VENMO or APPLE-PAY PAYMENTS ARE ACCEPTED. *Four (4) Hour Minimum PLEASE I graduated from Menlo College (Bay Area) where I majored in Marketing. I have been with UrbanSitter since 2013 and have met so many amazing families since being on the site, and still work with amazing families till this day watching the kids grow up right in front of me. I have danced my entire life, and just recently moved to Portland Oregon for dance/work reasons. ** I am CPR & First Aid Certified - Infant, Child & Adult through the American RedCross. *** I am also completely up to date on all of my vaccinations!!! My Schedule seems to change every week, so if any families have questions on availability please just ask. **** I am extremely Pet Friendly!! I am excited to have the opportunity to work with children and their families. Thank you for your consideration :) NOTE: FOR FRIDAY & SATURDAY EVENING JOBS, I DO HAVE A FOUR (4) HOUR MINIMUM - THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING :) ALSO: 1/2 MAX. PHONE INTERVIEWS ARE AT NO CHARGE. IN-PERSON INTERVIEWS ARE $25 FOR ONE HOUR OR FEEL FREE TO BOOK ME FOR MY MINIMUM 4 HOUR JOB AT APPROPRIATE RATES.

I have been working in the field of Occupational Therapy for 33 years, 17 of them in the schools with children with special needs. I have raised three children of my own and have 5 delightful Grandchildren. I like to plan fun age and developmentally appropriate activities to assist in developing self-esteem, creativity, self-expression, curiosity, character and compassion. I enjoy seeing and assisting children thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. My Grandchildren know that "Nana's" most important job is keeping them safe. I encourage children to problem solve and to communicate openly. Communication is key in all my relationships no matter the age. I was a life guard as a young adult, a Girl Scout leader and volunteered for outdoor adventure companies that work with the physically challenged population. I even taught adaptive PE for a term. I co-owned an organic farm CSA for 10 joyous years. We also made herbal products and sold them at the Farmer's Market. I am an animal lover as well so be assured that your pets will also receive attention. Some call me the dog or the cat-whisperer... (Side note: I am a petsitter as well). I don't watch much TV as there are too many other choices as my interests are numerous from backpacking, kayaking, traveling especially in the developing world, volunteering, spending time with animals, my family and friends and of course my Grandchildren, reading, music, the performing arts, skiing, crocheting, yoga, crafts, gardening and trying to make this world a little more kind, more fun, lighter... Life is to be celebrated as it is a gift to share and enjoy with others and possibly to make their life a bit easier along the way.

I am a Portland State University graduate with a bachelors of arts in Social Science, minor in psychology and Spanish. I have worked as a Girl Scouts summer activities leader for 23 girls grades first-fourth. As an activities leader, I facilitated science, art and life skills/healthy living. I love creating safe spaces for children to express themselves and be creative. I am a very family oriented person. I am the oldest of three and have spent a lot of my time helping my family raise the small ones in our family. I am currently only available Friday afternoons and weekends. I look forward to getting to know you and meeting your family!

Hello families! I’m excited to meet you and your kiddos! I’m Maria but children like using my nickname, Ria 😊 I've been in Portland for most of my life. I love it here, especially the proximity to all the natural beauty and the ocean. I'm a passionate hiker and always chasing the next waterfall. I have 20+ years of experience in childcare, from infants to teens. I have been co-parenting my young niece and nephew for 5 years, I was a foster mother for a year and I’ve cared for many other children through the years, so I have a wide range of experience. I believe in creating a safe, nurturing environment for children to experience their journeys. I encourage children to express themselves and explore the world through creation, imagination, playtime, activities, movement, games, singing, exploring nature, reading and most of all, FUN! I love a good little dance party. I will keep your child(ren) engaged during our time together! My belief is that children are simply young people exploring their way through this wonderful and sometimes challenging world. What an honor for us as adults to help guide them on their journeys. I am happy to prepare meals and clean up during my visit as it relates to your child’s care, but my priority is to focus on your child(ren) during our time together. I’m available for some house cleaning for an additional charge (at naptime or after bedtime, for example). I’m available for part time and occasional care, including overnight stays. I’m also available for pet and housesitting. I’m an excellent communicator and will keep you informed throughout your time away, as frequently or infrequently as you prefer. I have a reliable car, I’m punctual and I’m flexible if you need to be out later than planned (most times). Please reach out if you have any questions or special circumstances or requests. I look forward to meeting you!