The news is often filled with negative stories from the nanny world, but the INA knows that our nannies consistently provide a positive influence in the lives of the children they care for, each and every day. It is our hope that this blog series will highlight those amazing nannies to our members, the industry, and the world.
Today, the INA would like to introduce you to Mackenzie Kennedy. She has been a full-time nanny for two years and worked part-time for the four years before that while she attended college.
INA: Why did you become a nanny?
Mackenzie: CS Lewis once wrote, “Children are not a distraction from more important work, they are the most important work.” I became a nanny because I believe that there is no more powerful influence to have on the world than to love and care for children.
INA: Can you share a positive story about your time as a nanny?
I have been working for a while with my seven-year-old charge to give him a better sense of self-regulation over his emotions. We practice calming down by breathing and talking things through. As a nanny I don’t always have perfect days. One of my most memorable moments as a nanny was when my seven-year-old charge was with me in a frustrated moment and said to me, “I think you need yoga and some deep breaths.” It was a beautiful moment to see that he not only recognized my emotions, but also empathized with me and he was seeking to help me self regulate myself! So we stopped dinner prep took a Yoga break together and even laughed together as we made up our own names for the poses!
Thank you Mackenzie for sharing your story with the INA.
If you or someone you know would like to be highlighted in our Many Faces of INA Nannies series, please find more information here or contact the office at memberservices@nanny.org