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	<title>Blog</title>
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<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/improving-quality-outcomes-for-children-in-home-based-care-with-lisa-mccoy</link>
<title><![CDATA[Improving Quality Outcomes for Children In-home based Care with Lisa McCoy]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[&quot;Quality is at the heart of everything we do.&quot;
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[We&rsquo;re proud to share the new episode of State of the Nanny, where host Louise Dunham speaks with Lisa McCoy, General Manager of the Australian Children&rsquo;s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). 
For the last two years, Lisa has also led the advisory Board to set the National In Home Child Care Standards

Topics Covered in the Episode:

&#x2705; Defining what quality looks like in home-based child care

&#x2705; The changing role of educators in supporting children&rsquo;s growth

&#x2705; Why safety and strong relationships matter for child development

&#x2705; How evidence-based frameworks guide better practice

&#x2705; Innovations shaping the future of child care in Australia

About the Guest

Lisa McCoy is the General Manager of the Australian Children&rsquo;s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). For the last two years, she has also led the Advisory Board to establish the National In Home Child Care Standards. 
With extensive experience in the sector, Lisa brings deep insight into how quality frameworks and best practices can support both children and educators to thrive.

 

&#x1F3A7; Catch the full episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and join the conversation on the future of inclusive, professional in-home care.

 
]]></content>
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<pubDate>16 Sep 2025 05:55:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/supporting-new-parents-with-tonya-sacowicz</link>
<title><![CDATA[Supporting New Parents with Tonya Sakowicz]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[&ldquo;So often parents are left feeling like they have to do this alone.&rdquo;
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[We&rsquo;re proud to share the final episode of Season 2 of State of the Nanny, where host Louise Dunham speaks with Tonya Sakowicz, founder and CEO of Newborn Care Solutions

 

Topics Covered in the Episode:


	The common challenges faced by new parents
	 How to communicate needs and manage expectations
	Navigating family dynamics during the newborn stage
	Practical ways Nanny - Educators and Newborn Care Specialists can provide support
	The importance of creating a supportive environment for families


 

About the Guest

Tonya is an INA Credentialed Nanny, Newborn Care Specialist, CAPPA-trained Postpartum Doula, and Parent Educator with more than 37 years of experience. She provides both consulting and in-home support, specialising in newborn care and sleep conditioning. Tonya is also a certified Eco-Maternity Consultant and Green Birth Educator through her partner company, Baby Go Green.

 

&#x1F3A7; Catch the full episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and join the conversation on supporting new parents through in-home child care
]]></content>
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<pubDate>16 Sep 2025 04:14:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/5-ways-to-celebrate-international-recognition-week-2025</link>
<title><![CDATA[5 Ways to celebrate International Recognition Week 2025]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Nanny Educators do much more than keep households running smoothly. They guide, comfort, encourage and help children feel safe, valued and confident. International Nanny Recognition Week is the perfect opportunity to pause and acknowledge their contribution to family life.

Here are five simple yet thoughtful ways families can celebrate and show genuine appreciation.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Nannny - Educators do much more than keep households running smoothly. They guide, comfort, encourage and help children feel safe, valued and confident. International Nanny Recognition Week is the perfect opportunity to pause and acknowledge their contribution to family life.

Here are five simple yet thoughtful ways families can celebrate and show genuine appreciation.

1. Storytelling Moments

Create a short photo or video montage with the children sharing favourite memories. Present it with a framed photo or small photo book for a lasting keepsake.

2. Small Surprises

Surprise your nanny with thoughtful gestures&mdash;like their favourite coffee order, a bunch of flowers, or a handwritten card

3. Personalised Self-Care Box

Put together a relaxation box with cosy socks, tea, candles or skincare treats. Choose items that reflect her personality and add a handwritten note from the children.

4. Gift an Experience

Offer an activity she will enjoy such as a pottery class, yoga session or gallery visit. Experiences create lasting memories and show you have considered her interests.

5. The &ldquo;Why We Love You&rdquo; Jar

Have each family member write down a reason they value their nanny. Place the notes in a decorated jar for her to read whenever she needs a lift.
]]></content>
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<pubDate>26 Aug 2025 07:31:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/unpacking-the-nanny-time-bomb-with-jacalyn-burke</link>
<title><![CDATA[Unpacking &#39;The Nanny Time Bomb&#39; with Jacalyn Burke]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[&ldquo;It became a moral mission to expose the fault lines in this industry.&rdquo; &mdash; Jacalyn S. Burke
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this week&rsquo;s episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham speaks with Jacalyn S. Burke, author of The Nanny Time Bomb, uncovering the deeper issues within the US, Australian, and worldwide nanny and in-home childcare industry.

Jacalyn shares her insights into the challenges faced by Nanny- Educators, particularly immigrant caregivers, in a sector lacking proper regulation and protections. They explore how societal attitudes, policy gaps, and power imbalances are affecting the lives of those who provide essential in-home care. This episode is a call to action for meaningful reform and greater recognition of caregiving as both a moral and social imperative.

Topics Covered in the Episode:


	
	The lack of regulation and protections in the nanny sector
	
	
	How immigrant Nanny - Educators are vulnerable to exploitation
	
	
	The shifting dynamics between families and Nanny-Educators
	
	
	Societal perceptions of caregiving and domestic work
	
	
	What meaningful reform in the industry could look like
	
	
	Why recognising the value of care is essential for social change
	


About the Guest

Jacalyn S. Burke is a qualified, experienced, and internationally renowned journalist and author. Her bestselling book, The Nanny Time Bomb, has been cited in academic research, reviewed in The New York Times, and featured in other bestselling works, cementing its place as a key resource on childcare and social justice.

Before writing the book, Jacalyn worked as a Manhattan nanny for 10 years while pursuing her U.S. citizenship - an experience that gave her firsthand insight into the realities faced by caregivers in the in-home childcare sector.

A Timely Discussion for Families and In-Home Childcare Professionals

As families continue to seek inclusive, professional in-home care, the need for reform and recognition of Nanny-Educators grows stronger.

This episode offers valuable insight for families, employers, and educators working toward a system that supports children and those who care for them.

&#x1F3A7; Catch the full episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and join the conversation on the future of inclusive, professional in-home care.
]]></content>
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<pubDate>08 Aug 2025 07:38:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>

<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/adapting-to-families-evolving-needs</link>
<title><![CDATA[Adapting to Families&#39; Evolving Needs with Debra Adamo]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[&ldquo;When families and Nannies work together with openness and understanding, the impact on a child&rsquo;s growth and happiness is immeasurable.&rdquo;
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this week&rsquo;s episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham speaks with Debra Adamo, President and CEO of Nannies Who Care, about the evolving landscape of the nanny industry and how families&rsquo; needs are changing in today&rsquo;s fast-paced world.

Debra shares her journey in supporting families through clear communication and education, highlighting why these are the foundations of exceptional childcare. They also discuss the rise of specialised newborn care, the role of technology in improving communication, and the increasing importance of bilingual caregivers who bring cultural sensitivity to the home.


&ldquo;When families and Nannies work together with openness and understanding, the impact on a child&rsquo;s growth and happiness is immeasurable.&rdquo;


Topics Covered in the Episode:


	
	Supporting families through clear communication and ongoing education
	
	
	Specialised newborn care and why the demand is rising
	
	
	How technology transforms service delivery and keeps families connected
	
	
	The value of bilingual caregivers and the importance of cultural sensitivity
	
	
	Practical strategies for navigating family expectations and life transitions
	
	
	Creative, personalised solutions that address unique childcare situations
	


About the Guest

Debra Adamo is the founder of Nannies Who Care, a trusted nanny placement agency serving Central and South Florida since 1989. With over 30 years of experience, she&rsquo;s known for her personal approach, high standards, and dedication to helping families find reliable, professional childcare. Debra is also an active advocate for children&rsquo;s welfare through her work as a Guardian ad Litem.

A Timely Discussion for Families and In-Home Childcare Professionals

As more families look for inclusive, professional in-home care, the role of Nanny - Educators is changing to meet different and complex needs.

This episode gives helpful insights for families, Nanny - Educators, and agencies aiming to create care that truly supports children and their growth.

&#x1F3A7; Catch the full episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and join the conversation on the future of inclusive, professional in-home care
]]></content>
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<pubDate>28 Jul 2025 02:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>

<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/breaking-stereotypes-the-rise-of-male-nannies-with-daniel-butcher</link>
<title><![CDATA[Breaking Stereotypes: Breaking stereotypes - Why men are needed in childcare with Daniel Butcher]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[&ldquo;Yes, males can also cook and clean and fix a boo-boo.&rdquo;
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham speaks with Daniel Butcher, founder of Angeles Mannies , about the evolving role of male Nannies in childcare. Together, they discuss the inspiration behind the agency, the stereotypes often associated with male Nannies, and the specific considerations families take into account when engaging them.

The discussion also touches on the importance of inclusive recruitment practices and what it means to ensure a strong, values-aligned fit between nannies and families.


&ldquo;Yes, males can also cook and clean and fix a boo-boo.&rdquo;
This simple yet powerful sentiment reinforces the broader message, that quality in-home childcare is defined not by gender, but by empathy, expertise, and trust.


Topics Covered in the Episode:

&#x1F4AC; Supporting children in expressing emotions in healthy, open ways
&#x1F4AC; Challenging traditional views of masculinity within the home
&#x1F4AC; Normalising men&rsquo;s roles in caregiving and domestic responsibilities
&#x1F4AC; Using inclusive, balanced language in early childhood settings
&#x1F4AC; How Nanny- Educators can model gender equity and emotional intelligence
 

A Timely Discussion for Families and In-Home Childcare Professionals

As Senator the Hon Dr Jess Walsh (Minister for Early Childhood Education and Minister for Youth) recently said:
&ldquo;I think in early learning as a whole, you know, we do want to see men who can role model to children. It&#39;s really important that we have men who are caring, men who are warm, men who can show children a different way of being male.&rdquo;

In light of the recent investigation involving a male childcare worker in Victoria, Placement Solutions reaffirms that there is absolutely no place in our sector for lawbreakers. We uphold safeguarding practices within our network and remain committed to the highest standards of care and safety for all families and children.

&#x1F3A7; Catch the full episode on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts
]]></content>
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<pubDate>11 Jul 2025 02:54:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>

<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/navigating-co-parenting-as-a-nanny-with-kellie-geres</link>
<title><![CDATA[Navigating Co-Parenting as a Nanny with Kellie Geres]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham is joined by Kellie Geres, a respected industry veteran specialising inhousehold management, working with divorced parents, &ldquo;Nannypreneurship&rdquo; and supporting Nanny organizations and agencies with small business and social media service.

Together, they explore the unique challenges&mdash;and critical role&mdash;Nanny-Educators play in creating consistency, emotional security, and professional boundaries in blended or shared-care households.


Inside the Episode

With deep expertise and lived experience, Kellie offers practical guidance for Nanny-Educators working within co-parenting families, where diplomacy, discretion, and emotional resilience are essential.

This episode explores:


	
	The importance of maintaining neutrality in co-parenting households
	
	
	Why confidentiality and trust are vital in the nanny&ndash;family relationship
	
	
	How a nanny&rsquo;s presence supports children&rsquo;s emotional wellbeing through change
	
	
	Practical strategies for navigating differing parenting styles and household routines
	
	
	Kellie&rsquo;s personal career journey and long-standing advocacy in the nanny profession
	



About Kellie Geres

Kellie Geres is a respected U.S.-based Household Manager and former Nanny of the Year with over three decades of private service experience. She specialises in co-parenting family dynamics, nanny mentorship, and industry advocacy, while also supporting nanny organisations and agencies through leadership, training, and conference coordination.


Why This Episode Matters

For Nanny-Educators supporting families through separation, divorce, or co-parenting transitions, professionalism and emotional intelligence are key. This episode delivers tools and wisdom for maintaining stability while honouring the complexities of modern family life.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Spotify
&#x1F3A7; Listen on Apple Podcasts


Whether you&rsquo;re working with a blended family or navigating the realities of shared care, this episode offers the clarity, empathy, and experience you need to support families with grace and confidence.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham is joined by Kellie Geres, a respected industry veteran specialising inhousehold management, working with divorced parents, &ldquo;Nannypreneurship&rdquo; and supporting Nanny organizations and agencies with small business and social media service.

Together, they explore the unique challenges&mdash;and critical role&mdash;Nanny-Educators play in creating consistency, emotional security, and professional boundaries in blended or shared-care households.


Inside the Episode

With deep expertise and lived experience, Kellie offers practical guidance for Nanny-Educators working within co-parenting families, where diplomacy, discretion, and emotional resilience are essential.

This episode explores:


	
	The importance of maintaining neutrality in co-parenting households
	
	
	Why confidentiality and trust are vital in the nanny&ndash;family relationship
	
	
	How a nanny&rsquo;s presence supports children&rsquo;s emotional wellbeing through change
	
	
	Practical strategies for navigating differing parenting styles and household routines
	
	
	Kellie&rsquo;s personal career journey and long-standing advocacy in the nanny profession
	



About Kellie Geres

Kellie Geres is a respected U.S.-based Household Manager and former Nanny of the Year with over three decades of private service experience. She specialises in co-parenting family dynamics, nanny mentorship, and industry advocacy, while also supporting nanny organisations and agencies through leadership, training, and conference coordination.


Why This Episode Matters

For Nanny-Educators supporting families through separation, divorce, or co-parenting transitions, professionalism and emotional intelligence are key. This episode delivers tools and wisdom for maintaining stability while honouring the complexities of modern family life.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Spotify
&#x1F3A7; Listen on Apple Podcasts


Whether you&rsquo;re working with a blended family or navigating the realities of shared care, this episode offers the clarity, empathy, and experience you need to support families with grace and confidence.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/navigating-co-parenting-as-a-nanny-with-kellie-geres</guid>
<pubDate>30 Jun 2025 07:57:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>

<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/the-journey-of-gentle-parenting-with-pinky-mckay</link>
<title><![CDATA[The Journey of Gentle Parenting with Pinky McKay]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham is joined by Pinky McKay, one of Australia&rsquo;s most respected voices in gentle parenting and breastfeeding support. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of early childhood care and the powerful role empathy plays in nurturing both children and Nanny- Educators.


Inside the Episode

Pinky brings her signature warmth and insight to a conversation that honours instinctive parenting, shared care, and the growing need for emotional support across family and professional networks.

This episode explores:


	
	The evolution of parenting philosophies and approaches
	
	
	Why it&rsquo;s essential for parents to trust their instincts
	
	
	The emotional and logistical pressures facing today&rsquo;s families
	
	
	The importance of connection, community, and ongoing support for Nanny-Educators
	
	
	Reflections from Pinky&rsquo;s personal and professional journey&mdash;as a mother, grandmother, and care advocate
	



About Pinky McKay

Pinky McKay is an internationally recognised lactation consultant, best-selling author, and creator of Boobie Foods. With five children and several grandchildren of her own, she blends expert knowledge with lived experience to support families with compassion, humour, and real-world wisdom.


Why This Episode Matters

In a time when families are balancing more than ever, the need for respectful, informed, and connected care has never been greater. This episode is a gentle reminder that nurturing care starts with understanding&mdash;and continues through the people who support families every day.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Spotify
&#x1F3A7; Listen on Apple Podcasts


Whether you&#39;re a parent, Nanny-Educator, or family support professional, this episode offers heartfelt guidance and encouragement for every stage of the journey.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham is joined by Pinky McKay, one of Australia&rsquo;s most respected voices in gentle parenting and breastfeeding support. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of early childhood care and the powerful role empathy plays in nurturing both children and Nanny- Educators.


Inside the Episode

Pinky brings her signature warmth and insight to a conversation that honours instinctive parenting, shared care, and the growing need for emotional support across family and professional networks.

This episode explores:


	
	The evolution of parenting philosophies and approaches
	
	
	Why it&rsquo;s essential for parents to trust their instincts
	
	
	The emotional and logistical pressures facing today&rsquo;s families
	
	
	The importance of connection, community, and ongoing support for Nanny-Educators
	
	
	Reflections from Pinky&rsquo;s personal and professional journey&mdash;as a mother, grandmother, and care advocate
	



About Pinky McKay

Pinky McKay is an internationally recognised lactation consultant, best-selling author, and creator of Boobie Foods. With five children and several grandchildren of her own, she blends expert knowledge with lived experience to support families with compassion, humour, and real-world wisdom.


Why This Episode Matters

In a time when families are balancing more than ever, the need for respectful, informed, and connected care has never been greater. This episode is a gentle reminder that nurturing care starts with understanding&mdash;and continues through the people who support families every day.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Spotify
&#x1F3A7; Listen on Apple Podcasts


Whether you&#39;re a parent, Nanny-Educator, or family support professional, this episode offers heartfelt guidance and encouragement for every stage of the journey.
]]></content>
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<pubDate>30 Jun 2025 07:53:00 GMT</pubDate>
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</item>

<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/the-evolution-of-the-nanny-profession</link>
<title><![CDATA[The Evolution of the Nanny Profession]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[&quot;There&#39;s still so much work left to do.&quot;
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham, speaks with Katie Provinziano, founder of Westside Nannies  in a dynamic conversation about how the Nanny profession has transformed over the years and where it&rsquo;s headed next.

Together, they explore how Nanny-Educators are adapting to modern family life, rising professional standards, and the long-term impact of the pandemic on in-home care.


Inside the Episode

With her extensive experience leading one of the U.S.&#39;s most prominent nanny agencies, Katie offers a thoughtful perspective on how families&#39; needs have evolved&mdash;and how nannies can stay ahead through professionalism, training, and adaptability.

This episode explores:


	
	The changing role of Nanny-Educators in today&rsquo;s households
	
	
	Why presentation, communication, and qualifications are more important than ever
	
	
	Strategies for navigating post-pandemic expectations and challenges
	
	
	How to integrate educational play, manage screen time, and support family routines
	
	
	The value of career development, consistency, and proactive professional growth
	



About Katie Provinziano

Katie Provinciano is the founder and CEO of Westside Nannies, a leading Los Angeles-based nanny agency known for its high standards and tailored placements. With a strong background in childcare and agency leadership, Katie advocates for the professional recognition of nannies and supports their growth in a changing industry.


Why This Episode Matters

The Nanny profession has shifted significantly&mdash;from being seen as informal care to a respected, skilled career. This episode provides timely insights into how Nanny-Educators can embrace their evolving role and continue delivering high-quality care that meets the needs of today&rsquo;s families.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Spotify
&#x1F3A7; Listen on Apple Podcasts


Whether you&#39;re a nanny, agency leader, or parent, this episode offers real-world guidance and inspiration for anyone committed to the growth of in-home care.
]]></content>
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<pubDate>30 Jun 2025 07:40:00 GMT</pubDate>
<enclosure url='https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/uploads/195/953/med-2025-Childcare-Graphics-89.jpg' length='166938' type='image/jpeg'/>
</item>

<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/defining-quality-in-the-nanny-profession</link>
<title><![CDATA[Defining Quality in the Nanny Profession]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[State of the Nanny returns for its second season with a powerful conversation between host Louise Dunham, CEO of Placement Solutions, and Rachelle Teycheney, Group General Manager of Operations at Placement Solutions.

In this season opener, they explore what defines a high-quality Nanny-Educator, why rigorous recruitment matters, and how families and agencies can work together to create stable, supportive care environments in today&rsquo;s changing childcare landscape.


Inside the Episode

With a decade of leadership experience in in-home care recruitment and operations, Rachelle shares practical insights into what truly makes a nanny exceptional&mdash;and how that quality is sustained through thoughtful hiring, support, and collaboration.

This episode covers:


	
	The core qualities of outstanding Nanny-Educators
	
	
	Why thorough vetting and screening is key to safety and success
	
	
	What families can do to retain great nannies long-term
	
	
	The post-pandemic shifts shaping the nanny workforce today
	
	
	The role of professional development in maintaining high standards
	
	
	Tips for building strong, lasting relationships between families and Nanny - Educators
	



About Rachelle Teycheney

Rachelle Teycheney is the Group General Manager of Operations and a part owner at Placement Solutions. Since 2010, she has helped shape the agency&rsquo;s direction and impact. With a background in recruitment, operations, and sector leadership, Rachelle brings deep expertise to the evolving field of in-home care.


Why This Episode Matters

As the nanny profession becomes increasingly recognised and valued, it&rsquo;s critical to define what quality looks like&mdash;and how we can support it at every level. This episode offers thoughtful guidance for anyone involved in the care of children, whether as a parent, agency leader, or professional nanny.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Spotify
&#x1F3A7; Listen on Apple Podcasts


Season 2 of State of the Nanny continues to elevate the voices of those shaping the future of in-home care. Tune in and be part of the conversation redefining quality, one episode at a time.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[State of the Nanny returns for its second season with a powerful conversation between host Louise Dunham, CEO of Placement Solutions, and Rachelle Teycheney, Group General Manager of Operations at Placement Solutions.

In this season opener, they explore what defines a high-quality Nanny-Educator, why rigorous recruitment matters, and how families and agencies can work together to create stable, supportive care environments in today&rsquo;s changing childcare landscape.


Inside the Episode

With a decade of leadership experience in in-home care recruitment and operations, Rachelle shares practical insights into what truly makes a nanny exceptional&mdash;and how that quality is sustained through thoughtful hiring, support, and collaboration.

This episode covers:


	
	The core qualities of outstanding Nanny-Educators
	
	
	Why thorough vetting and screening is key to safety and success
	
	
	What families can do to retain great nannies long-term
	
	
	The post-pandemic shifts shaping the nanny workforce today
	
	
	The role of professional development in maintaining high standards
	
	
	Tips for building strong, lasting relationships between families and Nanny - Educators
	



About Rachelle Teycheney

Rachelle Teycheney is the Group General Manager of Operations and a part owner at Placement Solutions. Since 2010, she has helped shape the agency&rsquo;s direction and impact. With a background in recruitment, operations, and sector leadership, Rachelle brings deep expertise to the evolving field of in-home care.


Why This Episode Matters

As the nanny profession becomes increasingly recognised and valued, it&rsquo;s critical to define what quality looks like&mdash;and how we can support it at every level. This episode offers thoughtful guidance for anyone involved in the care of children, whether as a parent, agency leader, or professional nanny.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Spotify
&#x1F3A7; Listen on Apple Podcasts


Season 2 of State of the Nanny continues to elevate the voices of those shaping the future of in-home care. Tune in and be part of the conversation redefining quality, one episode at a time.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/defining-quality-in-the-nanny-profession</guid>
<pubDate>30 Jun 2025 07:31:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/educational-and-engaging-childcare-the-power-of-play-based-learning</link>
<title><![CDATA[Educational and Engaging Childcare ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Educational and Engaging Childcare  - The Power of Play-Based Learning
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham, speaks with Ryan Jordan, founder of Educated Nannies, about how play-based learning shapes children&rsquo;s emotional, cognitive, and social development.

Ryan shares practical strategies for Nanny-Educators to create meaningful, engaging learning environments while navigating the real-world challenges of in-home care.


Inside the Episode

With warmth and insight, Ryan explores what high-quality, play-based education looks like in a nanny setting&mdash;and why it matters. Drawing from her background as both an educator and agency founder, she provides realistic, hands-on advice for Nanny-Educators at all stages of their careers.

This episode explores:


	
	The critical role of play in childhood development
	
	
	Practical ways to embed learning through play in daily care routines
	
	
	The emotional side of nanny work&mdash;grief, transitions, and resilience
	
	
	The challenges Nanny-Educators face in modern households
	
	
	The value of mentorship, counselling, and emotional wellbeing for caregivers
	
	
	How intentional caregiving supports children&#39;s long-term growth and stability
	



About Ryan Jordan

Ryan Jordan is a respected leader in the U.S. childcare industry and founder of Educated Nannies, an agency known for promoting educational, engaging care. With over 25 years of experience, she is also a certified life coach and host of The Educated Mama Podcast, where she uplifts the voices of women in parenting and leadership.


Why This Episode Matters

Nanny-Educators are uniquely positioned to influence a child&rsquo;s learning and development during their most formative years. This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact of thoughtful, play-based care&mdash;and how supporting the caregiver is just as important as supporting the child.

Whether you&#39;re a nanny, an educator, or a parent, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration to help children&mdash;and their carers&mdash;thrive.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Spotify
&#x1F3A7;Listen on Apple Podcasts
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/educational-and-engaging-childcare-the-power-of-play-based-learning</guid>
<pubDate>30 Jun 2025 07:16:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/the-importance-of-self-care-for-nanny-educators</link>
<title><![CDATA[The Importance of Self-care for Nanny - Educators]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham, speaks with Kate Reimer, a registered clinical counsellor and founder of Doongalla Counselling, about the essential role of self-care in the work of professional Nanny - Educators, especially when caring for children who have experienced trauma.


Inside the Episode

Kate draws on both her clinical expertise and firsthand experience as a former nanny to offer a grounded and compassionate look at what it means to care for others while also caring for yourself. With practical advice and real-world insight, this conversation is an important reminder that high-quality care begins with a well-supported carer.

Topics discussed include:


	
	How to recognise the signs of burnout and emotional fatigue
	
	
	The importance of setting and maintaining professional boundaries
	
	
	Simple, realistic self-care strategies tailored for nannies
	
	
	The responsibility of agencies to support the wellbeing of their staff
	



About Kate Reimer

Kate Reimer is an accredited Clinical Counsellor (PACFA) specialising in trauma recovery. She previously worked as a professional nanny with Placement Solutions from 2013 to 2017, giving her a deep understanding of the unique challenges nannies face.

Kate now runs her private practice, Doongalla Counselling, in Croydon South, supporting both adults and young people. She is also an academic associate at the University of Divinity, where she teaches therapeutic trauma work to counselling students.

To learn more about her practice, visit www.doongallacounselling.com.au


Why This Episode Matters

Nanny - Educators play a vital role in children&rsquo;s lives, especially those with complex emotional needs. But without the right tools and support, the emotional demands of the job can take a toll. This episode is a timely and powerful conversation about the importance of self-care, professional resilience, and building a culture where carers are truly cared for.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Spotify

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Apple Podcasts
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham, speaks with Kate Reimer, a registered clinical counsellor and founder of Doongalla Counselling, about the essential role of self-care in the work of professional Nanny - Educators, especially when caring for children who have experienced trauma.


Inside the Episode

Kate draws on both her clinical expertise and firsthand experience as a former nanny to offer a grounded and compassionate look at what it means to care for others while also caring for yourself. With practical advice and real-world insight, this conversation is an important reminder that high-quality care begins with a well-supported carer.

Topics discussed include:


	
	How to recognise the signs of burnout and emotional fatigue
	
	
	The importance of setting and maintaining professional boundaries
	
	
	Simple, realistic self-care strategies tailored for nannies
	
	
	The responsibility of agencies to support the wellbeing of their staff
	



About Kate Reimer

Kate Reimer is an accredited Clinical Counsellor (PACFA) specialising in trauma recovery. She previously worked as a professional nanny with Placement Solutions from 2013 to 2017, giving her a deep understanding of the unique challenges nannies face.

Kate now runs her private practice, Doongalla Counselling, in Croydon South, supporting both adults and young people. She is also an academic associate at the University of Divinity, where she teaches therapeutic trauma work to counselling students.

To learn more about her practice, visit www.doongallacounselling.com.au


Why This Episode Matters

Nanny - Educators play a vital role in children&rsquo;s lives, especially those with complex emotional needs. But without the right tools and support, the emotional demands of the job can take a toll. This episode is a timely and powerful conversation about the importance of self-care, professional resilience, and building a culture where carers are truly cared for.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Spotify

&#x1F3A7; Listen on Apple Podcasts
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/the-importance-of-self-care-for-nanny-educators</guid>
<pubDate>30 Jun 2025 07:10:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/its-a-nannypalooza-sue-downey-on-professional-development-for-nanny-educators</link>
<title><![CDATA[It&#39;s a Nannypalooza! Sue Downey on Professional Development for Nanny Educators]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham, speaks with Sue Downey, founder of Nannypalooza and International Nanny Training Day, about the evolution of the nanny profession and the importance of professional community and continued learning.


Inside the Episode

Sue shares her wealth of experience and insights into how the nanny profession has developed over time, and why access to training and peer connection is crucial for today&rsquo;s in-home carers.

This inspiring conversation explores:


	
	The evolution of the nanny profession and what it means for today&rsquo;s workforce
	
	
	The impact of global events like Nannypalooza and International Nanny Training Day
	
	
	The importance of community, networking, and peer support
	
	
	Training priorities such as trauma-informed care and understanding children&#39;s emotional needs
	
	
	How ongoing professional development supports high-quality, responsive care
	



About Sue Downey

Sue Downey is the founder of Nannypalooza, a professional development conference for nannies. She has worked as a nanny for over 25 years and understands the daily challenges and joys of the role.

Sue is passionate about ongoing learning for Nannies and has led workshops at national and international events, including the International Nanny Association and NAEYC conferences. She also started International Nanny Training Day, a global event held each year to bring nannies together for training and support.


Why This Episode Matters

Being a Nanny is more than a job&mdash;it&rsquo;s a profession that requires skill, dedication, and a commitment to growth. This episode shines a light on the power of community and the value of learning together, showing how collective effort can elevate the industry and the care children receive.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Click here to listen on Spotify

&#x1F3A7; Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham, speaks with Sue Downey, founder of Nannypalooza and International Nanny Training Day, about the evolution of the nanny profession and the importance of professional community and continued learning.


Inside the Episode

Sue shares her wealth of experience and insights into how the nanny profession has developed over time, and why access to training and peer connection is crucial for today&rsquo;s in-home carers.

This inspiring conversation explores:


	
	The evolution of the nanny profession and what it means for today&rsquo;s workforce
	
	
	The impact of global events like Nannypalooza and International Nanny Training Day
	
	
	The importance of community, networking, and peer support
	
	
	Training priorities such as trauma-informed care and understanding children&#39;s emotional needs
	
	
	How ongoing professional development supports high-quality, responsive care
	



About Sue Downey

Sue Downey is the founder of Nannypalooza, a professional development conference for nannies. She has worked as a nanny for over 25 years and understands the daily challenges and joys of the role.

Sue is passionate about ongoing learning for Nannies and has led workshops at national and international events, including the International Nanny Association and NAEYC conferences. She also started International Nanny Training Day, a global event held each year to bring nannies together for training and support.


Why This Episode Matters

Being a Nanny is more than a job&mdash;it&rsquo;s a profession that requires skill, dedication, and a commitment to growth. This episode shines a light on the power of community and the value of learning together, showing how collective effort can elevate the industry and the care children receive.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Click here to listen on Spotify

&#x1F3A7; Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/its-a-nannypalooza-sue-downey-on-professional-development-for-nanny-educators</guid>
<pubDate>30 Jun 2025 06:52:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/podcast-episode-3-the-growth-mindset-for-nanny-recruiters</link>
<title><![CDATA[The growth mindset for Nanny Recruiters]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[&ldquo;Adaptability is essential in a constantly evolving industry&rdquo;
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, host Louise Dunham is joined by Sianan Tierney, an experienced recruitment specialist with a passion for advocacy and relationship-driven placements. Together, they explore the importance of adaptability and a growth mindset in the ever-evolving world of in-home care recruitment.


Inside the Episode

Sianan shares thoughtful reflections on the current challenges and shifts facing the nanny recruitment sector. With a focus on the human side of hiring, she offers valuable insight into how recruitment professionals can continue to deliver meaningful, lasting placements in a competitive and dynamic landscape.

This conversation unpacks:


	
	How recruitment practices have evolved in response to industry changes
	
	
	The critical role of relationship-building with both clients and candidates
	
	
	Why advocacy and representation matter in professional placements
	
	
	The need for resilience, adaptability, and forward-thinking in recruitment
	
	
	How agencies can maintain strong values while navigating shifting demands
	



About Sianan Tierney

Sianan Tierney is one of the General Managers at Placement Solutions, leading the Client Services team and supporting a dedicated group of professional nannies. With a background as a qualified lawyer, she is passionate about legal pay, fair treatment, and professional recognition for nannies and domestic staff.

Sianan is actively involved in both the Australian and international nanny community, helping Placement Solutions stay at the forefront of the industry. She has played a key role in developing a professional development program that equips nannies with the skills needed to provide high-quality, engaging care in the home.


Why This Episode Matters

As the in-home care sector continues to grow and evolve, the role of recruitment professionals becomes even more vital. This episode sheds light on what it means to recruit with integrity, adapt with confidence, and advocate for both clients and caregivers in a complex employment landscape.

Whether you&rsquo;re an agency professional, a parent, or a nanny looking to understand the recruitment process, this conversation provides valuable takeaways for anyone invested in professional home-based care.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Click here to listen on Spotify

&#x1F3A7; Click here to listen on Apple podcasts


Stay tuned for more expert-led conversations that spotlight the voices shaping the Nanny sector&mdash;and the standards we must uphold to ensure quality care for every family.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/podcast-episode-3-the-growth-mindset-for-nanny-recruiters</guid>
<pubDate>30 Jun 2025 05:57:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/podcast-episode-2-why-nannies-must-be-paid-legally</link>
<title><![CDATA[Why Nannies must be paid Legally?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Being a Nanny is more than just a job&mdash;it&rsquo;s a career.

But are you getting the legal protections you deserve?
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this episode of State of the Nanny, our CEO Louise Dunham speaks with Kathleen Webb, co-founder of HomeWork Solutions, to discuss the importance of legal employment for Nanny Educators. They explore the concept of Nanny tax, the consequences of not paying Nanny - Educators legally, and the evolving landscape of Nanny Employment and Taxation.
 

Inside the Episode

Kathleen offers a deep dive into the risks and realities of cash-in-hand payments and under-the-table nanny arrangements. She makes a strong case for proper employment compliance, championing the benefits it brings to both families and caregivers:


	
	The hidden hazards of tax avoidance and informal pay
	
	
	How legal employment safeguards nanny rights&mdash;superannuation, workers&#39; comp, fair conditions
	
	
	The long-term benefits for families: stability, transparency, and peace of mind
	
	
	 Why nannying is a professional career that deserves structure and respect
	


Why This Matters

Informal nanny arrangements&mdash;while seemingly convenient&mdash;carry real legal and ethical risks. Proper employment practices:


	
	Ensure caregivers receive tax-paid wages, benefits, and protections
	
	
	Provide families with financial clarity and legal backing
	
	
	Professionalise the nanny role, reinforcing that it&rsquo;s more than babysitting
	


This episode serves as a crucial reminder of why nanny education isn&#39;t just about childcare&mdash;it&rsquo;s also about ensuring fair, lawful, and sustainable work practices.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Tune in on Spotify.


Whether you&#39;re a parent, nanny, policy advocate, or agency rep, this episode equips you with essential insights to support healthy employment culture in home care. Stay tuned as Louise continues the conversation to elevate and empower the voices in our industry.


 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/podcast-episode-2-why-nannies-must-be-paid-legally</guid>
<pubDate>30 Jun 2025 05:32:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/127911-state-of-the-nanny-episode-1-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-modern-nanny</link>
<title><![CDATA[A Day in the Life of the Modern Nanny Educator]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[We&#39;re pleased to introduce the first episode of State of the Nanny, a new podcast from Placement Solutions that explores the important role of Nanny Educators and the changing face of in-home childcare in Australia.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In this debut episode, A Day in the Life of a Modern Nanny, host Louise Dunham, CEO of Placement Solutions, sits down with Cecily Laing&mdash;a respected professional and recipient of the Placement Solutions Australian Nanny of the Year award.
 

Inside the Episode

Cecily offers an authentic look at the daily realities, joys, and challenges of working as a Nanny Educator. From managing routines and supporting emotional development, to collaborating with families and maintaining professional boundaries, she shares rich insights from years of hands-on experience.

This conversation goes beyond nappies and nap times. It explores:

&#x2705; The structure and intentionality behind a nanny&rsquo;s day
&#x2705; The importance of recognising nannies as professionals, not babysitters
&#x2705; The emotional labour involved in providing consistent care
&#x2705; How Nanny Educators support children&rsquo;s learning and development
&#x2705; The ongoing need for professional respect, recognition, and training
 

Cecily has been a professional nanny for over 25 years and trained at Box Hill institute. In 2017 she won Placement Solutions Australian Nanny Of The Year and was placed as a finalist in the International Nanny Association world Nanny of the Year competition. Cecily has just returned from Nannypalooza in North Carolina, USA and is up to the minute with the hot topics consuming the nanny industry. 


Why This Episode Matters

In-home care is often undervalued and misunderstood. This episode gives listeners a chance to understand the depth of responsibility, skill, and dedication required to thrive in this role. Cecily&rsquo;s story is not just inspiring&mdash;it also highlights the professional standards and expectations Placement Solutions advocates for in the Australian nanny sector.


Listen Now

&#x1F3A7; Click here to listen on Spotify

Whether you&rsquo;re a parent, a fellow Nanny - Educator, or someone interested in working in this meaningful profession, this episode is a must-listen.


Stay tuned for more conversations that elevate and empower the voices of those who care for our most precious assets&mdash;our children.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/127911-state-of-the-nanny-episode-1-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-modern-nanny</guid>
<pubDate>26 Jun 2025 05:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/state-of-the-nanny-podcast</link>
<title><![CDATA[State of the Nanny Podcast]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[We&#39;re proud to bring you State of the Nanny &mdash; a podcast dedicated to exploring the vital role of in-home childcare through thoughtful, informed conversation.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[We&#39;re proud to bring you State of the Nanny &mdash; a podcast dedicated to exploring the vital role of in-home childcare through thoughtful, informed conversation.

&#x1F3A7; Each episode explores the experiences of Nanny- Educators, families, and industry experts in Australia and across the world, as we speak to leaders in the Nanny in home childcare industry.

Why It Matters &#x1F4AC; In-home childcare plays a vital role in supporting families and nurturing young children. Through this podcast, we&#39;re building understanding, respect, and professional recognition for those who provide high-quality care within family homes.

Whether you are an early childhood professional, a parent, or someone invested in the future of care and education, this podcast offers valuable perspectives from those at the heart of the sector.

&#x25B6;&#xFE0F; Subscribe, share, and join the conversation. Let&rsquo;s continue to uplift the voices that care.

&#x1F517; Listen here: Spotify &ndash; State of the Nanny / Apple Podcasts
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/state-of-the-nanny-podcast</guid>
<pubDate>29 May 2025 01:40:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/ready-for-2025-lets-help-you-tackle-the-year-with-ease</link>
<title><![CDATA[Ready for 2025? Let us help you tackle the year with ease!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Has the New Year arrived faster than expected, leaving you unprepared for what 2025 has in store? Whether managing your children&#39;s needs or organizing your household, we are here to help you start the year off stress-free!
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Has the New Year arrived faster than expected, leaving you unprepared for what 2025 has in store? Whether managing your children&#39;s needs or organizing your household, we are here to help you start the year off stress-free!

 

If you&rsquo;re planning to return to work or dealing with a shift in your daily routine, we understand the challenges that come with balancing family and career. Do you have one child at school and another at home? Or maybe you&rsquo;re navigating new childcare arrangements? Our In-Home Child Carers are here to provide professional support, helping your children thrive while you take on your other responsibilities. Whether you need help for a few hours a day or full-time care, we&rsquo;ve got you covered with experienced carers who understand your family&rsquo;s unique needs.

 

If the past year left you feeling a bit scattered and your household tasks slipped through the cracks, you&#39;re not alone. Our Household Managers are dedicated professionals ready to bring order to your home. From organizing your family calendar to running errands, paying bills, and even managing other household staff, we can assist with anything that helps you feel more in control. Whether you need support for just a few hours a day or more comprehensive assistance, our Household Managers are here to help you get organized and reclaim your time.

 

We know that life can be overwhelming, especially at the start of a new year. That&rsquo;s why we offer flexible services to suit your needs. Whether it&#39;s child care, household management, or a combination of both, we are here to ensure that your home and family run smoothly.

 

Don&rsquo;t let the stresses of the new year get you down and book a consultation with us to find out how we can support you in 2025. Let&rsquo;s make this year your most organized and stress-free year yet!

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/ready-for-2025-lets-help-you-tackle-the-year-with-ease</guid>
<pubDate>14 Jan 2025 08:13:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/home-management/christmas-made-easy-the-gift-of-help-for-busy-parents</link>
<title><![CDATA[Christmas Made Easy: The Gift of Help for Busy Parents]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The days leading up to Christmas are always exciting but also busy, and we all know how overwhelming it can become for parents and households.

From making endless lists to shopping, cooking, and trying to keep the kids entertained, it can feel like there&rsquo;s no time left to breathe. And, of course, there&#39;s no break from the daily demands of caring for your little ones.

But what if you could get a little extra help? Imagine focusing on the holiday tasks without worrying about the kids. A casual nanny could be the perfect solution, giving you peace of mind while you tick off your to-do list.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[The days leading up to Christmas are always exciting but also busy, and we all know how overwhelming it can become for parents and households.

From making endless lists to shopping, cooking, and trying to keep the kids entertained, it can feel like there&rsquo;s no time left to breathe. And, of course, there&#39;s no break from the daily demands of caring for your little ones.

But what if you could get a little extra help? Imagine focusing on the holiday tasks without worrying about the kids. A casual nanny could be the perfect solution, giving you peace of mind while you tick off your to-do list.

Why a Nanny Might Be the Best Gift You Give Yourself

Hiring a nanny during the holiday season can be a real game-changer. With an expert child carer, you can check off the shopping, meal prep, and all the other Christmas tasks, knowing your children are in capable hands. A qualified nanny doesn&rsquo;t just supervise the kids; they also engage with them, educate, and entertain them while ensuring the little ones have fun and stay safe. 

Consider a Household Manager for the Ultimate Holiday Help

If you&#39;re looking for even more support, consider a Household Manager. These multitaskers can handle everything from running errands and doing your Christmas shopping (yes, they&rsquo;ll do the shopping for you &mdash; imagine that!) to organizing your pantry and preparing festive meals. They can wrap presents, clean the house, and even stock your fridge with everything you need for Christmas breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

With the kids at school and the adults at work, having a Household Manager allows you to have some breathing room, catch up with family and friends, or just take a break. It&rsquo;s like having a personal assistant dedicated to making your holiday season as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Let Us Help You Make Christmas Simpler

At Placement Solutions, we understand how crazy the holidays can be, and we&rsquo;re here to help! Whether you need a nanny to care for the kids or a Household Manager to handle all the logistics, we have the right solution for you. Don&rsquo;t wait until the last minute! book a consultation with one of our friendly experts today at 1300 854 624.

Let us make this Christmas a little easier for you!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/home-management/christmas-made-easy-the-gift-of-help-for-busy-parents</guid>
<pubDate>11 Dec 2024 09:11:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/raising-money-for-royal-childrens-hospital</link>
<title><![CDATA[Raising money for Royal Children&#39;s Hospital]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[In 2024 and 2025 , PLACEMENT SOLUTIONS is raising funds for the Royal Children&#39;s Hospital and we need your help! Every dollar counts towards creating a brighter future for children right across Victoria or as we like to say &#39;your most precious assets&#39;.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In 2024 and 2025 , PLACEMENT SOLUTIONS is raising funds for the Royal Children&#39;s Hospital and we need your help! Every dollar counts towards creating a brighter future for children right across Victoria or as we like to say &#39;your most precious assets&#39;.

Why Royal Children&#39;s Hospital?

We are raising funds for a very specific target - a bed in Wombat Ward - the target is $5000 and we are getting close. We are doing this because we have cause to know of their necessity. One of our team spent 2 weeks there with her 18 month old son fighting for his life. He is fully recovered now but she saw first hand what was needed.

Account Details to donate to

Ubank Charity RCH
BSB - 670 864
Account # - 26896070
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/raising-money-for-royal-childrens-hospital</guid>
<pubDate>10 Dec 2024 01:59:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/nannies-rock</link>
<title><![CDATA[Nannies Rock]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Nannies Rock: Inspired today by the longevity of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones as  both release new music.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Nannies Rock : Inspired today by the longevity of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones as they release new music.

 However can we celebrate the incredible Nannies in our lives who also Rock On ? Today, this headline perfectly captures the spirit of these amazing Nannies: &quot;Rock On!&quot; These remarkable individuals have dedicated themselves to nurturing, guiding, and loving the children they care for. 

 

Nannies, you are the unsung heroes of our families that you work for and with. You rock our world with your unwavering dedication, boundless energy, and unconditional love. You are the steady force that keeps households running smoothly, ensuring that all children in your care are safe, happy, healthy and thriving. Your impact on their lives is immeasurable, and we like the  parents&rsquo; are forever grateful for your presence.

 

Just like rockstars, Nannies possess a unique set of skills and qualities that set them apart. You have the ability to multitask like no other, effortlessly juggling the demands of childcare. You are masters of time management, always finding a way to make every minute count.

 

But it&#39;s not just about the practical skills; it&#39;s about the heart and soul you bring to your work. Nannies, you have an incredible capacity for love and compassion. You create a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore the world around them. Your patience knows no bounds, and your ability to listen and understand is truly remarkable.

 

In the face of challenges, Nannies, you never give up. You face tantrums, tears, and sleepless nights with unwavering strength and determination. You are the calm in the storm, the rock that children can always rely on. Your resilience is an inspiration to us all.

 

But let us not forget that even rockstars need a break. Nannies, it is crucial that you take care of yourselves too. Just as musicians need to recharge and rejuvenate, you must prioritize self-care. Take time to rest, pursue your passions, and nurture your own well-being. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup.

 

So, Nannies, as you continue on this incredible journey, I urge you to keep rocking on. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and never lose sight of the profound impact you have on the lives of the children you care for. Your dedication and love are shaping the future generation, and that is a legacy worth celebrating.

Keep shining your light, spreading your love, and making a difference in the lives of those you touch. You are the true rockstars, and we are forever grateful for everything you do.

 

Thank you, and rock on!

 

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/nannies-rock</guid>
<pubDate>09 Dec 2024 23:53:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/activities-with-the-kids-family-days-at-collingwood-childrens-farm</link>
<title><![CDATA[Activities with the kids - Family Days at Collingwood Childrens&#39; Farm]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[ACTIVITIES

With lots fun and hands-on activities, this is a great opportunity to give urban kids a glimpse into the life on a farm. There&rsquo;s always something that will make every kid&rsquo;s eyes shine.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[ACTIVITIES

With lots fun and hands-on activities, this is a great opportunity to give urban kids a glimpse into the life on a farm. There&rsquo;s always something that will make every kid&rsquo;s eyes shine.

Come out for a day, where the kids can run around and see the animals while parents can relax, enjoy a coffee and indulge in some delicious food at The Farm Cafe. All food is made from scratch and ingredients are sourced locally or directly from the farm.

MORE ABOUT THE FARM

The Collingwood Children&rsquo;s Farm is a peaceful place to take the kids and escape the hustle of urban life. It brings country experiences to the city folks and is a great option for a family day out.

It is nestled on a bend of the scenic Yarra River, just 5km from Melbourne city centre. It spreads over seven hectares, filled with gardens, orchards, paddocks, rustic buildings and shady trees.

The farm is a not-for-profit community project that was founded in 1979 and is open all year. Every day visitors get the chance to wander around,  learn about the farm chores, waddle with the ducks, look for eggs,  or just relax under a shady tree by the river.

 

For more info about the farm, the caf&eacute;, the animals or make bookings for childrens parties, visit the Collingwood Children&rsquo;s Farm website.

PRACTICAL INFO

Directions

Only 5km from Melbourne city centre, riding your bike or using public transport are surely the best ways, as you can enjoy the beautiful Yarra trail and avoid the traffic. If you take the train, the walking time is just 10-15 minutes.

Parking

Be aware that street parking is limited and on busy days the car park fills quickly.

The car park on St Heliers Street provides all day parking with proceeds going to the Abbotsford Convent Foundation and the Collingwood Children&#39;s Farm.

Interested to visit their farm? You can check-out the link below:

https://www.farm.org.au/plan-your-visit

AT A GLANCE


	Location: Collingwood Childrens&rsquo; Farm, 18 St. heliers Street, Abbotsford, Victoria 3067
	Nearby stations: Victoria Park train station
	Website: http://www.farm.org.au/events-at-the-farm


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<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/activities-with-the-kids-family-days-at-collingwood-childrens-farm</guid>
<pubDate>08 Dec 2024 23:22:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/36-years-in-business-and-we-are-celebrating</link>
<title><![CDATA[Celebrating 37 years in Business. ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[In that time we have taken a lot of phone calls, pager messages, ( remember pagers? ) texts and emails, and so many requests for help from busy families and families in crisis.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In that time we have taken a lot of phone calls, pager messages, ( remember pagers? ) texts and emails and so many requests for help from busy families and families in crisis.

Louise started off with index cards; pink for nannies and green for clients and an income and expenditure book. She herself had one child and another on the way. That second baby is now part owner of the business along with our GM Rachelle, who has been with our team since 2010. Back in 1988, Louise  moved onto a Mac Classic, into the study at her home and then began hiring our office team., and designing our first database (remember File Maker Pro? )  Then quickly we were out the door to our first office in Ivanhoe, followed by an office in Canterbury Kew and then settling by 2009  in Kew East.  

 

We have been around for so long that we are confident in our guarantee to our clients. We assure you that we can help you with your Nanny or Household Manager needs and offer full transparency on the process and the costs. To celebrate this birthday year we are willing to offer a price beat guarantee for any similar service on our cost over and above wages so that you are able to try our services and see for yourself * Applicable for 2024 for percentage based recruitment roles only.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/36-years-in-business-and-we-are-celebrating</guid>
<pubDate>08 Dec 2024 04:20:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/a-night-nanny-now-known-as-a-newborn-care-specialist</link>
<title><![CDATA[A Night Nanny, now known as a Newborn Care Specialist,]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[A night nanny, now known as a newborn care specialist, is a professional caregiver who specializes in providing overnight care for newborns and their parents. Their primary role is to help new parents get the rest they need by taking care of the baby during the night.

 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[A night nanny, now known as a newborn care specialist, is a professional caregiver who specializes in providing overnight care for newborns and their parents. Their primary role is to help new parents get the rest they need by taking care of the baby during the night.

They  typically work with families for the first few weeks or months after the baby is born, usually up to 4 months although some families may choose to hire them for longer periods of time. They are trained and experienced in caring for newborns,  and can provide a range of services to help parents adjust to life with a new baby.

 

Some of the services that a night nanny or newborn care specialist, may provide include:

 

1. Feeding: Night nannies can help with feeding the baby, whether it&#39;s through breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. They can also help with burping and soothing the baby back to sleep.

 

2. Nappy Changing : Night nannies can change the baby&#39;s nappy  as needed throughout the night, helping to keep the baby clean and comfortable.

 

3. Sleep training: Night nannies can help parents establish a sleep routine for their baby, which can help the baby sleep through the night more quickly.

 

4. Light housekeeping: Night nannies may also help with light housekeeping tasks, such as washing bottles or doing the  laundry of the newborn.

 

5. Emotional support: Night nannies can provide emotional support to new parents, helping them adjust to the challenges of parenthood and providing guidance and advice as needed.

 

Overall, the role of a night nanny  also known as a newborn care specialist, is to provide support and care to new parents during the challenging early weeks and months of their baby&#39;s life. By taking care of the baby during the night, they can help parents get the rest they need to be able to care for their baby during the day.

Newborn care specialist are not limited to night work and can come in during the day to help with all the above as well. Whilst the baby is in the care of the newborn care specialist we encourage the parents to rest up and for the birth parent to reover from the birth.

Please note  newborn specialists who work at night usually do a shift from 11 pm to 7 am and are actively on duty all night during that shift bar meal and tea breaks.

The last thing to note is that our newborn care specialists are in hot demand and are often booked weeks if not months in advance. At this stage we service only Melbourne and Sydney for this particular service. if you interested in knowing more please click here for a link to speak to the Agency about your particular needs. This  call is free and is totally confidential and there is no obligation. 

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/a-night-nanny-now-known-as-a-newborn-care-specialist</guid>
<pubDate>03 Jun 2024 01:16:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/successful-nanny-sharing6</link>
<title><![CDATA[Successful Nanny Sharing]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[One of the things I often hear people say about hiring a Nanny is that it is &ldquo;only for the rich&rdquo;.  While it is obviously true that using in-home childcare will be more expensive than using a childcare centre, the benefits of a Nanny can be made more accessible when a Nanny is shared.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[ 

&ldquo;Share a Nanny? I didn&rsquo;t know you could do that,&rdquo; I hear you say. Well, yes, it is possible to share a Nanny in many circumstances, and it is a great way to get access to all the wonderful things that in-home childcare can provide, for a fraction of the cost. It also has the extra bonus of providing extra socialisation for the children involved.

Nanny share is quite simple. It involves one Nanny caring for the children of two families at once &ndash; up to five children in total. (Our ratio of 1 to 5 precludes more than five children being cared for in this way.)
In practice, Nanny sharing works by all the children gathering in one of their homes.

Most often the home used alternates between the two families in some pattern &ndash; it can be daily, or week-about, or whatever works. To keep it simple for our clients, we invoice each family separately. 
Other than that, all aspects of care are handled jointly. At the start, we interview parents from both families together, and we select potential nannies based on the families&rsquo; joint needs. It is expected both sets of parents will contact us jointly for the initial no obligation teleconsult. We expect that the families will be known to each other before you come to us.  Later, client liaison visits are also held jointly, which presents an opportunity for any issues &ndash; including between families &ndash; to be ironed out quickly. Before considering Nanny sharing, there are some things that need to be thought about. In particular, you and your potential &lsquo;share parents&rsquo; need to make sure that you are at one on matters of discipline, nutrition (e.g. sugar &lsquo;allowances&rsquo;), education (e.g. reading expectations) and screen time (TV, computers and games &ndash; and what can and cannot be watched or played on them). Nanny sharing simply won&rsquo;t work if there is one set of rules for the children of one family and a different set of rules for the other.

Where these things are in sync, and the two homes aren&rsquo;t too far apart, Nanny sharing between two families can be a realistic and money-saving option well worth considering. Our experience of over 36 years in this field has shown us that nanny shares work best when the children are old enough to socialise usually at around 18 months. 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/successful-nanny-sharing6</guid>
<pubDate>28 May 2024 16:28:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/louise-dunham-is-the-owner-and-director-of-placement-solutions</link>
<title><![CDATA[36 years and counting; Louise Dunham is the owner and director of Placement Solutions,]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[a leading Australian nanny and household staff agency.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Dunham founded the agency in 1988 with the goal of providing high-quality, personalized childcare and household staffing solutions to families across Australia.

 

Under Dunham&#39;s leadership, Placement Solutions has grown to become one of the most respected and trusted agencies in the industry, with a team of experienced consultants and a large network of qualified and experienced nannies, babysitters, and household staff.

 

Louise  is a passionate advocate for the rights and welfare of children and families, and has been actively involved in the development of industry standards and regulations for in-home childcare providers. She has also been a vocal supporter of the government&#39;s In Home Care program, which provides financial assistance to families who require in-home childcare due to their unique circumstances.

 

Overall, Dunham&#39;s leadership and vision have helped to shape the in-home childcare industry in Australia, and her commitment to providing high-quality, personalized care has made a positive impact on the lives of countless families.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/louise-dunham-is-the-owner-and-director-of-placement-solutions</guid>
<pubDate>01 Jan 2024 02:07:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/five-ways-to-make-nanny-sharing-work</link>
<title><![CDATA[Five ways to make nanny sharing work]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Nanny sharing is a great way to reduce the cost of in-home child care while adding some extra socialisation into your children&rsquo;s day. However it works best when it is approached in the right way. While Placement Solutions keep things &lsquo;clean&rsquo; by invoicing each family separately, holding joint client liaison meetings and so on, there are a number of factors nanny-sharing families should bear in mind.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Nanny sharing is a great way to reduce the cost of in-home child care while adding some extra socialisation into your children&rsquo;s day. However it works best when it is approached in the right way. While Placement Solutions keep things &lsquo;clean&rsquo; by invoicing each family separately, holding joint client liaison meetings and so on, there are a number of factors nanny-sharing families should bear in mind.

1. Create the &lsquo;family match&rsquo; yourself

The most  successful &lsquo;partnership&rsquo; is most likely when two families come to us &lsquo;ready to go&rsquo;. To a large extent, this situation means that many of the other pointers below are already covered off. We should emphasise that the families involved do not need to share the same status in terms of eligibility for child care benefits or rebates (CCB/CCR). Where one family qualifies and the other doesn&rsquo;t, fee adjustments will be made independently at the time of invoicing. However, these &lsquo;multi care&rsquo; arrangements (as the Department of Education calls them) in which one or more family is eligible for In-Home Care assistance must be approved by the department.

2. Not too young

Generally Nanny sharing really doesn&rsquo;t work very well with very young children, and in fact we here at Placement Solutions won&rsquo;t support sharing with babies under six months old. On the other hand, children from different families don&rsquo;t necessarily need to be the same age. Mixed age groups work well with kids over 18 months old. With sole children in particular, this can give them a real sibling-like experience.  If two or more children are of the same age they must be at least 12 months old.

3. Get the values and rules right

It&rsquo;s critical that both sets of parents are able to agree on their expectations around discipline, nutrition (sugar is a big one), education (reading, for instance) and screen time limits. There can&rsquo;t be one set of rules for one family&rsquo;s children and another set of rules for the other &hellip; it won&rsquo;t work.

4. Be clear on the arrangements

It goes without saying that the families involved in a nanny sharing arrangement need to live relatively close to each other. As much as possible there also needs to be a routine arrangement about which house will be used on which days. Most of the time families tend to alternate the &lsquo;host&rsquo; home, either daily or week-about, but it can be whatever works for the families and the nanny.

5. Keep it simple

We have had arrangements in the past involving more than one family (as many as four, but only two at a time), nanny sharing works best for everyone when it is kept simple. Overly complex arrangements don&rsquo;t allow the nanny to plan her activities properly, and so don&rsquo;t tend to work as well for the children. And one thing we can&rsquo;t accommodate under any circumstances is a child being delivered unannounced, and/or the inclusion of a family who are not registered with us.

Think nanny sharing could work for you? Give our office a call and have a chat to one of our staff about your options.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/five-ways-to-make-nanny-sharing-work</guid>
<pubDate>13 Jun 2023 14:20:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/-in-home-care-ihc-program-provides-financial-assistance-to-families-who-require-in-home-childcare-due-to-their-unique-circumstances</link>
<title><![CDATA[ In Home Care (IHC) program provides financial assistance to families ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The Australian government&#39;s In Home Care (IHC) program provides financial assistance to families who require in-home childcare due to their unique circumstances, such as shift work, rural or remote location, or a child with a disability or medical condition. The program is designed to provide flexible and personalized care options for families who cannot access traditional childcare services.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[The Australian government&#39;s In Home Care (IHC) program provides financial assistance to families who require in-home childcare due to their unique circumstances, such as shift work, rural or remote location, or a child with a disability or medical condition of either the child or parent. The program is designed to provide flexible and personalized care options for families who cannot access traditional childcare services.

 

To be eligible for the IHC program, families must meet certain criteria, such as having no access to other approved childcare services, requiring care outside of standard hours, or living in a rural or remote area. Families of course must also be eligible for CCS in the first place and need to register for this first.

 

In-home care providers themselves  must also meet certain eligibility criteria, such as being registered with the government for CCS and meeting certain safety and quality standards. Providers must undergo a rigorous assessment process to ensure they meet the standards, which include:

 

- A criminal history check for all adults in the workforce

- Obeying all local,state and federal laws

- A home safety check to ensure the home is safe and suitable for children

- A minimum level of training and qualifications for the provider

- A maximum number of children in care at any one time

- Regular monitoring and assessment to ensure ongoing compliance with the standards

 

The IHC program has a long history in Australia, dating back to  1999. 

In 2007 our CEO sat on  the Senate Steeing Committee that wrote the In home Childcare Standards.  The program has evolved over time to meet the changing needs of families, and has been subject to various reviews and reforms. In recent years, the government has increased funding for the program and expanded eligibility criteria to ensure more families can access the support they need.

 

Overall, the In Home Care program provides an important service for families who require flexible and personalized childcare options. Families should check their eligibility and apply for the program through the government&#39;s MyGov website.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/-in-home-care-ihc-program-provides-financial-assistance-to-families-who-require-in-home-childcare-due-to-their-unique-circumstances</guid>
<pubDate>06 Jun 2023 23:58:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/the-australian-government-offers-two-types-of-subsidies-for-in-home-childcare</link>
<title><![CDATA[The Australian government offers two types of subsidies for in-home childcare]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[: the Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) and the Child Care Subsidy (CCS).

 

The ACCS is designed to provide additional financial assistance to families who are experiencing financial hardship or have other special circumstances. This subsidy is available to families who are eligible for the CCS and who meet certain criteria, such as having a child with a disability or medical condition, or being in a crisis situation themselves  such as fleeing domestic violence or being medically ill.

 

The CCS is a means-tested subsidy that is available to most families who use approved childcare services, including in-home care. The subsidy is based on a family&#39;s income, the number of children in care, and the type of care being provided. Families can receive up to 85% of their childcare fees covered by the subsidy, up to a maximum amount per hour.

 

To be eligible for either subsidy, families must meet certain criteria, such as being Australian residents, having a child under the age of 13 in care, and using an approved childcare service. Families must also meet the activity test for CCS , which requires parents to be working, studying, volunteering, or looking for work for a certain number of hours per week.

Furthermore families wishing to access in home child care must be able to show they have no access to other government forms of child care such as Long Day care.

 

In-home care providers must also meet certain criteria to be eligible for the subsidies, such as being registered with the government and meeting certain safety and quality standards.

 

Overall, the ACCS and CCS subsidies can provide significant financial assistance to families who use in-home childcare services. Families should check their eligibility and apply for the subsidies through the government&#39;s MyGov website.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[: the Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) and the Child Care Subsidy (CCS).

 

The ACCS is designed to provide additional financial assistance to families who are experiencing financial hardship or have other special circumstances. This subsidy is available to families who are eligible for the CCS and who meet certain criteria, such as having a child with a disability or medical condition, or being in a crisis situation themselves  such as fleeing domestic violence or being medically ill.

 

The CCS is a means-tested subsidy that is available to most families who use approved childcare services, including in-home care. The subsidy is based on a family&#39;s income, the number of children in care, and the type of care being provided. Families can receive up to 85% of their childcare fees covered by the subsidy, up to a maximum amount per hour.

 

To be eligible for either subsidy, families must meet certain criteria, such as being Australian residents, having a child under the age of 13 in care, and using an approved childcare service. Families must also meet the activity test for CCS , which requires parents to be working, studying, volunteering, or looking for work for a certain number of hours per week.

Furthermore families wishing to access in home child care must be able to show they have no access to other government forms of child care such as Long Day care.

 

In-home care providers must also meet certain criteria to be eligible for the subsidies, such as being registered with the government and meeting certain safety and quality standards.

 

Overall, the ACCS and CCS subsidies can provide significant financial assistance to families who use in-home childcare services. Families should check their eligibility and apply for the subsidies through the government&#39;s MyGov website.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/the-australian-government-offers-two-types-of-subsidies-for-in-home-childcare</guid>
<pubDate>03 Jun 2023 01:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/wage-theft-is-rife-in-the-australian-nanny/educator-sector-and-it-is-getting-worse-post-pandemic</link>
<title><![CDATA[Wage theft is rife in the Australian Nanny/Educator sector, and it is getting worse post -pandemic. ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Wage theft is a significant issue in Australia, and occurs when employers underpay their workers, fail to pay them their entitlements, or engage in other forms of exploitation. The employer can be an agency, or a family. Wage theft can take many forms, including:

1. Underpayment of wages: This occurs when an employer pays their workers less than the minimum wage or fails to pay them for all the hours they have worked.

Nanny/Educators fall within two awards within Australia. Both include a minimum starting hourly rate and penalty rates such as overtime after an 8-hour shift. It also includes penalty rates such as for weekends and public holidays. Both awards also cover specifics such as base hourly rates, minimum shift payments, first aid allowance, split shift allowances, overtime either per day or after 38 hours, afternoon, early morning, night and weekend and public holiday rates.

 

2. Misclassification of workers: This occurs when an employer misclassifies their workers as independent contractors rather than employees, to avoid paying entitlements. A true contractor can set their own hours and send in a replacement of their choosing as well as list what they will and will not do in their job description.  

This is most typically exploited within the nanny and in- home childcare industry and is also known as &quot;sham contracting. &#39;&#39; Nanny/Educators always work to a job description arranged by both client, agency and in some cases, conditions set by government legislation such as In home childcare legislation. Further they cannot choose their own hours or replace themselves with a worker such as their own sister, who is not screened by the client, agency and in some cases the In-home childcare support Agency.

 

3. Non-payment of entitlements: This occurs when an employer fails to pay their workers their entitlements, such as superannuation, annual leave, or sick leave or penalty rates when they work outside of their contracted hours e.g. weekends, evenings, also known as overtime.

Again, this happens within the Nanny/Educator  Sector when employees are mis classified as &ldquo;independent contractors.&rdquo;  The female work force that takes time off to have their own children are already significantly disadvantaged in Australia. The nanny /educator sector is a heavily dominated female workforce.  There are therefore huge scores of the caring profession missing out their basic entitlement necessary to provide for their old age. They will go into old age impoverished, and without superannuation entitlements that they would have otherwise received if they were not taken advantage of.

 

4. Unlawful deductions: This occurs when an employer makes deductions from a worker&#39;s pay that are not allowed under the law, such as deductions for uniforms or tools or to join an Agency. A nanny should never have to pay to join an employment or recruitment  Agency.

 

The Australian government has taken steps to address wage theft, including introducing legislation that increases penalties for employers who engage in this practice. Employers who engage in wage theft can face fines of up to $630,000 per contravention, while individuals who are found to be involved in wage theft can face fines of up to $126,000 per contravention.

 

If you believe that you have been the victim of wage theft, it&#39;s important to seek legal advice. There are a number of organizations that can provide assistance to workers who have been underpaid or exploited, including the Fair Work Ombudsman and community legal centres. Also if you thinking of engaging a Nanny/Educator or becoming a Nanny/ educator seek legal and financial advice.
 

Our industry is rich with professional workers who are committed, skilled, qualified, and who are passionate childcare workers and to those professionals we are grateful. They deserve better, and our country and regulatory bodies need to do a better job at recognising a profession that does so much to support our children&#39;s care and education, and families being able to attend the workforce.

 

Placement Solutions has proudly served the Nanny/Educator sector for 35 years and wants all in the sector whether a client or Nanny/ Educator to be aware of their obligations and rights. We can help you as a Nanny/Educator  to  find a great family who accepts their legal obligations. As a client we will provide an educated professional career nanny/educator  who is aware of both  their responsibilities and rights. For those going it alone, we offer a payroll service known as Just Family Payroll where we can set up your fortnightly wage payments and run them for you.

Please email here for further information

info@placementsolutions.com.au

 

 

 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Wage theft is a significant issue in Australia, and occurs when employers underpay their workers, fail to pay them their entitlements, or engage in other forms of exploitation. The employer can be an agency, or a family. Wage theft can take many forms, including:

1. Underpayment of wages: This occurs when an employer pays their workers less than the minimum wage or fails to pay them for all the hours they have worked.

Nanny/Educators fall within two awards within Australia. Both include a minimum starting hourly rate and penalty rates such as overtime after an 8-hour shift. It also includes penalty rates such as for weekends and public holidays. Both awards also cover specifics such as base hourly rates, minimum shift payments, first aid allowance, split shift allowances, overtime either per day or after 38 hours, afternoon, early morning, night and weekend and public holiday rates.

 

2. Misclassification of workers: This occurs when an employer misclassifies their workers as independent contractors rather than employees, to avoid paying entitlements. A true contractor can set their own hours and send in a replacement of their choosing as well as list what they will and will not do in their job description.  

This is most typically exploited within the nanny and in- home childcare industry and is also known as &quot;sham contracting. &#39;&#39; Nanny/Educators always work to a job description arranged by both client, agency and in some cases, conditions set by government legislation such as In home childcare legislation. Further they cannot choose their own hours or replace themselves with a worker such as their own sister, who is not screened by the client, agency and in some cases the In-home childcare support Agency.

 

3. Non-payment of entitlements: This occurs when an employer fails to pay their workers their entitlements, such as superannuation, annual leave, or sick leave or penalty rates when they work outside of their contracted hours e.g. weekends, evenings, also known as overtime.

Again, this happens within the Nanny/Educator  Sector when employees are mis classified as &ldquo;independent contractors.&rdquo;  The female work force that takes time off to have their own children are already significantly disadvantaged in Australia. The nanny /educator sector is a heavily dominated female workforce.  There are therefore huge scores of the caring profession missing out their basic entitlement necessary to provide for their old age. They will go into old age impoverished, and without superannuation entitlements that they would have otherwise received if they were not taken advantage of.

 

4. Unlawful deductions: This occurs when an employer makes deductions from a worker&#39;s pay that are not allowed under the law, such as deductions for uniforms or tools or to join an Agency. A nanny should never have to pay to join an employment or recruitment  Agency.

 

The Australian government has taken steps to address wage theft, including introducing legislation that increases penalties for employers who engage in this practice. Employers who engage in wage theft can face fines of up to $630,000 per contravention, while individuals who are found to be involved in wage theft can face fines of up to $126,000 per contravention.

 

If you believe that you have been the victim of wage theft, it&#39;s important to seek legal advice. There are a number of organizations that can provide assistance to workers who have been underpaid or exploited, including the Fair Work Ombudsman and community legal centres. Also if you thinking of engaging a Nanny/Educator or becoming a Nanny/ educator seek legal and financial advice.
 

Our industry is rich with professional workers who are committed, skilled, qualified, and who are passionate childcare workers and to those professionals we are grateful. They deserve better, and our country and regulatory bodies need to do a better job at recognising a profession that does so much to support our children&#39;s care and education, and families being able to attend the workforce.

 

Placement Solutions has proudly served the Nanny/Educator sector for 35 years and wants all in the sector whether a client or Nanny/ Educator to be aware of their obligations and rights. We can help you as a Nanny/Educator  to  find a great family who accepts their legal obligations. As a client we will provide an educated professional career nanny/educator  who is aware of both  their responsibilities and rights. For those going it alone, we offer a payroll service known as Just Family Payroll where we can set up your fortnightly wage payments and run them for you.

Please email here for further information

info@placementsolutions.com.au

 

 

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/wage-theft-is-rife-in-the-australian-nanny/educator-sector-and-it-is-getting-worse-post-pandemic</guid>
<pubDate>23 May 2023 23:43:00 GMT</pubDate>
<enclosure url='https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/uploads/195/908/med-recruitment-photo.jpg' length='58958' type='image/jpeg'/>
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<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/what-is-a-household-manager</link>
<title><![CDATA[What is a Household Manager]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[A household manager is a professional who is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a household. They are typically hired by busy families who need help managing their homes and schedules. 

It is important to note that they are not  cleaners and not professional organisers although the edges can blur into each other depending on the individual tasks required. 

When it comes to childcare and HHM&#39;s sometimes we hear the words Household or Lifestyle Assistant or Nanager. We divided the job descriptiosn specifically so that Nanny/ Educators can always  perform their due diligence and duty of care when looking after children. Childcare in that instance is always the first priority and is not compatible with a full list of HHM tasks. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[ 

A household manager is a professional who is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a household. They are typically hired by busy families who need help managing their homes and schedules. The role of a household manager can vary depending on the needs of the family, but some of the tasks they may be responsible for include:

 

 


	Household organization: The household manager may be responsible for organizing the home, including decluttering, arranging furniture, and creating storage solutions.


 


	Scheduling and appointments: The household manager may be responsible for scheduling appointments for the family, such as doctor&#39;s appointments, haircuts, and other personal appointments.


 


	Meal planning and preparation: The household manager may be responsible for planning and preparing meals for the family, including grocery shopping, meal planning, and cooking.


 


	Event planning: The household manager may be responsible for planning and organizing events for the family, such as birthday parties, holiday gatherings, and other special occasions.


 


	Travel planning: The household manager may be responsible for planning and organizing travel for the family, including booking flights, hotels, and transportation.


 


	Budgeting and financial management: The household manager may be responsible for managing the family&#39;s finances, including paying bills, managing bank accounts, and creating a budget.


 


	Laundry and making of beds, ironing, sorting  drycleaning and clothes for repair or give away.


 

Managing household staff: If the family has other household staff, such as a housekeeper or nanny, the household manager may be responsible for managing their schedules, duties, and performance.

 

 

Overall, the role of a household manager is to help busy families manage their homes and schedules. They are responsible for a wide range of tasks, from managing household staff to organizing the home and planning events. By taking care of these tasks, they can help families save time and reduce stress, allowing them to focus on other priorities.

 

 

 

 

 

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/what-is-a-household-manager</guid>
<pubDate>23 May 2023 00:52:00 GMT</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/a-night-nanny-preferably-known-as-as-a-newborn-care-specialist</link>
<title><![CDATA[A Night Nanny is  preferably now  known as as a Newborn Care Specialist,]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[A night nanny, now known as a newborn care specialist, is a professional caregiver who specializes in providing overnight care for newborns and their parents. Their primary role is to help new parents get the rest they need by taking care of the baby during the night.

They  typically work with families for the first few weeks or months after the baby is born, usually up to 4 months although some families may choose to hire them for longer periods of time. They are trained and experienced in caring for newborns, and can provide a range of services to help parents adjust to life with a new baby.

 

Some of the services that a night nanny or newborn care specialist, may provide include:

 

1. Feeding: Night nannies can help with feeding the baby, whether it&#39;s through breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. They can also help with burping and soothing the baby back to sleep.

 

2. Nappy Changing : Night nannies can change the baby&#39;s nappy  as needed throughout the night, helping to keep the baby clean and comfortable.

 

3. Sleep training: Night nannies can help parents establish a sleep routine for their baby, which can help the baby sleep through the night more quickly.

 

4. Light housekeeping: Night nannies may also help with light housekeeping tasks, such as washing bottles or doing the  laundry of the newborn.

 

5. Emotional support: Night nannies can provide emotional support to new parents, helping them adjust to the challenges of parenthood and providing guidance and advice as needed.

 

Overall, the role of a night nanny  also known as a newborn care specialist, is to provide support and care to new parents during the challenging early weeks and months of their baby&#39;s life. By taking care of the baby during the night, they can help parents get the rest they need to be able to care for their baby during the day.

Newborn care specialist are not limited to night work and can come in during the day to help with all the above as well. Whilst the baby is in the care of the newborn care specialist we encourage the parents to rest up and for the birth parent to recover from the birth.

Please note newborn  care specialists who work at night usually do a shift from 11 pm to 7 am and are actively on duty all night during that shift bar meal and tea breaks.

The last thing to note is that our newborn care specialists are in hot demand and are often booked weeks if not months, in advance. At this stage we service only Melbourne and Sydney for this particular service. if you interested in knowing more please click here for a https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/contact-us-nanny-form 

to speak to the Agency about your particular needs. This  call is free and is totally confidential and there is no obligation. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[A night nanny, now known as a newborn care specialist, is a professional caregiver who specializes in providing overnight care for newborns and their parents. Their primary role is to help new parents get the rest they need by taking care of the baby during the night.

They  typically work with families for the first few weeks or months after the baby is born, usually up to 4 months although some families may choose to hire them for longer periods of time. They are trained and experienced in caring for newborns, and can provide a range of services to help parents adjust to life with a new baby.

 

Some of the services that a night nanny or newborn care specialist, may provide include:

 

1. Feeding: Night nannies can help with feeding the baby, whether it&#39;s through breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. They can also help with burping and soothing the baby back to sleep.

 

2. Nappy Changing : Night nannies can change the baby&#39;s nappy  as needed throughout the night, helping to keep the baby clean and comfortable.

 

3. Sleep training: Night nannies can help parents establish a sleep routine for their baby, which can help the baby sleep through the night more quickly.

 

4. Light housekeeping: Night nannies may also help with light housekeeping tasks, such as washing bottles or doing the  laundry of the newborn.

 

5. Emotional support: Night nannies can provide emotional support to new parents, helping them adjust to the challenges of parenthood and providing guidance and advice as needed.

 

Overall, the role of a night nanny  also known as a newborn care specialist, is to provide support and care to new parents during the challenging early weeks and months of their baby&#39;s life. By taking care of the baby during the night, they can help parents get the rest they need to be able to care for their baby during the day.

Newborn care specialist are not limited to night work and can come in during the day to help with all the above as well. Whilst the baby is in the care of the newborn care specialist we encourage the parents to rest up and for the birth parent to recover from the birth.

Please note newborn  care specialists who work at night usually do a shift from 11 pm to 7 am and are actively on duty all night during that shift bar meal and tea breaks.

The last thing to note is that our newborn care specialists are in hot demand and are often booked weeks if not months, in advance. At this stage we service only Melbourne and Sydney for this particular service. if you interested in knowing more please click here for a https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/contact-us-nanny-form 

to speak to the Agency about your particular needs. This  call is free and is totally confidential and there is no obligation. 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/a-night-nanny-preferably-known-as-as-a-newborn-care-specialist</guid>
<pubDate>18 May 2023 02:14:00 GMT</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/families-with-complex-and-challenging-needs-specialised-rebates-may-be-available</link>
<title><![CDATA[Families with complex and challenging needs: Specialised rebates may be available.]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Families with complex and challenging needs may require specialized support and assistance to help them navigate their unique circumstances. There are a variety of professionals who can provide this type of support, including social workers, therapists, and case managers.

Social workers are trained professionals who can help families with a wide range of issues, including mental health, substance abuse, and domestic violence. They can provide counseling and support to help families cope with these challenges, and can also connect them with community resources and services.

 

Therapists are mental health professionals who can provide individual, family, or group therapy to help families address a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma. They can help families develop coping skills and strategies to manage their challenges, and can also provide support and guidance as they work through difficult emotions and experiences.

 

Case managers and Maternal and Enhanced Maternal Health Officers  are professionals who can help families navigate complex systems, such as healthcare, education, and social services. They can help families access the resources and services they need, and can also provide advocacy and support to help them navigate these systems more effectively.

For the last 35 years we have worked with these allied health professionals to assist families efficiently, compassionately, confidentially and legally. All of the above can refer to us to put practical help in place whilst the family is undergoing thsi difficult time. ACCS/CCS childcrae reabtes may applly for eligible families. test your eligibility here https://www.education.gov.au/child-care-package/child-care-subsidy/approved-care-types/home-care

The above government help is designed as short term help. Overall, helping families with complex and challenging needs requires a collaborative and holistic approach. Professionals from a variety of disciplines may need to work together to provide the support and assistance that families need to thrive. By working together, these professionals can help families overcome their challenges and build a brighter future.

Please feel free to contact Placement Solutions here https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/contact-us-nanny-form

for a confidential, no obligation discussion and help.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Families with complex and challenging needs may require specialized support and assistance to help them navigate their unique circumstances. There are a variety of professionals who can provide this type of support, including social workers, therapists, and case managers.

Social workers are trained professionals who can help families with a wide range of issues, including mental health, substance abuse, and domestic violence. They can provide counseling and support to help families cope with these challenges, and can also connect them with community resources and services.

 

Therapists are mental health professionals who can provide individual, family, or group therapy to help families address a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma. They can help families develop coping skills and strategies to manage their challenges, and can also provide support and guidance as they work through difficult emotions and experiences.

 

Case managers and Maternal and Enhanced Maternal Health Officers  are professionals who can help families navigate complex systems, such as healthcare, education, and social services. They can help families access the resources and services they need, and can also provide advocacy and support to help them navigate these systems more effectively.

For the last 35 years we have worked with these allied health professionals to assist families efficiently, compassionately, confidentially and legally. All of the above can refer to us to put practical help in place whilst the family is undergoing thsi difficult time. ACCS/CCS childcrae reabtes may applly for eligible families. test your eligibility here https://www.education.gov.au/child-care-package/child-care-subsidy/approved-care-types/home-care

The above government help is designed as short term help. Overall, helping families with complex and challenging needs requires a collaborative and holistic approach. Professionals from a variety of disciplines may need to work together to provide the support and assistance that families need to thrive. By working together, these professionals can help families overcome their challenges and build a brighter future.

Please feel free to contact Placement Solutions here https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/contact-us-nanny-form

for a confidential, no obligation discussion and help.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/families-with-complex-and-challenging-needs-specialised-rebates-may-be-available</guid>
<pubDate>17 May 2023 00:33:00 GMT</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/very-experienced-nanny-available-for-before-or-after-school-care-nanny</link>
<title><![CDATA[Melbourne Families Take Note: Very experienced Nanny available for  Before or After School Care  ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Worked with Placement Solutions since 2009.  Within 45 minutes of City of Casey, Melbourne, Victoria  In the Nanny&#39;s own words &quot; I  am  a nanny educator with over 24  years of total  experience providing exceptional care to children aged new born to school aged children. I  also have experience caring for twins and triplets. Adept at organising children&rsquo;s daily schedules, including meals, school and recreational activities. I am a mature dependable, nanny with a passion for childcare excellence. Valued by client families for warmth, professionalism, dedication and excellent judgment. Provide parents with an unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of their children.&quot;

This Nanny joined Placement Solutions in  July 2009, she has extensive experience as a private Nanny dating back to 1999. The Nanny  has a wealth of experience working with Clients with PND, a disability or illness that prevents  them looking after their children in the short term.Her preference now is to work with school aged children. Her references have described her as caring, kind, patient, loving and trustworthy. She has shown consideration of the children&rsquo;s needs, organised age appropriate activities, organised and supervise children&#39;s play  and cooked lovely meals for the children she worked with.  Each reference said they would highly recommend her. 

Qualifications: Certicate 3 in Childrens Services 

 

This nanny has been vetted by using our thorough screening methods developed over 35 years of expertise in the recruitment sector. The nanny has been pre-screened, interviewed, reference checked and inducted into our Agency.

All Nannies are offered legal pay, support, and professional development through our Agency. This nanny of course has all her relevant certifications such as current first aid, WWC and national police check as well as undergoing Covid Training and Child Protection training.

If you are interested in talking about this Nanny, PLEASE CLICK HERE and nominate the best time to talk to you. 

4 hour to 6 hour mininum shift. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Worked with Placement Solutions since 2009.  Within 45 minutes of City of Casey, Melbourne, Victoria  In the Nanny&#39;s own words &quot; I  am  a nanny educator with over 24  years of total  experience providing exceptional care to children aged new born to school aged children. I  also have experience caring for twins and triplets. Adept at organising children&rsquo;s daily schedules, including meals, school and recreational activities. I am a mature dependable, nanny with a passion for childcare excellence. Valued by client families for warmth, professionalism, dedication and excellent judgment. Provide parents with an unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of their children.&quot;

This Nanny joined Placement Solutions in  July 2009, she has extensive experience as a private Nanny dating back to 1999. The Nanny  has a wealth of experience working with Clients with PND, a disability or illness that prevents  them looking after their children in the short term.Her preference now is to work with school aged children. Her references have described her as caring, kind, patient, loving and trustworthy. She has shown consideration of the children&rsquo;s needs, organised age appropriate activities, organised and supervise children&#39;s play  and cooked lovely meals for the children she worked with.  Each reference said they would highly recommend her. 

Qualifications: Certicate 3 in Childrens Services 

 

This nanny has been vetted by using our thorough screening methods developed over 35 years of expertise in the recruitment sector. The nanny has been pre-screened, interviewed, reference checked and inducted into our Agency.

All Nannies are offered legal pay, support, and professional development through our Agency. This nanny of course has all her relevant certifications such as current first aid, WWC and national police check as well as undergoing Covid Training and Child Protection training.

If you are interested in talking about this Nanny, PLEASE CLICK HERE and nominate the best time to talk to you. 

4 hour to 6 hour mininum shift. 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/very-experienced-nanny-available-for-before-or-after-school-care-nanny</guid>
<pubDate>13 Apr 2023 00:18:00 GMT</pubDate>
</item>

<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/international-nanny-training-day-a-great-succcess</link>
<title><![CDATA[Melbourne Nannies joined International Nanny Training Day - A great success.]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Placement Solutions were proud to be the major sponsor for the 11 th year since 2012, of the International Nanny Training Event in Melbourne.Together also with Sydney this year we kicked off the day first followedon by the UK, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Mexico and the USA. It was a day of learning, training, mentoring, discussion and networking. Professional Career nannies lets see you in April 2024.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Placement Solutions were proud to be the major sponsor for the 11 th year since 2012, of the International Nanny Training Event in Melbourne. Together also with Sydney this year, we kicked off the day first and then were followed  by the UK, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Mexico and many groups across the USA.

It was a day of goodwill, laughter, learning, training, mentoring, discussion and networking.

Here is some feedback; &quot; The venue, speakers, food and connections were brilliant.&quot; 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/international-nanny-training-day-a-great-succcess</guid>
<pubDate>06 Apr 2023 03:48:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/available-nbcs-sydney6</link>
<title><![CDATA[Sydney Families NB; Available Very Experienced  New Born Care Specialist  Sydney -Southern Suburbs]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[ 

Qualifications


	Diploma
	Newborn Care Training


 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Qualifications


	Diploma
	Newborn Care Training


In the Nanny&#39;s own words.

&quot;I have 31 years experience as a nanny. I genuinely love being a professional nanny and I am very committed to making a positive difference in the lives of the families I work with. Each family is unique and I show absolute diligence and respect to the requirements of each family and always take into consideration the needs, values and goals of the family. I enjoy open communication with parents and I am always happy to discuss the well-being of their children in an approachable and positive manner.
* I take pride in being completely trustworthy, reliable, pro-active and punctual.
* My warm, patient and nurturing disposition creates a vibe that enables parents and children to feel comfortable, safe and confident with the care I provide.
* My focus is primarily on the safety and overall well-being of the children in my care and I aim to provide a fun and loving environment that helps children to flourish.&quot;

Hear what the references had to say .

Could you describe the main responsibilities of the role that the Nanny worked? She was like a coach to her, she taught her as a new mother, and she&#39;s not only looking after her newborn but also looking after her. She drives her to her doctor appointments, cared for her daughter, keep her house moving, cooked and played with her daughter.

Did you have full confidence in their ability to perform those duties? Yes, very much, she was really great in everything

Did the Nanny understand the child&rsquo;s level of development &amp; their individual needs? How? Yes, even as the mother, she did not feel that really confident as a new mum, but the Nanny had a great demeanor, she has that personality of encouraging without giving opinions, just giving suggestions, she&#39;s letting you figure out yourself and your capabilities. She is not aggressive to push her daughter to do something that she won&#39;t like, other sitters are like teachers that make their daughter do this and that, read this and that, but the Nanny , let her explore and discover her own likings.

How would you describe their relationship with the children? She loves her, it was very good. They were really close and she got that full trust in her that she can be really good with her daughter.

This nanny has been taken on by us using our thorough screening methods developed over 35 years of expertise in the recruitment sector. The nanny has been pre-screened, interviewed, reference checked and inducted into our Agency.

All Nannies are offered legal pay, support, and professional development through our Agency. This nanny of course has all her relevant certifications such as current first aid, WWC and national police check as well as undergoing Covid Training and Child Protection training.

If you are interested in talking about this Nanny, PLEASE CLICK HERE and nominate the best time to talk to you. 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/available-nbcs-sydney6</guid>
<pubDate>22 Mar 2023 05:19:00 GMT</pubDate>
<enclosure url='https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/uploads/195/900/med-baby-1.jpg' length='28401' type='image/jpeg'/>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/superb-nanny-western-suburbs-melbourne-available-now-part-time6</link>
<title><![CDATA[Melbourne Nanny; Superb Nanny Western Suburbs Available Now - Part time]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[This very experienced and well qualified nanny is looking for work only in the western suburbs.

Qualifications


	Diploma of Childrens Services
	Bachelor of Education


The nanny self describes as

&ldquo;Calm
Supportive
Nurturing
Fun
Engaging &ldquo;

Here are what the nanny references have to say

&ldquo;It was fantastic, the Nanny  is very professional and fun at the same time, all the kids love the Nanny , andthey still see the Nanny from time to time. They created a great bond together.

 

 

This nanny has been taken on by us using our thorough screening methods developed over 35 years of expertise in the recruitment sector. The nanny has been pre-screened, interviewed, reference checked and inducted into our Agency.

All Nannies are offered legal pay, support, and professional development through our Agency. This nanny of course has all her relevant certifications such as current first aid, WWC and national police check as well as undergoing Covid Training and Child Protection training.

If you are interested in talking about this Nanny, PLEASE CLICK HERE and nominate the best time to talk to you. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[This very experienced and well qualified nanny is looking for work only in the western suburbs.

Qualifications


	Diploma of Childrens Services
	Bachelor of Education


The nanny self describes as

&ldquo;Calm
Supportive
Nurturing
Fun
Engaging &ldquo;

Here are what the nanny references have to say

&ldquo;It was fantastic, the Nanny  is very professional and fun at the same time, all the kids love the Nanny , andthey still see the Nanny from time to time. They created a great bond together.

 

 

This nanny has been taken on by us using our thorough screening methods developed over 35 years of expertise in the recruitment sector. The nanny has been pre-screened, interviewed, reference checked and inducted into our Agency.

All Nannies are offered legal pay, support, and professional development through our Agency. This nanny of course has all her relevant certifications such as current first aid, WWC and national police check as well as undergoing Covid Training and Child Protection training.

If you are interested in talking about this Nanny, PLEASE CLICK HERE and nominate the best time to talk to you. 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/superb-nanny-western-suburbs-melbourne-available-now-part-time6</guid>
<pubDate>22 Mar 2023 02:22:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/we-have-a-great-nanny-availableready-right-now-in-the-south-eastern-suburbs5</link>
<title><![CDATA[Melbourne Nanny :We have a great nanny available&nbsp;ready right now in the South Eastern suburbs of Melbourne ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[
	This Nanny has over 25 years&rsquo; experience with children and has a specialty in Newborn care, postnatal care, and Gentle Sleep Guidance


Has looked after Children from birth to 12 years

Holds a Certificate  3 in Childrens Services
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[
	This Nanny has over 25 years&rsquo; experience with children and has a specialty in Newborn care, postnatal care, and Gentle Sleep Guidance


Has looked after Children from birth to 12 years

Holds a Certificate  3 in Childrens Services

&ldquo;I am a passionate and intuitive career nanny who understands the importance of providing children with consistency and security. Being part of a child&#39;s daily life is a privilege I treat with respect and professionalism by working collaboratively with parents. I pride myself on supporting the entire family with my knowledge of child development and ability to ensure a household runs smoothly. I create positive relationships with children by engaging them in activities that are both fun and educational - baking, singing silly songs, art, nature exploration, and outings in the local community.&rdquo;

A little bit about the  nanny&#39;s  references.


	&ldquo;The nanny really knows childcare, and really shows expertise helping her, the mother in raising her children. They have very open communication, the Nanny would openly tell her of the things that the children need and it&#39;s all good, it&#39;s all for the welfare of her children. A phenomenal Nanny, any family would be lucky to have.&rdquo;
	The Nanny has a deep understanding of her son&#39;s needs, oftentimes the Nanny would do own research and present her n recipes or BLW (Baby Led Weaning) ideas, and the Nanny would also find ways for her son to have better nap time&rdquo;
	 


This nanny has been taken on by us using our thorough screening methods developed over 35 years of expertise in the recruitment sector. The nanny has been pre-screened, interviewed, reference checked and inducted into our Agency.

All Nannies are offered legal pay, support, and professional development through our Agency. This nanny of course has all her relevant certifications such as current first aid, WWC and national police check as well as undergoing Covid Training and Child Protection training.

If you are interested in talking about this Nanny, PLEASE Click here and nominate the best time to talk to you.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/we-have-a-great-nanny-availableready-right-now-in-the-south-eastern-suburbs5</guid>
<pubDate>14 Mar 2023 07:05:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/letting-you-know-we-have-a-great-nanny-available-for-northside-and-inner-melbourne-ready-right-now5</link>
<title><![CDATA[Melbourne Nanny: Letting you know we have a great nanny available for Northside and Inner Melbourne ready right now]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[
	A newly recruited great  nanny is available Monday through Thursday (Currently in a position on Fridays that has continued in for 12 years)

]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[
	A newly recruited great nanny is available Monday through Thursday ( Currently in a position on Fridays that has continued in for 12 years.)
	Formally 5 years plus experience as a Nanny but also has 27 years informally raising a child 
	The Nanny has cared for newborns to 13 years formally and up to 4 children at a time 
	A little about the nanny 


&quot;I have read and genuinely resonate with Brene Brown&#39;s wholehearted approach to raising kids to know they are both loved and loveable, to practice courage, honour vulnerability and show up and be seen. To find compassion by practicing it, to sit with kids and rather than try to fix the, teach them it is ok to feel as they go through their own experiences of grief and pain, to feel more joy by finding more things to be grateful for, to create a space where kids always know they are safely seen, heard and belong.&quot;

Hear some of what the Nanny&rsquo;s checked references have to say:

&ldquo;Yes, the family she will be be very lucky to have this Nanny, they really don&#39;t want to let the Nanny go so they still have the Nanny one day scheduled per week, because the Nanny is like family to them.&rdquo;

&ldquo;The Nanny is excellent at handling Newborns. Also very helpful, The Nanny taught parenting styles and sleeping routines. The Nanny knows the children individually, and is fond of doing crafts, and different activities, and the Nany is very cheerful and reliable.&rdquo;

This Nanny has been recruited by Placement Solutions using our thorough screening methods developed over 35 years of expertise in the recruitment sector. The Nanny has been pre-screened, interviewed, reference checked and inducted into our Agency.

All Nannies are offered legal pay, support, and professional development through Placement  Solutions. This Nanny of course has all her relevant certifications such as current first aid, WWC and national police check as well as undergoing In house  Covid Training and Child Protection training.

If you are interested in talking about this Nanny,  

Please Click Here 

and enter Nanny Northside in the subject line and nominate the best time for us to talk to you.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/letting-you-know-we-have-a-great-nanny-available-for-northside-and-inner-melbourne-ready-right-now5</guid>
<pubDate>09 Mar 2023 07:43:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/tully-and-the-realities-of-a-newborn-care-specialist-at-night3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Night Nanny Melbourne and Sydney; Tully and the realities of a Newborn Care Specialist at night]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Our own night nanny and newborn care specialist night shift service is designed specifically to provide the respite that so many mothers need.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Few movies capture the realities of the first weeks with a new baby better than Tully.

Tully tells the story of Marlo, already mother of two children (aged five and eight), who has a third, unplanned, child. Receiving virtually no help from a switched-off husband, and not wanting to have other family around, Marlo struggles to cope with the ensuing chaos &ndash; though Marlo herself is not conscious of this. Warning: the mess of toys and washing is very real!

Finally, Marlo&rsquo;s brother employs a night nanny (what we now call a Newborn Care Specialist) for Marlo and everything changes. Working overnight, Tully is a miracle worker. She is vivacious and energetic. When the baby wakes she delivers her to Marlo in her bedroom for feeding. While the baby sleeps she makes cupcakes for Marlo&rsquo;s son to take to school. In short, Tully turns things around for Marlo &ndash; or seems to &ndash; until the twist in the tale that I&rsquo;m not going to reveal here.

I attended a screening of Tully that was organised by Pinky McKay &ndash; parenting author, lactation consultant, mother of five and old friend &ndash; as a fundraiser, and at which we gave away a night&rsquo;s care from one of our newborn care specialists. Most of the audience were young mothers (many with a baby in their arms) and the film certainly seemed to strike a chord. At least I hope it did.

My observation is that in today&rsquo;s Australia there are far too many women who, like Marlo, refuse to realise they are struggling to cope in the early weeks of a new baby, and further refuse to seek or ask for help. The prevailing philosophy seems to be that &lsquo;I can handle this myself &ndash; and if I can&rsquo;t I&rsquo;m a failure&rsquo;.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

When I was a new mother I had the luxury of 10 days in hospital before I was sent home &ndash; not a couple of days as often happens now. That gave me time to not only rest but also to learn many of the basics from the maternity nurses on the ward. Even after all of that I still had trouble getting my baby to sleep, to the point that I eventually checked myself into the then Queen Elizabeth Centre for four days of sleep training and, importantly, rest. I came out of that experience with a new sleeping routine and a much-improved quality of life for me and my baby.

My point is that it wasn&rsquo;t easy then &hellip; so there&rsquo;s no reason why it should be easy now. There&rsquo;s nothing wrong with being overwhelmed, with having trouble getting your baby to sleep or even with being downright exhausted. Even the most capable mothers can find themselves overwrought by the challenge of caring for a new baby.

It has always been this way, all over the world. It&rsquo;s why, in many cultures even today, the grandmother and other women in the village play a central role in caring for a newborn.

Of course, the nature of a country like Australia is that even new mothers who are willing to accept help find themselves living geographically separated from extended family, which adds another challenge. However, this doesn&rsquo;t mean that there is no help available.

Sleep centres still exist and can help break the cycle of exhaustion. And of course, our own Newborn Care Specialist night shift service is designed specifically to provide the respite that so many mothers need. Our NCSs, who are all experienced at what they do, take over the caring of an infant overnight allowing parents to get some much-needed uninterrupted sleep. As few as three nights in the first week out of hospital can make all the difference, and it need not be excessively expensive. In some cases, government assistance is available and can help provide an NCS for up to 4 months. This is known as ACCS and you must meet the requirement of being in home childcare eligible.  The definition of a newborn is for the first 4 months or 16 weeks of its life.This is a definition provided by the International Nanny Association of which we are a long time member.

Marlo&rsquo;s story in Tully is ultimately one of coping with post-natal depression, which of course is even more serious. I&rsquo;ve made the point many times before that self-care is the first principle of motherhood. If you can&rsquo;t look after yourself, you have little chance of looking after your new baby. Being willing to seek help is the first step. I hope that the film becomes a starting point for more conversation about this topic.

- Louise.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/tully-and-the-realities-of-a-newborn-care-specialist-at-night3</guid>
<pubDate>05 Feb 2023 23:56:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/dreaming-big-on-the-future-of-child-care3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Nanny /Educators Melbourne, Sydney and Tasmania. Dreaming big on the future of child care]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[I&rsquo;ve been &lsquo;dreaming big&rsquo; about what child care could look like and am reprinting this article as Placement Solutions  celebrates its 35th year and we head into a review of the In home childcare scheme. What is &lsquo;best practice&rsquo; when it comes to in-home child care, or what could it be?I don&rsquo;t often read my horoscope though I did notice the other day that it said something about not assuming everyone around you is on the same page. This is actually sound advice, particularly when it comes to talking about child care.

 

Go back to basics and simply ask what children, their parents and their nannies want out of in home child care - the details will vary, but the fundamentals are fairly uniform

As you are no doubt aware, I&rsquo;m not afraid to speak out about what I think child care, and particularly in-home care, should &lsquo;look&rsquo; like.  My book of 2016, The State Of The Nanny  firmly tells it like it is or should  be. Sometimes I still need to remind myself that not everyone has the luxury (or time or inclination) to know that &lsquo;our&rsquo; way of doing child care in Australia is not the only way.

As we head into a new round of changes to the Australian childcare sector, I&rsquo;ve been &lsquo;dreaming big&rsquo; about what child care could look like. What is &lsquo;best practice&rsquo; when it comes to in-home care, or what could it be?

I think the best way to approach this question is to go back to basics and simply ask what children, their parents and their nannies want out of in home child care. Obviously the details will vary from person to person, but I believe the fundamentals are fairly uniform.

Starting with children, if they were old enough to articulate their needs I believe they would say they want to be kept safe, without fear. They would say they want the chance to thrive, to learn, to belong. Importantly, children&rsquo;s needs don&rsquo;t change with the type of care they receive. In this regard there should be no distinction between long-day care, family day care and in-home care. Nor should there be any distinction on the basis of their parents income or profession.

Parents everywhere &ndash; I would say this is the case in all developed countries at the very least &ndash; want access to quality assured, affordable child care. This is the case regardless of income level. There is no reason why those on lower incomes would want this any less than those on higher incomes. In addition, most parents want to be able to take time off work if necessary to look after their kids, such as when a child is unwell. Importantly they want to be able to do this without having to feel guilty about it &ndash; as if they are somehow disloyal for doing so &ndash; and again regardless of their role or income level.

Familes that are experiencing  vulnerability  or in crisis need to know help can be organised efficiently, compassionately ,affordably and quickly with no sacrifice to quality care and to their nanny/ eductaors being paid legally.and that government funding may apply.Parents want to know that whatever form of child care they choose, and no matter which provider they choose, a certain acceptable level of quality is guaranteed. They increasingly recognise that education starts from day one; it isn&rsquo;t something that can wait until school. So education needs to be built into all forms of child care. Parents also want both accreditation and any subsidies or rebates to be simple and easy to understand.

Finally nannies, also called nanny-educators these days, want to be able to work legally, to have the resources and environment to support their work, to be recognised as the professionals that they are, to have access to further training and education so they can develop their skills, and to be supported by parents, agencies and governments. And of course they want to be paid fairly and receive the same entitlements that any other worker expects.

The Australian system, including the National Quality Framework, provides a good proportion of what I&rsquo;ve just outlined (though it is unfortunate that in-home child care is not fully aligned with that framework &ndash; it should be). However there are some areas in which other countries do things better. There are countries such as Sweden and Finland in which quality child care is guaranteed as a right of all children from newborns to 12-year-olds regardless of their parent&rsquo;s income and employment. There are countries that offer universal paternity leave enabling parents to share the load of staying at home when necessary.

There are countries, such as Finland again, in which childcare subsidies extend even to parents who choose to stay at home, giving parents complete freedom to choose the type of child care that will suit their situation best without having to worry whether or not they are getting the best possible &lsquo;deal&rsquo; from their government. There are countries such as France in which all approved nannies are registered with local government, making choosing a qualified nanny much easier.

I&rsquo;m not suggesting that we need to throw our system away and start again. What I am saying is that we should not rest on our laurels. We should always be looking at what we can do collectively to improve the lot of our children. The more we develop resilient, responsible young people &ndash; regardless of the circumstances that they happen to have been born into &ndash; the more we will be a nation of resilient, responsible adults. And everyone will benefit from that.

Louise. 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/dreaming-big-on-the-future-of-child-care3</guid>
<pubDate>05 Feb 2023 05:03:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/meet-our-staff-members3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Meet our Staff Members]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Christine  joined Placement Solutions in 2015, becoming part of the recruitment department where she sources, screens and employs the best nannies and household managers for our families.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Christine joined Placement Solutions in 2015, becoming part of the recruitment department where she sources, screens and employs the best nannies and household managers for our families. Work experience in a childcare centre in Christine&rsquo;s early career sparked a passion for children in her. However she did not initially work in our industry.

She completed a Diploma of Hospitality Management and a Bachelor of Business in Tourism and Enterprise Management in 2004 and from there worked in office environments in the retail and service sectors, including in recruitment.

Joining Placement Solutions allowed her to combine that early passion with her recruitment skills. Christine believes that &lsquo;in order to provide a good service, you must recruit the right people&rsquo; and she carries this belief through all the work she does for us.

Still with us in 2023 and working in the Client Services section Christine recruits, screens, places and nurtures both client families and nannies. She is keen to help you. 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/meet-our-staff-members3</guid>
<pubDate>03 Feb 2023 14:07:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/what-most-parents-dont-know-about-having-a-nanny3</link>
<title><![CDATA[What most parents don&#39;t know about having a Nanny/Educator !]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[There is much more that you need to consider when choosing a Nanny or household manager for your little ones - training, experience, holding the relevant checks.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[1. Not all Nannies are created equal. 

Don&rsquo;t rush your decision, just because you need help NOW. Yes, it&rsquo;s important to have First Aid, be loving and perhaps even hold a driver&rsquo;s licence, but there is SO. MUCH. MORE that you need to consider when choosing a Nanny or household manager for your little ones. Training, experience, holding the relevant checks&hellip; the list goes on.

2. Mamma knows best? Sometimes &ndash; yes. Other times - professional Nanny agencies know best.

When selecting a Nanny, do you know which questions to ask a reference? How do you know that those references are genuine? Do you check to see that the Nanny&rsquo;s documentation is legitimate and up to date? Sometimes, with very little parenting experience under your belt, it&rsquo;s best to trust the professionals and go through an agency to recruit your ideal Nanny.

3. They aren&rsquo;t there to replace you.

Yes, it&rsquo;s sad when maternity leave comes to an end and you must go back to work &ndash; &ldquo;so soon?!?!&rdquo;. And yep, you&rsquo;ll probably feel guilty and maybe a little confused. All totally normal. Having a Nanny can make the transition a lot easier than the alternative of dropping your little one at Long Day Care and walking away from their teary eyes. Having your child cared for in their own environment, developing a trusted relationship with their Nanny, and the unparalleled convenience of you returning home from work to find baby fed and bathed&hellip; These can all help settle your mind and ease your transition back into work.

4. Nannies are professionals and can coach you.

If you&rsquo;ve hired a legit, professional Nanny, they can likely help you with all the &lsquo;new parent&rsquo; challenges you&rsquo;re facing &ndash; after all, this is their career! Many Nannies have been looking after children for YEARS and years, so use the expertise that&rsquo;s at your disposal and learn from your Nanny. They are, in most cases, only too happy to pass on their knowledge to a new parent.

5. Nannies love to be included.

OK, so this is a somewhat grey area. Often, when families are celebrating things like children&rsquo;s birthdays, they don&rsquo;t invite the Nanny. Not to exclude them, but they assume that the Nanny would feel obligated to attend on what may be their day off. Heed our advice &ndash; JUST ASK!! Let your Nanny know it&rsquo;s perfectly OK to say &ldquo;no&rdquo; and that you respect their personal time, but what you see as being considerate (by NOT inviting them), they may see as exclusionary. Let them make the choice. Remember, your Nanny plays a significant role in your child&rsquo;s life &ndash; and should be invited to be part of the celebrations!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/what-most-parents-dont-know-about-having-a-nanny3</guid>
<pubDate>03 Feb 2023 04:25:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/getting-the-behaviour-you-and-your-nanny-would-like2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Getting the behaviour you &#150; and your Nanny &#150; would like]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[I met Deborah, at the last INA Conference and thought it would a good idea to share her thoughts, particularly on parent/Nanny/household manager relationships.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[ 

&ldquo;No matter someone&rsquo;s background &ndash; their education level, their socioeconomic resources, their culture, their religion, their language &ndash; no matter what their family looks like in a picture &ndash; everybody struggles with parenting.&rdquo;

This is one of the many reassuring things Dr Deborah Gilboa likes to remind parents when she speaks to them (and writes for them).

I met Deborah, who is also known as &lsquo;Doctor G&rsquo;, at the last INA Conference and thought it would a good idea to share some of her thoughts, particularly on the issue of parent/Nanny/household manager relationships.

Pittsburgh-based Doctor G has been a family doctor for 14 years. She is the mother of four sons herself (aged between five and 12) and appears regularly in the American media on the topic of parenting. Her new book, Getting the behaviour you want ... without being the parent you hate, was released on September 10.

Deborah&rsquo;s advice is built around three &lsquo;R&rsquo;s which she believes every parent would like to see in their children: respect, responsibility and resilience. 

&ldquo;I want kids to express themselves respectfully (to know what that means and choose to do it most of the time), have a good work ethic, and handle it when things don&rsquo;t go their way. With these three Rs they&rsquo;ll be able to accomplish almost any goal they set for themselves.&rdquo;

In Deborah&rsquo;s view, too much parenting advice is premised on a particular philosophy of parenting, whether that be &lsquo;authoritarian parenting&rsquo; or &lsquo;attachment parenting&rsquo; or &lsquo;evangelical parenting&rsquo;. She doesn&rsquo;t believe this is helpful &ndash; in practice every parent will be all of these things at different times. It&rsquo;s more useful to focus on those things &ndash; like respect, responsibility and resilience &ndash; that are essentially common goals.

Parents who can accept this are able to be more relaxed and flexible in their approach to parenting. Importantly, they have the freedom to draw on the ideas and experiences of a great many others &ndash; regardless of background, culture or philosophy.

If parents can bring a similarly open mind to the way they interact with their nannies, all the better. &ldquo;Nannies are child development specialists and it is a huge advantage for parents to hire a child development specialist to spend a large number of hours a week with their kids in their own home.&rdquo; However, they also need to be willing to take advantage of this expertise: to accept their Nanny&rsquo;s feedback as valid rather than seeing it as a criticism.

The best scenario is where parents and Nanny are able to share a goal for a particular child, then work towards that goal cooperatively (see example below). This requires trust and communication, of course, but it also requires the nannies to be willing to see themselves as child development specialists. This, of course, talks to the professionalism that we are constantly trying to promote at Placement Solutions.

 

Louise

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Working together to change behaviour


 

An issue Doctor G has seen many modern parents grapple with is resilience. It&rsquo;s so easy to do things for our kids these days, but that doesn&rsquo;t mean that we should. Building resilience often means kids not automatically getting things their own way &ndash; and unfortunately when in-home child care is involved, it can be the Nanny who bears the brunt of the push-back when this happens.

&ldquo;It&rsquo;s really hard as a caregiver when you agree with the parents that the kids should have a couple of chores to do when they get home from school, and you&rsquo;re willing to take charge of them doing those things, but then you have the parents arriving home and greeted by a tantrum,&rdquo; says Deborah. It&rsquo;s even harder when the parent just wants you to quieten things down, even if that means placating the child &ndash; and undoing all your hard work in the process.

Deborah suggests that these are situations for a Nanny to be proactive. First it&rsquo;s essential to agree on a goal, and on a strategy to get there (e.g. no television until the playroom is tidied up). Then, should things get chaotic, try to meet the parent at the door and say something like, &ldquo;I&rsquo;m happy to see you. Remember we agreed to work on Johnny tidying his room? Well, we&rsquo;ve been working on that and what you&rsquo;re about to see and hear is Johnny&rsquo;s reaction to learning that responsibility.&rdquo;

 

 

Getting the behaviour you want ... without being the parent you hate by Deborah Gilboa, MD, is widely available as a paperback via online stores and as an ebook in the Apple iBookstore and Amazon Kindle store amongst others.

 

 

 

 

 

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/getting-the-behaviour-you-and-your-nanny-would-like2</guid>
<pubDate>02 Feb 2023 21:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/7-things-to-ask-your-nanny-before-you-engage-them2</link>
<title><![CDATA[7 Things to Ask your Nanny/Educator Before you Engage Them]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Things to consider when hiring an occasional or permanent nannies include previous experiences, dealing with issues and how do you discipline a child. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[After 35 years in the business, you can trust us

We specialise in helping you find the perfect nanny for your family. Do not stress about the thought of letting someone else look after your child for the first time that isn&rsquo;t you or family. Not sure how someone could do the job that you do with them each day? After 35  years in the business, you can trust us as we understand the stress you are going through and we can rest assure you that weonly  have professional house keepers.

Compulsory Screening

Aside from all the other screening we do of our employees, we of course also check first aid, police check and WWCC. Our Nannies also complete a Child protection course and attend professional development in both webinar and onsite form.

 When you finally meet the nanny for an interview to see how you gel with face to face, it can be the most daunting part of the entire process.

Things to consider when hiring an occasional or permanent nannies

The best place to start is with the following questions:


	What is your previous experience?
	What age appropriate activities would you do to assist in my child&#39;s development?
	What can you bring to our family?
	What do you think it takes to be a great nanny?
	How do you deal with issues between yourself and a client?
	How do you discipline a child?
	What do you love about being a nanny?
	Expect a paper profile from us before the interview where you can learn of some of the childcare attributes and philosphy of each individidual nanny.
	 

]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/7-things-to-ask-your-nanny-before-you-engage-them2</guid>
<pubDate>01 Feb 2023 23:33:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/prospects3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Looking for a  Nanny /Educator? Eligible for In home Childcare?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[We have 35 years experience as childcare recruitment agency operators and a proven recruitment and screening system in place to help you quickly.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Parents tell us every day that there are limited childcare places available and in some areas across Melbourne there are none. However, there are plenty of nannies available.

Getting the right nanny for you is our aim at Placement Solutions. We take the guesswork out of the process and provide peace of mind for you. We have 35 years experience as childcare recruitment agency operators and a proven recruitment and screening system in place to help you quickly.

Not convinced yet? Although we&#39;re not the cheapest childcare around, we do believe that we offer you the lowest total cost solution because we do our job.

Check our credentials by asking other agencies:


	How long have they been in business?
	What professional associations do they belong to?
	Do they offer government childcare subsidy and if so do they follow the National In-home Care Standards?
	Do they employ their nannies?
	How do they screen their nannies?
	How and where do they interview and train them?
	How do they induct them into the job? 


If you don&rsquo;t get answers that satisfy you then call us to arrange an interview to begin the process of finding fully screened, legally employed and supported nannies. We do the work so you get peace of mind.

Note: Many clients are eligible for in-home care government rebates. Check your eligibilty here.https://www.education.gov.au/child-care-package/child-care-subsidy/approved-care-types/home-care

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/prospects3</guid>
<pubDate>01 Feb 2023 07:03:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/five-common-mistakes-made-by-new-parents2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Five common mistakes made by new parents]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[With 35 years of experience in the in home childcare industry means Louise has seen a lot of parents grappling with the challenges of a new baby.
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<content><![CDATA[Okay. Let&rsquo;s clear the air before we start, because I can feel the heckles rising on the necks of every new and expectant mother reading this article. &ldquo;What does Louise know about modern parenting?&rdquo; I hear you saying. &ldquo;She&rsquo;s a grandmother! Things have changed. They&rsquo;re different now.&rdquo;

I&rsquo;ll make two points in my defence.

First, 35 years experience in the in home childcare industry means I have seen a lot of parents grappling with the challenges of a new baby, in all sorts of situations. Thirty five years. Do the maths - That is half my lifetime.That&rsquo;s an entire generation, and a lot of parents making the same mistakes over and over.

Second, things aren&rsquo;t so different today, no matter how much today&rsquo;s generation like to think otherwise. (Believe me, my generation thought we were different too, as did every generation before us.) Another lesson of my 35  years in this business is that the basics remain the much the same regardless of what is going on in the wider world.

So here&rsquo;s my entirely non-scientific list of five common mistakes made by new parents.

1. Not setting a routine

Most people love the free-and-easy life they lead &lsquo;before children&rsquo;. Sleeping late, rising later on the weekend, eating at whatever hour the urge strikes, eating out on a whim. And many parents believe that they&rsquo;ll be able to maintain that lifestyle once the baby arrives. The baby will just have to fit in. Unfortunately the reality is not like that. Babies are creatures of habit. In order to feel safe they need to have some rhythm in their young lives. Not rock-solid rhythm like the four-hourly feeds that were trendy in the sixties, but a reasonably robust routine around sleep times and, as they grow, meal times. Don&rsquo;t worry, you will be able to revert to your laissez faire lifestyle again. It just might take a decade or two.

2. Underestimating how tired both parents will be

To some extent there is no point in writing this, because it is almost impossible to understand how tiring parenting is until you are a parent. Every expectant parent is told this, and few of them really understand. So if you are a parent-to-be, just take it as read: you will be constantly tired, and a lot more tired than you ever thought it was possible to be.

3. Not organising a help roster before the birth

In the first 12 weeks in particular, you will need all the help you can get. This period is commonly called the 4 th trimester where baby is getting used to being outside, so to speak the mother is in recovery from the birth and the family are bonding and getting used to the profound changes in their life.    Particularly if one of you is working, you&rsquo;ll want as many pre-made meals as you can get your hands on. You&rsquo;ll need your baby watched by someone else for an hour here or there in order to get some cleaning done and to fold the endless &ndash; endless &ndash; pile of washing. However once the baby arrives you won&rsquo;t have time to plan any of this, so create a roster and delegate as many tasks as you can to helpful family and friends before the big day.

4. Not accepting help at all

Worse than not planning for help is failing to accept offers of help at all. Everyone who has had a child knows how crazy the first few months are going to be, and many will offer help in various forms. Yes, I know you want to be independent and self-sufficient and I know you think you can pull it off, but when offers of help come, accept them. Don&rsquo;t argue. Just say, &ldquo;Yes, thank you.&rdquo; It&rsquo;s not that hard.

5. Being too hard on yourselves

Give yourselves a break. Seriously. I don&rsquo;t know how many times I&rsquo;ve met new parents who feel they are failing. They had grand plans before their baby&rsquo;s birth. They weren&rsquo;t going to be like the other parents they knew &ndash; the ones they saw struggling to cope, whose once-tidy homes had become bomb sites and for whom going out for a meal just got too hard. Then when they become exactly those parents they beat themselves up about it. Don&rsquo;t. Being a parent is hard work and no-one ever gets it completely right, so just do the best you can and your baby will love you for it.

If you think something else should have made this list, let us know in the comments below.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/five-common-mistakes-made-by-new-parents2</guid>
<pubDate>31 Jan 2023 14:49:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/whats-in-your-nanny-resource-box2</link>
<title><![CDATA[What&#39;s in your Nanny Resource Box?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[With new years resolutions the topic of conversation in January, what better time to get your Resource Box organised or set up?
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[With new years resolutions the topic of conversation in January, what better time to get your Resource Box organised or set up?

Resource Boxes are a fantastic way to show a family how proactive you are by already having a few activities/games handy and ready to go. Items such as books, games, craft activities and toys are always exciting for kids &ndash; for some reason, the Nanny&rsquo;s treasure chest of goodies is so much more exciting than things they already own!

Here are a few items that we love including:


	Books -  for a variety of age groups. If working with just one family for an extended period of time, the books should be more specific to those children where possible. Activity/colouring books are also great for younger children, and educational activity books are a great way to get/keep your little friends on track for school.
	Games - Uno, block games, bubbles, soft toys, pick up sticks (in a sealed container &ndash; these can be sharp!), memory, wooden animals, puzzles, small lego sets, bingo (can be homemade and tailored to the child&#39;s interests) and a dice. The dice may seem strange, but we love using them for a game called Roll a Monster. There are a variety of variations to this one, so we recommend doing some research or just making up your own rules!
	
	Craft supplies - Stickers, colouring pages, crayons, blank paper, tissue paper, paddle pop sticks, pom poms, paints (non-toxic for those preschool aged, or here&rsquo;s a recipe for Edible Paint for babies) &ndash; the options are endless!
	


Other winners include:


	magnetic letters/numbers for the fridge,
	a soft ball,
	CDs with age-appropriate music/portable speaker to play music from your phone,
	clapping sticks,
	ribbon wands,
	play doh (store bought is easy, home made is FUN!),
	water beads (strictly 3+ as these are a choking hazard for our smaller friends),
	kinetic sand,
	number/alphabet cards,
	toy cars


&hellip;and so much more!

Another benefit of setting up your Resource box in January is taking advantage of back to school prices. Discount variety stores are fantastic for stocking up on cheap items, as well as the odd scan of your local op shops/thrift stores. By purchasing from an op shop/thrift store, you&rsquo;re also helping the environment by giving pre-loved items a new lease on life! Don&rsquo;t forget - be sure to hold onto your receipts &ndash; anything you purchase for work for your resource box is tax deductible!

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/whats-in-your-nanny-resource-box2</guid>
<pubDate>24 Jan 2023 05:55:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/5-ways-to-calm-your-nerves-before-your-job-interview4</link>
<title><![CDATA[5 ways to calm your nerves before your job interview]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Preparing for your job interview can be as simple as having a good understanding of the family you are wanting to work for.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[1-Learn about the Family

It is very important to have a good understanding of the Family you are wanting to work for, what they do and when they started. 

2-Give yourself plenty of travel time and try on your outfit the night before

Ensuring you are on time for your interview, 5 to 10 minutes early is a must! Its always a good idea to drive to the location before the day of the interview, time how long it took you to get there and note the parking in the area as well as traffic conditions. That way, on the day of your interview, you aren&rsquo;t driving around lost or unable find suitable parking.

Also, try on your outfit the night before. It saves you trying to search for something suitable to wear half an hour before the interview. Preparation is key.

3-Get plenty of rest and make sure you eat

The night before the interview, it is a good idea to go to bed at a reasonable time to get enough rest, so you are switched on and ready to impress at your interview.

Eating before your interview is also a clever idea to get the extra boost of energy and not having to be in the interview with a rumbling tummy.

4-Practise responding to interview questions

Before your interview, it is a good idea to sit and try to pre-empt some of the questions they may ask during the interview and how you would respond to those questions. There will always be a few questions that can catch you off guard, but it is a good idea to try have some answers in your mind you don&rsquo;t need to think about.

5-SMILE

Always smile during the interview! It will help relax you and make a great impression.
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<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/5-ways-to-calm-your-nerves-before-your-job-interview4</guid>
<pubDate>06 Jan 2023 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/7-reasons-why-you-should-nanny-through-an-agency3</link>
<title><![CDATA[7 reasons WHY you should Nanny through an Agency]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[While operating as a &lsquo;solo&rsquo; Nanny may seem an attractive idea, it can also be challenging- Here are 7 reasons to work through an agency.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[While operating as a &lsquo;solo&rsquo; Nanny may seem an attractive idea at first &ndash; &lsquo;being your own boss&rsquo; and all that &ndash; in practice, it can be challenging. Here are seven reasons why it is worth considering working through an agency rather than going it alone.


	
	Support
	


It&rsquo;s a paradox, given a nanny is almost always working with other people, but being a nanny can be a lonely existence. Yes, you have your Client parents who you can discuss many child-related concerns with, but at the end of the day they are your employers and so there will always be some things you are reticent to raise. On the other hand, should you have issues with those parents, you can hardly raise those with the kids! Working through an agency gives you people to discuss your concerns with, whether it is the agency staff or other nannies. A reputable agency will also have established procedures in place for dealing with even the most awkward or confronting situations that could arise. With an agency, you&rsquo;re not on your own.


	
	Mentoring
	


If you&rsquo;re serious about nannying as a career, you&rsquo;ll be serious about learning all you can from the experience of those who&rsquo;ve gone before you. Working through an agency provides you with access to a whole range of experience, and often the potential to receive mentoring over time from someone who&rsquo;s &lsquo;been there before&rsquo;. This is an invaluable resource you won&rsquo;t get working on your own.


	
	Networking
	


&lsquo;A problem shared is a problem halved&rsquo; goes the old saying. Working with a reputable agency provides you with a network of other nannies on whom you can call to discuss just about any challenge. This network will also be an ongoing resource for comparing ideas and sharing experiences.  


	
	Legal
	


The only circumstances in which you can legally work as a &lsquo;solo&rsquo; nanny is if you are directly and &lsquo;properly&rsquo; employed by the people you are working for. It is illegal under Australian law to work for cash-in-hand: you cannot legally earn money that is not being declared to the tax department (ATO). On the other hand, you cannot work as a contractor (using your own ABN) unless you are operating a legitimate business, which includes not having all your income from one client. In either case you are likely to be exposed to the risks of not having workers compensation cover, professional liability and superannuation guarantee payments. An agency looks after all this legality and bureaucracy for you &ndash; you are free to just get on with being the best nanny you can be.


	
	Training
	


To be a great Nanny you need to be trained &ndash; and regularly retrained &ndash; in areas like First Aid and managing behaviours. While a solo Nanny can probably source much of this training herself, chances are it will be expensive and may not be directly relevant to nannying and child care. Agencies, on the other hand, can target industry-specific training programs and provide that training at a low cost, if not no cost.


	
	Professional development
	


Like every other field of human endeavour, the field of child care is constantly changing. Every day there are innovations and revelations in everything from first aid to education to health and wellbeing. Good agencies are well placed to stay on top of these developments and to share them with their Nannies via regular professional development workshops. This is much harder to do on your own, where you are necessarily much more isolated from what&rsquo;s going on in the wider world of the industry.


	
	Respect
	


Of course, it is possible for the Nanny who goes it alone to have the respect of her clients and those she is caring for. But sadly, in our experience this respect is by no means guaranteed. For instance, it doesn&rsquo;t take much for a client&rsquo;s perception of you to shift from &lsquo;Professional Nanny&rsquo; to &lsquo;Housekeeper&rsquo;. As an agency, we won&rsquo;t tolerate disrespectful behaviour from anyone: client or otherwise. Work through a good agency and &ndash; provided you earn it &ndash; you can be assured of respect from the agency staff, from your colleagues and from your clients.

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/7-reasons-why-you-should-nanny-through-an-agency3</guid>
<pubDate>06 Jan 2023 01:52:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/what-do-we-typically-learn-at-a-placement-solutions-professional-development-day-for-nannies3</link>
<title><![CDATA[What do we typically learn at a Placement Solutions Professional Development Day for nannies?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Continuous learning is so important to career nannies and this session looked at the importance of play or, more specifically, the importance of unstructured play.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In a session held some years ago now we looked at the importance of play or, more specifically, the importance of unstructured play. 

Louise Dorrat, early childhood consultant and educator, counsels that kids need to give more scope to be themselves than is often now the case. They don&rsquo;t need constant organised stimulation, and parents and carers should worry less about whether they &ldquo;are they learning something today&rsquo;.

Louise spoke in terms of the three tenets of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF): belonging, being and becoming. 

Kids need to know where and with whom they belong. They need to have the chance to just be in the here and now. And we (carers and parents) need to recognise the importance of letting children become their individual selves as they learn and grow.

What this means in practice is less &lsquo;helicopter parenting&rsquo; &ndash; less parental/carer anxiety.

It means spending more time outside with the kids being left alone to play. It means not constantly asking them what they&rsquo;re doing, but rather just letting them get on with it. And it means not feeling like they need something new to do &ndash; allowing them the luxury of getting to the point where they&rsquo;re bored. When it comes to play, your job is to be remain in the background.

Following on that theme was the very entertaining Graham Davey, performance storyteller. Graham emphasised the role of belonging in home reading. He argued that kids see reading time as less about the book, much more about the opportunity to be with you. In fact, he recommended that when reading to a child, you should choose the book &ndash; one that you enjoy reading &ndash; as this will make for a better experience for both of you. For the same reason, Graham also suggested that reading time should sometimes happen when kids are wide awake, not just before bed.

One of the other tips he gave which I really liked was to make sure you use the free resources available to you for reading &ndash; your local library. He suggested giving a child a library card as an impromptu gift, something that they can use to access all the books they could ever want.

We all left this seminar reinvigorated, and with renewed appreciation for the need to let kids be kids.

This information is as relevant today as it was back then.

Note since this was written in 2012, Graham Davey has sadly passed away. His wit and kindness are sorely missed but I hope that the joy he instilled in readers will live on.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/what-do-we-typically-learn-at-a-placement-solutions-professional-development-day-for-nannies3</guid>
<pubDate>04 Jan 2023 23:01:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/know-the-company-that-you-are-looking-to-work-for4</link>
<title><![CDATA[Know the company that you are looking to work for&#133;]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[You have secured an interview with Placement Solutions and you feel excited about the prospects of working for the agency as a Nanny or Household Manager. But a wave of dread comes across you, what do you really know about us? How do we differ from other agencies? What can we offer you? Are we the right fit for you? So many questions fill your mind&hellip;
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[You have secured an interview with Placement Solutions and you feel excited about the prospects of working for the agency as a Nanny or Household Manager. But a wave of dread comes across you, what do you really know about us? How do we differ from other agencies? What can we offer you? Are we the right fit for you? So many questions fill your mind&hellip;

Well take a breath and start to put your nerves at ease, jump online and start doing your research. Just make sure you don&#39;t overwhelm yourself and get stressed out trying to remember every little detail you&#39;ve learnt about us along the way!

Remember an interview is a two way street, not only do we want to ensure that you are the right fit for us, but you also need to determine whether we are the right fit for you.

So where do you start? Check out these 4 key areas to get you started!


	Website
	http://www.placementsolutions.com.au/
	
	First step is to check out our website for some basic information. The &lsquo;About&rsquo; section, &lsquo;Nannies&rsquo; section, &lsquo;Home Management&rsquo; section, along with the &lsquo;Jobs&rsquo; section are great for information on what we do, the types of roles we have and what we can offer.
	 
	Social Media
	Facebook
	
	Second step is to check out our social media account to get a better sense of who we are. Take a look at how we interact with the community, and have a look at the type of content we post. How do we promote ourselves and engage with the community. Pictures and videos can give you an idea of our values and culture.
	 
	Company Profile/Current Employees
	LinkedIn
	
	Third step is to have a look at any LinkedIn profiles. It&#39;s a professional social media platform, so the information or news you find will be related to us. The advantage of LinkedIn is the people it can put you in touch with. If you have the names of those people who&#39;ll be interviewing you, look us up. The information listed will hopefully give you an insight into our position and what we value as an employer.
	 
	Company &amp; Industry News
	
	Fourth step is to really look at impressing by understand what is occurring in the world of Placement Solutions and within the nanny industry as a whole. Search for any news articles or company blogs (like this one). This will ensure you can gain an insight into what we care about and what direction we are heading. Learning about some of the activities we do and are involved in will give you the opportunity to discuss how you could assist us, making you a more valuable asset to us.


It may seem like a lot of effort, and it may not seem worth it to you. But knowing exactly what you&#39;re talking about in an interview is worth the effort. Add examples of the information you&#39;ve learnt into your answers and show how enthusiastic you are about coming to work for us! So do your research and you&#39;ll be able to confidently and convincingly answer when asked&hellip; Why do you want to work for Placement Solutions and what do you know about us?

The Recruitment Team
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/know-the-company-that-you-are-looking-to-work-for4</guid>
<pubDate>04 Jan 2023 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/lets-talk-ethicssoft-skills-as-important-factor-in-your-application3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Let&#39;s talk Ethics&#133;Soft Skills as important factor in your application]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Working in childcare means working in an industry that is loaded with ethical and moral questions, values and opinions; even more so when it is in-home childcare. It can be quite easy to oversee what lies right in front of you. That&rsquo;s why we as recruiters try to point out the important facts right from the beginning. And besides a screening of your &lsquo;hard&rsquo; skills, such as knowledge of child development, skills in settling, nappy changes and activity planning, this also involves an assessment of your &lsquo;soft&rsquo; skills such as communication skills and, you guessed it, ethical values and positions.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Working in childcare means working in an industry that is loaded with ethical and moral questions, values and opinions; even more so when it is in-home childcare. It can be quite easy to oversee what lies right in front of you. That&rsquo;s why we as recruiters try to point out the important facts right from the beginning. And besides a screening of your &lsquo;hard&rsquo; skills, such as knowledge of child development, skills in settling, nappy changes and activity planning, this also involves an assessment of your &lsquo;soft&rsquo; skills such as communication skills and, you guessed it, ethical values and positions.

Of course as a Nanny agency we are committed to keeping all children safe, happy and healthy. Since we rely on our field employees working in the families&rsquo; homes, we need to have full trust in them and in their work ethics. I suppose you can guess that we wouldn&rsquo;t get a very valid picture if we would just ask you as the applicant directly whether you are reliable, honest and trustworthy, dedicated to their job, respect confidentiality and are tolerant. So we have  a list of soft skills we need to see and we have certain ways on how to assess them.

Below you find a list of some of the most important ethical positions and values we expect in our future employees, why we value them and how we assess them. Rest assured, we pay attention to the little things so it will pay back to ensure that your interaction with us reflects your ethical values from the very first contact.

Dedication to Nannying as professional career path

It is important to show the recruiter that you actually like the job you&rsquo;re applying for since it is a lot more likely that you will commit to it and perform it in a professional way for many years. In order to see whether applicants are dedicated to the job as a Nanny, we not only ask why they want to work as a Nanny but we also assess how much time and effort they put into their application, how relevant the information is that they provide or whether we received just a generic CV suitable for all or no job in specific.  If the latter is the case the applicant is more likely to apply for Nanny positions among others and won&rsquo;t be as dedicated to child care as expected. The way you talk about previous experience and jobs to come can also tell a lot about your dedication. Do you show excitement and enthusiasm? Do you have a clear understanding of the position and the duties included? Finally we also ask your referees about your approach to nannying and childcare within a previous job.

Reliability

Nannies need to be reliable when working in families&rsquo; homes. We expect you to arrive on time and work for the booked hours. We expect you to contact us and the family in case you can&rsquo;t arrive on time or go to work. We expect you to update your details and perform all duties to the expected standards.

We think that reliability is more a general characteristic and an ethical value rather than just a behaviour pattern observed in a specific job. Based on this we assess your behaviour during the recruitment process and see whether you are reliable when it comes to providing information for the interview, following up on outstanding documents and reference checks or responding to messages and phone calls from us.

 

Trustworthiness

Being invited into someone&rsquo;s home is a great privilege and we need to be sure that all our nannies can be trusted. Besides police checks and reference checks we can get a first idea on whether you are trustworthy by checking on whether they provide the same information in verbal answers to interview questions and in your CV. We will always read your CV thoroughly in advance to be able to pick up on possible discrepancies.

Professionalism

Professionalism is very important especially in an industry where many nannies were previously employed cash in hand and without a professional approach. In short, in order to hire a professional nanny we need to take into account all aspects of the application starting from a professional resume, professional communication and presentation at the interview right through to attention and questions at the induction. A professional nanny will not only interact professionally with the agency but also maintain professional boundaries with families, communicate professionally with them and approach the daily job responsibilities in a professional (that means guided by set standards rather than individual gut feeling) way.

Good work mentality

Since nannies work most of the time without supervision we need to be sure that you won&rsquo;t check personal social media during working hours, don&rsquo;t engage in private relationships with clients, provide a high quality service, respect the family&rsquo;s parenting style and be pro-active but respectful at all times.

We can get an idea about this characteristic when asking in interviews behavioural questions about how you would behave in a certain situation but we can also get clues from your approach to the application. Do you ask questions about how to perform certain tasks according to company standards? Do you understand the professional Nanny-Family-Relationship? Do you go the extra mile to impress us by being especially well prepared, having read about the company in advance and participating actively in every step of the recruitment process?

Integrity

Looking at integrity we want to see whether you as the Nanny are a good role model for children, will always respect them as individuals and interact with them according to their needs providing a stimulating, safe and nurturing environment. How we perceive is often how we think a family will perceive you. So we consider whether we feel respected and recognised. Of course it is different interacting with adults and children but if you don&rsquo;t feel respected it is definitely a red flag and needs to be analysed further.

Assessing all those points will give us an idea on the ethical attitude of you but it is always worth remembering that especially interviews are exceptional situations where excitement might influence performance. Assessing ethical values is only another piece we add to complete the picture of an applicant.

Which ethical values are most important for you as the Nanny? Share your experiences in the comments below.


The Recruitment Team
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<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/lets-talk-ethicssoft-skills-as-important-factor-in-your-application3</guid>
<pubDate>03 Jan 2023 15:37:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/interview-styles-one-approach-doesnt-fit-all3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Interview styles - One approach doesn&#39;t fit all]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[With the Nanny Pilot being in full flow the recruitment department faces lots of first times and novelties. We do have interviews in recruitment offices in small towns, interviews in family&rsquo;s homes, interviews with children and dogs around; we have skype interviews and inductions and we can see nannies interacting with children.

Those different situations make it easy to see advantages and disadvantages of each and we thought it a great time to compare different interview styles.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[With the Nanny Pilot being in full flow the recruitment department faces lots of first times and novelties. We do have interviews in recruitment offices in small towns, interviews in family&rsquo;s homes, interviews with children and dogs around; we have skype interviews and inductions and we can see nannies interacting with children.

Those different situations make it easy to see advantages and disadvantages of each and we thought it a great time to compare different interview styles.

Upfront it is worth mentioning that working in an industry where trust is the most important, detailed interviews are not just an additional feature but of utmost importance. Potential nannies need to find out whether we are the right fit for them and we of course want to know whether we feel comfortable placing those nannies with our families.

Keeping that in mind the following differences bring certain advantages and disadvantages apply to different interview styles.

Structures vs. unstructured interviews:

While unstructured interviews provide the opportunity of an informal set up in which applicants are likely to open up and fall into chatting mode, we prefer structured interviews with set interview questions in order to ensure all important questions with regards to skills, experience and expectation are asked and also to guarantee a fair process for all applicants. Structured interviews can be used regardless of other circumstances.

Office interviews

The typical form of interviews provides a variety of advantages. Being able to control the environment and prevent interruptions and ensure privacy allows us to focus on the candidate and helps the candidate to focus on the interview. But of course interviewing in a controlled environment has  its challenges, too. Especially interviewing for a position where different skills than presenting skills are needed. We only get insight into the theoretical understanding and behaviour of nannies without being able to see how they perform those duties in the families. In order to balance this possible short coming in-depth reference checks are very important. If you want to read more about reference checks please check out our blog on reference checks.

In-home interviews

As part of the Nanny Pilot Program we did interviews in family homes with the children being around. Using the structured interview questionnaire it provided a good opportunity not only to ask for the theoretical knowledge but also to see them interacting with parents and children. Unfortunately we don&rsquo;t have this opportunity in an office environment so we miss out on great clues about actual behaviour. On the flip side it is difficult to get an applicant to fully concentrate on the interview when the children are around and she has an eye on them at all times. While this of course shows a great quality to look out for in potential nannies it can lead to lengthy interviews interrupted by children, repetitions and clarifications. Another possible issue is that parents are often around so nannies might be less open than in an office environment.

Telephone Interviews

While telephone interviews definitely seem to be a convenient way of getting information from a candidate with everyone having a smart phone and being available pretty much 24/7 we believe that information provided in an interview is as much transmitted through body language as it is through verbal clues. Since the entire body language, appearance and attitude is lost in telephone calls they are difficult to use as sole judgement for the quality of an applicant. We do call applicants for pre-screens but insist on visual interviews in order to capture as many clues about the suitability of applicants as possible.

Zoom/ Skype and Teams Interviews

Providing quality child care for families not only in Melbourne but all over Victoria confronts us with Australia&rsquo;s challenge of long distances and remote areas. In order to prevent those factors to interrupt our work flow we started using modern technology to our advantage. Zoom/ Skype and Teams are  a great way to interview nannies, see their body language, their way of expressing themselves and their entire appearance without having to travel 8 hours to Mildura. The applicant on the other side gets an idea of the agency, our commitment to provide flexible service for applicants and at the same time the guarantee that we don&rsquo;t compromise quality under any circumstance. Of course an interview over the computer lacks some of the personal experience a face-to-face interview can provide hence our families in those remote areas all get the chance to interview the nannies themselves. This double interview process ensures that nannies pass not only our recruitment criteria in a professional interview with our trained staff members but also convinced the family in a face-to-face interview proving inter-personal skills.

In summary all different interview styles have advantages and disadvantages and the individual situation will determine which style is most appropriate. In addition to interviews thorough reference and background checks and a clear induction is necessary to guarantee a great service for nannies and families.

We are curious, what do you think which style is best suited and do you have a preference for your own recruitment or other forms of interviews? Share your experience in the comments below.

The Recruitment Team
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/interview-styles-one-approach-doesnt-fit-all3</guid>
<pubDate>03 Jan 2023 15:06:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/between-invitation-call-and-interview-communicate-communicate-communicate2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Between invitation call and interview &#150; Communicate, communicate, communicate]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[One thing that recruiters are continually asked is, what makes a good candidate. The answer to this would seem simple, one that has good experience, good qualifications and presents well. Whilst this is all true, there is also some other influencing factors that a candidate might not think about. It&rsquo;s that time between having a phone interview and attending the interview that people sometimes forget about.
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<content><![CDATA[One thing that recruiters are continually asked is, what makes a good candidate. The answer to this would seem simple, one that has good experience, good qualifications and presents well. Whilst this is all true, there is also some other influencing factors that a candidate might not think about. It&rsquo;s that time between having a phone interview and attending the interview that people sometimes forget about.

Most people don&rsquo;t want their time wasted whether you are the recruiter doing the interviews or you are the candidate applying for the jobs and awaiting a response. Therefore, in order to avoid wasting time once you have the interview booked, it&rsquo;s important to be aware of time management and be prepared. It is important to consider the finer details that will leave a great impression and may put you ahead of other candidates.

Once your interview is booked, ensure you confirm the time, date and location of the interview. If not already done, ask the recruiter to send you a confirmation email with all of the required details. If the recruiter has asked you to bring any documentation with you or asked you to complete any documentation, ensure this is also listed in the email. It will help you prepare for the interview and assist with double checking that you have everything prior to attending the interview.

Once you have received the interview confirmation email and list of documentation required, get prepared. Print out the list and start compiling the documentation that is required. If for example, you are working in childcare, it would be your current Working with Children Check card, your First Aid certificate and your updated police check or if you were working in hospitality it might be your responsible service of alcohol (RSA) and your police check. Whatever the documentation is, have it prepared. If you need to complete a document ensure it is completed. Whatever is on the list, have it, get it and do it and then double check again.

Once you have all documents prepared and your interview is just a night&rsquo;s sleep away, you might face an unavoidable situation that you must take care of.  Your son might come home from school, is sick and needs your care the next day. You might be sick yourself or a water pipe in your house broke and flooded the entire ground floor which needs your attention. Hence you need to cancel the interview. Of course all of those are valid reasons and most recruiters have been there and will understand, as long as you do the right thing by calling and informing them. Don&rsquo;t cancel the interview due to less urgent reasons such as &lsquo;I have another appointment&rsquo; without having any not-possible-to-delay-or-change appointment. Not only does this show poor time management skills but it also looks as if you don&rsquo;t give the interview your priority, a situation you would want to avoid at all costs.

To sum up, regardless of the reason, if you can&rsquo;t go to an interview call and let them now well in advance. If your reason is valid you will get another chance, if it is not, you might want to reconsider your commitment to the position and the interview anyway.

Besides not being able to come to the interview at all, it might be that you are running late to the interview. You researched the way, the parking situation, you left early enough to take into account any eventual delays but still this accident takes longer than even your most generous calculation. Sometimes these things happen and you are going to be late. Again, the important thing is that you communicate by calling ahead. This will show the recruiter that you value your interview and are considerate of their time. Even if being late means that they won&rsquo;t be able to see you today due to other commitments you show awareness for their situation, an understanding of business schedules and you give them the chance to either change their schedule or rebook your interview.

Lastly but most importantly don&rsquo;t be a no show. In case you have decided that you are not interested in the position or you have been offered another position it is not a drama, but it is very important that you call the recruiter or at very least send an email to advise that you will not be attending the interview and that you are not interested in rescheduling. By calling or emailing the recruiter to inform them of your situation, you are leaving a better impression than by &lsquo;no showing&rsquo;. If you &lsquo;no show&rsquo; the recruiter will see that you don&rsquo;t value them, the company and their time and you will leave a bad impression on them. The other consideration is that you never know if you will need to reapply for a job with them in the future in case the other job doesn&rsquo;t work out or it was only short term. Whatever you do, call or email and inform the recruiter that you are not coming this way; they may still reconsider your application if you need them to.

So in short remember that every element of applying for a job is just as important as the next and that every recruiter will factor in all communication with you not just the phone interview or face to face interview. Start with a good impression and end with a good impression, this way you may be the best candidate for the job.

The Recruitment Team
]]></content>
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<pubDate>02 Jan 2023 17:15:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/is-your-social-media-job-ready3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Is your Social Media Job-Ready? ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[This is even more important when working in Nannying and Household Management where trust, role modelling and confidentiality are of the utmost importance. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[This is even more important when working in Nannying and Household Management where trust, role modelling and confidentiality are of the utmost importance. In a time where we are often online 24/7 with several platforms to get news, communicate with friends and colleagues and to share information, the question of our online presentation is almost as important as our actual real presence.

You are as present in the world wide web as you are in real life, which is why as recruiters, we will not only try to get to know you in real life, but also to get to know you through your online profiles.

And while there are platforms for different purposes your aim as job searcher should be to make a professional appearance on all of them.

This is even more important when working in fields like Nannying and Household Management where trust, role modelling and confidentiality are of the utmost importance.  Recruiter, families and clients are likely to look for you on Facebook, Google and LinkedIn.

And while it does not mean you should avoid any activity on social media, it&rsquo;s good to be aware of certain codes of conduct.

To give you a quick check list to get your online appearance job search&ndash;ready, have a look at the points below:


	Use your correct name
	Ensure privacy settings are in place
	Ensure all photos of you are appropriate (this includes not just you but all persons in the picture)
	Never breach confidentiality in your posts such as mentioning names of your families, their children or any personal details
	Never publish photos of children who aren&rsquo;t your own children
	Be cautious when uploading documents
	Search yourself online to check what is visible. If things you didn&rsquo;t approve are accessible contact the responsible person and have it removed.


From a recruiter point of view, we can tell you this little bit of online hygiene, e.g. deleting the &ldquo;party hard&rdquo; post from 5 years ago, will go a long way and can make the difference between being placed in your dream job with your dream family and caring for their children, or not.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/is-your-social-media-job-ready3</guid>
<pubDate>02 Jan 2023 05:04:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/dont-search-for-words-at-an-interview-follow-the-star2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Don&#39;t search for words at an interview &#150; Follow (the) STAR]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Working as a recruitment consultant myself I can tell you that we love behavioural interview questions. And we also know that they put applicants in a somewhat difficult situation. I recently read an article on a great method to deal with behavioural interviews and think it is a great tool for all of us to have.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Working as a recruitment consultant myself I can tell you that we love behavioural interview questions. And we also know that they put applicants in a somewhat difficult situation. I recently read an article on a great method to deal with behavioural interviews and think it is a great tool for all of us to have.

So what are behavioural interviews?

In a behavioural interview the recruiter tries to find out how the applicant would react or did indeed react in the past in certain situations. Those situations are chosen to show a certain skill or behaviour needed for the position the applicant applies for. An example? An In-Home Child Carer needs to show the ability to assess potentially risky situations. Rather than asking you whether you can identify risky situations recruiters like to ask whether you have ever been in a risky situation with children and how you dealt with it.

Now you definitely don&rsquo;t want to go into lengthy stories that are difficult to follow or lose your main point, your ability to assess and deal with risky situations, among all the details of your answer.

How can STAR help you?

STAR is an acronym that stands for Situation, Task, Activity and Result and gives you the outline of your answer.

Situation: You start off with a short description of the situation which refers to the question such as playing on a playground without fences or other boundaries that contain the children to an easy accessible area as example for a risky situation.

Task: The task is an added sentence or two in which you outline what exactly was required of you in this particular situation; think: to keep the children safe, near you and prevent accidents.

Activity: Once you have clearly communicated what the situation was and assessed which action is needed from you, you describe the action you took to deal with the specific situation. In our example, a possible activity could be to stay close to the children at all times and keep an eye on them so that you can reach them within seconds, should they decide to move too far away from the playground.

Result: Finally you summarise the outcome of your actions and how it affected the risky situation. In our example the outcome was that the children could still enjoy the playground while being safe and without having any accidents.

This approach shows the interviewer that you fully understand their question, that you can assess situations and relate them to the question and that you have the appropriate knowledge and skills to deal with the situation satisfactorily.

When using the STAR method ensure that you always use specific examples related to the position you are applying for. Take the time and sit down for 1 hour to prepare possible answers in advance so you won&rsquo;t have to think about it for too long during the interview.

Do you have any strategies to answer all questions at interviews? Or did you already use the STAR method? Share your experiences in the comments.

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/dont-search-for-words-at-an-interview-follow-the-star2</guid>
<pubDate>01 Jan 2023 17:23:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/new-year-new-cv3</link>
<title><![CDATA[New Year - New CV]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[New Year&rsquo;s resolutions are not for everyone.  Nevertheless, the beginning of a new year is a great time to look back at where you have come from and, more importantly, to take a good look at where you are heading.

If one of your to-do list items for 2023 is a new job (maybe as one of our amazing nannies or Household Managers , a career change or finishing studies to start your dream career, refreshing your CV is a great first step.  The first impression any new employer will have is your resum&eacute; and of course you want your first impression to be a good one.
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<content><![CDATA[New Year&rsquo;s resolutions are not for everyone.  Nevertheless, the beginning of a new year is a great time to look back at where you have come from and, more importantly, to take a good look at where you are heading.

If one of your to-do list items for 2023 is a new job (maybe as one of our amazing nannies), a career change or finishing studies to start your dream career, refreshing your CV is a great first step.  The first impression any new employer will have is your resum&eacute; and of course you want your first impression to be a good one.

So before you start applying for various positions commit some time to thoroughly reviewing your resum&eacute; starting with your contact details, employment history and experiences and ending with your references. You want to provide relevant information that is correct, up to date and presented in a professional manner and the more time you invest in the preparation of your resume the better your first impression will be.

Below is a list you can work through to ensure you include all the important information necessary for a well planned resum&eacute;.

New Year Resume Overhaul:


	Ensure all your contact details are up to date
	Limit your resume to 2 pages
	Show only relevant information  in detail for the position you want to apply for
	Start with the most recent job, work your way through previous positions and end with your education
	List all relevant qualifications and skills
	Provide all information asked for in the job advertisement (if you are responding to an advertised position)
	Use a professional format (if you are not sure search on a search engine to find a template and modify accordingly)
	Check all of your spelling and grammar
	Finally ensure that you only provide information needed (this excludes your birthday, marital status, religion, unrelated hobbies as well as photos)


Check your resume today and get that great job tomorrow.  If you have any tips you&rsquo;d like to share, we welcome your comments below.  Good luck!

The Recruitment Team
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/new-year-new-cv3</guid>
<pubDate>31 Dec 2022 19:03:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/how-to-entertain-the-kids-cheaply-during-the-winter-school-holidays-top-twelve-tips-from-the-nannies4</link>
<title><![CDATA[How to entertain the kids (cheaply) during the winter school holidays: top twelve tips from the nannies]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The nannies and housekeepers (in-home childcarers) at Placement Solutions have put together their top twelve tips to make the most of school holidays.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[
School holidays often provide an excellent opportunity for parents to spend quality time with their children&hellip; nevertheless everyone can also go a little stir-crazy!

With their years of experience in entertaining children all day, the nannies and housekeepers (in-home childcarers) at Government-approved agency Placement Solutions have put together their top twelve tips to make the most of school holidays in Melbourne, without going broke.



	ArtPlay


All at free or affordable prices, the kids can explore their creative side at ArtPlay, Birrarung Marr (behind Federation Square). Funded by the City of Melbourne and other partners, the centre runs more than 300 workshops, events and performances each year with children working with professional artists. Ensure you book ahead for special programs or alternatively check out the &lsquo;free stuff to explore&rsquo; such at the ArtPlay Backyard. The Centre caters for babies through to children aged up to 12 years of age; Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm.

www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/artplay


	Library at the Dock


This new Library in Docklands only opened on 31 May 14 and as part of the Melbourne Library Service, it supports gaming culture. Library at the Dock offers the latest games and consoles free to the public to experience and learn about the many aspects of gaming. From 13 June to 8 July on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11am to 1pm, the venue is hosting the 2014 Soccer World Cup Competition on PS4. Open to all ages, kids can get a team together, select their country and take part in this gaming challenge (and potentially win some prizes). Register online.  

thatsmelbourne.com.au


	Your local library


Check out your library for its calendar of events &ndash; which are usually free &ndash; such as storytelling, book discussions, and even children&rsquo;s theatre. In the city, State Library of Victoria is holding the free exhibition &lsquo;Once upon a time: a world of children&rsquo;s picture book art&rsquo; until 31 August 2014. See classic characters like Blinky Bill and the Magic Pudding, as well as fun favourites such as Miffy. The kids can view original drawings, dummy books and videos about the artworks to discover the magic behind creating illustrated stories then create their own story with a free activity booklet.

www.slv.vic.gov.au


	Belly Dancing at Fed Square


The whole family can shake their groove thing at The Atrium at Fed Square on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 12.30 to 1pm. The free belly dancing lessons are led by professional instructor Trisnasari, no bookings are required and all ages are welcome.

www.fedsquare.com


	Friday Night Fireworks at Docklands


Enjoy free music, entertainers and an incredible fireworks display at the Piazza at Docklands on 4 and 11 July. Festivities kick off at 6pm and the fireworks are at the family-friendly time of 7pm.

thatsmelbourne.com.au


	Child-friendly caf&eacute;s


For the price of a coffee, enjoy some priceless relaxation at one of the many child-friendly caf&eacute;s around Melbourne. Some of our nannies&rsquo; favourites include: Miss Marmalade, Brunswick &ndash; as well as amazing food and beverages, Miss Marmalade has a kids&rsquo; menu, small play area and baby change facilities; Little Tommy Tucker, Bentleigh &ndash; with a shelf full of toys and a kids&rsquo; menu, this is a popular spot for locals; Birdy Num Nums, Carlton North &ndash; the large, covered courtyard at the rear features a sandpit and a variety of toys; Lulabelle&rsquo;s, Camberwell &ndash; this gorgeous pastry shop and caf&eacute; features giftwares, babywares, toys to entertain the kids, and change facilities.


	Victorian Farmer&rsquo;s Markets


Enjoy the fresh air and ambience at one of many Victorian Farmers&#39; Markets held each weekend at different locations around Melbourne. Usually requiring a gold coin donation, the markets are a great opportunity to buy fresh produce and often provide a free petting farm as well as other attractions for children.

www.vicfarmersmarkets.org.au


	MSO Family Jams 


Anyone six years and over can jam with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) for free on 28 June at Federation Square. Bring your own instrument (or borrow one of MSO&rsquo;s) and work together during the fun hour to develop an original piece of music. Each workshop culminates in a performance open to the general public. Bookings are necessary.

www.mso.com.au  


	City Circle Tram


For a free tour of Melbourne city, the City Circle Tram is a convenient way to see the sights of central Melbourne and Docklands while experiencing a ride on the charming, heritage trams. An audio commentary provides details of city landmarks and major attractions and you can hop on and off as you like. Trams operate between 10am and 6pm from Sunday to Wednesday and between 10am and 9pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. No bookings are required.

www.yarratrams.com.au


	Port of Melbourne Boat Tours


A free boat tour of the Port of Melbourne will exhilarate the kids as they see massive ships and cranes up close, and the port&rsquo;s most historic facilities. The tours usually run on the last Sunday of each month so spaces are limited and bookings are required. Round-trip tours leave from Gem Pier in Williamstown and Victoria Harbour in Docklands and last from 60 to 90 minutes.

www.portofmelbourne.com


	Collingwood Children&rsquo;s Farm


Open every day, this is your child&rsquo;s perfect opportunity to get up, close, and personal with a range of fuzzy, feathery and furry creatures. Just $16 for the entire family (two adults and up to four children), the kids can also see cows being milked and enjoy a picturesque setting at the Collingwood Children&rsquo;s Farm in Abbotsford.

www.farm.org.au


	Heide Kitchen Gardens


The fifteen acres of spectacular gardens at Heide in Bulleen will give the kids plenty of space to run free and also learn about fresh produce through the amazing kitchen garden adjacent to the original farmhouse. The Gardens &amp; Sculpture Park are open to the public and the kids can enjoy a range of free activities during the school holidays such as &lsquo;Architecture Detective&rsquo; and &lsquo;Art Detective&rsquo;. Museum admission is free for children under 12; Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm.

www.heide.com.au
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<pubDate>31 Dec 2022 15:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/the-dos-and-donts-of-dressing-for-an-interview4</link>
<title><![CDATA[The do&#39;s and don&#39;ts of &quot;dressing&quot; for an interview. ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Applicants sometimes forget or don&#39;t realise how important &ldquo;dressing&rdquo; is when attending an interview. In some cases it might be the difference between you getting or not getting a job. Although your experience and qualifications should speak for themselves, it&rsquo;s the image that you portray that can also affect your job application. Employers may feel that if you dress poorly or inappropriately. This then will reflect on their business and as it does not portray the correct or desired image of the company, they will not want to hire you. Therefore, you need to dress for success and leave the &lsquo;right&rsquo; impression not the &lsquo;wrong&rsquo; impression.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[During the recruitment process your most important role is to impress the recruiter or manager so that they will hire you. Therefore, in order to do this you must make your first impression count and this starts with your dress and grooming.

We have devised some helpful dos and don&rsquo;ts that will assist you in making the right decisions on what to wear to your interviews:

Do&rsquo;s 


	Do wear length appropriate clothing, this means if you are wearing a dress or skirt make sure that it is knee length. Also ensure that your shirt is full length to your waist, no one wants to see a bare midriff.
	Do wear traditional everyday fabrics, turning up in leather, velvet, glittery or spandex will not be a good look.
	Do wear button shirts that fit well and are the correct size. If you need to have the top one or two buttons undone do so, but nothing more. Also ensure your buttons are not going to pop as they pull across your chest.
	Do wear a jacket, pants, dress or skirt that fits appropriately, nothing that is too tight or that you feel uncomfortable in. There&rsquo;s nothing worse than sitting in an interview feeling like your pants are too tight or your skirt is making you itchy.
	Do wear clean clothing that is ironed.


Don&rsquo;ts


	Don&rsquo;t wear ripped or torn clothing, although it might be in fashion. It is never fashionable for a job interview.
	Don&#39;t wear jeans, t-shirts, denim or anything too casual. It is an interview not a trip to the local shops or caf&eacute;.
	Don&rsquo;t wear tank tops, shoe string dresses, singlets or shorts. It might be summer and it might be hot outside but it&rsquo;s not appropriate for an interview. If you need to wear a singlet, make it plain in colour and wear a jacket over the top, this way no one will know and you can take your jacket off once you have left.
	Don&rsquo;t wear your sports or active clothing. It&rsquo;s not a walk in the park or a trip to the gym. Be professional and look the part.
	Don&rsquo;t wear loud, bight colourful items, they can be off putting and even offensive. Keep to the plain colours like blacks, grey or white. They also look more professional.


Just remember that actions can sometimes speak louder than words. So if you dress to impress this will only help your chances of landing the perfect job.
 

The Recruitment Team
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/the-dos-and-donts-of-dressing-for-an-interview4</guid>
<pubDate>30 Dec 2022 14:34:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/what-it-takes-to-become-a-placement-solutions-nanny3</link>
<title><![CDATA[What it takes to become a Placement Solutions nanny]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[One of the questions we get most often is &ldquo;What does it take to become a Placement Solutions nanny?&rdquo;

Without putting too fine a point on it, we believe our nannies are some of the highest quality, most professional in-home carers you will find in Melbourne.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[One of the questions we get most often is &ldquo;What does it take to become a Placement Solutions nanny?&rdquo;

Without putting too fine a point on it, we believe our nannies are some of the highest quality, most professional in-home carers you will find in Melbourne, Sydney and Tasmania.. However, that doesn&rsquo;t happen by magic. It happens as a result of a lot of hard work on behalf of our recruiting team, and the fact that we set high standards on which we don&rsquo;t compromise.

The result of this is not just that we are able to provide great nannies to our clients, but that we also provide a working environment in which our nannies are treated well, are paid above the award rate, receive ongoing training and know that they are employed legally.

So what does it take to join our team?

Well, to get the basics out of the way, you need to be based in Melbourne,Sydney or Tasmania  and have at least three year&rsquo;s experience in child care and/or nannying. In addition you should have some form of child care qualification, or be willing to pursue such a qualification. (To make this easier we can help you loacate  an RTO offering a Diploma of Early Childhood Education.

Other attributes we are looking for largely fall under the heading of &lsquo;professional attitude&rsquo;.

We need our nannies to value ongoing professional development. Again, we make this easy by providing regular professional development days during the year &ndash; usually three or four &ndash; but of course there are numerous other ways to add to these through attendance at conferences and so on.

We need our nannies to recognise that it is no longer good enough (let alone legal) to be working cash-in-hand in this industry &ndash; and that there are benefits to being legally employed including proper protections (such as Workcover) and, through Placement Solutions, pay rates that are above the award rather than below it.

We also need our nannies to understand the benefits of working through an agency like Placement Solutions, rather than trying to operate as sole-traders or independent contractor. A reputable agency will look after you, removing the risk of exploitation and providing much more stability than you can on your own.

If all of that sounds like you, then we would like to talk to you.

There will be many agencies crying out for staff post pandemic and it is important that experienced, qualified and professional carers do not find themselves in situations where they are earning less than they deserve or otherwise not looked after properly.

To apply to Placement Solutions, visit www.placementsolutions.com.au/register-for-work, fill out the short online form and upload your resume. If you have the appropriate documents and references we will typically turn your application around with one business day and, if your background meets our needs, we will invite you in for a face-to-face interview.

We regard nannying as a serious profession. If you do too, we should talk.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/what-it-takes-to-become-a-placement-solutions-nanny3</guid>
<pubDate>29 Dec 2022 14:26:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/tips-for-your-induction3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Tips for Your Induction]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[So you&rsquo;ve got your dream job and prior to starting you must complete an induction. It&rsquo;s important at this time not to relax and think that what happens from here doesn&rsquo;t matter. Just because you got through the phone interview, face to face interview and reference checking doesn&rsquo;t mean that you can reduce your level of dedication. The induction is a time where potentially you are meeting your employers and perhaps  other employees  Providing them with a good impression is just as important as leaving a good impression on the recruitment consultants or hiring Manager, as these are the people that you will have the most interaction with and in some cases the people that will recommend you for jobs, provide you with feedback or even do your performance review. Therefore, it&rsquo;s always best to maintain the same professional approach that you had at interview stage right through your entire career and all job related interactions.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[So you&rsquo;ve got your dream job and prior to starting you must complete an induction. It&rsquo;s important at this time not to relax and think that what happens from here doesn&rsquo;t matter. Just because you got through the phone interview, face to face interview and reference checking doesn&rsquo;t mean that you can reduce your level of dedication. The induction is a time where potentially you are meeting other employees or Supervisors and Managers. Providing them with a good impression is just as important as leaving a good impression on the recruitment consultants or hiring Manager, as these are the people that you will have the most interaction with and in some cases the people that will recommend you for jobs, provide you with feedback or even do your performance review. Therefore, it&rsquo;s always best to maintain the same professional approach that you had at interview stage right through your entire career and all job related interactions.

Generally prior to induction you are sent information, asked to complete documents or asked to bring information with you for the induction. Following those instructions is just as important as attending the induction. Therefore, based on this knowledge we have devised a list of tips you can follow to ensure that you not only have a successful induction but continue to leave a great impression on those around you.


	Arrive on time- If you have been designated a time for your induction, it&rsquo;s very important that you arrive on time. Most inductions are held with several people and therefore if you are late you will be impacting on the others in the group and their time. If the induction has 90mins allocated to it and you are late, other inductees will not be happy and may remember you as the person that made them late for another appointment. Not a great impression, not a great start.
	 
	Be prepared- read all of the information that is sent out to you, if it&rsquo;s an email, contract, policies and procedures, whatever it may be, read it and complete the tasks being asked of you. Don&rsquo;t leave it to the hour before you have to be at the induction or think that you can read it once you get there. This correspondence is sent out to you prior so that you can come to the induction prepared. It is not send for you to read it while you should be listening to other information or a presentation.
	 
	Administration/completing all documentation. As mentioned you must read all of the information that is sent to you, but once you have read it, if it asks you to complete a task or complete documentation or provide documentation, do it. In most cases you are asked to complete standard employment information such as a tax declaration, superannuation form, basic personal details i.e. name, contact number, address, banking details etc. Other documentation could include a contract, policies and procedures, uniform size/colour or occupational health and safety policies. Whatever the information required, obviously only pertaining to employment you should provide this. It&rsquo;s easy to underestimate the importance of this information but your employment may not be able to commence without it. Therefore, complete it and take it to induction if this is what you are asked to do.
	 
	Listen and participate-There is generally a lot of information provided in an induction therefore it is critical that you listen. This information will guide you not only through your position but also the fundamental aspects of what you need to do in your job. It&rsquo;s also important to participate for example answer questions that are asked and interact with the others in the group. This will not only assist with getting to know your colleagues, it will also show that you are listening.
	 
	Take notes- you won&rsquo;t be expected to remember all of the information that you are provided with however, if you&rsquo;re provided with materials that you can write on, do take notes. Taking the opportunity to write notes will also assist you later when you need to refer back to the information.


As mentioned before, the first impression counts and how you appear, dress, interact will all impact on the impression that you give. Therefore, if you remember these basic tips, you will have a successful induction which is stress free, engaging, a good interaction with your colleagues, supervisors or managers and a great start into your new job.

The Recruitment Team
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/tips-for-your-induction3</guid>
<pubDate>28 Dec 2022 17:33:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/5-common-mistakes-when-writing-a-resume4</link>
<title><![CDATA[5 common mistakes when writing a resume]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[So you have decided to start applying for jobs after being out of the market for some time, maybe you had children and stopped working, maybe you have been working with the same company for years and have decided you need a change.  Whatever the reason you need to write a resume and you just don&#39;t know where to start.

One thing that people start doing is talking to their friends about what to do and suddenly they get all these &quot;great tips&quot;. Unfortunately their tips might not be based on professional knowledge but personal experience.  Therefore, we have put together some common mistakes that should be avoided.

 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[So you have decided to start applying for jobs after being out of the market for some time, maybe you had children and stopped working, maybe you have been working with the same company for years and have decided you need a change.  Whatever the reason you need to write a resume and you just don&#39;t know where to start.

One thing that people start doing is talking to their friends about what to do and suddenly they get all these &quot;great tips&quot;. Unfortunately their tips might not be based on professional knowledge but personal experience.  Therefore, we have put together some common mistakes that should be avoided.

Crazy fonts or layout
In general an employer wants to be able to read your resume with ease, look at your previous experience and length of employment. If you format your resume in such a way that makes it difficult for the recruiter to see which job matches which experience or the flow of it is difficult to follow then an employer may not continue reading and just move on to the next resume.

The same goes with big bold headings or multiple colour headings, mismatched font size, oddly shaped paper or background images, if anything is of putting then the employer may just stop reading.  

Best practise is to use standard A4 paper, one font size for content and one font size for headings, black font and make sure the flow of your resume reads from most recent job to past jobs.  

A photo or if you have worked in childcare a photo of someone else&rsquo;s children
Including photos into your resume might be common practise in your home country but in Australia it is best to leave them off your resume. Photos may leave a bad impression or give the wrong impression, they may also distract from your qualifications or experience. So unless you are applying for acting or modelling position its best to leave them off your resume.

Irrelevant information
Ensure that the information you provide is related to the position you apply for.

Things like marital status, height, weight, religious beliefs, number of children and sexual orientation should never be included on a resume. In order to shorten your resume you can also exclude job experiences that are irrelevant to the position in question such as &lsquo;Nanny&rsquo;.

The basic details of your name, contact number and email address are all that are required.

Incomplete information
There is nothing more frustrating to an employer than resumes that have incomplete information. For example, you list the job title but not the duties performed or you list the year that you were employed but not the entire duration. Some employers will just disregard your resume if it doesn&#39;t have enough information. And even though you might be the best candidate for the job your resume writing skills have let you down.

Always include the following information:

Ensure you list the total duration of the job, the company name, your job title and the duties you performed.

Be careful not to put any misleading information like increase the length of employment or duties that you didn&rsquo;t actually perform, any employer doing reference checks will ask your referee the duration of your employment and your job responsibilities, anything that doesn&rsquo;t match up won&rsquo;t look good for you.

Outdated information
Make sure all the information you have listed is relevant and not outdated, don&#39;t list any jobs that go back 10 years or more unless of course you have worked in the same company for this time.  

Once again an employer will lose interest especially if the jobs listed are not relevant to the one that you are applying for. This is the same with your high school or university subjects, of course list the qualification but there is no need to list subject after subject, no one cares if you got an A in history.

Finally ensure you have someone proof read your resume, maybe ask someone that runs their own business or has experience in reading or writing resume. If you don&rsquo;t have this as an option, write your resume and then leave it for a week or so. When you go back to it you will have a fresh pair of eye on it and you may finish that you can make adjustments that you didn&rsquo;t see before.

Happy resume writing.

Christine , Recruiter
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/5-common-mistakes-when-writing-a-resume4</guid>
<pubDate>28 Dec 2022 12:47:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/maintaining-your-professional-development2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Maintaining your Professional Development]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The responsibility for maintaining your Professional competencies is yours, so please review this annually to stay compliant with the industry standards.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Most industries have requirements for meeting their Professional Development obligations. The responsibility for maintaining your Professional competencies is yours, so please review this annually and stay compliant with the industry standards.

As part of International Nanny Training Day on April 1st, 2023 Placement Solutions will again host a wonderful event in Melbourne providing  outstanding Workshops with highly regarded speakers sharing their knowledge and insights specific to our Industry.

Our event is  part of an International focus on Nanny training.

It is  an amazing opportunity to reap the benefits of being a Placement Solutions Nanny/Educator.

We provide a subsidised entry fee, a welcome pack, the opportunity for fun interactions &amp; networking, plus giveaways and prizes. All attendees received morning tea and a sit down  lunch and a Certificate of attendance for their PD portfolio.

We have received some great feedback from the attendees and look forward to continuing these opportunities for our Nannies/Educators.

The responsibility for maintaining your Professional competencies are yours so please review this annually and stay compliant with the industry standards.

Our recommendations include &ndash;


	Working with Children Check &ndash; valid 5 years
	National Police check- valid 1 year
	Level 2 First Aid- valid 3 years -HLTAID 004
	CPR -valid 1 year- HLTAID 001
	Child Protection training 

]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/maintaining-your-professional-development2</guid>
<pubDate>28 Dec 2022 03:44:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/life-long-learning-professional-development-is-key2</link>
<title><![CDATA[&quot;Life Long Learning&quot;- Professional Development is key!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Your career is in Your hands&hellip; Professional Development experience could be what makes you more attractive to a potential employer or client, as it could give you that edge within a recruitment process.

No matter what career path we choose, what is it that makes a professional stand apart from others in the field?
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Your career is in Your hands&hellip; Professional Development experience could be what makes you more attractive to a potential employer or client, as it could give you that edge within a recruitment process.

No matter what career path we choose, what is it that makes a professional stand apart from others in the field?

Qualifications, skills and experience are only just a portion of what it takes. All too often we can get into a nice cosy bubble of comfort within our work life and miss out on the exciting world of &lsquo;Life Long Learning&rsquo;. Like in any field, you need regular professional development and education if you want to stay fresh and excited about your chosen career. After all, if you&rsquo;re feeling stale and routine, it will be difficult to engage those inquisitive minds in your care on a daily basis.

Here at Placement Solutions we will support and encourage the development of our staff members, offering workshops relevant to the Children&rsquo;s Services field, but also encourage you to seek out your own. With our clients at the forefront of our minds, we understand that they will want to seek out the Agencies which are on the top of their game and well-aware of the latest research and developments in this niche market.

One of the greatest benefits of professional development is the opportunity to get together with other like-minded individuals and share your &ldquo;Nanny-rific stories.&rdquo; You can share stories, swap ideas, brainstorm and help each other out. It can give you a boost and let you know you&rsquo;re not alone.

There are many other benefits you&rsquo;ll reap from your journey through &lsquo;Life Long Learning&rsquo; including:

&bull; Learning all about the latest trends &amp; happenings in in the industry
&bull; Information on implementing/updating new practices and procedures

&bull; Feeling professional. Investing in your education shows your commitment to the important work you do.  
&bull; Staying on top of the industry and the new learnings

Your career is up to you!

Continue to learn, grow and develop as a Nanny professional. Not only will it make you more effective in your role, but it will enhance your confidence in your career choice and feel more positive about dealing with the daily rigors of the industry.

And when you&rsquo;re relaxed and confident, the children win &ndash; and so do you!

The Recruitment Team
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/life-long-learning-professional-development-is-key2</guid>
<pubDate>27 Dec 2022 14:23:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/peace-of-mind-for-your-interview-with-families2</link>
<title><![CDATA[PEACE of mind for your interview with families]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[After the thorough screening process within our recruitment department you might go for another interview with our families for them to choose the best match for their family.

Such an interview usually takes place in the family&rsquo;s homes and can be quite scary.

How do you succeed in one of those interviews?

We suggest you use a PEACE approach to your interviews.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[After the thorough screening process within our recruitment department you might go for another interview with our families for them to choose the best match for their family.

Such an interview usually takes place in the family&rsquo;s homes and can be quite scary.

How do you succeed in one of those interviews?

We suggest you use a PEACE approach to your interviews.

Start off with Professionalism, display your Experience, have the appropriate Appearance, ensure effective and efficient Communication and clarify Expectations.

What does this mean in detail?

Professionalism &ndash; Parents invite you in their home expecting not only a great Nanny but also someone who can engage with their family, relate to their situation and is the right fit for them. It can be hard to walk the fine line between building a great relationship and maintaining professional boundaries. The interview is a great time to set the framework, introducing yourself but also making sure that personal things are kept personal. Don&rsquo;t overshare your own story but be friendly and professional, re-direct personal questions to the position and your work performance and maintain this professionalism throughout the entire placement.

Experience &ndash; All parents want to be sure that you have the relevant experience to care for their children. Even though we do a thorough screening you should take your resume with you and start talking about what you have done so far, age appropriate activities, developmental stages and general knowledge about childcare. Remember, the more you show that you have the knowledge to care for their children with their individual needs the more likely it is that the parents will choose you as their nanny.

Appearance &ndash; You always want to make sure that your appearance supports your skills and professionalism. Dress appropriately and more on the conservative side with safe shoes and comfortable but neat and tidy clothes, arrive on time and well prepared and think the interview through in advance as this can give you confidence. Think of questions to ask which show your interest in the family and their childcare situation (such as discussing routines, asking for parenting style) and have if possible a tool box and all documents with you.

Communication &ndash; Remember, communication is key. This includes all communication including the first phone call, face-to-face communication as well as any text messages you might send. Make sure that spelling and grammar are always correct, be courteous and friendly, let them do the talking and engage with the children in an age appropriate way talking to them accordingly. The best guideline is to keep communication open and honest from the very beginning.

Expectations &ndash; The interview is a great opportunity to ask for the parents&rsquo; expectations and express your own including breaks, start and end time, communication throughout the day, routines, your own input with regards to activities and cooking and their expectations regarding childcare related household duties. Talk openly but respectfully and try to avoid being too demanding about the freedom within your position. Remember, in the end it is about respecting their parenting style and their wishes within their home while ensuring that they treat you as the professional you are.

Following this structure will help you to sail smoothly through your interview and it will work even better when spending some time beforehand thinking about how you will implement each of those stages during the interview. Making notes, writing an outline and going through it will ensure that you are well prepared and less excited when the day of the interview comes.

If you have any questions don&rsquo;t hesitate to call us on 1300 854 624.

What are your experiences with family interviews? Share your story in the comments below, we are always excited to learn about your individual tips and tricks.

The Recruitment Team
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/peace-of-mind-for-your-interview-with-families2</guid>
<pubDate>27 Dec 2022 13:47:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/why-you-should-nanny-through-an-agency2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Why You Should Nanny Through An Agency.]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[7 Reasons to Nanny Through an Agency Rather than Going it Alone

If you were to believe the nannies portrayed in fiction, the job of the nanny is as simple as child control. A bit of well chosen discipline and everyone will happy, at least by the time the closing credits roll. Unfortunately in the real world things aren&rsquo;t so simple. The nanny&rsquo;s job can be demanding in a number of areas that go well beyond the actual job of caring for young children.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[While operating as a &lsquo;solo&rsquo; nanny may seem an attractive idea at first &ndash; &lsquo;being your own boss&rsquo; and all that &ndash; in practice it can be challenging. Here are seven reasons why it is worth considering working through an agency rather than going it alone.

 

Support

It&rsquo;s a paradox, given a nanny is almost always working with other people, but being a nanny can be a lonely existence. Yes, you have your Client parents who you can discuss many child-related concerns with, but at the end of the day they are your employers and so there will always be some things you are reticent to raise. On the other hand, should you have issues with those parents, you can hardly raise those with the kids! Working through an agency gives you people to discuss your concerns with, whether it is the agency staff or other nannies. A reputable agency will also have established procedures in place for dealing with even the most awkward or confronting situations that could arise. With an agency, you&rsquo;re not on your own.

 

Mentoring

If you&rsquo;re serious about nannying as a career you&rsquo;ll be serious about learning all you can from the experience of those who&rsquo;ve gone before you. Working through an agency provides you with access to a whole range of experience, and often the potential to receive mentoring over time from someone who&rsquo;s &lsquo;been there before&rsquo;. This is an invaluable resource you won&rsquo;t get working on your own.

 

Networking

&lsquo;A problem shared is a problem halved&rsquo; goes the old saying. Working with a reputable agency provides you with a network of other nannies on whom you can call to discuss just about any challenge. This network will also be an ongoing resource for comparing ideas and sharing experiences.  

 

Legal

The only circumstances in which you can legally work as a &lsquo;solo&rsquo; nanny are if you are directly and &lsquo;properly&rsquo; employed by the people you are working for. It is illegal under Australian law to work for cash-in-hand: you cannot legally earn money that is not being declared to the tax department (ATO). On the other hand you cannot work as a contractor (using your own ABN) unless you are operating a legitimate business, which includes not having all your income from one client. In either case you are likely to be exposed to the risks of not having workers compensation cover, professional liability and superannuation guarantee payments. An agency looks after all this legality and bureaucracy for you &ndash; you are free to just get on with being the best nanny you can be.

 

Training

To be a great nanny you need to be trained &ndash; and regularly retrained &ndash; in areas like first aid and managing behaviours. While a solo nanny can probably source much of this training herself, chances are it will be expensive and may not be directly relevant to nannying and child care. Agencies, on the other hand, can target industry-specific training programs and provide that training at a low cost, if not no cost.

 

Professional development

Like every other field of human endeavour, the field of child care is constantly changing. Every day there are innovations and revelations in everything from first aid to education to health and wellbeing. Good agencies are well placed to stay on top of these developments and to share them with their nannies via regular professional development workshops. This is much harder to do on your own, where you are necessarily much more isolated from what&rsquo;s going on in the wider world of the industry.

 

Respect

Of course it is possible for the nanny who goes it alone to have the respect of her clients and those she is caring for. But sadly in our experience this respect is by no means guaranteed. For instance, it doesn&rsquo;t take much for a client&rsquo;s perception of you to shift from &lsquo;professional nanny&rsquo; to &lsquo;housekeeper&rsquo;. As an agency, we won&rsquo;t tolerate disrespectful behaviour from anyone: client or otherwise. Work through a good agency and &ndash; provided you earn it &ndash; you can be assured of respect from the agency staff, from your colleagues and from your clients.

 

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/why-you-should-nanny-through-an-agency2</guid>
<pubDate>26 Dec 2022 21:16:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/phone-manners-matter2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Phone manners matter]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[As important as the face-to-face interview is, your recruitment process begins a lot earlier. And while there are lots of articles out there that focus on your resume, a crucial part of the process is the first call from your potential future employer.

The recruiter is not just making a phone call to book you in for an interview, they are pre-screening you to see how you present yourself over the phone, and whether your answers are applicable and valid for the advertised position.  This is your opportunity to make a positive first impression.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[As important as the face-to-face interview is, your recruitment process begins a lot earlier. And while there are lots of articles out there that focus on your resume, a crucial part of the process is the first call from your potential future employer.

The recruiter is not just making a phone call to book you in for an interview, they are pre-screening you to see how you present yourself over the phone, and whether your answers are applicable and valid for the advertised position.  This is your opportunity to make a positive first impression.

So how do you get a recruiter interested?

As an applicant for a Nanny position, your phone manner needs to be professional yet friendly.  You also need to convey your reliability, professionalism and enthusiasm. Some basic tips are to speak with a smile on your face and to speak slowly enough so that you can be heard easily &ndash; no rushing over words in your excitement at getting the call!

Make sure that you have your correct phone number on the resume and a professional voice mail in case you can&rsquo;t answer the phone immediately. Remember to listen to your voice mails regularly and on a side note also to check your spam and junk folder. You wouldn&rsquo;t want to miss this offer due to you spam filter or missed messages.

Keep track of your applications so you can relate to whoever calls you and try to be as natural as possible so don&rsquo;t try to fit a specific type of candidate.

If you miss the call and need to call back, make sure you do this during business hours and as soon as possible with enough time for a 5-10 minute chat.   It&rsquo;s also a good idea to make the call from a quiet place where you won&rsquo;t be interrupted, so you can keep your entire focus on making a good impression.

Be ready to discuss your enthusiasm for childcare and working as a Nanny, your understanding of the role including previous experience and keep in mind some previous positions you can discuss.   It&rsquo;s also a good idea to know a little about the company you are applying to, so that you can convey that you did your research prior to the call.

With those tips in mind you will make a great first impression which is sure to open doors and get you into a face-to-face interview.

Do you have any phone interview tips?  Let us know - we look forward to hearing from you.

The Recruitment Team.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/phone-manners-matter2</guid>
<pubDate>26 Dec 2022 13:02:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/nervous-before-your-interview-try-these-tips-and-be-at-your-best2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Nervous before your interview? Try these tips and be at your best.]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Are you applying at the moment and faced with your first interview or do you remember your last interview?  How did you feel about it?  If you are like many of us the interview might have caused you a fair amount of excitement and nervousness, maybe even anxiety.  Do you think it influenced your performance?  Did you fail to get a good night&rsquo;s sleep beforehand as you were thinking too much about the upcoming interview?  Did your voice crack?  Did you come up with your best answers after you left the room?  If so, be reassured, you are not alone.  But just because you are not alone doesn&rsquo;t mean you have to be this way.  Follow our tips and tricks and ensure you are at your best for your next interview.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Are you applying at the moment and faced with your first interview or do you remember your last interview?  How did you feel about it?  If you are like many of us the interview might have caused you a fair amount of excitement and nervousness, maybe even anxiety.  Do you think it influenced your performance?  Did you fail to get a good night&rsquo;s sleep beforehand as you were thinking too much about the upcoming interview?  Did your voice crack?  Did you come up with your best answers after you left the room?  If so, be reassured, you are not alone.  But just because you are not alone doesn&rsquo;t mean you have to be this way.  Follow our tips and tricks and ensure you are at your best for your next interview.

Tips before the interview


	Research the company and the position


Once you have received your interview confirmation ensure that you understand all instructions well. Research the company and the position in order to answer questions tailored to the specific position but also in order to engage during the interview with knowledge about the company. The more criteria of the position description you can tick off with your own experience the better suited you will appear. Give real examples of how you showed in the past that you have a certain skill.


	Convince yourself


I know this one is easier said than done but know that all your competitors are in the same situation and face the same fears about their great competitors; YOU. After having gained all the knowledge, repeat the facts out loud or in your head to yourself to convince yourself about your suitability for the position. Once you have convinced yourself that you are the best candidate you have convinced your biggest critic.


	Get structured


Knowledge and confidence are not always enough to control emotions. In order to avoid wasting your energy on stressing out, structure your time before the interview and complete the research, the organisational planning (how to get there, where to park, what to bring, what to wear) and any arrangements for the day well in advance. The worst start for an interview is the shirt that needs to be ironed after you having slept in and the traffic jam that forces you to run the last few metres to your interview room in order to arrive on time. Ensure you have catered for all eventualities and you arrive on time for the interview.


	Have mock interviews


Practise an interview situation with friends or family members. They might come up with questions similar to the ones in the actual interview and you can already prepare your answers. And even if not, they will ask questions you weren&rsquo;t prepared for so you will have to find a way to deal with the situation in the best way possible. If no one is available for a mock interview write down possible questions or do an online search for common interview questions and write down the answers. It gives you a feeling for formulating answers and getting clear and structured in your thoughts. Having to face the situation in a more relaxed environment can lead to laughter which de-stresses. It also takes away the pressure of the unknown and helps you to relax in the actual situation.


	Get out of your mind


Not always will knowledge, confidence and planning be enough to calm your emotions. Find below some general tips to control your nervousness. If you have done your homework in advance and still feel nervous the day before your interview, try some breathing exercises to calm your body within minutes (find more information here: http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/docs/ACF3C65.pdf), do some exercise to release the adrenalin caused by the stressful situation (find more information here http://www.humankinetics.com/excerpts/excerpts/reduce-stress-through-exercise), meet with friends, have a bath or listen to some calming music this will take your mind off the upcoming interview. Having a hot herbal tea instead of the glass of wine before going to bed can further promote calm nerves and good sleep.

Tips during the interview


	Get a good start


Ensure that you arrive on time, are dressed appropriately and know to whom to speak too in order to avoid additional stress because of lack of information.


	Fake it until you make it


Before you enter the interview room, take a deep breathe, straighten your shoulders and start smiling even if this is exactly the opposite of how you are feeling.  The way you hold yourself will influence how you feel and greeting the interviewer with a smile adds to an image of self-confidence.  Unless you overdo it nobody will notice that it is just a fake.


	Breathe, Breathe and Breathe


Throughout the whole interview ensure to take deep breathes as it provides your brain with enough oxygen to function at its best and signals your body that you are in a relaxing environment. This will reduce the production of stress hormones and influence how you feel. Take a breath before each answer. This not only gives you time to collect your thoughts but it also serves as an opportunity to ensure your voice will be controlled while talking and you won&rsquo;t run out of breathe in the middle of a sentence.


	Think of the interview as a conversation


While of course you might not always have small talk conversations with recruiters or managers remember that they are also &lsquo;just&rsquo; human beings.  When seeing the interview more as a conversation in which both of you give input and gain further insight you feel more confident and relaxed due to a reduced feeling of hierarchy.  After all, you were invited because you can offer something they want.  See yourself as the great benefit they want and see them as a friend who wants you to be successful since they want to have someone great in the position.

 


	Don&rsquo;t stress about stressing


Know that mistakes will happen and that everyone is stressed.  Even your recruiter knows what it is like to be in an interview and can relate with you.  Be glad that you are excited.  If you are not afraid of the excitement you can utilise the increased awareness and the energy rush to your advantage and even if not, don&rsquo;t dwell in your last answer but concentrate fully on the one you give right now and give your best until you are back in your home.

What are your never-fail tips to reduce stress (in interview situations or otherwise)? What calms you down?  What increases stress?  Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Christine Schryer - Recruiter
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/nervous-before-your-interview-try-these-tips-and-be-at-your-best2</guid>
<pubDate>26 Dec 2022 12:41:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/get-your-social-media-profile-job-search-ready3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Get your Social Media Profile Job Search-Ready]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[In a time where we are online 24/7, our online presentation is almost as important as our actual real presence.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[In a time where we are often online 24/7 with several platforms to get news, communicate with friends and colleagues and to share information, the question of our online presentation is almost as important as our actual real presence.

You are as present in the world wide web as you are in real life, hence why as recruiters we will not only try to get to know you in real life, but also to get to know you through your online profiles.

And while there are definitely platforms for different purposes your aim as job searcher should be to make a professional appearance on all of them.

This is even more important when working in fields like Nannying and Household Management where trust, role modelling and confidentiality are of the utmost importance.  Recruiter, families and clients are likely to look for you on Facebook, in Google and on LinkedIn.

And while it does not mean you should avoid any activity on social media, it&rsquo;s good to be aware of certain codes of conduct.

To give you a quick check list to get your online appearance job search&ndash;ready, have a look at the points below:


	Use your correct name
	Ensure privacy settings are in place
	Ensure all photos of you are appropriate (this includes not just you but all persons in the picture)
	Never breach confidentiality in your posts such as mentioning names of your families, their children or any personal details
	Never publish photos of children who aren&rsquo;t your own children
	Be cautious when uploading documents
	Search yourself online to check what is visible. If things you didn&rsquo;t approve are accessible contact the responsible person and have it removed.


From a recruiter point of view,  we can tell you this little bit of online hygiene, e.g. deleting the &ldquo;party hard&rdquo; post from 5 years ago, will go a long way and can make the difference between being placed in your dream job with your dream family and caring for their children, or not.


The Recruitment Team
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/get-your-social-media-profile-job-search-ready3</guid>
<pubDate>24 Dec 2022 13:44:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/top-tips-for-phone-interviews2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Top Tips for Phone Interviews]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[When applying for jobs it&#39;s more than likely that you will be contact via phone prior to attending a face to face interview. Phone interviews are critical to recruiters as they assist them in short listing applicants and ensuring that the applicant meets the selection criteria.

Phone interviews can make you a little nervous and because you don&#39;t always know when you will receive the call, you may feel a little unprepared. If you follow our top tips they will assist you in being prepared and will increase your chances of getting a face to face interview.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[When applying for jobs it&#39;s more than likely that you will be contact via phone prior to attending a face to face interview. Phone interviews are critical to recruiters as they assist them in short listing applicants and ensuring that the applicant meets the selection criteria.

Phone interviews can make you a little nervous and because you don&#39;t always know when you will receive the call, you may feel a little unprepared. If you follow our top tips they will assist you in being prepared and will increase your chances of getting a face to face interview.

Answer the phone in a professional manner
In most cases you won&#39;t know when a recruiter is calling therefore, it is important to answer the phone in a professional manner, this could be a simple &#39;Hello&#39; or a greeting and your name &#39; Hello, Kate speaking&#39;. If you don&#39;t know the number calling you ensure you answer in a professional manner, don&#39;t risk it and assume it&#39;s a friend with a new number, there&rsquo;s nothing worse than answering the phone with &#39;hey&#39; or &#39;hi&#39; or &#39;yes&#39;.

Present yourself in a professional manner
The recruiter obviously can&#39;t see you however, it&#39;s important to present yourself in a professional manner. Ensure that you&rsquo;re not eating or drinking and make sure that you give the recruiter your attention. Avoid trying to multi task, focus on the phone call and if you need to make notes use a pen and paper, no one likes to hear the sound of computer keys tapping.

Speak clearly and slowly
Answer all questions clearly and slowly, don&#39;t mumble and don&#39;t interrupt or try to speak over the recruiter. You want to give the best impression so don&#39;t rush and ensure that you think about your answers before you just blurt them out.

Prepare your information
Don&rsquo;t ask the recruiter &#39;which job is this again&#39;. It&#39;s very common to apply for multiple jobs, which is fine however; if you apply for so many that you can&#39;t remember which one is which it doesn&#39;t give a good impression. The recruiter will also start to wonder if you are having trouble getting a job. Best practise is to have a printed copy of your resume to refer to. Print out a copy of the job ad and make a note of when you applied. This will also help you when they ask specific questions about the job criteria. If you have it, print out a copy of the job description, it may be in the ad or on their website. Be prepared and have as much information as you can.

Use the right tone and smile when you speak
Believe it or not people can actually hear if you are smiling when answering and speaking on the phone. Also make sure that you have a suitable tone when speaking with the recruiter, don&#39;t sound rushed or in a hurry, don&#39;t speak to loudly, the recruiter might think you are yelling and don&#39;t speak to softly. As mentioned previously, speak clearly and slowly but not too loud or to soft.

Ensure you are in a quiet place
Make sure that when you answer the call, you can actually take the call. Ensure that you are in a quiet place and that you can hear the recruiter and they can hear you. If you don&#39;t want to miss the call, answer and ask if you can call them back, then move to a quieter area and return the call.

Return the call in a timely manner
If you do receive a call regarding your application and you miss the call, make sure that you return the call in a timely manner, either later that day or the next day. If you return the call a week later you may have missed your opportunity especially, if they are interviewing straight away. Plus you want to make a good impression.

Whatever you do take your phone interview seriously and ensure that you give the recruiter the best possible impression that you can. At the end of the day your phone interview will get you through to your face to face interview, and your face to face interview will get you closer to your ultimate goal which is getting that new job.

The Recruitment Team
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/top-tips-for-phone-interviews2</guid>
<pubDate>24 Dec 2022 12:31:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/overhaul-your-resume-the-importance-of-a-good-cv2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Overhaul your Resume - The importance of a good CV!!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The first impression any new employer will have is your resume. And of course you want the first impression to be a good one.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[First impressions count...

One of the most important aspects of applying for any job is your resume, it&rsquo;s where you sell yourself, it&rsquo;s the first impression and in most cases, it&rsquo;s the line in the sand: the line between getting a call or possibly receiving an unsuccessful email. Therefore, you must put your best foot forward and take the opportunity to look back at where you have come from and more importantly, have a good look at where you are heading.

So put &lsquo;Overhaul Resume&rsquo; on the top of your to-do list when applying for a new job (maybe as one of our amazing nannies), follow that with &lsquo;find a nice outfit to attend interviews in&rsquo; and end it with preparation, preparation and preparation.

The first impression any new employer will have is your resume. And of course, you want the first impression to be a good one.

So how do I overhaul my resume you ask?

Begin by getting out your old one and thoroughly reviewing everything written in it, start with your contact details, followed by your employment history and experiences and ending with your references. You want to provide relevant information that is correct, up to date and presented in a professional manner.  Don&rsquo;t have a quick look and think that will do! The more time you invest in the preparation of your resume the better impression you will give and the more opportunities you will have. Poorly written resumes with insufficient information generally go in one place and you don&rsquo;t want to go there.

To help you do all this, we have created a checklist for you to work through and make the necessary changes:


	Ensure all your contact details are up to date- double check your phone number and email address are correct.
	Show only relevant information in detail for the position you are applying for.
	Start with the most recent job, work your way through previous positions and ensure you list the company name, duration of the position, duties and responsibilities.
	List all relevant qualifications and skills
	Provide all information asked for in the job advertisement.
	Use a professional format (if you are unsure, do a google search to find a template and modify accordingly.
	Check all information provided with regards to spelling and grammar
	Finally ensure that you only provide information needed (this excludes your birthday, marital status, religion, unrelated hobbies as well as photos)


Overhauling your resume today will have you in line for a great job tomorrow!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/overhaul-your-resume-the-importance-of-a-good-cv2</guid>
<pubDate>23 Dec 2022 02:06:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/interviews-matter2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Interviews Matter]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Of course, all of us understand that looking after children is so important that face-to-face interviews are a necessity for all nannies before they can start a job. These interviews don&rsquo;t need to be with the family directly, agencies have the qualification and staff to thoroughly identify whether the position offered is suitable for you.

Unlike often perceived interviews are not only for the employer. After all it comes from the French s&rsquo;entrevoir which means to see each other.  While the employer will of course see you, you will also see the employer which gives you the chance to get more information on the position and whether you can imagine committing to the job and enjoying your work. In the long run having realistic expectations at the interview and knowing what you want from a job can lead to a more fulfilling work life.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Of course, all of us understand that looking after children is so important that face-to-face interviews are a necessity for all nannies before they can start a job. These interviews don&rsquo;t need to be with the family directly, agencies have the qualification and staff to thoroughly identify whether the position offered is suitable for you.

Unlike often perceived interviews are not only for the employer. After all it comes from the French s&rsquo;entrevoir which means to see each other.  While the employer will of course see you, you will also see the employer which gives you the chance to get more information on the position and whether you can imagine committing to the job and enjoying your work. In the long run having realistic expectations at the interview and knowing what you want from a job can lead to a more fulfilling work life.

Going for interviews is always exciting that&rsquo;s why we want to give you a little guide on Do&rsquo;s and Dont&rsquo;s for family and agency interviews and how to present yourself at your best.

Agency Interviews

Going for an agency interview can be daunting because it takes you out of your professional surrounding which often is a family&rsquo;s home or a childcare centre and into an office environment. Don&rsquo;t worry; even in the office they usually have normal human beings.

But since agencies look for professional nannies it is important to present you in a professional way including well organised documentation (resumes, qualifications, references), an appropriate appearance (being neat and well-groomed, dressing smart-casual) and an in-depth preparation. The preparation involves all steps beginning with a professional resume (see our tips on writing a resume here), research on the company website as well as general information on the position you are applying for. Read all information provided by the agency in detail and follow the given instructions to ensure the agency will fully appreciate you as the talent you are. Should you have any questions or require changes contact the company as soon as possible via e-mail or over the phone. You don&rsquo;t want to give the impression to be unreliable or don&rsquo;t care about the job.

When applying for the position as a Nanny the main focus should of course be on your child care experience. Think in advance about your caring style, its advantages and priorities and have a couple of examples ready to demonstrate your experience. Prepare a couple of questions that show that you are interested in the position and that you would like to get some specifics such as your entitlements when working as a Nanny for the agency, specific recommendations for situations and the next steps.

An agency usually wants to see that you understand your job and will be a suitable representative of the company in the family&rsquo;s home. Tailor every answer towards this goal.

Family Interviews

Now just imagine that you go and see the family. The situation seems to be a lot more informal, you go into their house; there is no office, no set structure. Nevertheless be always aware that you are a professional presenting yourself in a professional way and maintaining professional boundaries. Since the first impression does matter, make it count. Keep in mind that the family wants to experience you as a Nanny. This could mean that will have their children with them and want to see you interacting with them. Be prepared and come dressed in comfortable but neat and professional clothes and bring your Nanny-Box full of toys and books with you if you have one (find our ideas for a Nanny box here).

It is important to apply all professional standards such as punctuality, professionalism and integrity in home interviews, too. In addition present yourself as authentic as possible since parents would like to know you as the person who will look after their children. Don&rsquo;t try to be someone you won&rsquo;t be when working for them, it makes everyone&rsquo;s life a lot easier and gives you the opportunity to relax into the interview.

You can prepare questions about the daily routine, preferences, dietary specialities and the parents&rsquo; expectations and interact and engage with the children in case they are present. It is also advisable to bring along your resume, some form of ID and any childcare related qualifications you have. Anything that gives the parents a better insight into your personality and builds trust can be of advantage.

Bottom line is: We know it is exciting but don&rsquo;t worry, take deep breathes and see it as an opportunity to show how great you are at being a Nanny. We know you can rock that interview.

What are your never fail tips for job interviews? Do you have an outstanding interview situation you would like to share? Or would you like to talk to us about more information on how to succeed in interviews? Leave your comment or contact us on recruitment@placementsolutions.com.au

The Recruitment Team
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<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/interviews-matter2</guid>
<pubDate>22 Dec 2022 02:10:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/interview-etiquette2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Interview Etiquette]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[From presenting a positive personal image to communication and punctuality, preparation is key to stay focused and engaged in a successful job interview.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Present a Positive Personal Image

When you have been invited for an interview with a reputable company, it is important to keep in mind that your actions will determine how your potential employer will view you as an employee - so your job interview etiquette (or lack of it), won&rsquo;t go unnoticed.

Communication &amp; Punctuality

Show up on time but don&rsquo;t arrive too early. If you are running late for whatever reason, call them and let them know so they aren&rsquo;t sitting there waiting for you. Also, when you do arrive, apologise for being late. If you have been offered another job and you don&rsquo;t want to attend the interview - for whatever reason - you should still call or email and let them know. If your situation changes later on down the track and you find yourself looking for work again these employers will remember you from the previous encounter.

Preperation is KEY

Every interviewer is going to ask some sort of questions that do require examples so if you can prepare beforehand and try to pre-empt the types of questions they make ask you it will avoid those situations of you sitting and umming about a particular situation to relate to. Another way to be prepared is to think of some questions you have about the job or the company and if they haven&rsquo;t been answered during the interview you can ask at the end.

Lastly, stay focused and remain engaging!

Tell us about your experiences and show us how you can be a proactive in this role and why we should employ you!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/interview-etiquette2</guid>
<pubDate>21 Dec 2022 23:19:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/great-nannies-of-australia-where-are-you6</link>
<title><![CDATA[Nannies Needed Now ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[That is still rare in the Nanny sector In Australia. Our clients come to us because they want the best. Is that you? Over and above a demonstrable love We offer legally paid work with all entitlements of children we hire on integrity, intelligence, energy and enthusiasm.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Nanny: Elwood Melbourne Our client is seeking a kind, caring, positive and professional Nanny to help look after their two children, aged 2 and a half and 8 months old. The position is part time Monday through to Thursday Core hours will be 9 am to 3 pm, 4 days a week.  Duties include all childcare tasks.

To quote the client &ldquo;The position is ideal for someone who genuinely loves children, builds trust and rapport with little people (and big people!) quickly, is trustworthy and reliable. We want the person to feel welcome in our home, respect our voice as parents but also know that they have a seat at the table to share observations and/or feedback about our children. We are looking for a professional educator who will invest in the children&rsquo;s wellbeing and development. The job description revolves around their daily routine (learning, feeding, playing, and sleeping!). Ensuring they are safe, well cared for and thriving in a learning environment is important to us&rdquo;

For this position you will need to be qualified to a minimum Cert 3 in Children&rsquo;s services or be undertaking such training

Apply here

https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/register-as-a-nanny-for
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/great-nannies-of-australia-where-are-you6</guid>
<pubDate>21 Dec 2022 04:31:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/how-to-find-the-right-family-placement-for-you2</link>
<title><![CDATA[How To Find The Right Family Placement For You]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[If you want to be successful as a nanny, it&rsquo;s important that you are selective when choosing a placement family. Sure, you will rarely have endless choice, but by the same token it is not necessary, or wise, to take the first position that comes up.

The right decision could lead to long term work and the chance to really embed yourself as &lsquo;part of the family&rsquo;. In contrast, a wrong decision could be stressful and disruptive for both you and the family you work for.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s a good idea to approach your search for a placement with a clear idea of which aspects are negotiable and which are non-negotiable. Also think about where your strengths lie: you&rsquo;ll be much more comfortable doing what you&rsquo;re good at than struggling in those other areas.

Here are some of the factors you might consider:

 


	What is the youngest age group you&rsquo;re comfortable and experienced  working with? Are you happy to work with entirely dependent babies, or would you prefer to work with children who are already mobile?
	Do you want a permanent position, or something temporary? How long are you prepared to commit for? Do you have a minimum period? Are you prepared to do casual work in the short term?
	What geographic area do you want to work in? Do you have &lsquo;no go&rsquo; zones?
	Would you be happy to work in a nanny share arrangement (whereby you are caring for the children of two families in one of their homes)?
	What about night nannying (of newborns),assuming you are very experienced and qualified to do so?
	Are you passionate about outdoor play? Would you expect similar enthusiasm in your client family?
	Similarly regarding excursions: would you like to be able to take the children out, or prefer to stay at home?
	Would you be comfortable using the family car, or prefer to use your own?


 

Of course it&rsquo;s not always possible to anticipate all the factors that might affect your selection of a placement. It is usually a good idea to do a trial day (which good agencies will bill the family  for as a casual day ) in which you, the parents and the children can all test each other out.

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/how-to-find-the-right-family-placement-for-you2</guid>
<pubDate>20 Dec 2022 21:27:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/how-to-successfully-apply-to-a-premium-nanny-agency2</link>
<title><![CDATA[How to Successfully apply to a Premium Nanny agency]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Top 10 Tips for a Successful Application to a Nanny Agency

So you&rsquo;ve decided to try and get a job with a nannying agency. Perhaps you&rsquo;re just starting out, or you&rsquo;re tired of going it alone, or things aren&rsquo;t working out with your current agency. Either way, there are some basic things you can do to improve your chances of a successful application. Here are 10 things we like &ndash; and which, sadly, are often overlooked by applicants.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[ 

1. Send a good resume

Ideally, call before you apply to find out if your target agency has any specific application requirements. Then tailor your resume, both to meet those needs and also to make sure it highlights your previous nannying experience. If don&rsquo;t hear back after a couple of days, make a call and follow up with courtesy.

 

2. Respond quickly

When you get a call or email asking you for an interview, get back to the agency quickly. Remember that recruitment departments are busy, so you will do yourself a big favour if you make life as simple as possible for them. That means being as flexible as you can about times you can attend for interview.

 

3. Prepare carefully

Before you go to your interview, put together a tidy folder of relevant documents including qualifications, written references, accreditations and so on. Include a brief profile that describes who you are and what your ideal nannying job looks like. Also have with you your tax file number.

 

4. Dress conservatively

A job interview is not the time to show off your quirky sense of fashion. Dress smartly and conservatively. Don&rsquo;t wear shorts or leggings or anything too revealing. Remove any piercings other than earrings. Your aim on this day is to look grown up and professional, not hip and funky. Avoid smoking before the interview.

 

5. Declare tattoos

Tattoos are much more common, and acceptable, than they used to be but it is still a good idea to minimise how much ink is revealed on the day of your interview. That said, you should also be prepared to declare any tattoos that you do have so as to minimise surprises down the track.

 

6. Arrive on time

You might think it&rsquo;s ridiculous that we have to say this, but you&rsquo;d be surprised. So let&rsquo;s say it: arrive on time. Full stop.

 

7. Be positive

When the time arrives for the interview, bring your brightest, most enthusiastic attitude into the room &ndash; right from the start. They don&rsquo;t say &lsquo;you don&rsquo;t get a second chance to make a first impression&rsquo; for nothing. During the interview, be as natural as you can and remember to smile. Don&rsquo;t forget that the job you&rsquo;re applying for is all about child care, so make sure your love and enthusiasm for children shines through.

 

8. Don&rsquo;t be negative

Be aware of professional boundaries and never, ever, bad-mouth a previous client or agency.

 

9. It&rsquo;s not all about you

When it comes time for questions, try to balance any queries you have about conditions (hours, pay and so on) with questions about what the agency needs and what you can do to best fit in. Make their job easy and you&rsquo;ll increase your attractiveness as an employee.

 

10. Follow up quickly

If, at the interview, the agency asks you to send them any more information, make sure you follow up as quickly as possible.  

 

 

 

 

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-jobs/how-to-successfully-apply-to-a-premium-nanny-agency2</guid>
<pubDate>19 Dec 2022 21:22:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/testimonial-from-mellissa-p3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Testimonial from Mellissa P]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Read the testimonials from our lovely Melbourne and Sydney nannies here at Placement Solutions. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[&quot;I have enjoyed working for this company and would recommend it to someone looking for work in this particular role. Thank you for the opportunity to work with you.&quot;

Mellissa P
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<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/nanny-agency-melbourne/testimonial-from-mellissa-p3</guid>
<pubDate>19 Dec 2022 05:37:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/carers2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Nannies and Household Managers]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Breaking news!

We have been asking our dedicated work team &mdash; our in-home child carers, a.k.a. our nannies &mdash; what they&#39;re looking for in an agency and from a family. 
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<content><![CDATA[ 

Breaking news!

We have been asking our dedicated work team &mdash; our in-home child carers, a.k.a. our nannies &mdash; what they&#39;re looking for in an agency and from a family. 

These are the (loud and clear) results!

What our nannies want from families:


	Pay on time
	Pay every time
	Pay legally
	Complete superannuation, Work Cover, etc. details early and comprehensively.


What they appreciate from Placement Solutions:


	Professional support from our dedicated liaison officer
	Office support from our team
	In-confidence discussion about new issues, problems and challenges.


Placement Solutions places great importance on supporting our skilled, experienced and compassionate nannies. We offer a sympathetic ear on the end of the telephone for five days a week, plus we keep them informed via our monthly newsletters. We also offer regular professional development, which is not only good for learning but also a great chance for networking.
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<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/carers2</guid>
<pubDate>16 Dec 2022 07:02:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/applicants9</link>
<title><![CDATA[Nanny Applicants Wanting work ? ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Firstly, we take care and support you. By that we mean we treat you with respect as a professional career nanny and pay you legally and well.
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<content><![CDATA[Firstly, we take care and support you. By that we mean we treat you with respect as a professional career nanny and pay you legally and well. You are either employed by us here or employed by the client for permanent work. You are never asked to work as a so called &#39; Independent Contractor.&quot;

Secondly, we only take on board clients  that also respect and want to pay you legally.

Thirdly we are the only Agency in Australia that has a designed and dedicated  Professional Development programme that trains, educates and mentors you throughout your nanny career.

We are always looking for great nannies in the greater Melbourne and Sydney area and across Tasmania. Come and join us. 

If you have a proactive attitude and the right experience and qualifications, then please give us a call: 1300 854 624 or send us an enquiry through the website.

We will get straight back to you. There are plenty of jobs across Melbourne right now&mdash; casual, temporary or permanent.

https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/register-as-a-nanny-form

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/applicants9</guid>
<pubDate>15 Dec 2022 07:02:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/why-we-sometimes-have-to-say-no5</link>
<title><![CDATA[Why we sometimes have to say &#145;no&#39;]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[We get a lot of phone calls, with a lot of requests for help.And given that our reason for existence is to provide care to families, and in particular children, we&rsquo;d love to be able to say an enthusiastic &lsquo;Yes!&rsquo;  to every request
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<content><![CDATA[.However, unfortunately we aren&rsquo;t able to do that. We would much prefer not to have to do so, but there are times when we have to say &lsquo;no&rsquo;. We know this disappoints people at times, so I thought it might be a good idea to explain up front some of the limits of the service we offer. Understanding where we&rsquo;re coming from might help avoid being let down in the first place.

Requests we have to turn down mostly fall into two categories: those relating to hours of coverage (the hours that a nanny works in your home) and those relating to the tasks nannies are expected to undertake.

Our nannies are professionals

At the heart of our decision making around these things is the need to recognise our nannies as professional educators and carers. Being a nanny is their chosen career. They are trained and experienced at what they do, and they make their living from that work.

It is unfair to expect nannies to work in ways that make it impossible for them to work efficiently or to do jobs that aren&rsquo;t part of their professional service. This is no different from asking any other professional to perform tasks outside their normal job. No one would ask a cleaner to change a fuse or an electrician to put out a load of washing or a neurosurgeon to mop the floor. Your nanny is no different, no matter how much a part of the family she has become.

This is not to say that we don&rsquo;t understand that sometimes a family might need basic childcare for an hour here or there, or someone to do some cleaning. However, these are not services that our professional nannies provide.

We ask that our families see this from the nanny&rsquo;s perspective. If a household manager is what you need, we can help you with that (though be aware that your household manager won&rsquo;t be able to provide child care).

Hours of work: what&rsquo;s in, what&rsquo;s out

Our policy on minimum hours is quite simple: during the day, we require bookings of six hours minimum, or four hours in the evening. And we don&rsquo;t offer split shifts. The reason for this is simple: it is not possible for a someone to have a sustainable career as a nanny while working less than six hours a day. Split shifts, which require the nanny to go unpaid for a number of hours every day, are even more unrealistic.

Occasionally we have had families that choose to pay a higher rate to encourage a nanny to work a split shift. If that suits both parties, we are all in favour of it. The bottom line is that the nanny is not disadvantaged.

The nanny&rsquo;s job is the nanny&rsquo;s job

Regular readers of our newsletters and blog will have heard this from me many times: a nanny&rsquo;s job is to care for an provide educational experiences for the children in her care. This may include preparing a meal or snack. Most are happy to do an odd job here or there. However, the nanny&rsquo;s job does not include general housework: dusting, mopping, folding washing, ironing and so on.

We often receive requests that nannies use their &lsquo;down time&rsquo; &ndash; such as children&rsquo;s nap time &ndash; to perform such tasks. Unfortunately, this is unacceptable, just as it would be for the electrician waiting for a software installation to complete. Firstly a nanny takes allocated break time and then does prepation for activities when the child awakes.

 

I repeat what I said at the outset: we would love to be able to say yes to every request for help that we receive. We never say no to be annoying or because we can&rsquo;t be bothered (as we are sometimes accused of). We do so for the types of reason I&rsquo;ve described here, mostly because a request is not in the interests of our nannies.

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/why-we-sometimes-have-to-say-no5</guid>
<pubDate>14 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/when-we-say-we-provide-a-premium-level-service-we-mean-it7</link>
<title><![CDATA[When we say we provide a premium-level service, we mean it]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Occasionally we&rsquo;ll get to the point of talking fees with a prospective clientand find ourselves confronting a comment along the lines of, &lsquo;You&rsquo;re a bit more expensive than some of the others.&ldquo;When this happens, we have no choice but to agree.
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<content><![CDATA[Occasionally we&rsquo;ll get to the point of talking fees with a prospective client and find ourselves confronting a comment along the lines of, &quot;You&rsquo;re a bit more expensive than some of the others.&quot; When this happens, we have no choice but to agree. The truth is, Placement Solutions is, unapologetically, a higher priced alternative compared to some of our competitors. We offer a premium-quality, luxury service that doesn&rsquo;t take shortcuts. And like most things in life, you get what you pay for.

Placement Solutions has been in business for 34 years, so we know what it takes to get in-home childcare right. We know that, above all, the best service comes from working with the best nanny-educators, so we invest heavily in every aspect of nanny selection, training, and ongoing support. 

We have such confidence in our service and in what we stand for that we will only work with families who appreciate the value of this investment.

It starts with selection and training of our nanny-educators in the first place. 

There are plenty of agencies that are happy to recruit new nannies based on little more than a bit of babysitting experience and a quick phone interview. In contrast, all our nannies have a minimum of three years of verifiable childcare experience, along with formal training in first aid, training in child protection, a current first aid certificate, Working with Children check and national police check. 

All our potential nannies are interviewed in person, with a thorough screening process including detailed reference checks. Aside from meeting our minimum requirements, we ensure that all our nanny-educators share our values and complete dedication to the care of the children under their watch. 

We really take the time to understand each of our potential nanny-educators, their childcare philosophy and how they would fit with the families we service. We need to be absolutely assured that each of our nanny-educators has the focused, safety-first attitude our families expect.

Only a small proportion of the candidates interviewed by us get the opportunity to work with us. 

Once a candidate has passed through the selection process, we provide detailed preparation and induction to both the nanny-educator and the family she will work for. 

Very importantly, all of our nanny-educators are employees of Placement Solutions. We never employ any nannies on a contract basis. This means our nanny-educators are paid legally, are provided with full entitlements including superannuation and annual leave and are covered by WorkCover and public liability insurance. All this adds to the cost of our service, but we make no apologies for that. Our primary objectives are keeping the children of our families safe and supporting our nanny-educators so that they can operate at their very best.

Once a nanny-educator is allocated to a family, our service is anything other than &lsquo;set and forget&rsquo;. Our dedicated liaison officer provides ongoing support to both nanny-educators and families. We pride ourselves on providing regular, high-quality professional development opportunities for our nanny-educators. We also look for opportunities to support them should they choose to specialise in an area like newborn care or nannying at night.

All of this is designed to ensure that the most important people in our business &ndash; your children &ndash; receive the very best care and educational opportunities available.

I must admit to the occasional chuckle when I see a mothers&rsquo; group sitting in a circle with their babies, within an outer ring of the latest, most expensive, high-end prams. When it comes to buying stuff for their babies, parents will buy the best they can afford. However, that same standard sometimes seems to slip when it comes to paying for care for their child. I know which one I&rsquo;d prefer to spend my money on.
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<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/when-we-say-we-provide-a-premium-level-service-we-mean-it7</guid>
<pubDate>12 Dec 2022 06:35:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/great-nannies-of-australia-where-are-you4</link>
<title><![CDATA[Great Nannies of Australia, where are you? ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[I see families who are working with nannies that are not being paid legally on the books. 

Growing worse post lockdown pandemic, are families working with nannies that are not being paid legally on the books. Nannies are being deprived of their entitlements such as workcover, penalty rates and superannuation.
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<content><![CDATA[Nannies are not receiving adequate guidance and support about their rights. There are agencies and online platforms that aren&rsquo;t keeping those same nannie&rsquo;s best interests at heart. Not only does this lead to an overall misunderstanding of the  true needs of a Nanny, and the children they care for, but it also leads to a lack of clarity and confidence toward a present and future professional nanny career  So, if you have great childcare skills, energy, intelligence, integrity and enthusiasm for children in your care, we want to hear from you. We are Australia&#39;s only world award winning Nanny Agency having won the APNA agency excellence and Leadership Awards in the industry in Atlanta in 2018 and recently in 2022 the INA Meritous Honour Award. We ensure nannies are respected and supported by only placing great jobs and making sure you are paid legally with all entitlements.
#nannyjob #childcarejobs #respectatwork
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/great-nannies-of-australia-where-are-you4</guid>
<pubDate>10 Dec 2022 04:34:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/nannies-in-sydney-a-new-era-for-placement-solutions3</link>
<title><![CDATA[Nannies Needed Now across Sydney for casual work. Also fulltime and part time jobs.]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Nannies in Sydney? It&rsquo;s true. While Placement Solutions has been dedicated to providing nannies to Melbourne families for over 34  years, over the last three  years we&rsquo;ve taken steps to offer a similar service in Sydney. 






 





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<content><![CDATA[In March this year we employed Emma  in Sydney into our recruitment and sales team and Emma is already busy recruiting and placing nannies in the harbour city. 

Originally from the UK, Emma moved to Sydney in 2008 with her partner and two young boys. She worked with a conferencing company in a training role &ndash; the same company she&rsquo;d worked with in England &ndash; but needed a job that was a bit more family friendly. She was attracted to Placement Solutions by the passion she saw in our business for the industry and for nannies to be treated fairly.

While new to our industry, Emma is quickly finding that the market for nannies in Sydney is similar to the Placement Solutions experience in Melbourne. In particular at the moment, there is enormous demand for experienced career nannies &ndash; far more demand than there is supply. 

Emma is also finding similar misunderstandings about nannying: that professional nannies are educators, not babysitters; that professional nannies deserve to be treated as proper employees, with appropriate pay and entitlements (including superannuation and worker&rsquo;s compensation cover).

&lsquo;Families are attracted to Placement Solutions,&rsquo; Emma says, &lsquo;because they want a nanny who is experienced and qualified, who understands the developmental stages of childhood and can help their children to hit important developmental milestones.&rsquo;  

The Placement Solutions approach is already giving Emma a lot of job satisfaction. &lsquo;Feedback from the customers is great. [I&rsquo;m getting] emails almost on a daily basis where the families are saying, &ldquo;We absolutely love this nanny. She&rsquo;s just come straight in and built a fantastic relationship with the children. Can we have her ongoing?&rdquo;&rsquo;

So far most of the demand for Placement Solutions nannies in Sydney has been in the eastern suburbs, but Emma emphasises that most nannies are quite happy to travel for the right job. She welcomes enquiries from anywhere across Sydney!

Being the mother of two primary-school aged children herself, we had to ask Emma what activities her boys enjoy doing in Sydney. There are plenty!

&lsquo;They&rsquo;re really into sport. Any sort of sport. They&rsquo;ve seen the Roosters (NRL team) and been to the SCG. They love the coast, especially the coastal walk between Bondi and Coogee, where we get to see the whales at the right time of year. Darling Harbour, ferry rides on the harbour, the zoos and even the museums. They love all of it.&rsquo; And will again once lockdown is over.

If you&rsquo;re looking for a nanny in Sydney, please contact us on 1300 854 624. Or if you&rsquo;re an experienced nanny in Sydney looking for work in which you&rsquo;ll be legally paid and supported, contact Emma on emma@placementsolutions.com.au

 

 

 




 



 
 



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<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/nannies-in-sydney-a-new-era-for-placement-solutions3</guid>
<pubDate>08 Dec 2022 04:58:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/modern-slavery-act-anti-slavery-statement4</link>
<title><![CDATA[Modern Slavery Act - Anti Slavery Statement]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[&ldquo;Placement Solutions is opposed to all forms of slavery and seeks to prevent or mitigate risks of exploitation that are linked to their operations or services by their business relationships, even if they have not contributed to those risks. Exploitation is defined in the RSCA* Code for Professional Conduct in the following way:
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<content><![CDATA[Exploitation, of one person (the victim) by another person, occurs if the other person&rsquo;s conduct causes the victim to enter any of the following conditions:

                i.        slavery, or a condition like slavery.

              ii.        servitude.

             iii.        forced labour.

             iv.        forced marriage.

              v.        debt bondage.

 

The domestic service industry has a long history of exploitation of workers. This exploitation has existed across the world and still does at an unprecedented level today. Australia has not been and is not immune to this. At Placement Solutions we respect and support all of our team of workers. We do this by paying them legally to award with all due entitlements including penalty rates for overtime. We will not condone illegal cash-in-hand arrangements or an offer of board and lodging without the payment of Award payments for work done.&rdquo;

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/modern-slavery-act-anti-slavery-statement4</guid>
<pubDate>04 Dec 2022 00:51:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/referrals-why-not-use-them2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Referrals- why not use them?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Word of mouth or referrals for Nanny jobs is one of the most underused resources an applicant has, however, used correctly can maximise your opportunities greatly. 
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<content><![CDATA[When looking for a new job or the next chapter in your career, going through the various recruitment channels can be frustrating at times, but in some cases a necessary evil. However, one of the best avenues that are generally forgotten is the good old &lsquo;it&rsquo;s not what know, it&rsquo;s who you know&rsquo; theory. 

Word of mouth or referrals are one of the most underused resource an applicant has, however, used correctly can maximise your opportunities greatly.

From an employer point of view, one of the best ways to get professional, suitably qualified Nanny/Educators is still a referral from other great Nannies.

But why is this so? There are a couple of answers and we summarised just a few to give you an idea on why it works for an employer and how it could work for you:


	Great Nannies often know other great Nannies due to internal networking, playgroups, children activities (i.e. Gymabaroo, Kelly sports) and professional development sessions.
	Being referred to an agency by a friend creates trust and the new applicant is more likely to apply with an agency he or she has heard of through a friend, then one they have just googled.
	When referring a friend to an agency generally the new applicant has already been briefed about the requirements hence the new applicants coming in are well prepared. The application process should be smoother and the new Nanny can be placed in a job easily. This, in turn, provides the new applicant/nanny with a good experience resulting in more referral s of other friends.


Of course don&rsquo;t forget that it is necessary to ensure quality among referrals, just because you are a nanny or have worked in childcare and you know someone, it doesn&rsquo;t mean that you are a shoe in. Most employers will know that not all applicants are created equally; therefore doing all of the compulsory checks will be a requirement in the process.

Considering all of these factors it is important to see referrals as an equivalent to all other recruitment avenues. It is also a great idea for the employer to acknowledge good referrals with either vouchers or other benefits. Again this increases the likelihood to get more referrals.

So have a think about who you know and use your network to get you the best new job ever!
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<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/referrals-why-not-use-them2</guid>
<pubDate>02 Dec 2022 23:12:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/home-management/housekeeper2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Housekeeper/ Household Manager ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Do you need more help at home than you are getting? Help, not with the kids, but with the day-to-day running of the house and the home? You may need a permanent part-time or full-time housekeeper. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Do you need more help at home than you are getting? Help, not with the kids, but with the day-to-day running of the house and the home? You may need a permanent part-time or full-time housekeeper. 

Essentially a housekeeper attends to the day-to-day items that need doing. Included in housekeeping tasks:


	washing, drying, sorting and putting away clothes
	washing dishes
	changing bed linen
	dropping off dry cleaning
	cleaning and tidying of specific rooms
	cooking a fresh meal for you to come home to
	Housekeepers can also be in charge if you need to schedule trades people visits.


You choose the frequency of your housekeeper&#39;s visits and negotiate any changes with them.

Although it sounds old fashioned, having a housekeeper is one of the best ways you can develop peace of mind and create balance in your life, so you can get on with doing your other jobs properly.

All of our housekeepers are experienced, thoroughly reference checked by Placement Solutiions, and assessed using our own licensing method.  We are the only company in Australia licenced to work through the unique Marta Peronne method of housekeeping.

With regard to payment, our housekeepers can be contractors with their own ABNs paid by you or through our payroll service. The latter means we take care of everything for you, the same as we do with our nannies.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/home-management/housekeeper2</guid>
<pubDate>08 Nov 2022 07:05:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/international-nanny-recognition-week4</link>
<title><![CDATA[International Nanny Recognition Week, September 18 th to 23  rd , 2023]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Here Is to great nannies everywhere and most particularly to our wonderful nannies at Placement Solutions.

We see you.

We respect you.

We support you .

Most of all we thank you.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Here Is to great nannies everywhere and most particularly to our wonderful nannies at Placement Solutions.

We see you.

We respect you.

We support you .

Most of all we thank you.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/international-nanny-recognition-week4</guid>
<pubDate>19 Sep 2022 01:23:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/the-art-of-writing-nanny/educator-cv3</link>
<title><![CDATA[The Art of Writing your Nanny/Educator CV | Placement Solutions]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[While it is important to make your Nanny/ Educator CV stand out, it is also important to be aware of the things you should avoid while writing it.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[You may have recently begun your Nanny/Educator career or you may be an experienced Nanny/Educator. Either way, a strong and straightforward CV is crucial to finding your ideal role. While it is important to make your CV stand out, it is also important to be aware of the things you should avoid while writing it.

1. Simple is Better

Personal Information:

Always remember to only add basic personal information to your CV. This MUST include your contact number, e-mail address and the suburb you live in. You do not need to add your hobbies, age or marital status to your CV (this can always be talked about during the next stage!)

Work Experience:

Only include work experience that is applicable to the role you are applying for and make sure all your information is up-to-date. Check the criteria requested by the employer and make sure your CV reflects that.

Education and Training:

Make sure you use bullet points for each qualification to make it nice and clear for the reader. Try to keep your qualifications brief (you do not need to mention your grades for each qualification!) and write them in the order of the most recent qualification first. Make sure you specifically mention the qualifications that highlight your ability as a Nanny/Educator.

2. Not too crazy!

Working with children does grow our love for colours and splashes! Try to avoid using too many colours, a font that is too small, cursive or bold as these can be distracting and hard to read. Instead, choose a nice colour scheme (one-two soft colours are enough!), a neat font such as Calibri and a size 10 or 11. Let your experience speak for itself! Including a cover letter that allows the reader to feel your personality as a Nanny/Educator always helps!

3. Take your Time

Invest time and effort into your CV to ensure that it is detailed, complete and includes all basic information as it shows the employer that you are genuinely interested in the role. Provide the reader with as much relevant information as possible and make sure you have not left out any babysitting or nannying experience that could add quality to your CV.
Ask your friends or family to proof-read your CV once you have completed it - a fresh pair of eyes will help make sure everything is in place and spelt correctly.

The time and effort you invest in creating a strong CV will only push you further in the right direction of securing your ideal Nanny/Educator role! 

Good luck!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/the-art-of-writing-nanny/educator-cv3</guid>
<pubDate>19 Jan 2022 23:50:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/nanny-resource-box/bag2</link>
<title><![CDATA[Nanny Resource Box/Bag]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[One of the best pieces of advice I can give to a Nanny starting in a new placement is to have a resource box or bag. No better way to impress a little one!
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[One of the best pieces of advice I can give to a Nanny starting in a new placement is to have a resource box or bag/s. It doesn&rsquo;t have to have expensive items in it, but it should be relevant to the children you are currently working with. 

How to go about it...

When you make that initial call to your new client to introduce yourself, take the time to ask a few questions about what the children&rsquo;s likes and dislikes are, knowing that 4yo Max for example, is mad about dinosaurs and you turning up on your first day with dinosaur related activities may help you and he settle in together a lot quicker. 

 

Not only does this make for less stress for yourself and the child, but also for the parents, who can see you have made some effort relate to their child.

 

What do you put in the box/bag?

Having the basics is always a good idea, don&rsquo;t assume that all families will have these on hand, in particular with younger children parents may not have realised that little 18-month-old Mia is at a stage where she might like to start drawing.  Also, remember it&rsquo;s more fun to use someone else&rsquo;s things instead of your own.

Some Suggestions:


	Arts and craft materials &ndash; pencils, crayons, water-based textas, glue sticks, safety scissors, coloured paper etc &ndash; Discount stores, Reject shop &amp; Kmart are a great source for these.
	Age appropriate games and books &ndash; check out your local opportunity shop and don&rsquo;t forget to donate them back when you&rsquo;re ready to update.
	Natural materials &ndash; you can always create an activity to go on an outing to collect some.
	Building blocks and puzzles &ndash; opportunity shops again, or check out marketplace on facebook.


Don&rsquo;t forget to discuss ongoing activities with the parents, they often will give you a budget to work with, if not keep your receipts, expenditure of this kind is tax deductible. 

 

Online resources

We are lucky to live in an age where we have access to an abundance of ideas and assistance online, don&rsquo;t forget to use these resources, they are invaluable. 

 

Being able to download some fact sheets on dinosaurs for Max will give you a great conversation starter with him.  Googling resource boxes for children or rainy-day boxes will bring up a multitude of options for you to browse, check out some of my favourites below. 

 

Have fun creating your own resources that you can enjoy with the children you care for.

 




http://www.dltk-kids.com/

https://www.thebestideasforkids.com/craft-ideas-for-kids/

https://www.kidspot.com.au/things-to-do/collection/craft-activities

https://www.pinterest.com.au/mollymooblog/simple-kids-craft-ideas/
]]></content>
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<pubDate>01 Jan 2022 04:22:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/home-management/outsourcing-is-not-a-dirty-word</link>
<title><![CDATA[Outsourcing is not a dirty word...]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[As we juggle work, family life and our own personal commitments, perhaps it&rsquo;s time to ask ourselves &ndash; what can WE outsource to make our lives more successful? As we exhaustedly step out of lockdown, many families, women in particular are saying. &quot; Enough.&quot; We need help.
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<content><![CDATA[For YEARS we&rsquo;ve heard that in BUSINESS you need to work &lsquo;smarter, not harder&rsquo;. But this week we are pondering, why on earth do we not seem to adopt this approach in our personal lives too??

Are we all too proud of wearing our &lsquo;busy badges&rsquo;?

So many people wear the &lsquo;busy&rsquo; badge like a medal of honour.

But let us ask this: if all your free time is spent juggling tasks and rushing between projects, what sort of quality is your family getting from you, even when you are spending &lsquo;free time&rsquo; with them?

Are they getting stressed, tired cranky Mum or Dad - who is proudly &lsquo;doing it all&rsquo;?

Or are they getting relaxed happy Mum or Dad who knows that they are giving 100% of their quality time and full attention because the laundry (and dishwasher and ironing and bills and grocery shopping and linen and tidying) are ALL going to be looked after?

It&rsquo;s up to US to enhance our own lives &ndash; nobody will do it for us

As we juggle work, family life and our own personal commitments, perhaps it&rsquo;s time to ask ourselves &ndash; what can WE outsource to make our lives more successful?


	IS spending 4  hours cleaning the house every weekend a must-do, or could this be assigned to a cleaner?
	Can anyone else handle the organising of all those tradies for that renovation project?
	Is it time to get a Gardener in once a month so that the afternoon can be spent with the kids at the park?


If your children are school aged, you can even hire a Household Manager to take care of the running of the household groceries, laundry and more &ndash; and then pick the kids up from school and have dinner on the table (and more in the freezer!) for when you get home.

How would that change your nightly &lsquo;busy&rsquo; levels after you return home?

Use the tools available to you!

These days there are SO many resources available to us that we simply need to get past the fact that it feels like failure when we get help. Instead of an expense, perhaps view these as an INVESTMENT instead, something that contributes in a positive way to your family&rsquo;s quality of life.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/home-management/outsourcing-is-not-a-dirty-word</guid>
<pubDate>21 Nov 2021 05:05:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/working-as-an-australian-nanny</link>
<title><![CDATA[WORKING AS  AN AUSTRALIAN NANNY- International Nanny Recognition Week]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[L A U R A  B E N N E T T interviewed for Nanny Magazine
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Laura has been an Early childhood educator for over twenty years in both center-based care and as an in-home care educator (Nanny). As a nanny, Laura has completed a variety of care, including private roles and short-term roles with families in crisis. Laura is passionate about caring for children of all ages, from newborns to early teens, and has some experience with children with additional needs. Her professional development opportunities have included the INA conference, a newborn care specialist course, becoming Nominee for Nanny of the Year for Placement Solutions, and numerous other courses about all things children. Away from work, Laura loves anything craft-related, walking, the gym, and coffee out with friends and family.Laura has been an Early childhood educator for over twenty years in both center-based care and as an in-home care educator (Nanny). As a nanny, Laura has completed a variety of care, including private roles and short-term roles with families in crisis. Laura is passionate about caring for children of all ages, from newborns to early teens, and has some experience with children with additional needs. Her professional development opportunities have included the INA conference, a newborn care specialist course, becoming Nominee for Nanny of the Year for Placement Solutions, and numerous other courses about all things children. Away from work, Laura loves anything craft-related, walking, the gym, and coffee out with friends and family.

As an Australian nanny for the last ten years and having been in the childhood education industry for twenty years, I&rsquo;ve had my eyes well and truly opened to the expectations of a nanny when working in a private home and the difference between a well-regarded professional nanny and a &ldquo;babysitter&rdquo; if I must use that term.

In Australia, the profession is one of the lowest-paid industries in the work field, and there are folk such as Louise Dunham of Placement Solutions who have worked tirelessly at attempting to help the government see that in-home care educators, which is the term for us here, are working under safe and  equitable  conditions  while  being paid appropriately. There are two clear differences in positions in Australia. The first is where families pay for  the  nanny  services outright, and the second is where families get some government assistance to help with those payments. For most jobs, we are contracted to complete child-related tasks as nannies, and any additional home cleaning or organizing tasks attract a higher fee.

Before You Leave for Work

When I receive a confirmation from the agency, I print off the booking sheet, which gives me most of the details about the position. One of the first things I do is call the family, introduce myself, and ask any relevant questions pertaining to the position. I also ensure I have enough timesheets, medication permission,  and  accident  records  in my work folder. From the booking sheet and conversations with the agency about the children I am caring for, I collect a few age- appropriate items in my resource basket to help me engage with the children. This could be books, puppets, bubbles, balloons, or crayons. The other detail that is most important in my preparation for the day is whether the children have any allergies as this affects what I put in my lunch bag as meals and snacks.

While You Are There

Depending on the ages of the children, I will spend the day following as closely as I can to the family routine. I will often say to the parents 

that my focus is on the children while they are awake, and when they have naps, I will clean up any mess made or, if the children are old enough, put on some dance music and  have  fun  helping  them  to clean up the rooms we used during the morning. Some families will prepare meals and snacks, and others will  guide  me  on  what  they wish their children to have in their absence. I like to eat with the children in my care if possible as I believe there are lessons of role modeling and opportunities for fun conversations. This also gives me the opportunity to have some quiet downtime in a break while the children are sleeping. Variety is the spice of life, they say, and I love to have variety in what I do with my charges, indoor and outdoor, creative and play, fast and slow, structured and own choice.

What You Do After

At the end of the day, there will always be an overlap and a handover. Depending on the nature of the position, this is either written or verbal. I love to let the parents know about what the children have eaten, how long they slept, and what activities we participated in together. I will always thank them for the honor of caring for their children and make sure I have everything before I leave. When I finish a day&rsquo;s work, I reflect on what worked well and what wasn&rsquo;t so great about the day, and I make sure that I notify the agency if I have any communication about the child or differences in the job. Me time is important when I get home. I try and prepare all my meals during the weekend so that I can relax and have meals organized to just heat up when I arrive home.

Since February, I have been doing short-term positions after finishing a fourteen-month private role with two children. Many of the families I work for ask me how I have enough patience to care for children all day every day. My answer is that nannying is not just a job for me, but a passion. I absolutely love what I do. The last few months have been tricky  with  COVID-19,  but  I  am  grateful  that  I  have  had  some  work and some time to reflect on what is important to me.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/working-as-an-australian-nanny</guid>
<pubDate>21 Sep 2021 06:01:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/the-importance-of-newborn-care-as-a-specialty-with-tonya-sakowicz2</link>
<title><![CDATA[The importance of newborn care as a specialty, with Tonya Sakowicz]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[We recently enjoyed a professional development workshop (online, of course!) with my long-time friend and colleague Tonya Sakowicz.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Tonya runs Phoenix-based Newborn Care Solutions, an educational organisation that aims to benefit parents and children by providing nannies and other child carers with specialist training in the care of newborns (generally the first 12 to 16 weeks).

Tonya has had a particular focus in, and passion for, this area for most of her career, and her enthusiasm for newborn care is immediately apparent when you hear her speak.

As she points out, those first few months of a child&rsquo;s life are very different to almost any other phase of development, and this can put a lot of pressure on the new parent. This is made worse in the information age. The term &lsquo;drinking from a fire hose&rsquo; is often used to describe information overload, and for the new parent the expression has never been more apt!

The nanny who has been trained in newborn care can provide enormous relief for new parents, sharing knowledge about what&rsquo;s normal &hellip; and what&rsquo;s not. They can help create an environment that will give the infant the optimal opportunity to thrive.

Nannies who are newborn care specialists aren&rsquo;t medical professionals (unless from a previous career), but they can be effective at recognising early signs of, say, illness, and seeking help at the earliest opportunity. Tonya gave the example of nannies identifying the signs of the potentially dangerous pyloric stenosis, a narrowing of the opening from the stomach to the first part of the small intestine which can occur (albeit rarely) in the first weeks of life.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, newborn care specialists often have particular strengths in assisting with breastfeeding and in providing sleep support. 

Tonya is a powerful advocate for international standards to be applied to newborn care. She has always had a strong bent towards using scientific research to guide her thinking, and some of that research has recently reinforced her view that, while cultural differences obviously exist all over the world, the basic needs of the newborn baby are always the same and never change. After all, the baby doesn&rsquo;t know what culture it has been born into!

Another topic that Tonya is passionate about, and which is incorporated into her training courses, is the concept of &lsquo;greenproofing&rsquo; a home, and especially a nursery, ahead of the arrival of a new baby.

Greenproofing in practice involves making preparations by, for instance, &lsquo;off-gassing&rsquo; new items (car seats, cot mattresses, plastic toys). This means unwrapping these items and exposing them to fresh air and, ideally, sunlight, for some weeks before they will be used. The action allows potentially toxic gases (the &lsquo;new car smell&rsquo;) to disperse before babies are exposed to them. Other greenproofing initiatives you can take include investigating non-toxic personal care products (shampoo, soap, etc.) and encouraging plenty of fresh air into the nursery.

If any of our nannies are interested in undertaking Tonya&rsquo;s program (or if a parent is interested in assisting their nanny to do so), please get in touch with us. It is available via various online means, and if there is enough interest we could put a group together.

 

 

 

 

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/the-importance-of-newborn-care-as-a-specialty-with-tonya-sakowicz2</guid>
<pubDate>30 Aug 2021 06:12:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/latest-pd-with-acclaimed-author-steve-biddulph</link>
<title><![CDATA[Acclaimed author Steve Biddulph speaks to Placement Solutions at our latest PD ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Connected on the inside and out, with Steve Biddulph

&lsquo;
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[I imagine most of you know the name Steve Biddulph, psychologist, writer and speaker. Steve has been a fixture in the Australian, and indeed international, parenting education landscape for over 30 years. His books, including The Secret of Happy Children, Raising Boys, Raising Girls and many others, have been translated into dozens of languages and can be found in millions of homes.

We recently welcomed Steve to the Placement Solutions family, presenting a webinar on the back of his latest book, Fully Human: A New Way of Using Your Mind. Steve spoke to us about how the themes of this book can be applied to the care of children, whether as parents or carers.

He started by sharing a story from the book about a patient who presented to him with anxiety early in his career. It turned out her situation had been initiated after she went to help someone in a train station carpark but, for no discernible reason, pulled back at the last minute. She drove away in panic.

&lsquo;There&rsquo;s a part of us which knows what&rsquo;s what. It is always there, always functioning,&rsquo; said Steve.

In this case the woman&rsquo;s gut reaction had been well founded. Later on the news she saw that this same stranger in the car park had gone on to assault another person shortly afterwards.

Steve made the point that our gut feelings, which form in the right side of the brain &ndash; the &lsquo;wild creature side&rsquo;, as he called it &ndash; can very often be right, even where we aren&rsquo;t able to describe those feelings in words.

We can draw on these feelings in our dealings with others, including children. And vice versa. Steve spoke about how newborn babies are acutely aware of the facial expressions of those around them, and of the mood between two people &ndash; such as their parents. Babies care very little about the physical conditions around them, but &lsquo;they care a lot about the emotional vibes around them&rsquo;.

Steve spoke about how some research suggests that the connections between a baby and its carer are so strong, in the sense of the baby&rsquo;s right brain reflecting their carer&rsquo;s, that &lsquo;carer and baby should be treated as a single unit&rsquo;. In other words, if we want to develop strong mental health in our children, we need to support the mental health of those who care for them.

A very important component of this is the need to be completely present with the child you care for. &lsquo;You&rsquo;ve got to be there for a child,&rsquo; he said. This takes time. &lsquo;Hurry is the enemy of love.&rsquo; 

His advice was to focus on yourself for a moment. &lsquo;Go down the middle of your body and notice what&rsquo;s going on inside. As you notice you will automatically start to settle. And the child will notice this.&rsquo;

Steve went on to describe the &lsquo;four-storey mansion&rsquo; that makes up our minds, consisting of the body on the ground floor, followed by our emotions, our intellect and our spirit. As is often the case with someone as knowledgeable as Steve, at this point he ran out of time. &lsquo;I could talk for hours about this,&rsquo; he said, and we know he could!

Thanks, Steve for a fascinating webinar. We look forward to reading your book.

 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/latest-pd-with-acclaimed-author-steve-biddulph</guid>
<pubDate>16 Aug 2021 02:32:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/cost-vs.-value-how-much-should-you-pay-for-childcare</link>
<title><![CDATA[Cost vs. value: How much should you pay for childcare?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[An important decision for new parents is what type of childcare to use. Here&#39;s why we believe engaging a professional Nanny agency is worth the investment.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[One of the most important questions parents will have to answer is what type of childcare to use. There is a huge range of options in Melbourne, all varying in expense.

While new parents may be daunted by the price of quality childcare, as a cost versus value proposition, paying more for your childcare is worth it as long as you&#39;re getting the right things in return. Here&#39;s why you should consider paying for a premium Nanny agency:

1) It&#39;s your children

Quality childcare can be expensive. However, when it comes to your children, should price really be the most important factor? For parents, the health, happiness and safety of their child will be the top concern. And the best way to ensure these three elements is by paying for a premium childcare service. 

 

You want your child to be healthy, happy and safe. So should cost be the most important factor when choosing childcare?

 

2) You&#39;re getting a more individualised service 

At Placement Solutions, we generally use a ratio of one Nanny/Educator to one or two children (of any age).

Essentially, the cost of childcare comes down to something called the carer-child ratio. The fee implications of this ratio are simple - the more children each carer looks after, the lower the staffing cost per child. 

Australian law states that there must be one carer to four children for babies, and up to 10 children for preschoolers. This extends to 15 in Victoria for children over preschool age. At Placement Solutions, we generally use a ratio of one Nanny/Educator to one or two children (of any age). Four is the absolute maximum, and we only allow this in special circumstances and for children aged 2 and above. 

The benefits of this are clear: A Placement Solutions Nanny/Educator can give greater, more individualised care to your child. They have the time to really get to know and understand your child, and are better able to provide the tailored care that your child requires.

 

Nanny/Educators have the ability to give much more individualised care because of the carer-child ratio.

 

3) You&#39;re accessing the best Nanny/Educators available

You can only provide certain benefits to a Nanny/Educator when you employ them legally i.e. as an employee and not a contractor.

A Nanny agency can only obtain and retain the best professionals in the field by looking after their employees properly. In practice, this means offering good wages as well as security in the form of superannuation, sick leave, and other employee entitlements.

You can only provide these benefits to a Nanny/Educator when you employ them legally, i.e. as an employee and not a contractor. This has become all the more important now that Australia&#39;s Fair Work Commission has begun cracking down on agencies that engage Nanny/Educators as independent contractors. Premium Nanny agencies like Placement Solutions provide all these benefits and more, and we can only do this by offering a higher wage rate. 

When Nanny agencies do offer these things, they are able to attract the best, most experienced Nannies available. 

4) They have qualifications and experience

The best Nanny/Educators have strong qualifications and experience, and they will only go to Nanny agencies that pay a premium for their superior services. Here at Placement Solutions, our recruitment process is stringent and thorough. We require a minimum of three years in the industry, and pay more for Nanny/Educators who show loyalty to us and who undergo training to ensure they are providing the best quality care possible for your child.

 


At Placement Solutions we have an extensive vetting process all our Nanny/Educators must go through.

 

5) You&#39;re also paying for premium vetting

When using a Nanny agency, you&#39;re paying for the premium and assurance that an agency holds in vetting. Placement Solutions specialises in this vetting and screening process. We require all our Nanny/Educators to have:


	A minimum of three years&#39; experience
	Be at least 21 years old
	Have references from reliable and reputable sources that have been personally checked and verified by us
	A National Police check
	Current First Aid certificate 
	Verified, current Working with Children Check
	Training in mandatory reporting of child abuse
	Valid visa or right to work. 


When you engage a premium Nanny agency, you can go to work with the peace of mind that your Nanny/Educator has been extensively vetted and knows how to uncover red flags before they ever come into contact with your family. As such, when you pay a premium, it&#39;s to ensure you find the best candidate for your family. 

 

A Nanny share service means two families can share one Nanny/Educator, helping to reduce costs.

 

Keeping Nanny/Educator costs down while still receiving a premium service

At Placement Solutions, we understand that not everyone can afford the most expensive Nanny/Educators.

At Placement Solutions, we understand that not everyone can afford the most expensive Nanny/Educators. That&#39;s why we&#39;ve created a range of ways to make our Nanny/Educators accessible to a broad range of people. Our Nanny share service involves one Nanny/Educator caring for the children of two families at once (up to four children in total). This gives families access to all the benefits of in-home childcare, while also providing the extra socialisation opportunities for the children involved. 

We also offer a part-time Nannying arrangement that can supplement other forms of childcare such as daycare or nursery. 

Placement Solutions: A premium Nanny agency for your child

When it comes to your child, you want the best care possible. Placement Solutions can provide this. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and find the best Nanny/Educator option for you, or book a customer service call using our online booking function.
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<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/we-need-a-nanny/cost-vs.-value-how-much-should-you-pay-for-childcare</guid>
<pubDate>14 Nov 2020 01:53:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/nanny-or-daycare-which-suits-my-family-better</link>
<title><![CDATA[Nanny or Daycare: Which Suits My Family Better?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[What you choose will depend on a number of factors, but here at Placement Solutions, we believe a Nanny wins every time. Here&#39;s why. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[What type of childcare do you want to provide for your kids?

It&#39;s one of the hardest decisions you&#39;ll ever have to make; almost two thirds (62 per cent) of parents say it&#39;s difficult to find childcare in their community that is both affordable and high quality, according to Pew Social Trends.

So, daycare or Nanny? What you choose will depend on a number of factors, but here at Placement Solutions, we believe a Nanny wins every time. Here&#39;s why:

1) A Nanny can focus their attention solely on your child

The care of your child will always be your number one concern. And with a Nanny, it&#39;ll be theirs too (we call them Nanny/Educators). This is because in a daycare the attention of a caregiver will be spread across many children, while a Nanny/Educator&#39;s sole focus will be your child (at Placement Solutions, we only allow Nanny/Educators to care for up to four children, to ensure they are being given the best care possible).

A child&#39;s emotional, social and cognitive development depends on being able to form close relationships.

As a result, your child will form a much stronger bond with their Nanny/Educator. There is a lot of research to show the importance of early bonding. A study by Robert Winston and Rebecca Chicot, published in the London Journal of Primary Care, clearly indicates the role of loving relationships and nurture in a child&#39;s emotional, social and cognitive development.

Daycare centres often have a very high turnover. A University of Queensland study of 1,200 childcare workers across Australia found that one in five intended to leave their job within the next 12 months. Developmental Psychologist Professor Karen Thorpe said that this would harm a child&#39;s learning and development.

This is something parents who have hired Nanny/Educators can avoid, as they can select the timeframe they are looking for (casual, temporary or ongoing). Once you build up a relationship with your Nanny/Educator, they are more likely to make a long-term commitment.

Continuity of care is essential, especially during the early stages, and it&#39;s something that can only truly be provided by a Nanny/Educator.

Although many would argue daycare gives a child more opportunity to learn social interaction, the stronger bond they form with a Nanny/Educator is extremely important. Nanny/Educators can also take children to play dates, meaning your kids will still get the social interaction they need to thrive. Alternatively, Placement Solutions provides a Nanny Share scheme to assist with the social aspect.



Many believe only daycare can provide social interaction opportunities for children - but Nannies form closer bonds and can still take kids to play dates.

2) Giving you peace of mind at work

When you leave for work in the morning, you want to have the peace of mind that your children are well looked after. When you leave them with a Nanny/Educator, you know that there will be someone giving their whole attention to your child.

Although daycare helpers often have to go through vetting and qualifications, there are Nanny/Educator services that also require stringent security checks and qualifications. At Placement Solutions, we pride ourselves on the extensive background checks that we perform personally, having developed these over 30 years in the industry. All of our Nanny/Educators must have:


	
	At least three years&#39; personally verified relevant experience
	
	
	Current National Police check
	
	
	Current First Aid certificate
	
	
	Current Working With Children check
	
	
	Ideally, have or be working towards a minimum qualification of Certificate III in Children&#39;s Services
	
	
	All Nannies in Australia must now be trained in suspected child abuse mandatory reporting. Placement Solutions is the only Australian agency accredited by Childwise for our work in child abuse prevention, and we offer this training onsite for all of our Nanny/Educators.
	
	
	Valid visa or right to work in Australia
	


At Placement Solutions we can provide Nanny/Educators that are just as qualified as daycare staff.



You can go to work with peace of mind knowing that your kids are being well looked after by a professional Nanny/Educator.

3) Work around your schedule

Parents who utilise daycare still have to arrange getting their children out of bed, dressed, fed and dropped off. We&#39;re sure you know how much of a task this can be! Nannies, on the other hand, will come straight to your house at the appointed time - meaning they can work around your schedule, instead of you having to work with the daycare&#39;s schedule.

A Nanny will work around your schedule, instead of you having to work with the daycare&#39;s schedule.

This is especially important for those with demanding jobs. Daycare finishing times are often much earlier than normal office days, and a daycare will never be able to provide you with the flexibility that a Nanny/Educator can.

Nanny/Educators can also perform extra duties related to childcare, such as ensuring their washing is done. Of course, they will always do this only when they are not looking after the child, who will always be their number one priority.



We know it can be difficult getting your kids out of bed in the mornings. When you hire a Nanny/Educator, you&#39;ll discover a new routine is possible.

4) Reduced chance of your kids getting sick

Children at daycare are exposed to all sorts of germs, meaning there&#39;s a high chance they&#39;ll get sick. When this happens, you&#39;ll have to try and organise last minute childcare arrangements, which again can be extremely stressful, especially if you have a big day at work ahead. Or even more so, having to take the day off work yourself. 

Hiring a Nanny/Educator with Placement Solutions

Ultimately, your choice should boil down to the relationship between the caregiver and the child. This relationship will have a huge impact for years to come, and it&#39;s something that can really only be achieved by hiring a Nanny/Educator. At Placement Solutions, we provide multiple choices to ensure you get the Nanny/Educator that will work best for your kids and for you.

For more information on hiring one of our experienced and qualified Nanny/Educators, reach out to the team today.




]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/in-home-childcare/nanny-or-daycare-which-suits-my-family-better</guid>
<pubDate>08 Aug 2020 01:36:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.placementsolutions.com.au/recruitment-/-jobs/the-state-of-play-of-nannying-here-and-in-the-usa</link>
<title><![CDATA[The &#145;state of play&#39; of nannying here and in the USA]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[I&rsquo;ve recently returned from a visit to the USA during which I attended the Association of Premier Nanny Agencies (APNA) conference. Those who attend this conference are running nanny agencies all over America and beyond, so collectively they provide a unique perspective on what is happening in the nanny industry in the States specifically, but with implications for all of us.

I subsequently interviewed Daryl Camarillo, who runs Stanford Park Nannies in the Silicon Valley area of California, and Kathy Webb, who runs HomeWork Solutions, a nanny payroll and tax compliance business on the other side of the country in Virginia. I wanted to get their views on where the nanny industry is  heading. Perhaps unsurprisingly, they describe issues that have many similarities to what is happening in Australia.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[I&rsquo;ve recently returned from a visit to the USA during which I attended the Association of Premier Nanny Agencies (APNA) conference. Those who attend this conference are running nanny agencies all over America and beyond, so collectively they provide a unique perspective on what is happening in the nanny industry in the States specifically, but with implications for all of us.

I subsequently interviewed Daryl Camarillo, who runs Stanford Park Nannies in the Silicon Valley area of California, and Kathy Webb, who runs HomeWork Solutions, a nanny payroll and tax compliance business on the other side of the country in Virginia. I wanted to get their views on where the nanny industry is  heading. Perhaps unsurprisingly, they describe issues that have many similarities to what is happening in Australia.

I started by asking Daryl and Kathy what they see as the most significant changes to the industry in the last decade or so. For Daryl, this comes down to the impact of the internet (on which the nanny industry is hardly alone!). The rise of web-based matching services like care.com (findababysitter.com.au is another example in Australia) have, in Daryl&rsquo;s view, &ldquo;dumbed down the process of matching families and nannies&rdquo;. The lack of scrutiny is leading to far too many children being &ldquo;put in harm&rsquo;s way by parents who were led to believe that the DIY method was safe and easy&rdquo;.

Kathy also sees a lack of understanding in many parents about the distinction between online marketplaces and traditional agencies. However she also sees some light at the end of the tunnel in &ldquo;the rise of domestic worker bills of rights at a state level, and increased scrutiny of the &lsquo;independent contractor&rsquo; designation.&rdquo; She also sees improvements in the background screening available to agencies as a positive, as well as a general improvement in the professionalism of the industry. However, there is a long way to go.

From Kathy&rsquo;s perspective, a gradual (and legitimate) improvement in the pay of legally employed nannies over time is introducing a new challenge in that &ldquo;many families feel priced out of the market&rdquo;. While agencies are getting creative at finding ways around this (such as nanny sharing) there seems no doubt this situation is helping to boost online services and corner-cutting when it comes to legal employment.

Daryl believes there is still a lot of ignorance amongst both parents and nannies as to what constitutes proper legal employment. &ldquo;The sad truth is that the challenges facing agencies today are the same challenges we have worked hard to overcome for decades,&rdquo; namely widespread use of hiring standards and widespread failure to comply with employment labour and tax laws. She quotes figures suggesting that less than nine per cent of nannies are paid legally, which has ramifications much wider than the obvious underpayment of nannies along with their missing out on various protections. For instance, billions of dollars are foregone in unpaid federal income taxes and social security and Medicare contributions as a result.

This is a very similar argument to that we&rsquo;ve been making in Australia about the need for nannies to be legally employed.

Kathy believes the public perception of nannying being something less than a profession &ndash; and therefore the temptation to cut corners &ndash; would be helped by having a national standard, or credential for nannies. At present, &ldquo;anyone can call themselves a nanny when looking for work, which makes the choice of candidates complicated for families.&rdquo; She believes &ldquo;background screening should be mandatory for all in-home caregivers, and families should be held responsible for this minimum level of candidate vetting&rdquo;.

It&rsquo;s not a question of changing or introducing new laws. &ldquo;US law is quite clear that nannies are employees, that they and their employers have the obligation to pay taxes and benefits and provide protections,&rdquo; says Kathy. As in Australia, the law is there, but that doesn&rsquo;t mean it is adhered to.

What is needed, Daryl believes, is greater enforcement. &ldquo;The chances of a family&rsquo;s tax return being audited for failure to comply with household employment taxes is negligible. In my 26 years in this business, I have not heard of one case &hellip; I often hear families say, &lsquo;I&rsquo;m not running for public office, and none of my friends pay their nannies legally, so why should I?&rsquo;&rdquo;

All-in-all the picture painted by Daryl and Kathy &ndash; and which I have seen on my visits to the US &ndash; is not significantly different from the Australian situation. While we slowly increase the public perception of nannies as professionals, we are also fighting ongoing battles for formal accreditation, for nannies to be treated as employees and not contractors, and for those laws that do exist in these areas to be properly enforced.

Louise Dunham, CEO
]]></content>
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<pubDate>04 Dec 2016 12:31:00 GMT</pubDate>
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