BFC Kid Zones Are Here!

December 2, 2024 bellfamilycompany

BFC Kid Zone’s are a custom made, interactive kid-only area designed to plug into any family friendly function. This is a perfect way to keep your guests’ children entertained and well cared for while you and your guests enjoy your wedding, corporate function, family fun event and more!

Our childcare providers will come fully equipped with activity stations that engage and empower your guests’ children. From arts and crafts corner to further inspire those creative minds, princess, safari and fairyland entertainers that will light up their lil’ eyes, to movie night for wind down time, we’re here to bring the entertainment!

Our team will also lead a check-in/check-out station, provide custom take home gift bags and offer a level of elite service that will wow you and your guests.

BFC Kid Zone’s are designed to help make your special day an even bigger success. Contact us today and our team will help get a BFC Kid Zone organized at your next function!

Looking to hire a babysitter or nanny? Bell Family Company provides fully vetted & FULLY VACCINATED on demand babysitting, including full and part time nannies, baby nurses, temporary care and more! Learn why BFC is the best childcare agency, with childcare providers available across the U.S. (on-demand service available in the Tri-state & Dallas areas). Contact us today to hire.

Uncategorized

The Ultimate Nanny Resume Template

October 2, 2024 bellfamilycompany

It’s time to update your resume! It’s always good practice to keep your experience up to date. Whether you are currently looking for a job, or already signed up to babysit with us, show families your up-to-date expertise. You can copy and paste our recommended template below into a word document and plug in your personal information and experience. Email us a copy or log into your BFC profile to upload for us and families to see.

Your First and Last Name
City and state you reside | Cell | Email
Add photo of yourself if you’d like here

Professional Summary
Type up in a paragraph, show your personality, use good grammar and punctuation, and complete sentences.

How many years of childcare experience do you have?
Tell us about all the childcare positions you have worked.
Tell us about your personality and goals.
Why do you want to be a nanny?

Qualifications

Do you speak any other languages, have certifications/trainings in a field, do you have a driver’s license, do you swim, do you have a passport and are willing to travel?

Education

Name of College/University, start/end dates, graduation year, major and/or minor.

Childcare Experience

Family first and last name (start date and year – end date and year), City, State

Was it full or part time (how many hours)?
How many kids, and what ages when you started?
What were your daily duties?

Other Professional Experience

Name of business (start date and year – end date and year), City, State

Was it full or part time (how many hours)?
What were your daily duties?

Note: References available upon request.

Looking to hire a babysitter or nanny? Bell Family Company provides fully vetted & FULLY VACCINATED on demand babysitting, including full and part time nannies, baby nurses, temporary care, help with virtual learning, and more! Learn why BFC is the best childcare agency, with childcare providers available across the U.S. (on-demand service available in the tri-state area). Contact us today to hire!

Parenting

Getting Kids on a Routine

August 14, 2024 bellfamilycompany

Is it tough for your kids to transition from summer’s lazy days to school’s rigorous schedule? It is for mine.

I wanted to come up with a way to get everyone acclimated so it was not such a struggle. To help get my kids on a routine, I write out an agenda or schedule of sorts for them to follow the next day. Some may call this micromanaging, but if they don’t have a to-do list they are completely lost at home over the summer.

Each of my kids get an index card with a schedule and it looks something like this:

• 7:30 am – Wake up, eat breakfast, make bed and pick up room
• 8:30 am – Brain exercises
• 9:30 am – Outside play (basketball, pickle ball, ride bike, go on a walk/hike)
• 11 am – Snack time
• 12 pm – Lunch
• 1 pm – Read and practice multiplication (my husband offered them a treat if they know their times tables by end of summer)
• 2 pm – Kid’s choice (they play board games or cards)
• 3 pm – Video games (reward time)
• 4 pm – Swim

As the day goes on, they cross items off their index card and feel a sense of accomplishment! Do they get off course, yes, but at least it provides them with some guidance throughout the day.

Mom

Why Is It So Hard for Moms to Ask for Help?

August 7, 2024 bellfamilycompany

Getting childcare help is an essential part of parenthood, but not all Moms are getting the help that they need. We asked moms, “Why is it so hard to ask for help?” The most common answers were:

• I want it done a certain way.
• Mom guilt.
• Not sure who to ask.
• I feel that it’s my job to do it.
• The time it takes to set up I my as well do it myself.

Mom #1: Lindsay, 4 children

I like to do a lot of it a certain way, but I try to teach my husband how to do things around the home and with the kids so I don’t have to do everything. I also ask for help a lot and don’t feel bad about it. My husband is mortified to ask for help, he will always just do it himself. If I don’t ask for help it makes me resentful and always leads me to exhaustion.

Mom #2: Kate, 3 children

I think part of it is due to social media. We all live in this fake reality where it appears that everyone has everything together (all the time) and we have to keep it together too. It’s the pressure we put on ourselves as moms that makes it hard — mom guilt is real.

Another thing I run into is who do I even ask for help? We all assume these responsibilities and put it on our shoulders to do everything the best that we can. I know when I do ask my mother-in-law or mom for help they are so happy to do it!

Mom #3: Alex, 2 children

I think some of it has to do with a sense of pride of “being able to do it all” – and perhaps asking for help would take away from that.

I don’t subscribe to traditional gender roles, but I think moms may feel guilty “needing” help — especially if they don’t work (like it’s their job to take care of the kids and the house so they shouldn’t outsource).

I ask for help because it makes me a better mom, wife, friend and person. It ensure that I get a break so I’m able to be present and enjoy my time with my family.

Mom #4: Elisa, 3 children

For me, I often think that the time it takes to set up childcare I my as well do it myself, but that’s not true! I think moms don’t share their real trials and tribulations with each other, resulting in each feeling as if they are the only one having difficulty balancing it all.

Get the childcare help you need today! Contact our team of childcare experts and we’ll guide you to finding the childcare coverage you need.

Mom

How to Conquer Motherhood With 4 Kids

July 31, 2024 bellfamilycompany

Going from three to four kids is a lot. People told me it’s much the same as going from two to three kids, but I think it’s harder! So, how does one manage a lot of kids? A lot of patience, love and help!

I found that getting childcare and household help assists me in being a better mother, friend and wife.

A part time nanny can bring consistency to the family and offer a regular schedule of coverage. For my family, we use a part time daytime career nanny. This allows me to work from home consistent hours four days per week, grab lunch or a coffee once in a while with a friend and attend my workout class every Wednesday. I get to mingle, check off my weight bearing exercises and leave the house!

My nanny also helps me tidy up the kitchen and folds the children’s laundry — a BFC Family Helper would also be great at things like this!

For date night, when I need additional coverage during the day or weekends or for overnights when my husband travels, I book a BFC sitter. I use a sitter at least once per week as something always pops up in our schedule.

I love being a mom. I also love being a good wife, daughter, sister and friend. I found outsourcing to reliable childcare providers is the best way to enjoy the many hats we mamas wear.

Uncategorized

Farm Camp (for Kids) Does Exist!

June 26, 2024 bellfamilycompany

My city boy husband knows I enjoy a good article proving the outdoors and farm life are good for the soul. He recently forwarded me “What City Kids Can Learn On My Farm,” by Larissa Phillips. She is a former Brooklynite turned upstate farmer. She shares the joys of seeing her own children working and playing on their family’s farm. She even shares the experience with city kids and their parents offering a place to stay and the opportunity to do jobs on the farm.

Earlier this year my parents volunteered to take our two oldest boys for 16 days while I recovered from my last birth. My parents own a small farm in northeast Ohio, and every summer we road trip there to stay on the farm. However, this year we couldn’t all travel with the new baby so the boys travelled with their grandparents back to Ohio.

Each day, my mother sent photos of what the kids were doing. My parents are both former educators — they like routine and follow a more strict parenting style. Loving, but firm is a good way to put it. The boys love it and seem to thrive.

A typical schedule looks like this:

– Wake up: make beds, get dressed & take clothes to the laundry
– Breakfast & brain exercises (my mom loves work books)
– Outside play till Papa gets back from the golf course
– Jobs: cleaning the barn, feed/water the cows, weed or pick veggies out of the garden, mow the lawn, paint the barn, sweep the garage, etc.
– Lunch time
– Go for a bike ride or hike in the woods
– Jobs (cont.): fix the cars, air conditioner or something else that broke
– Cousin time at the playground in the back yard
– Downtime reading in the hammock
– Dinner
– Bath & TV: they are allowed to watch something they typically watch at home or they watch Gunsmoke with Papa
– Bedtime in the basement (boys only!)

Can you imagine how tired kids would be after this schedule? Absolutely pooped! In bed by 8:30 p.m. and willingly.

They missed home, but lived it up in Ohio. When they came home to hot Dallas, the good habits continued. My oldest willingly went to our small garden, weeded it and picked all the carrots. I usually have to ask for this. The second oldest usually has to be asked 5x to go outside to ride his bike for some exercise, but since getting back home he does it on his own.

It is the best experience for everyone. I got some quality time with the baby and the boys got lots of independence and learned excellent life skills and habits on the farm.

Larissa you are definitely onto something!

Sitter/Nanny

Etiquette & Manners: How to Set Yourself Apart From Other Caregivers

May 28, 2024 bellfamilycompany

It’s important not only to make a great first impression, but also to maintain ongoing good etiquette and manners to keep the relationship between you and the family healthy and happy!

Here are some helpful tips to ensure excellence:

The family wants to like you, so make it easy for them! Present yourself with grace and warmth, and SMILE!
Be sure to look the part. Be clean, groomed and put-together, while keeping your appearance kid-friendly and comfortable (i.e., nothing low-cut, above the knees, torn, dirty or see-through).
Don’t use inappropriate language or chew gum.
When first meeting the parents, it’s respectful to address them by Mr. or Ms. “Last Name” until they ask you to call them by their first name. Introduce yourself with eye contact, a handshake and a smile!
Follow the family rules (even when you don’t agree). If you have questions about this, ask our team and we’d be happy to help.
Be aware of using the family’s things and what is permitted or off limits.
When running late, always email/text that you are behind. Do not make it a habit, but we and families understand transportation can have delays.
Ask in advance if you need to leave early (a week’s notice is appropriate timing).
If you get sick and you are a full or part time nanny, let the family know well in advance. If you are a sitter, email HQ and let them know so they can find a replacement.

Great nanny & sitter characteristics:

• Respectful
• Energetic
• Positive-energy
• Loyal
• Helpful
• Honest

Looking to hire a babysitter or nanny in NYC? Bell Family Company provides fully vetted on-demand babysitting, including childcare for when a child is sick, full and part time nannies, baby nurses, temporary care and more! Learn why BFC is the best NY Childcare Agency servicing the tri-state area. BFC is the best in the business! Contact us today to hire a nanny in NYC or to book the best babysitters in NYC!

Childcare

What Moms Are Doing for Childcare Over Summer

April 3, 2024 bellfamilycompany

We talked with some of our Bell Family moms to see what they are doing for childcare this summer. Read below and get inspiration for your summer childcare plan.

Still looking for childcare help this summer? Reach out to us and we’ll work with you to find the childcare coverage you need!

Mandy, mom of 1

I have my kiddo enrolled in full-time summer camp at the YMCA over the summer to keep him busy during the daytime. The camp is great — it has a new theme every week and a bunch of his school friends also attend. We’re sure to get in at least one family trip to the lake over the summer where we hire a BFC Travel Sitter to help and that’s a savor!

Lindsay, mom of 3

This summer will kick off with some local science and sports camps and a part time summer nanny to help me tag team the shuffling from activity to activity. After camp is complete, we are road tripping to Nashville to say howdy to my husband’s alma mater, then to Washington, D.C. to see my sister and her family. Next, we go to Ohio for 4 weeks to work on Grandpa and Grandma’s farm. The kids will have their morning brain exercises, daily chores, lots of play and cousin time, then off to Michigan for 1 week to celebrate Grandpa’s 70^th birthday before we start the journey back to Texas. Once we are back home, I will have sitters help me tag team the remaining few weeks to run errands, plan activities and swim!

Hannah, mom of 2

My 8-year-old daughter is enrolled in camps this summer. She is going to Girl Scouts, guitar camp, soccer camp, and YMCA camp. Luckily, I work from home so on the days I don’t have something lined up, she will be home with me. My 2-year-old son will split time in daycare and our part time nanny because I could not handle him solo while I work at home.

Bell Family Company

BFC Family Helpers Can Do That!

March 25, 2024 bellfamilycompany

Not enough time in your day? Feeling overwhelmed? Want more time to do the things you love NOT what you have to do?

Read what our amazing Family Helpers can do for you:

Household & Home Organization

Meal & snack prep: Washing, cutting fruits/vegetables, gathering all ingredients, storing foods properly, etc.
Housesitting: Checking the mail, turning on lights, receiving packages, watering plants, etc.
Family schedules: Inputting school, work, extra-curricular, church, family outings in google or outlook calendar
Service & repair: Scheduling of contractors and sitting at apartment/house while work is being done & ensuring project completion
Tidy service (in between housekeeper visits): Wipe down counter tops, empty dish washer, swifter/dust buster
Laundry: Wash, fold, put away, pack away, etc.
Decluttering: Old toys, books, family items no longer in use
Pack & unpack boxes or travel bags

Errand Services

Grocery pick-up & delivery
Dry cleaning & wardrobe alternations
Personal shopping & returns
Pick up & drop off assistance for appts
Mail services: Shipping & returns

On-Site Management (at birthday parties, weddings, business functions & family gatherings)

Door greeters
Kid zone monitors & childcare providers
Management of check-in table
On-site coordinators
Other event staffing: Serving, set-up & breakdown

Senior Services

Doctor visit attendance
General companionship
Pharmacy pickup
Travel escort: Vehicle & air travel

Seasonal

Seasonal shopping & gift wrap
Decorating: Set up, breakdown & storage

Looking to hire a BFC Family Helper, Sitter or Nanny? Bell Family Company provides fully vetted & FULLY VACCINATED on demand babysitting, including full and part time nannies, baby nurses, temporary care, help with virtual learning, and more! Learn why BFC is the best childcare agency, with childcare providers available across the U.S. (on-demand service available in the tri-state area). Contact us today to hire!

Sitter/Nanny

Prep & Etiquette Tips for a Childcare Interview

February 27, 2024 bellfamilycompany

We know prepping for a childcare interview, or any interview, can be a stressful time. To help ease the nerves, it’s a good idea to do some pre-work to ensure you put yourself in the best possible position to get the job. Here are some interview preparation tips along with etiquette best practices to get you started in the right direction.

Sitter & Nanny Prep for First Appointment or Trial:

1. Check in with the family via email or text as soon as you get the confirmation email to say hello and that you’re looking forward to meeting them.

2. During this exchange, make sure you have the right start/end times confirmed between both of you and the right address.

3. Review the family’s profile for special notes and/or job conditions to have a good background of the family’s needs and prepare any questions you may have.

4. Dress appropriately. Wear attire that is both childcare friendly and professional. Look presentable as this is the first impression you are making on the family.

5. Show up on time! On time is 5 minutes early so that the family does not begin to worry if you’ll be late. Use a GPS device to get directions ahead of time and plan ahead if the weather is supposed to be bad, the subways are slow, etc.

6. Make sure to take your shoes off and wash your hands upon meeting them for the first time.