Find a babysitter in Portola Valley, CA

Years ago, my first profile picture on this site was criticized by a potential family for being too strange. I picked one way stranger in response (me in a unicorn onesie) until the 2024 powers that be on this site recently called it inappropriate. So, now I’ve found one off the charts strange with my head half shaved in the middle of a home COVID haircut ;-). Children are SO important to me—yes that means physical safety, but for me it also involves emotional safety. I want deeply for children and young people to love themselves and find their voices as they grow, but to do that they need to see adults who appreciate and take joy in their own uniqueness. That, more than any resume point, is what I offer to kids and families with fierce commitment. I have worked with children and young people in a variety of settings for thirty years. In my early days there was the usual teenage babysitting. I have also worked for summer camps and non-profits--designing, leading, and overseeing children's activities and programs. Next, I taught 6th, 7th, and 8th grade English for the last thirteen years in both Southern California and the Bay Area, followed by ten years of nannying for children of all ages. Finally, I have started to move very organically into parental coaching, upon request of families I care/have cared for. I have special insight into neurodivergent kids and school engagement struggles. I am certified in CPR, First Aid, AED, have taken expressive arts therapy training, and have had multiple experiences working with autistic young people, in addition to being autistic myself. I am happy to help older children with their English homework and do Elmo's voice for the younger children in the fort we just built :) I am tidy, punctual, and you will not find me on my phone or devices while my attention should be on your child. I love and appreciate the curiosity, creativity, kindness, and honesty of all children, and I look forward to being part of the village that helps care for yours. Thanks, Water pronouns: he/him [removed] Ps. 8/18/26 I'll be gone from this platform when my membership expires because of their unnecessarily complicated policies about legal name changes that frankly border on transphobic. My profile will be hidden before then because I will no longer be doing updates. Find me soon on a sight that rhymes with Bear lot Tom under the name Water Woody for my regulars who do not already have my personal contact info.

Hi! I’m a 32-year-old professional nanny from Turkey with over six years of childcare experience. I spent two years as an au pair and have been working with wonderful families in San Francisco for more than four years. During this time, I’ve cared for children of all ages and needs—everything from premature babies to children with special needs. I’m also trained in the Montessori approach and have developed strong skills in sleep training and potty training, which I love using to make life easier for families. I’m experienced in all aspects of childcare, including laundry, meal prep, cleaning, bath time, diaper changes, and planning fun, engaging activities. Families often describe me as calm, proactive, and adaptable, with a positive attitude that helps me handle any situation. I also enjoy cooking and love creating meals that suit a family’s unique preferences. What’s most important to me is building a close, family-like bond with the families I work with. I strive to be a trusted role model and a “big sister” to the children I care for, sharing my skills and life experiences in a way that helps them grow. If you’re looking for someone who’s caring, responsible, and truly passionate about working with kids, I’d love to meet you!

Hi- my name is Jamie, originally from Los Angeles, CA. I grew up in a big and very family oriented environment. I began babysitting at the age of 15. I have babysat children ranging from the ages of 2months-15 years old. I am comfortable babysitting children of all ages. I have done a lot of volunteer work in schools,daycares, churches, and more which have all required me to interact with children. I am a very responsible, patient, hardworking, approachable, nice, funny, energetic, understanding, and loving person. When I babysit I enjoy playing sports outside, doing crafts, playing board games, reading, and much more. I always love helping kids with homework. On my free time I love to read, watch movies, and have a good time. Overall, I like to believe that I am an outgoing individual that loves to be around kids and has a lot of patience.

Hi - My name is Mariana and I’m looking for a 2 part time, weekdays, one in the morning one afternoon, open for a full time was well, and babysitting. I love working with kids and have experience caring for children from 6 months to 11 years old. I’m comfortable with everything from diaper changes to preparing meals, and I bring a mix of fun and learning to our time together — reading stories, coloring, puzzles, going to the park, and even the occasional dance party. I’m responsible, organized, and genuinely enjoy spending my days with kids. I’m CPR certified, a strong swimmer, fully vaccinated, and a safe driver.

Hello 😊! My name is Daniela, I am a 2nd year college student, focusing my studies on Child Development, Psychology, & Sociology. I am extremely passionate about the route I am taking, in terms of my education & the work I do within the elementary school I work in & the wonderful families I provide babysitting/nanny services to 🥰! I have over seven years of experience, both professional and personal, working with children, ranging from infants to teenagers. I’ve worked in school settings, nannied for multiple families, provided casual babysitting for date nights, and have also helped as a mother’s helper. My responsibilities have included supervising activities, helping with homework, preparing meals, engaging in crafts, supporting routines, and driving children to and from school or activities. In addition to childcare, I’m happy to help with light cleaning, meal prep, organizing, and running errands. I am CPR/First Aide certified, have a valid driver’s license, and have my own reliable vehicle; all of which allow me to be prepared in case of any emergencies or any general errands at hand. I truly enjoy working with children and supporting families in any way I can. I’d love to speak more about how I can best help you and your family!