Meet Jourdan
- JOURDAN -
Adelaide, Northern Suburbs
Jourdan joined our team in 2015 as a nanny in Adelaide's northern suburbs. This allows us to offer services to areas such as Golden Grove, Greenwith etc. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and has completed a certificate II in community services (child studies). We have had nothing but amazing feedback about the very vibrant Jourdan and we are super lucky to have her at The Nanny Diary.
What inspired you to join The Nanny Diary?
My friend told me that she knew someone who was looking for early childhood educators to join her nanny business, and I thought it was a great opportunity for me! So I contacted Casey immediately. I still remember when I got an email back that she needed a permanent nanny in my area, and I remember how overwhelmingly happy I felt.
What are the favourite parts of your job?
There are so many. I enjoy everything from cuddling up on the couch, to jumping on the trampoline. Even bath time, as much as it can be difficult to get children in/out the bath! But my favourite part of the job is the relationships you make. I think I speak for every nanny when I say, the unconditional love you have for the children in your care is truly special. There is nothing like walking through the door and seeing the big smile run across their face the second they see you
What's your favourite activity to do with the children?
I love crafts! It is so pleasant to have the children sit down and do some painting or drawing and joining in yourself. I also love being outside - blowing bubbles, going on a pretend bear hunt, collecting leaves, throwing the ball, doing running races, fun things like that. I also cannot go without mentioning how much I love shared reading. I love children’s books and I think reading is such an important and enjoyable thing for a child. When I was working permanently every week in Greenwith, I made trips to the library and would borrow different books every week - the family absolutely loved it and so did I.
Why do you think it's important to have a service like The Nanny Diary available for families?
The Nanny Diary is an established, trusted business. I have said it before and I will say it again - Casey is amazing. What she does for The Nanny Diary is something I am very proud to be a part of. Casey represents The Nanny Diary and that is why parents trust her and know that anyone who works for her is at the highest quality too.
Why do you think nannies are such a great option for families?
Parent life is so busy. I think that it is great to just have another person, outside of your family, whom you can call on. You cannot always rely on nana or papa! There are a lot of different circumstances where families may need a nanny. You have got parents who work shift work. Single mums. Single dads. Mums who work full time. Dads who work full time. Parents who need extra help. Parents who need a night out. And many more. I can sometimes see the relief on parent’s faces when I arrive. It is a break for them, and parents need a break. That is when having a reliable nanny is very helpful.
What are your best qualities as a nanny?
I think one of my best qualities is that I have so much unconditional love. I want the children in my care to feel comfortable and supported. I like to make it known to them that they can trust me and that my unconditional love is something to be counted on. Another quality I have is that I love to laugh. I respect the routines and the needs of the children and will set appropriate expectations– but I still love to be silly and have a laugh with the children who are in my care. I don’t mind getting dirty looking for worms, letting my face be painted by a 3 year old, or running around the house for fun. There is nothing more I love than just being in complete and utter laughing fits with my children.
One of the funniest things you've heard a child say
There are many, but probably being told, “you are the worst nanny ever” after I said “its bath time now”. Because I tried to make a four year old get in the bath before bedtime, I had been undoubtedly deemed as the worst nanny ever.
Why do you love being a nanny?
Being a nanny can be exhausting, messy, and very challenging at times – but I absolutely love it. I truly love being a part of a child’s life. I read this poem and it really resonated with me. I think sums up why I love being a nanny:
“Although I'm not their mother, I care for them each day. I cuddle, sing and read to them, and watch them as they play. I see each new accomplishment, I help them grow and learn. I understand their language, I listen with concern. They come to me for comfort, And I kiss away their tears. They proudly show their work to me, I give the loudest cheers! No, I 'm not their mother, But my role is just as strong. I nurture them and keep them safe, Though maybe not for long. I know someday the time will come, When we will have to part. But I know each child I cared for, Is forever in my heart.”
