention strategies for families. They explore the significance of professional development in maintaining high-quality care and the challenges faced in the recruitment landscape, especially post-pandemic. The conversation emphasizes the need for clear communication and understanding between families and nannies, as well as the evolving expectations in the childcare profession.

Learn more about Placement Solutions here.