Christmas Eve Traditions

Leaving Santa Cookies On Christmas eve, the night before Christmas, children expect a visit from Santa and stockings are hung by the fireplace to collect gifts from Santa. It is customary to read children some Christmas stories to complete their evening. The classic The Night Before Christmas is by far, the most popular short story […]

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Reindeer Recipes for Nannies and Au Pairs to Use with Kids

Magic Reindeer Food Many families leave cookies and milk for Santa, but what about his reindeer? Sprinkled on the lawn on Christmas Eve, Magic Reindeer Food leaves a glittering path–and a sweet snack–for Rudolph and friends. Package Magic Reindeer Food recipe in zipper food storage bags. In a small zipper food storage bag or empty […]

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Making a Gingerbread House with Kids

We made the gingerbread house in the photo with a kit. The kit has the cookies already baked and in the shapes needed to make the house. The kit also includes icing, candies, and coconut to use to decorate the house. But, if you want to make a real gingerbread house from scratch here are […]

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Top 10 Worst Toy List

On Wednesday we discussed what to buy the children you care for this holiday season. Click here to see our suggestions. In this month’s issue of Be the Best Nanny Newsletter we recommend nannies and au pairs choose safe, age-appropriate gifts that encourage creative play rather than passive play for children. Instead of choosing electronic […]

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Children’s Books About Hanukkah and Christmas (Interfaith Stories)

Weekly Trip to the Library for Nannies and Au PairsBy Interfaith Nanny I loved growing up with parents of different faiths. My father was raised by Jewish parents, yet enjoyed celebrating Christmas and Easter with my mother (his Christian wife) and children. My entire family love attending Passover at my paternal Grandparent’s house or a […]

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Best Nanny Newsletter in The Wall Street Journal Again

Holiday Nanny Bonus: Cash Is King, But How Much?By Sue ShellenbargerAs the holidays draw near, many parents are trying to figure out the best year-end gift for a nanny or sitter. While these caregivers might seem like family members much of the time, it is best at holiday-bonus time to think of them as employees. […]

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Holiday Bonuses for Nannies: Parents Don’t Give Less Than Last Year

Parents: What to Give Your Nanny for the Holidays Yesterday we discussed what gifts nannies and au pairs can give this holiday season. Now for parents, we will discuss what employers should give their in-home childcare providers for holiday gifts and bonuses. The most important word to remember when giving your nanny a gift this […]

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Holiday Gifts from Nannies and Au Pairs

Giving Holiday Gifts on a BudgetWhen you are strapped for money but want to give holiday gifts make a list of how much you want to spend per person. Since Christmas is next week there might not be enough time to buy gifts online. But, check the Internet for the best prices for stores that […]

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Easy Star of David Craft

Make a Star of David for Hanukkah The Star of David is named after King David of ancient Israel. With the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948 the Star of David on the Flag of Israel has also become a symbol of Israel. You will need:6 Popsicle sticksGlueGlitterYarn or ribbon Directions: Glue Popsicle […]

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Make Latkes for Hanukkah

Cooking with Kids: Everyone Loves Potato Pancakes Many families are still celebrating Hanukkah. Latkes, or potato pancakes, are the traditional Hanukkah dish for Eastern European Jews. But, all children like latkes so all nannies and au pairs should consider making the children latkes during Hanukkah, even if the kids in their care don’t celebrate Hanukkah. […]

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