Cecilia (28 / Ms. ), American, Biologist living in USA looking for Au Pair & Nanny job in Australia, Spain & Panama for 6-12 Months

I have not formally been a nanny or au pair before, though I have a lifetime of experience living with and caring for little ones! I have two siblings much younger than myself, one with special needs. I was very active in their upbringing (particularly from ages 0-4) and have recognized a natural talent I have for caring for and connecting with kiddos.

I have been a sports coach for girls' lacrosse ages 5-13 for a few years and found great joy in motivating and mentoring the girls. I also have experience babysitting children between the ages of 3 and 10 over several points in my life. When I lived in the Caribbean and worked for the National Park Service, I lived with a single mom of a 2 year old. Though it wasn't our plan originally, her son grew quite close to me very quickly and I often helped her with childcare and household responsibilities so she was able to maintain her career as a school teacher. At this time I also had completed first aid training and received my certificate as a first responder via the American Red Cross Association.

I would like to be an au pair or nanny because I have always enjoyed caregiving and teaching little ones throughout my life. I find a lot of joy in being present for children and even young adults, as I know this time is quite important for their development. I grew up with parents who worked at universities, which meant many young people were around and excited to babysit me, get to know me at dinner parties, or even talk to me when I was sitting in their offices.

Some of my fondest memories as a child came from learning from my mother or father's best trusted students, learning about where they come from, or what they studied. I think the opportunity to provide additional support, care, comfort, safety, and education for a child is a lovely way to fill my time as I continue to develop as a professional. Some of my babysitters at that point were some of my best buddies and sources of trust and safety. To provide that for another child now feels like a great privilege.