About Me

Hi!  My name is Melissa.

Even when I was young, I loved taking care of kids that were littler than me.  Around the time I was in 6th or 7th grade, my parents noticed I had a gift with toddlers and preschoolers.  I was able to calm the wildest child.

My love of kids never stopped, so of course I majored in early childhood education and received my bachelor's degree.  I observed many kindergartens (my favorite grade), but it just didn't seem like where I needed to be.  So for a few years after I graduated I left the education world for the food service industry (I was a server and barista for a few years).

I sort of fell into the nannying world.  I applied for a job as a babysitter for three kids, thinking I would never get the job.  In my mind I botched the interview.  Luckily, they didn't see it that way.  It started as a job where I was just expected to keep the kids alive while the parents were at work.  Turns out, that's kind of boring for me.  So I started researching which days were free at the museums, scheduling playdates, figuring out library story times.  I worked on academics and helped the kids grow physically emotionally and intellectually.  Turns out, THIS was the job for me.

Since then, I have moved to Los Angeles and worked with other families.  I was also a private children's swim instructor.  I love being a nanny, and I'm really good at it.  The ability to work with children one-on-one in a home environment is just fantastic.  Yes, it's a tough job, but I believe it's my calling.

After being at a nanny position with a preschooler for about a year, I started knitting and crocheting little toys and accessories for my charge.  A few moms saw what I was doing and said I should start selling them on Etsy.  I contacted an old college friend and a cousin, both who own VERY popular Etsy shops.  They told me how easy it is to start one, and I've really enjoyed it.  I love thinking about how my little items are in the hands of kids all over the country (and perhaps the world, eventually!) and bringing them joy.  Please go check out my shop, or fill out the contact form to the right if you'd like something made just for you.

During the beginning of the pandemic, I began nannying for my first set of twins! It was amazing how much food I needed to make for those little guys, I thought their tummies were bottomless! My employers and I searched for healthy recipes they'd like, and I've written down everything they loved. 

I have some awesome nanny friends, who helped me find ways to really move up in the nanny world. They suggested classes I should take, and books and activities for my nanny children. I honestly wish every nanny had a circle of nanny friends like this! So I've tried to share that advice with my podcast, The Nanny Endorsements.

Over the years, I have learned a few tricks, given and received great advice, and had a ton of laughs.  I plan on sharing them here!