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New book highlights need for focus on children in nanny industry + win your copy
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Louise Dunham, a pioneer of nanny placement in Australia, has just published a book examining the role of the nanny, trends in child care and the role of parents who use or plan to use nannies.
In State of the Nanny, Ms Dunham explains that many families stand to benefit from the provision of quality, in-home care provided by professional nannies, who not only provide quality care and education to children, but help parents with the modern challenges of balancing work and family time.
Information in the book is based on Ms Dunham's in-depth knowledge of the nanny industry as founder and CEO of nanny recruitment firm, Placement Solutions, her appointment on international boards and associations, and her advocacy for nannies to be recognised as early childhood education and care professionals.
The book provides valuable lessons and information for parents as well as nannies and would-be nannies.
In families where both parents work, do shift work or travel, many parents struggle to find flexible, high quality child care.
"Too often, parents look for the cheapest hourly rate they can get for in-home care," said Ms Dunham. "Children deserve professional care where the nanny is 100 per cent present and actively engaged."
She said the 'anyone can mind a child' mind-set is still widespread and needs to be removed.
"This attitude is not only doing the children a disservice, it is degrading a professional industry."
"The role of today's nanny as a professional carer of children in the home includes being an educator, playmate and occasional disciplinarian. "
"Parents must put their children's needs first and hire a qualified professional carer who has been interviewed, screened and vetted, rather than settle with someone who is cheap."
Understanding the financial burden of child care for many working parents, State of the Nanny advises ways to maximise the quality of in-home care in an affordable way. The book also covers the legal requirements involved in employing nannies, which includes making contributions for superannuation, income tax and holiday pay.
Thanks to Louise, we are giving away four copies of State of the Nanny. Simply email enquiries@careforkids.com.au and tell us in 25 words or less why you need a copy.
Entries close Friday 10 November, so get your skates on!
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