Find a last-minute babysitter in San Gabriel, CA

I am a former elementary school science teacher and a marine scientist. I've been working with kids for 22 years: both as a teacher and as a babysitter for family (7 nieces and nephews), friends (I'm "auntie" to many more), and a professional babysitting company. I love working with kids because I am one at heart and love to discover the world at their level. I love running around playing games, doing crafts, reading books, and I am a great homework helper. When I get some free time, I love to go kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling.

Hello! My name is Sonia. I have been working with youth (K-12th) in academic/social settings for 8+ yrs. I have experience as a before/after school leader for organizations such as, YMCA and Viva El Español. I currently work full-time with mommies and their babies (0-5 yo). I'm available after 5pm on most weekdays and weekends in the evening/night. Feel free to contact me with any questions!

ABOUT ME: I am a loving, experienced childcare provider and tutor who adores children. I have extensive (25yrs+) of childcare experience as a: nanny, babysitter, teacher, tutor, and camp counselor in the US. I also work globally as a consultant on the health, protection, and well-being of children, adolescents, and women in development and humanitarian emergency settings, mainly in Asia and Africa. I am taking a break from my doctorate in clinical psychology with a child and adolescent focus in the coming months. I have worked with children 0-20yrs of various abilities, backgrounds, and cultural contexts. BACKGROUND: My undergraduate degree was in Studio Art and Environmental Studies with a concentration in Africana Studies, and my graduate degree was in Public Health with a focus on the health, well-being, and protection of children, adolescents, women, and families. APPROACH: I am committed, loving, supportive, and passionate about child development and practical, evidence-based public health and child development best practices for child health, development, and protection. I try to foster learning and creative and developmentally-appropriate play, activities, skills, and daily routines (e.g., sleep hygiene and habits). I consider physical, cognitive, emotional, psychological, social, and moral/ethical aspects of child development and evidence-based research on child health, well-being, and resilience. I facilitate, organize, and supervise outdoor activities, creative and imaginative play, cooking, art, science, volunteer projects, outings, and playdates. I assist with tutoring, homework, reading stories, and other daily routines. I take children to appointments and activities, prepare children’s meals, and do light child-related housekeeping. I try to balance children’s physical and mental health and psychosocial well-being using an evidence-based harm reduction approach. I believe it is vital to employ enough caution to keep children safe and healthy, but not so much that they become anxious, depressed, or developmentally stifled. I have been certified in CPR, first aid, and as a Wilderness First Responder. My language skills are rusty, but I understand some French and Spanish. AVAILABILITY: I accept ‘part-time,’ ‘occasional,’ and ‘date night’ childcare when I am not busy with other commitments. Please see my calendar. RATES: I made $15/hr as a hs student with limited experience and more now due to my training and experience.

Howdy! I’m originally from Texas and moved to Los Angeles in 2012 to start a new chapter — and I’ve been here ever since. With over 15 years of experience caring for children from newborns to preteens, I’ve had the joy of supporting many families through their childcare journeys. I look forward to helping with yours next!

I am enthusiastic, genuine, caring, and most importantly, I have a positive mindset which I apply to everything I do. All of my previous work and volunteer experience involved working with children ranging from 0-11 years olds however I am a quick learner and looking to expand my knowledge and learn more through new opportunities. I understand the impact that genuine relationships and positive interactions can have on children and how it shapes their perception of the world around them. Through working with children, I would like to make as much of a positive impact as I am able to!