Pinecone Bird Feeder and Winter Bird Books

Not all birds fly south for the winter. Read children’s books about winter birds listed below with the little ones in your care. Then, they will love making this simple bird feeder from a pine cone they find on a nature hike for the birds that have stayed in the neighborhood for the winter.  You […]

“The Cookie Jar” by J. W. Mettle and Making Cookies

If you’ve ever turned your back for three seconds and returned to find suspicious chocolate-smeared on the face and hands of a child in your care, “The Cookie Jar” will feel less like a children’s book and more like a documentary. J. W. Mettle’s “The Cookie Jar” tackles one of early childhood’s greatest moral dilemmas: […]

“New Year Around the World” by Stefani Snee

“New Year Around the World” by Stefani Snee is a warm, kid-friendly exploration of New Year celebrations across the globe. The rhythm, repetition, and clear structure make it fun to read out loud to children. This book introduces children to how different cultures welcome the New Year, using clear language and inviting illustrations that never feel […]

“The Tree That’s Meant to Be” and Pine Cone Christmas Tree Craft 

In “The Tree That’s Meant to Be” by Yuval Zommer, a small, crooked fir tree is left all alone after the others near it in the forest are chosen by families as Christmas to bring home.  But when the forest animals gather around the lonely little tree to cheer it up and celebrate the season, […]

Why All Nannies Should Use “Let’s Have a Tea Party!” by Emilie Barnes

If you’re looking to add a touch of whimsy and etiquette to your nanny toolkit, “Let’s Have a Tea Party!” by Emilie Barnes is your new secret weapon. This beautifully illustrated, nostalgia-infused guide offers more than just pretty cups and finger sandwiches — it’s a charming blueprint for turning ordinary afternoons into magical memories.  “Let’s […]

Using “Goodbye, Paci!” By Lovevery to Wean Child Off Pacifier

Weaning a toddler off their pacifier can feel like a difficult milestone! The “Goodbye, Paci!” book by Lovevery which comes with a special pacifier bag helps make the process easier. Here’s how l have used “Goodbye, Paci!” (with Pacifier Bag) to Wean a Child Off the Pacifier: 1. Read the Story Together Start reading “Goodbye, […]

Review of “State of the Nanny” by Louise Dunham

As an American nanny, I found “State of the Nanny” by Australian Louise Dunham to be a refreshing and unvarnished look at our field — from someone who truly understands it. With decades of experience  in the industry, Louise Dunham lays out both the triumphs and struggles of modern nannying with clarity and conviction. As […]

Kids Love Playing Feelings Charades

Inspired by “Emotional Intelligence Program for Children,” written by Kinderwise emotional intelligence curriculum, play a fun game of Feelings Charades.  The kiddos get to act out emotions while the others guess. Not only does it help build the children’s emotional vocabulary, but it also encouraged empathy, observation skills, and lots of laughs.  Playing Feelings Charades […]

Why “Emotional Intelligence Program for Children” Belongs on Every Nanny’s Bookshelf

In a world where we teach ABCs, 123s, and how to tie shoes — let’s not forget to teach how to be kind, how to properly express big feelings, and how to be a good friend. As a nanny, I’ve read more picture books than I can count — from mischievous monkeys to magical trains. […]

Have a Teddy Bear Picnic While Reading “Teddy Bear’s Picnic” 

Pull out a blanket or towel and have the kids gather some of their teddy bears and bring them to the picnic blanket. The little ones will love doing all the activities described below while reading, “Teddy Bear Picnic.” “Teddy Bear’s Picnic” is a delightful padded board book that brings the  beloved song to life […]