Life in the mountains as a nanny
What’s life like in the mountains as a nanny ? M.J., who works with Merinannies during wintertime, tells us all you want to know about being a nanny at the world’s most beautiful ski resorts.
Living and working during winter in the mountains
If you love children, hot chocolate, and stunning snowy views, then working as a ski nanny is the perfect job for you. If you are considering it right now, you might be feeling nervous- I was nervous when I first started and unsure of what to expect, but now, after four years as a ski nanny, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
What to expect working as a nanny
The day in the mountains often begins early, sometimes around 6:30, sometimes later, and my first task is, of course, making a healthy breakfast and planning children’s activities for the day. Packing some playdough and cutters, paint, junk boxes, pasta shapes, paper plates, scissors, glue, glitter, paper and books keeps every age happy.
Usually, some older children have ski lessons, so I need to drop them off, keep in contact with the ski instructors and the parents, and remain nearby in case any unexpected needs arise. Once the lessons are over, we have some lunch, play outside and head back to the chalet and unwind for the afternoon activities.
You’ll never be short of fun or creative activities here. Children absolutely love baking cookies and making their own pizzas! They never get bored of doing winter crafts like making ski-themed collages, cotton ball snowmen, and pinecone bird feeders!
When the kids are bursting with energy, we make the most of our afternoons with outdoor adventures. We build snowmen and have snowmen competitions, go sledding, treasure hunts in the woods, swimming, ice skating, visiting the playground or farms, and return to the chalet with a big smile on the face and ravenous for dinner! After dinner, we unwind with a movie, or a classic board game, enjoy a bath, get into pyjamas, and get ready for bedtime with a book-just what the children need after a long day. As they settle down, it’s time for me to narrate everything about our day’s adventures to their parents.
Building bonds with children and parents
Working closely with families, especially in an intimate setting, unavoidably leads to deep connections. As soon as I meet the family, I make it a priority to understand the dynamics and preferences. I am open, detailed, and clear when communicating with parents. I always seek their input and insights, and listening to their needs-it’s one of the key skills you need to have as a nanny. Besides, for those families, I’m not just a nanny but a mentor and friend.
What it takes to be a ski nanny
Working as a nanny during the ski season needs lots and lots of energy and enthusiasm. This job involves lots of outdoor activities! Flexibility and adaptability are crucial, as is quick problem-solving. I must be highly organised to manage schedules around ski lessons, meals, and activities. Above all, a passion for working with children, skiing, and creating memorable experiences is a must.
Overcoming the challenges
If you’re an avid skier, you know that living in the mountains has its own unique set of challenges. You need to walk on icy roads, handle cold temperatures and unexpected weather disruptions, like sudden snowstorms, that can throw off plans. In those cases, you just need to remain calm and…flexible.
Another challenge is extremely excited or tired children. I need to manage drained children, crying babies missing their parents, or those who get overly excited and want to sprinkle glitter all over the chalet! How can you not empathise with them?
Finding a home away from home
Life in the mountains is not just about work. If you are worried about having time for yourself, don’t worry. You will have the best time of your life. I make time to hit the slopes during breaks or days off. There’s something incredibly refreshing about being able to ski on a free day. And there’s something very exciting about trying new activities. My favourite? Outdoor swimming!
Let’s not forget one of the most enriching parts of being a nanny in a ski resort is experiencing the local culture. In the Alps, you get to taste traditional alpine dishes like fondue, raclette and goulash soup, and be part of a number of local festivals and fun events that make each day something to look forward to. Last but not least, working in a ski resort is all about community. It’s very easy to meet and socialise with people working in the Alps. I spend evenings with my international friends, sharing stories of the day, enjoying dinners, or being part of the best nightlife the resorts have to offer.
An adventure like no other
Working as a nanny in the Alps is an adventure like no other. The combination of mountain life, working with children, and being part of a vibrant seasonal community creates an experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding.
Blog post in cooperation with Merinannies
To work as a Nanny in the Alps have a look here
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