Canadian Nanny, Martha's Nanny Blog

2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics Visit

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 18:56:04 GMT

At the beginning of the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, my family and I travelled to Whistler Village to visit my sister and her family, visiting from Toronto, and took in some amazing events. Whistler was unbelievable! As soon as we arrived, we were transformed by the energy of the village. You truly could have just walked around the village and felt that you were part of the Olympics.

How to respond to Nanny Job Postings

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:13:09 GMT

So, you’re looking for a nanny job and you’re really eager to start right away. At CanadianNanny.ca we get that – that’s why we’ve made it easy for you to access so many job opportunities at the click of your mouse. However, when using our service to find a job, communication is a huge component. That’s why we’ve put together the “Dos” and the “Don’ts” of responding to job postings.

How To Hire a Nanny: Part Four

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 17:52:17 GMT

CanadianNanny.ca can provide you with many nannies in your area, it’s still up to you to decide who the best fit for your family is. To help you through that process, we’ve made up this “How-To” guide, outlining the steps from posting your job to choosing your nanny. Read the last of our four-part series on “How-To Hire a Nanny”; criminal record checks and the trial day. Step 7 – Check Criminal Record Checks

How To Hire a Nanny, Part Three

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 17:18:45 GMT

How-To Hire a Nanny: Part Three Hiring a nanny can be a daunting task, especially for the busy parent who needs help. While CanadianNanny.ca can provide you with many nannies in your area, it’s still up to you to decide who the best fit for your family is. To help you through that process, we’ve made up this “How-To” guide, outlining the steps from posting your job to choosing your nanny. Continue with our four-part series on “How To Hire a Nanny”; interviewing and checking references.

Nanny T4's 2009 Tax Considerations

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:12:24 GMT

Sharpen your pencils, get your calculators ready, BEGIN WORK! Sound like you’re back in school and it’s exam time again? Getting butterflies in your stomach? Well, your marks aren’t at stake, but your money is; it is time to file your nanny’s 2009 T4! The deadline is normally the last day of February but because it falls on a Sunday this year, the absolute last day to make sure the T4 summary and any accompanying T4s are in Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)’s hands is Monday March 1. The penalty for late filing is $25 per day with a minimum penalty of $100, and a maximum penalty of $2500. Not only is it important to file T4 information on time, but it should also be completed correctly. A few things to keep in mind when completing the paperwork:

How To Hire a Nanny: Part Two

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:09:59 GMT

Hiring A Nanny Part Two is to help you through that hiring process, we’ve made up this “How-To” guide, outlining the steps from posting your job to choosing your nanny. Continue with our four-part series on “How-To Hire a Nanny”; checking for feedback and phone interviews to narrow down your selections from 10 to 5.

How to Hire a Nanny Part One

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:07:17 GMT

Hiring a nanny can be a daunting task, especially for the busy parent who needs help. While CanadianNanny.ca can provide you with many nannies in your area, it’s still up to you to decide who the best fit for your family is. To help you through that process, we’ve made up this “How-To” guide, outlining the steps from posting your job to choosing your nanny.

Olympic Fever! Nannies during the Olympics!

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 22:40:39 GMT

With only 23 days left until the 2010 Winter Olympics begin in Vancouver, many families from outside of Vancouver are trying to arrange Nannies and childcare for the little ones while they attend their sought-after Olympic events. CanadianNanny.ca has just the answer!

Keeping Kids Entertained in the Winter Months

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 22:44:38 GMT

I am thankful for the quality time I’ve spent with my children this winter, but I’m running out of ideas to keep my girls busy. I decided to pull out some of my old Early Childhood Education books to give me some ideas. Just thought I would share them with you!

Celebrating the New Year

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 22:42:56 GMT

Many nannies are looking for ideas on how to ring in the New Year with the children they care for. Canadian Nanny has brainstormed some ideas for how you can make this night extra special for the kids!

Changes to the Live In Caregiver Program

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:30:23 GMT

The proposed changes will affect the process by which live-in caregivers follow to obtain permanent residence into Canada. Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney has proposed these changes to better protect the rights of live-in caregivers in Canada and also to make it easier for them and their families to come into Canada. The proposed changes are as follows

Live in Caregiver information for Nannies

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:28:24 GMT

CanadianNanny.ca is set up to be an online job posting service to assist families in Canada to find a live-in or live-out caregiver in Canada. From our experience, many families appreciate our service and are so happy it’s there to help as an alternative to using an agency, or going it totally alone. However, if you are planning to hire a live-in nanny, there’s so much information to know! Here are some websites to help you out in your knowledge search!

Christmas Wish List

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 23:45:56 GMT

The holiday season is upon us; lights and decorations are going up, snow is falling down (though not yet on the west coast!), and the inevitable start of the busiest shopping season of the year is fast approaching.

This week, Canadian Nanny wants to know what is on your holiday wish list

Nanny Question: Should a Nanny Care for a Sick Child?

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:53:48 GMT

Last week, I received this question from one of our Nannies in Vancouver. I thought I would open up the question to my valued readers for your opinions, and provide a forum to discuss ... If the child I'm caring for has flu-like symptoms, should I care for them as usual or should the parents stay home?

Computer Time for Children

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 18:30:12 GMT

The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends that children spend no more than 1 to 2 hours per day watching television and using the computer. Here are some tips to assist you in introducing computer use into your child’s daily routine:

Networking for Mom Entrepreneurs

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:45:48 GMT

Ask any mom entrepreneur today if the old adage “It’s not what you know but who you know” still stands true? – and you will receive a resounding yes. The reason? Because people like to help people they know – and the friendlier the relationship – the more they’ll want to help you out.

Back Health and Safety

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:22:07 GMT

Nannies and parents across Canada lift, carry, bend and twist all day for their children. These movements are done so natuarlly, you may not realize what you’re doing. Unforntuately, nannies and parents hurt themselves on a regular basis by not lifting your child correctly. Your well-being is just as important as your child’s well-being, so here are some tips to ensure that you keep your back safe....

Lunch time at School

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:20:26 GMT

As we all know, it’s almost back to school time. This is an exciting time for most parents, as the kids will be back to routine, before long, you may run into a rut for lunches. Here are some pointers that we feel might help you make it through the year....

Lunch Time at School

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:08:03 GMT

It's back to school time. This is an exciting time for most parents, as the kids will be back to routine, before long, you may run into a rut for lunches. Here are some pointers that we feel might help you make it through the year....

Before and After School Care

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 18:43:09 GMT

At this time of year, we have a very large number of parents contacting us regarding before and after school care. We’ve developed a few tips that will assist you in find care of this type............

Interview Tips for Hiring a Nanny

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 18:34:09 GMT

Here are some warning signs to watch for when interviewing nannies............

Gross! Health Problems for Kids

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 18:26:52 GMT

Four of the grossest health issues are scabies, ringworm, pinworms, and lice. We’ve gathered some information to tell you what each one is, how they’re spread, the symptoms to watch for, and how to eliminate them.

What do I pay my new nanny ?

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 17:32:56 GMT

One of the most common questions we get at CanadianNanny.ca is: What do I pay my new nanny? / What do I charge as a nanny? Here are some things to consider that will help you in determining a wage to offer as a parent, and to ask for as a nanny.

My Nanny Smells! What do I do?

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 21:49:57 GMT

. The issue is that the nanny has a strong body odour, and my friend is wondering if she should let the nanny go because of this. She explained to me that the nanny is wonderful with the children, everything she wanted; reliable, fun, and responsible. It’s an awkward situation. However.........

Summer Craft Ideas

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 21:47:27 GMT

Hot summer days are a perfect opportunity to get crafty in the great outdoors. Taking your messiest craft projects outside extends outdoor playtime, and makes clean up a snap. Simply hose down your workspace – and maybe the kids too! Try some of these crafts outside:

Providing for a Live - in Nanny

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 17:25:54 GMT

Families in Canada will choose to hire either a live-in or live-out nanny. If you have decided to hire a live-in nanny, there are a few things you should consider to ensure that the relationship is smooth and the nanny is conformable in her new position.

Kids in the Kitchen

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:23:21 GMT

Here are a few ideas of things that kids can make in the kitchen with guidance, that are fun to make, and fun to eat!

Baby On Board ! - 5 Tips To Keep Your Infant Content

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:21:37 GMT

Road trips happen, and getting unbuckled is not an option, so if you’re hitting the highway, here are a few tips for keeping your baby happy and you sane.

Rainy Day Fun

Sat, 27 Jun 2009 15:26:17 GMT

Are you worried that the kids will start the “I’m BOOOORED” anthem? What about rainy days? How do you occupy the kids when it’s raining cats and dogs out, and the kids are cooped up inside?

Nanny Wage, Raises, and Vacation Time

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:21:51 GMT

Like any other position, a nanny’s vacation time is often capped. You do not need to provide her with an extra week vacation every year she works for you – especially if you yourself do not receive that type of holiday time at work.

Mommy, the babysitter smells funny

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:47:55 GMT

A friend came to me the other day with a question about her babysitter: she wants to fire her because she smells. Her kids are making “stinky” jokes and comments about the sitter, and recently she has had to open the windows to air the house out after the sitter leaves.

Sunscreen & You

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:45:39 GMT

Protecting yourself from the sun is very important for everyone during the summer. It is especially important for children, specifically babies, because the outer layer of their skin is thinner and they haven’t developed their skin protection system yet.

Safe Kids Week - Mike Tysons Tragedy

Thu, 28 May 2009 17:29:57 GMT

Yesterday, Mike Tyson’s 4-year old daughter died after accidentally catching her neck in a cord on the family’s treadmill. As upsetting and tragic this story is, it is not rare. Hundreds of children each year are strangled by cords and wires around the home.

Bored with Fitness

Wed, 20 May 2009 16:17:15 GMT

As you can imagine with the type of business I run, I spend a lot of time sitting in front of a computer. The older I get, the more this seems to affect my body. As the summer season approaches, I knew I was in need of an exercise/diet routine that would really fit with my lifestyle. Personally, I enjoy working out really hard, but it is the time commitment that I have always struggled with. I have finally come to the realization that I am unable to make the time to go to the gym -

Is the nanny the new “mommy”?

Wed, 20 May 2009 16:14:41 GMT

Remember that a nanny will never replace you. It is common to feel some competition with your nanny or caregiver. Whether you use a childcare centre or an in-home caregiver, you sometimes may worry; “Does my child miss me?” or “Does my child like her more than me?”

Geocaching - High Tech Family Fun

Mon, 04 May 2009 22:50:17 GMT

The activity is called Geocaching, and it’s a high-tech treasure hunt that brings families together. By using a handheld GPS device, you can enter coordinates into it and it will lead you to a hidden treasure. Want to learn more ??

Finding a Summer Nanny in Canada

Fri, 01 May 2009 16:49:28 GMT

Many parents hire a nanny or babysitter just for the summer, while the kids are out of school. Is there any better way for your child to enjoy the freedom of summer? At CanadianNanny we would recommend the following to ensure you find the best summer nanny for your family....

Nanny Sharing in Canada

Fri, 01 May 2009 16:47:20 GMT

Is Nanny share right for you ? A nanny share can be very beneficial to your child, as it will also provide a regular playmate for your child. It will also cut the costs for you by nearly half. The share can operate on a week here, week there basis, monthly, or at one home at all times.

Nanny and Babysitter's weight

Fri, 01 May 2009 16:44:15 GMT

Do you think a nanny/ babysitter can be too skinny or heavy to care for children? Would love to hear your opinion.

Recession and Nannies in Canada

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 22:18:09 GMT

The childcare industry is being affected by the recession. Nanny agencies are reporting a 45% decrease in business due to the current state of the economy

Earth Day

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:07:27 GMT

Earth day is an important event that all Canadians should take part in one way or another. I would love to use this blog to create a list of things that parents and nannies across Canada do to help the environment.....

Birthday Parties - Limit your costs

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 16:09:18 GMT

Children’s parties have gotten out of control. There is pressure to make the party bigger each year. Here is how we have scaled back....

Attention Calgary Moms

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 21:42:51 GMT

Ladies, have you ever dreamed of being your own boss or had an idea for a Calgary based business?

Nanny Taxes T4's

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 21:39:23 GMT

Its time to file your nanny’s 2008 T4! The deadline is normally the last day of February but because it falls on a Saturday this year, the absolute last day to make sure the T4 summary and any accompanying T4s are in Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)’s hands is Monday March 2.

Are Tattoos keeping you unemployed?

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:15:29 GMT

Tattoos are no longer an unusual thing. They are not just common for both males and females, but in most cases they are perceived to be very acceptable. I believe that if you are going to judge someone on their tattoo, then you should look at the actual tattoos that they have.

TV and Other Electronics for Kids and Caregivers

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 18:58:33 GMT

I feel very strongly about TV and electronics. They should not be used as a babysitter. For parents, nannies, and babysitters in Canada, it is your shared responsibility to ensure that this does not happen.

Nanny Saves the Day!

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 22:11:55 GMT

All year we hear wonderful stories from the parents that use CanadianNanny.ca on how their nanny has gone beyond the call of duty for their family. Being a nanny is really like no other job; you cann't help but to get emotionally involved in the lives of the people that you work for.

This is a story that will bring tears to your eyes

Nannies and Transportation

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 22:07:49 GMT

A Vancouver Nanny has sent us some really great questions around transportation. This blog entry is to help answer any questions around transportation and your caregiver.

Here are some guidelines that I personally feel are fair around transportation:

What is a nanny? What is a babysitter?

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 22:05:45 GMT

What is the difference between a babysitter and a nanny?

This is a very common question that we get asked at Canadiannanny.ca, both from caregivers and from parents. Below, find our perspective on the difference.

Working Mother vs. Stay at Home Mom

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 21:59:26 GMT

Some mothers do not have a choice…they have to work. One income is not enough to support their families. Other mothers really love their career and their job. On the other hand some mothers stay home because they love it and they can

Winter Isolation, Nannies in Canada

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 21:43:48 GMT

An Ottawa nanny describing how isolated she feels at her job during the winter months. This is something we are sure both nannies and stay at home mom’s feel. When you are caring for children in their home during the cold days, it can feel a little bit lonely. Especially if you are with infants, or the children just do not want to go out in the cold weather.

Our recommendations to this nanny and her employer are the following: