You Can Be the One to Help a Child We like the first column of each month to focus on an easy-to-implement, yet important, issue to nannies, which we call our To-Do list. Due to the timeliness and seriousness of the Penn State scandal, we decided to discuss the topic of being mandated reporters as the most important topic for nannies in this New Year. As nannies we have a duty to protect and help all children (not just our charges). As part of your New Year's Resolutions we hope you commit to being the one...
1. Be the one your charge, or other kids, can turn to when there is a problem, a worry or a concern.
2. Be the one who has good judgment but is non-judgmental.
3. Be the one who can keep a secret but know when to seek help.
4. Be the one who knows when to offer unsolicited advice to allay anxiety yet be a confidante and advisor.
5. Be the one who is the defender, protector, and advocate for your charge, or others, against sexual, physical or verbal abuse.
6. Be the one who your charges and employer knows is trusted, respected, and dependable.
7. Be the one whose mere presence empowers your charges to act on their own behalf if they perceive a problem.
