Find an emergency babysitter in Palo Alto, 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.

Hi! My name is Gisa. I am returning to Urbansitter after 3 and a half years of working full-time for a wonderful family with three children. I love arts and crafts, reading and doing fun science projects with kids. - Occupational therapy graduate student at San Jose State University (starting in the Fall 2024) - I have a Bachelor's degree in Education and an AA in Kinesiology and health. - 2 years of experience teaching English as Second Language to kids in Brazil. - 8 years of experience caring for infants as young as 3 months and multiples - Experience caring for children with physical disabilities and using AAC devices. - 2 years of experience as a student aide. - Childcare training in NYC as an au pair - Current First aid and CPR - 200hr Certified Yoga Teacher with training in Kid's Yoga Most familiar with Montessori and Reggio Emilia methods but eager to work with other styles/philosophies. - Trained in Movement Lesson (Segment 1)

Hi families! 😊 Taking care of children has been a big part of my life for more than 7 years. What I love most about being a nanny is becoming someone children feel completely comfortable and safe with, creating a special bond with them, and sharing the joy that little ones bring into our lives. I’m originally from Turkey and began my childcare journey as an au pair in the U.S. After four years in San Francisco, I got married and moved to Menlo Park with my husband, who is a software engineer. I’m currently in law school, but childcare has remained an important part of my life throughout my studies. I truly enjoy and didn’t want to give up even while pursuing my education. I’m Montessori-trained and experienced with sleep training, potty training, establishing routines, and supporting children as they become more independent. I’m also comfortable handling the everyday parts of family life, including children’s laundry, meal prep, bath time, diaper changes, tidying, and planning fun and age-appropriate activities. Families I’ve worked with would describe me as calm, dependable, proactive, and flexible. I’m someone who notices what needs to be done and likes making a family’s day a little easier, not just waiting to be asked. I also genuinely enjoy cooking and am happy to prepare meals based on your family’s preferences. 😊 More than anything, I value building a close and lasting relationship with the families I work with. I want children to see me not only as their nanny, but also as a trusted role model and “big sister” who cares about them, teaches them, has fun with them, and helps them grow. If you’re looking for someone experienced, warm, responsible, and genuinely invested in your children, I’d love to meet your family!

Health & Safety Note: Because I often care for 2–3 different families in a single day, I do my best to keep everyone healthy and safe. For this reason, I’m not able to provide care for sick children or in homes where someone is currently unwell (cold, flu, fever, cough, etc.). If I arrive and notice signs of illness that I wasn’t informed about in advance, I may need to step away from the booking to avoid the risk of spreading anything to other children and families. Thank you so much for your understanding and support in keeping everyone well! ❤️ I’m a caring and experienced nanny with over 15 years of working with children of all ages — from tiny newborns to busy school-aged kids. I’ve worn many hats over the years: babysitter, summer camp group leader, and even some families trusted to help interview and choose the right nanny. I truly love what I do and always aim to create a warm, safe, and loving space where children can feel secure and thrive. Supporting parents and becoming a trusted part of the family is the heart of my work.

I am currently working as a lead preschool teacher. I have been working for the school for over 5 years. I have a bachelors degree in Human Development with a concentration in Childhood development. I am still actively taking classes to obtain my site supervisor early childhood education permit. I enjoy working with young children and helping them grow into confident, caring individuals. I love to spend quality time with them and help them reach their goals. I have passion, love, and patience for the work that I do. I am responsible and caring and value each child for who they are.