“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 […]

Make Bread with Children While Reading, “Sharing the Bread: An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving Story” by Pat Zietlow Miller

To help prepare for Thanksgiving read, “Sharing the Bread: An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving Story” by Pat Zietlow Miller and then extend the story’s themes of teamwork and gratitude through a fun, sensory activity of baking bread that encourages cooperation, fine motor skills, and patience with the children in your care. “Sharing the Bread: An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving […]

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, […]

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 […]

“Nanny Basics and Beyond: What I Wish I Had Known All Along” by Marcia Hall

As a nanny and family assistant with over three decades of experience, I’m always on the lookout for resources that both affirm the value of what I do and help me grow in my roles. “Nanny Basics and Beyond: What I Wish I Had Known All Along” by Marcia Hall does exactly that — and more. […]

“Mothercoin: The Stories of Immigrant Nannies” by Elizabeth Cummins — From A Nanny’s Perspective 

“Mothercoin: The Stories of Immigrant Nannies” is not a comforting read — but if you’re an immigrant in America it will be a validating one. Elizabeth Cummins Muñoz has written the book I didn’t know I was waiting for: a rich, unflinching exploration of the women behind America’s well-raised children, cleaned homes, and free time […]

“Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons” and Craft 

After reading, “Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons” by James Dean make a simple button craft with the toddlers and preschoolers in your care.  Pete the Cat puts on his favorite shirt, which has four colorful buttons. He loves the buttons so much that he sings a simple song about them: “My buttons, […]

Make a Leprechaun Trap and Read “How to Catch a Leprechaun” by Adam Wallace 

Read “How to Catch a Leprechaun” by Adam Wallace and make a leprechaun trap with the children in your care. Irish folklore describes leprechaun as little fairies. Legend says they keep pots of gold at the ends of rainbows. Every Saint Patrick’s Day my Nanny Kids and I make leprechaun traps along with thousands of […]