About
I chose this work on purpose, and I keep choosing it.
Credentials
B.S. in Elementary Education
CPR & First Aid certified
Clean background check on file
Infants through school age
Comfortable with allergies & dietary needs
Meal prep, school runs, light tidying
Preschool & kindergarten teaching experience
I'm Jill. I take care of children in the Tri-Cities — and I've been at it for a while!
I'm the proud mama of eight children and Grammy to nine grandbabies. I've been a professional nanny for eight years now, as well as teaching preschool and kindergarten, tutoring, and — well, you get the idea. I love children!
I live here. I've been in the Tri-Cities a while and I'm not going anywhere. The families I work with are my neighbors. This isn't something I'm doing between other plans — it's my career, and I treat it that way.
Things people ask me
What are you like with children?
I'll admit, I have a secret desire to be Mary Poppins! I agree with her orderliness and calm way of approaching things. I speak positively to children because I know the impact our words can have on them. I don't have a magical bag that I pull a lamp out of (like Miss Poppins) but I often come in the door with a bag full of books and craft supplies, depending on the age of the child. A busy, creative child is more likely to be a happy one! Ultimately, my goal is to support parents in the wonderful, sometimes exhausting work of creating a peaceful, secure environment where children can thrive.
How do you handle acting out or challenging behavior?
I follow your lead and make sure to keep you in the loop so the child is getting consistency from all of us. I have a calm demeanor which goes a long way toward alleviating normal childhood anxiety and frustration. I strive to communicate clear expectations and remain calm no matter the behavior of the child.
What about your phone?
If you'd like, I'll send you photos and updates during the day. Otherwise it's in my pocket. Your children get my attention.
What if my children are having a hard day?
I calmly sit with them without rushing feelings or forcing cheerfulness. A little understanding and a peaceful environment can make a huge difference.
What do I have to offer?
My rates reflect the quality of my care. After raising 8 children, teaching preschool and kindergarten, and nannying different ages of children, I bring a lot of wisdom and experience to this position.
I come alongside you in your busy schedule and provide a warm and nurturing environment for your children. If needed, I handle additional home management tasks such as putting away grocery orders, creating meal plans, preparing healthy meals, and assisting with homework and tutoring. I can also support you by decluttering and organizing your children's spaces.