The "Insider's" Guide to Beaches Resorts: Certified Child Care

Keywords: babysitters, beach, child care, family, vacation

By Susan Finch

It’s not only normal, but healthy for parents to have apprehensions about dropping off their children on vacation with a staff they don’t know. But don’t let a dream vacation turn into a battle of nerves over whether or not your child with thrive in a kids’ club environment. Instead of worrying about what your little ones are up to when you should be relaxing on the beach, know all the facts before you go.

Rest easy knowing that Beaches employs Certified Nannies who have been carefully trained and certified as child development specialists with recognition from Florida State University and the International Nanny Association. To develop a safe and enjoyable experience for children, Beaches partnered with acclaimed Parents in a Pinch, Inc. who have been consulting in the childcare industry and offering nanny services for over a decade. Together they designed a comprehensive education program for both daytime and evening activities. That means your nannies aren’t only trained, but fully engaged with your children.

Beaches’ carefully trains it nannies to cover a wide-range of health and safety issues specific to each age group including choking emergencies, social-emotional growth and development. They also strive to achieve child-friendly environments and appropriate group settings for children. If you have a child with special needs, the nannies are also equipped to engage even the shyest children, calm aggressive children, and assist those suffering from separation anxiety. Beaches nannies are experienced with icebreaker activities, modeling and supervision, interacting with parents, dealing with difficult situations, conflict resolution, scheduling activities, and group activity suggestions. And if your child unexpectedly feels ill or an emergency arises, each Beaches property also keeps a nurse on hand.

Now that you know all the requirements to become a Beaches nanny, remember to be a proactive parent. Let the staff know if your child has special needs, allergies, fears, or sensitivities. Also keep in mind that some kids need plenty of time to get use to an idea, especially if they’re shy. Start talking up the vacation in advance so your child knows what to expect. It’s also a good idea to plan a few activities with friends or neighbors so they grow accustomed to the idea of playing in a group. And always make sure to inquire about special activities in advance. Don’t promise arts and crafts, scuba diving or snorkeling before finding out availability, age and any other requirements.

Susan Finch is a freelance writer who has also worked extensively as a film and video editor on advertising, film, and corporate campaigns. As the daughter of a commercial airline pilot, she spent her childhood traveling and enjoying all the free perks while living in Atlanta. Her husband, a graphic designer, also has the travel bug and they use every excuse to hit the open road.