18 March 2016
I hale originally from sunny Hertfordshire but have lived and worked in 5 countries.
I have always loved children and come from a huge family, my Dad was one of 6 children. There was always a young cousin or baby about to play with or look after in our family. My Mum tells me I was a born nurturer and always had a troop of children around me. Even today in parks children seem to drawn to me; a little girl I used to nanny for has a theory it is because I am kind and they think I am one of them and not quite a grown up. It is a theory I can live with!
After obtaining my NNEB way back 1999 (I have no idea where that time went!) I started work as a private nanny for my first family. I loved it and for the next 16 years I worked all across the UK and spent 6 years working abroad for different families. I had an absolute blast and so much fun but I also gained a wealth of expertise and knowledge of babies, children and families. I learned we are all beautifully unique and that what works for one baby or family may not work for another.
I still pick up my last nanny family of 2 girls from school twice a week and I love them and my time with them.
I returned to the UK after a 6 year stint abroad and found myself in London for the first time. I worked for some amazing families whose friends and family would ask me for my help and support with their children on various different issues and I made big differences to their family life gently. I made lots of friends through work who would also ask me to help with their children. I started consulting parents alongside my nanny job and I have never looked back. I bit the bullet and went full time and official with Kerry Cares when the girls I looked after went to school full time.
From working with lots of different families I realised that what works for one may not work for another as they are all so unique. I followed my instincts with each baby and child in my care and found that a more gentle and unique approach really worked. The children and I were so much happier and had fun! My approach with the parents I consult with is exactly the same, it is all from a very gentle approach that takes into consideration parenting style and values.
That is life beautiful and unique just like us. I love life and seeing what it brings me each day. I also love my family and husband of course ( just in case they are reading this!)
I try to embrace it all, the good and not so bits, you need to have that balance with everything. I really don’t like celery though!
Doing a parachute jump!I really hate heights, never thought I could do it and it taught me a valuable lesson: you can do anything If you believe you can.
Also setting up Kerry Cares Parenting is also up there. I love helping parents and never see it as work.
To run a half marathon in June. I am not worried about time, I just want to get around!
Coffee all the way, every day!
Milk
I am having a lovely day
Children have taught me so much; be honest, say what you mean, be in the moment and most importantly have fun!
"There is no right way you should raise your family, just a way that should feel right for your family"
Problems are only an issue when they become a problem for you and your family and I always try and encourage parents to do what feels right for them. I tell them if it feels wrong or against your instincts then it probably safe to say it is not right thing to be doing for you!
Life is short: Work hard, love harder, play even harder and be kind.