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 IG: newstoriescallingart Ps. Yes, I know my profile says Chelsea, but I've been through a legal name change which this system "can't" correct until my membership expires. My name is Water, happy to show you my driver's license to silence the dead naming if it would help put your mind at ease. Not mad at caregivers who don't read this far, just mad at computer's needs being given precedence over people's needs.

Hello! I’m Caitlyn, a childcare professional with over 15 years of experience. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Early Childhood Education from Sonoma State University. Currently, I work as a Site Supervisor for Hillsborough Recreation’s Aftercare program, and I’ve had the opportunity to work at various recreation centers over the years. I’ve also been a nanny for five families, caring for children aged 2 to 13, and have experience with newborns and infants, along with roles as a summer camp counselor. I’m reliable, patient, CPR certified, and fully vaccinated (including the COVID booster). I’m available for occasional date night and weekend childcare. Feel free to reach out with any questions—I’d love to assist your family!

Hello, my name is Cagla. I hold a master’s degree and have been working with children and families since 2013. My experience includes working as an au pair in the U.S. as well as supporting families through after-school educational programs and family-focused care services. I understand the different needs of children at various developmental stages and adapt my approach accordingly, and I consistently receive positive feedback from families for my professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to build trust.

I have been working with children for about 25 years. I have experience working with multiple children at a time and children different ages, including infants. Working with children has always been my passion. I am very energetic and love taking kids for walks, to the park, library, enjoy doing art projects, read books and just love watching kids grow and watch them learn new things. I also speak German and Bosnia . I am a mother of two school aged children. My son is 17 and daughter is 15 years old. I have worked with many families and therefore have many references. I am available for occasional evening and weekend babysitting.

Hi families! My name is Karol. I’m an experienced babysitter who speaks English and Spanish. I’ve been caring for kids for over 3 years—ranging from 8-month-old babies to 12-year-olds. I’m active, patient, and love doing both outdoor and indoor activities with children. I also offer light housekeeping, pet care, and senior assistance. I’m CPR certified and always make safety a top priority. Looking forward to supporting your family!