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Alicia Alyssa Amanda Annie Ashley Caitlin Carrie Chelsea Cheryl Corissa Courtney Dana Danielle Darcie Gretchen Gwen Hannah Heather D. Heather G. Jenny Julia Katie Katie H. Kelly Kim P. Laura Lauren Leslie Liz Liza Lynn Margaret Mary Mary G. Melissa L. Melissa N. Melissa W. Nikki Petrovnia Rebecca Samantha Sara P. Sarah W. Siri Sybil

“Hello!  My name is Alicia.  I am a 23 year old graduate of Edgewood College.  I decided to become a babysitter because I love to play with children.  I started babysitting at the age of 12 for families in the area.  I now have 7 nieces and a nephew ranging from newborn up to 16 years old that I love to spend time with.  When watching children, I enjoy taking them outside to run around and play, taking them swimming or to parks.  I like to do activities that encourage children to be creative instead of plopping them down in front of the TV.”

“Hello! My name is Alyssa and I am a senior at the University of Wisconsin. A few things about myself: I am 21 years old and from Two Rivers, WI which is in Northeast Wisconsin along Lake Michigan. I enjoy playing volleyball, baking, cooking, running, swimming, being outside, waitressing at Paisan’s Restaurant, and of course, being with children. My creative, energetic, and nurturing personality has led me to pursue a career in elementary education with a minor in health. I have been working with children and adored them since my own childhood. A few of my stand-out experiences with children were growing up with my sister who is 8½ years younger than myself, babysitting children of all ages since 5th grade, interning in a kindergarten class and a daycare my senior year of high school, tutoring young children, being a nanny and working as a camp counselor at a YMCA day camp, etc. I love playing outside, playing games, doing art projects and having fun!”

“Hello Hello... My name is Amanda and I am 23 years old. I am currently finishing my last year at UW-Madison with a major in Child Development. I started babysitting when I was about twelve, and babysat all through high school. Now, after a break of a few years, I decided babysitting would be a great way to get to play with kids until I am ready to have some of my own. I have always enjoyed playing with children, and challenging them to be creative and use their imaginations. They always seem to amaze me! While babysitting, I like to do arts and crafts, and if it is nice outside I like to take kids to the park or somewhere to run around and get some fresh air. I also like to play in the snow if it's not too cold. I am open-minded and flexible to new routines and practices. Kids tend to like me because I can be pretty silly, but at the same time I respect them just as I do everyone else.”

“Hi, My name is Annie Lovell. I'm a junior at UW-Madison majoring in Neurobiology and pre-med. I hope to one day become a pediatrician and work with AIDS orphans in Africa. I love being with and helping kids. Right now, my favorite thing in my week is working with first graders at Allied Learning Center. We play outside, make art projects and then i get to help them with their homework. It is a lot of fun. I've had experience babysitting children of all ages and have enjoyed being a camp counselor for autistic children. I love the outdoors and reading. I also enjoy playing the cello and piano. I look forward to meeting you and your family.”

“Hello, my name is Ashley. I am 23 years old. I have recently moved to Madison, WI. I moved from a small town up north to become a nanny for a family in Waunakee. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stout with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in Young Children in August 2006.  In the course of my work and volunteer commitments I have worked with children and families in many different stages and situations. I particularly like working with children one on one as oppose to working in a large group setting such as a daycare. I have had the opportunity in the last six years to be educated, trained, and have gained experienced working with children of all ages.  I am a warm, caring, patient and structured person. All are important traits to have when caring for children. Being warm and caring is so important because it sets the foundation for how children will be treated and how they will treat others in return. If a caregiver is warm and caring, the children will feel the support they need to develop into confident individuals. Being structured helps organize and schedule life so it runs consistently. When working with children it is important to remain consistent with daily life. Consistency helps children’s development and behavior. All of these traits will allow you and your children to trust that I respect them, want them to be safe and have their best interest at heart.”

Availability: Various days, evenings and weekends
“Hello, my name is Caitlin Roberts. I am a 20-year-old part time student at Madison Area Technical College. I attended MATC for 2 years and I am currently taking a break to work. I will be going back in May for my Nursing Assistant Certification. I come from a big family of 7 kids, and have many years of experience with children! I currently work as a therapist for Autistic and special needs children at Integrated Development Services. I also work as a daycare provider in the child watch in the Northeast YMCA in Sun Prairie. Before I got my first job, I babysat throughout middle school and high school. I still babysit today watching a 2-, 6-, and 8-year-old. I have lots of experience with kids of all ages! At the YMCA I watch children from 6 weeks to 6 years old. I love my jobs because I love children, and I can't wait to meet more! I have been trained and certified in the YMCA babysitting course, First Aid, CPR and Defibrillation use, Blood Borne Pathogens class, and Abuse Prevention. In my spare time I like to work out, read, write, and hang out with my family and friends. I look forward to meeting new faces to have fun with!”

Availability: Various days, evenings & weekends
“Hello, my name is Carrie Schreiber. I am 27 years old. I was born in Forth Worth, Texas, and moved to Illinois with my parents when I was 5 years old. During my Sophomore year in High School, I was surprised by the news that we were moving again, this time to Wisconsin. I have learned to adapt to change quite well. After Graduation in 1999 I began a wonderful path of determination. From 2001-2003, I attended Madison Area Technical College in the complex Medical Assistant Program. Within the first year, I accomplished getting my Health Care Provider, CPR Certification, and extensive training in Medical Emergencies. The following and final year, I accomplished training in Law & Ethics, Phlebotomy, Hematology, and working with families in a Clinical setting. At the end of my two-year program, and close to graduation, I decided that my true calling is working with children. I thought I knew then, but I know now more than ever. I feel from what I have learned and experienced throughout my schooling that this will be a wonderful tool to use in any working position, and that none of it will ever go to waste. I have always found working with children to be extremely rewarding. I have been a Certified Live-out Nanny since 2002. I was also a Teacher at Play Haven Childcare Center for one year with all age groups from Infant-School age. During that time I also worked as voluntary tutor at McFarland Primary School, tutoring first graders by holding independent reading groups and working one-on-one with students on a variety of skills. I am proud to say that, on February 24th of 2007, I completed the Heart saver Pediatric First Aid with Adult & Child CPR & AED with flying colors! As a Certified Nanny, I am required to update all my certifications every 3 years. Working with children brings out the best in me and my life. Being a Nanny or any kind of childcare provider is what I feel is my calling and I wouldn't have it any other way. Children are our future, so innocent looking out to a gigantic world for knowledge and comfort. To be able to be a part of a child's learning process is truly remarkable. To watch a child grow day to day is a wonderful experience. I would love to be a part of that in any home. I feel that I am more than qualified to be a childcare provider that will be funny, playful, a listener, a teacher, a friend, a safe haven, a shoulder to cry on, and most of all a part of the family. Some of my Hobbies include: Playing the Piano, Quiet get-togethers with friends and family, running (Relay for Life), listening to music, writing poetry, Continuing Education classes, and scrapbooking.”

“Hi, I'm Chelsea. I am a student at UW-Madison. I love working with kids, and I've worked with programs like MSCR and Afterschool INC. I really enjoy working with While You Were Out Babysitting, I love getting to know new families, and having the opportunity to grow with them as they become regular users of the service. I have experience with infants to teens, and enjoy working with all ages.”

“Originally from California, my parents and I moved to Wisconsin when I was 12 years old. After graduating from Fennimore High School I moved to Madison. Before getting married and having children, I worked primarily in retail. I have three grown children, six grandchildren and two great-grand children. As an only child, I learned to use my imagination early and comes in handy when with my grandchildren and keeping them busy which I do often! I am looking forward to meeting your family and having the opportunity to get to know your little ones!”

Availability: Weekdays and some evenings & weekends
“Hello, my name is Corissa. I am fun, energetic, and have an extremely positive attitude. Although I am a kid a heart, I am very responsible! I have always enjoyed working with children, taking my responsibilities very seriously, and I would like to assure you of my honesty and integrity. I believe in the child within, and this really proves to be fun for everyone! I am patient and love to laugh. Although I have no children of my own, I am great with kids. (When the kids say they have had fun, then I know the job was well done!) As a former and current caregiver to three active youngsters, I certainly know the importance of good time management. I have also learned that children of all ages are resilient, smart, and very capable beings. Although it is a sitter’s job to help teach, it is also one of learning. Kids not only say the 'darndest things,' but they can teach us the 'darndest things.'”

Availability: Evenings & weekends
“Hi, my name is Courtney. I am a Nursing Assistant at Nazareth House in Stoughton. I decided to become a sitter because I love kids. I have been sitting on and off since I was 10 years old. I also have two nieces who are both four years old. Some of my other hobbies include spending time with friends and family, scrapbooking, various crafts, and reading. I love to be around kids and play games with them, teach them new things, and learn a thing or two from them. I hope I will get to meet your family soon!”

Availability: Summer & weekends, evenings during the school year
“Hello, my name is Dana. I'm 27 years old and I graduated in May 2006 with a M.S. in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I attended high school in Middleton and received my undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, so I am a Badger girl at heart. I currently work for two elementary schools in the Madison Metropolitan School District as a speech language pathologist. In my free time I enjoy running, scrapbooking, bowling, knitting, and experiencing new restaurants and activities. I started babysitting when I was 11, and I have gained experience with children of all ages and abilities through childcare and through my career as a speech pathologist. I have six nephews, ranging in age from 14 to 2, and was also a nanny for two young children while I was an undergraduate. Through my training to become a speech language pathologist, I have worked with many children (and adults) with disabilities. I have also worked as a line and lead therapist for the Wisconsin Early Autism Project and at the Waisman Center at the Communication Aids and Systems Clinic. I am very patient, energetic, and I like to think that I find the humor in life. I love to play games and explore with children – it is always so rewarding to watch children learn! I look forward to meeting your family.”

Availability: Evenings & weekends
“I would like to take a moment to introduce myself. My name is Dani and I am 27. I grew up in a small town in Northern Vermont, in a very close, tight-knit family with 2 loving parents and a feisty little sister. At the young age of 11, I started babysitting for neighbors and family friends. At one point when I was 12, I was consistently babysitting for 4 different families and rarely had a weekend day or Friday evening free. This continued all through High School and into College. While pursuing a degree in Elementary Education, I continued to babysit for many of my professors' children as well as teach dance lessons to a few of them. Also during this time, I taught for 3 summers at an Arts Camp in Maine called Medolark. Upon graduation, I have worked in many capacities in the childcare industry that include but are not limited to teaching both elementary and preschool classes, full-time Nanny, teaching creative movement, music and art to infant to 5 year olds, running a play center, tutoring students up to 8th grade and being a camp counselor. I have worked with all children of all ages from infants to 15-year-olds. Everyone always asks me what age I like the most and I can never decide! I feel each age has its own special qualities that make it so much fun to watch and help facilitate growth and learning. I have lots of varied interests including skiing, snowboarding, swimming, sailing, singing, playing guitar, hiking, camping, going to museums, cooking, painting, dancing, etc… Currently, I am a 2-year-old teacher at Big Oak Childcare Center on Atwood and am very excited to add babysitting back to my schedule! I am looking forward to meeting you and your family!”

Availability: Various days & times during the school year
“Hello! My name is Darcie. I am a Sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Madison studying Kinesiology. I am from Kewaunee, Wisconsin, which is in northeastern Wisconsin east of Green Bay on the lake. I have three sisters and despite being the youngest, have grown up around children. In addition to sitting for families in my community, my mother has been the director of an accredited child care center for almost twenty years, I have volunteered at her center and have also had experience as a camp counselor and coach. My oldest sister has a three-year-old and a ten-month-old, both of whom I have had a lot of contact with from birth to present. I love being around kids because I enjoy watching them grow, learn, and discover new things. Being responsible for a child learning something new is very exciting, and I think is one of the most rewarding results of sitting.”

“Hi, my name is Gretchen.  I recently graduated from Edgewood College in Madison, WI with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology/Human Services.  I am currently the Children's Program Coordinator at the YWCA, Madison.  I have experience working with children of all ages.  I love working with children and I feel that I can relate well with them.  I enjoy playing and interacting with them.  When working with children, I do so in a patient and calm manner.  In my free time, I like to travel, do various crafts, watch movies and read.  My goal is to influence the lives of children in a positive way in order to make a difference.”

“Hi! My name is Gwen and I grew up in the small town of Marathon, WI. I started babysitting for cousins and neighbors when I was 12, and I have always loved spending time with children. I graduated from UW Eau Claire in 2001 with degrees in Philosophy and Music. I then moved to Madison and have been teaching at a Montessori Preschool in Waunakee for almost four years, and I can’t believe how much I love it!  It’s definitely my calling. My favorite part of the day is doing art projects with the kids. My hobbies include playing the piano, flute and the accordion. I also love to sew, knit, make jewelry, cook, garden, draw and paint. I love going to the library and I often go twice a week. I love playing with kids, especially playing make believe and dressing up and doing art projects, in fact, most kids think that I’m a kid too!! I have experience with all ages, from newborns to nine year olds. I can’t wait to have some fun!!”

Availability: Various days, evenings & weekends
“Hi! My name is Hannah and I am going into my junior year at UW-Madison. I am double-majoring in Journalism and History and am having a lot of fun doing it! I really like to work with children and have been a tutor for pre-school and kindergarten kids for two years. I have a lot of fun being around kids because they always are saying or doing something surprising. My favorite activities to do with children are playing outdoor games like capture the flag or soccer and doing anything art-related like painting or coloring. I am excited to be working with While You're Out and look forward to meeting you!”

Availability: Summer & some weekends
“Hello, my name is Heather and I am a 21-year-old Senior at UW Oshkosh, working to get my degree in Liberal Studies and a minor in Women Studies. For the summer and every other weekend during the school year, I live at my parent’s house in Middleton. I have worked at a daycare in Madison for over 4 years and babysat since I was in middle school. I have a lot of experience working in children of every age. I originally was going to school for nursing and wanted to work in the pediatric unit. I love being active and enjoy being outside, going on vacations, camping and playing volleyball. I love doing anything outside or just nature in general. I can’t wait to meet you and your family.”

Availability: Evenings and weekends
“Hi! My name is Heather; I’m 19 years old and a Sophomore in college. I am currently studying to become a music teacher. I love kids, and as the oldest of 3 kids (10 and 7 years younger than me) I have LOTS of experience. Between my siblings and their friends, I have been babysitting since I was 12. For the past three years I have babysat for a family of three children every day after school and on the weekends, and last summer full-time for another family of three children. In my spare time, I enjoy practicing music (violin, piano, singing) art, and writing. I love having fun and being creative with kids, and I look forward to meeting your family!”

“My name is Jenny and I am a 27-year-old graduate student at UW-Madison. I grew up in a suburb of Minneapolis, where I started taking care of neighborhood children at the age of 12. Throughout high school I devoted every Saturday night to taking care of my cousins so my aunt and uncle could have a “date night.” In college I was a nanny one summer for two girls in Shorewood Hills. I have three nephews and one niece ranging in age from 2 months to 4 years old. I enjoy being around children so babysitting never feels like a job to me. It also makes me feel good to be of help while giving parents a break. When I take care of children I like to interact in play activities. I personally love being outdoors and reading so I try to incorporate these activities while babysitting. I look forward to spending time with your family. ”

“Hi there! After graduating from UW Eau Claire in 2001, I moved to Madison to live with a friend and I've been here ever since. I work at UW Hospital in the Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit and am also working towards being licensed as a hairstylist.  I love kids and am obviously too busy to have my own right now, so that is why I teamed up with Cheri and this organization. Most of my kiddos love it when I bring over my guitar or fiddle for them to listen to and try themselves. I'm not a big TV fanatic, I'd rather play and dance and wear those little ones out!  I like to create a learning environment and encourage them during the time we spend together...this includes allowing them the relaxation time they need as well. I have a lot of experience with extended stays while parents are away and traveling with families to provide support for the parents. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon!”

“Hi!  My name is Katie.  I’ve always had a passion for children since I was young.  When I was 11 I started babysitting for neighbors and my parents friends.  Once in high school I worked a couple summers for different families watching their kids.  I’ve worked in two different daycare’s and am currently working as a nanny for a wonderful family.  In my free time I enjoy playing volleyball, going to movies, doing stamping & scrapbooking, and spending time with my boyfriend & other friends.  I’ve been with While You’re Out since December of 2004 and have really enjoyed it.”

“My name is Katie Hoida and I have been working with Cheri Ress for While You’re Out Babysitting since it’s conception in October of 2004; however, if you haven’t had me as a sitter for the past few months, it is because I just returned from my six month semester abroad in the Netherlands.  Being a sitter for While You’re Out has allowed me many different types of child care opportunities, including getting to know specific families through reoccurring sitting jobs, accompanying families during vacations, and  last summer I worked as a full time nanny.  This fall, I will be entering my senior year at UW-Madison and will soon be completing my majors in Communication Arts and Women’s Studies.  In the meantime, I am really excited to meet everyone who have joined the While You’re Out family and to continue working with the wonderful children I have met so far.”

“My name is Kelly and I LOVE working with children. Since I can remember I have been watching kids, I started babysitting when I was only 10 years old. I continued this and took the babysitting course they offered in school when I was 13. Every summer job I had was babysitting, along with light housework. I was a “summer girl” for a family in Illinois. I took care of three children, ages nine, seven, and five. The seven year old just had major brain surgery, so my main focus was on him. I then continued with the babysitting jobs until graduation. After graduation I became a nanny in Illinois for a three year old and six month old. I took care of the kids six days a week and also did the meal preparations and housekeeping. I stayed with this family for over a year, and then left to go to school. I was out of the child care business, other than providing as a single mother for my own child, until 1997 when I opened my own Family Child Care business. I had only advertised once, in 1997, and since received all my clients by word of mouth. I have been taking care of children since then. In 2004 my husband and I adopted three children. I closed my daycare in March, 2007 and am now working as a full time nanny for a family in Middleton, WI. Other than caring for kids, I enjoy the outdoors, sports and going on "adventures" with my kids. I love to get down on the kids level to play, and am not opposed to 'having my hair made beautiful' by the girls! I enjoy doing crafts and love to create things with kids. I am dependable, honest, and trustworthy so you can be confident your children are being well cared for as well as having the best time while in my care. ”

“Hi my name is Kim I am currently a student at MATC in Madison in the nursing program. I also work at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison as a certified nursing assistant in the OB department, and have been there about 5 1/2 years. I decided to become a babysitter because I love kids and have been babysitting since I was 11 years old, besides having a 2 1/2 year old of my own and my fiance having a 3 year old. Some of my hobbies are scrap booking, reading, and going places with my family. I like to do activities when watching other children such as art projects, pretend play, etc. I am a very kid friendly person, and love to be a kid with them. Hopefully I will get to work with your family soon.”

Availability: Summer evenings and weekends only
“Hi! My name is Laura. I am a 19-year-old student attending the University of La Crosse. I was born and raised in Madison and graduated from Memorial High School in 2006. I am majoring in Marketing and considering a minor in International Business or French. I have always adored spending time with kids! Growing up I dreamed of someday being a teacher. In Middle School I was an assistant Sunday school teacher for a while at my church and loved being in a classroom with kids. In high school I decided that I would go into Marketing because I plan to have at least four kids of my own some day. I took Family Life in high school and earned my Assistant Childcare Certificate, which allowed me to work in a daycare at an earlier age if I wanted to. I grew up in a family with four kids myself. I started baby-sitting when I was 11 for my younger brother and sister. Over the years I have babysat for numerous of my neighbors, siblings’ friends, and friends of families I’ve babysat for. I always have a ton of energy for doing fun activities with kids. I love doing crafts, playing sports, teaching, and making believe with kids. I am very compassionate and always have lots of love to give! I sincerely look forward to meeting you and your children!”

“Hello! My name is Lauren and I was born and raised in a suburb right outside of Chicago. I am currently a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and majoring in both Political Science and French. I am so excited to be a part of While You’re Out Babysitting because I truly have a passion for kids. Ever since I was 12, I have babysat for my neighbors and my cousins. I have also tutored children of various ages at Score! Educational Center and worked as an assistant teacher at my Sunday School. Also, for the past two summers, I have worked as a counselor for a great group of 8-year old girls at a local day camp. I have so much fun playing with kids, being a little silly, and just having a good time! In my free time I love to draw, play the piano, find new recipes to cook, and spend time with my friends and family. At UW-Madison, I am involved with the Pre-Law Society and I volunteer for both the Family Court Assistance Project and GUTS Tutoring. I really love getting to know new people and I look forwarding to meeting you guys soon!”

“Hi, my name is Leslie.  I am 27 years old.  I am an Elementary Teacher in Madison.  I have been working with children since the age of 12; babysitting, volunteering in schools and now teaching the last 5 years.  I have worked with children from all ages.  I am passionate about caring for children and find great joy spending time with them!  I look forward to babysitting for you!”

Availability: Evenings and weekends
“Hello, my name is Liz! I am 26 years old and recently married. Though I don't have any children of my own yet, I love spending time with children and have a long history of experience. Some of my favorite things to do with toddlers and older children are spending time outside, playing board games, reading books, or getting creative with coloring and crafts. I also like to spend time feeding and holding infants especially because they are so sweet and stay at that stage for such a short period of time. I am very comfortable with children of all ages whether it be playing or helping with homework. My first paying job was babysitting in the summer for a family with two elementary aged girls when I was 12 and I’ve been watching kids of all ages groups ever since. I also was a mentoring "buddy" during my high school years for an elementary aged girl from a low income family, where we spent time together playing or working on homework. I also participated in a tutoring program for grades three through five during my junior and senior years of high school helping kids who were struggling to learn math or reading skills. In my spare time I enjoy playing in a recreational volleyball league during the summer or playing a game of horse in the driveway with my husband and all the neighborhood kids. I love spending time with my animals including running or walking with my dog daily. I also enjoy being in the kitchen whipping up a new recipe or relaxing by reading a good book.”

“Hi! My name is Liza Meredith. I was born and raised in Madison, and
graduated from Memorial High School in 2005. I spent my first year of
college at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, but will be transferring to
UW-Madison starting this summer. I plan on majoring in Psychology,
and have a particular interest in educational psychology. I have been a
babysitter since I was 12, after completing a 3-week babysitting
certification course. I really enjoy babysitting because I love children’s
imaginative and creative minds. I especially love playing outside, making
artwork and crafts, and playing cards and games. Beyond babysitting, I also
have experience with children as a volunteer with the Schools of Hope
program at Van Hise School and the Allied Drive community center. During the
summers of high school, I would tutor children in reading and writing. I
would be happy to help tutor your child with academic skills while
babysitting if you desired. I have also worked one summer as a camp
counselor at a sleep-away camp in Steven’s Point, Wisconsin. I taught mini
science courses, led campfire songs, and stayed in the cabin for girls aged
7-12. I currently work for It's Your Party, which is an agency which throws
parties for clients, and I am often the child sitter.  I look forward to
meeting you and your family in the upcoming future, and promise to always be attentive, engaged, and fun!”

“My name is Lynn, and I am the mother of 3 children (5, 11 & 16). I work full-time as a buyer for a local biotech company. I have been Babysitting since I was 12 years old, so I have many, many years of experience with children. I love their wonder at the things around them, and he creativity to play with a cardboard box for hours. As my children grow, I especially miss the early years. Cuddling babies is my specialty. In my spare time I enjoy reading, movies, board games and the beach.”

Availability: Evenings and weekends, and looking for full-time summer Nanny position
“Hello! My name is Margaret and I am currently a student at UW-Madison majoring in Elementary Education and Psychology. I have lived in Madison for almost four years now and I absolutely love it. I started nannying in Madison over two years ago, almost three now. I have experience with children from ages newborn to 10 years, and I love working with every age group. I have done all day, evening, overnight, and even long-term child care and I am confident that you will be comfortable leaving your children with me. I am not an expert chef, but I do feel comfortable cooking meals, as well as giving baths, naptime, and bedtime. I am a huge fan of being active, getting out and doing things. Weather permitting, I love going for walks or bike rides to nearby parks or libraries, playing tag or basketball, or anything else that includes being outside. I am also very fond of the Children's Museum and the zoo. As a nanny, I feel that my job is to keep the children entertained, be that fun person that gets to come when the parents leave, but I also want your children to feel as secure with me as they do with you. I am close to some of the past families I have babysat for as I am with my own family. I look forward to getting to know you and your children, and hopefully becoming a part of your family!”

Availability: Days, evenings, and some weekends
“Hello, my name is Mary and I'm the mother of five grown children, including twins. I want to continue to care for children because I love them and caring for them is what comes natural for me. I like the satisfaction both the children and the parents feel when they know their child is safe with me and when caring for children, I make sure to always try to put myself in their shoes, to let them know they are understood and to know that I will care for and love them fairly and never ever call them bad. I also like to bring along little puppets sometimes like Ducky for the kids to have fun communicating to and they just love it. I do crafts with them as well and I make the kids always feel loved, making sure they realize babysitting them isn't just a job, its caring for them and keeping them safe and worry-free while their parents are away. I am also certified in CPR, and SIDS and would love a chance to get to know your children.”

“Hello my name is Mary. I have recently moved to the Madison area. I am a nanny with more than 15 years of experience in all age groups, from new born to teens and currently Nanny for a family with a little girl (under the age of 1). I am the oldest of five children and was running home after school to take care of my baby brother at the age of eight; I can not remember a time when I was not around young children. I have been babysitting since the age of ten. I would work for as many as three to four families a day during vacations. When someone in the community was looking for a sitter, they would call the High School or the local newspaper and my name was frequently given. Even to this day; I just love taking care of children. Thank you for your time.”

“Hi, I’m Melissa Larson.  I grew up 30 minutes south of Madison in the small town of Evansville.  I am a student at UW Madison majoring in Consumer Science, and graduating in May 2008. I love to be around kids of all ages.  I started babysitting when I was 12 years old for my neighbors and relatives.  One of the aspects I love most about babysitting is watching the children grow up.  Many families that I’ve babysat for I started when they had their first baby, and continued through the years as the family grew.  Besides babysitting I also worked at a daycare center for four years during high school.  Working there taught me how to take care of multiple kids at once while getting to know each child as an individual, and making a personal connection with each of them.  Besides babysitting I currently work at the UW Athletic Ticket Office. In my spare time I love to dance, go out to movies, and spend time with my family and friends.  Also, on campus I am in a professional management fraternity, where I am on the community service committee. There will never be a dull moment with me as the sitter.  I will make sure that your children are not only safe but are having fun as well.  I can not wait to get to know your family!”

“Hi I’m Melissa Newman and I am 25 years old.  I am currently a nanny and have been for the past five years for the same wonderful family.  I work with three girls, a five-year-old and four-year-old twins.  I started working with this family when the oldest girl was 6 months old and have been happily working with them ever since.  I started babysitting when I was 13 for children in my neighborhood and loved it; so I never really stopped.  I have experience with children of all ages.  I started taking care of the twins I nanny for when they were only a few days old and have babysat for kids all the way up through the ages.  In my free time I love to read anything and everything that I can get my hands on.  I also love spending time with my Labrador retriever at the dog park and on walks.  I have a degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Psychology with an emphasis in child development.  I plan to pursue a masters in psychology so that I can continue my work with children.  I hope to always be able to work with children in one form or another.”

“Hi, my name is Melissa W.  I'm 22 years old and I graduated in May 2006 with a B.A. in Philosophy and a certificate in Women's Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In my free time I love cooking, entertaining, being active, reading, and being out and about in Madison.  I started babysitting outside of my own family when I turned 12, but since I'm the oldest child in our entire family, I always watched my younger cousins.  I have two younger brothers; Vince, who is 19 and George, who is 10.  I was a playground leader for two years and loved every minute of it.  I love to be creative and do fun arts and crafts.  I also love playing games and sports with children.  I have alot of experience working with children of all ages; I volunteered in my church's nursery and at the YMCA in my hometown of Green Bay,WI.  I'm very sweet and caring and I can't wait to see what I can learn from your children.  I can't wait to come over and have a great time getting to know your family!”

“Hi there! My name is Nikki and I am entering my sophomore year at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I have lived in Madison all my life and graduated from Memorial High School. I have not officially declared a major and am currently considering Communication Arts, History, Journalism, or Art. I love to do art projects, play Ultimate Frisbee, perform, and do anything that involves being outside! I babysat throughout high school for a few different families, and often watch my younger cousins at family get-togethers. I am also a Big Sister with Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Dane County. I am energetic, fun, and always ready to do something exciting! I hope to hear from you soon!”

“Hi!!! My name is Petrovnia Charles. Currently, I am going to school at UW-Madison to get my Masters in Social Work. I moved here from NYC in August of 1995.  I’ve worked with kids since 1991 in many different settings such as in-home nanny, day care and in the school system. I’ve work with children as young as 6 wks through 21 years old. (In the school district, special needs children are in our care through 21 years of age.) I’ve also worked with special needs children, specifically those with autism and emotional disturbance. (In the school district however, I was cross-categorical and had exposure to many disabilities.) I’ve had training in Lovvas and the Son-Rise Method.  I’m also very active in the community. Outside of my classes and intern, I am a phone line volunteer at the Rape Crisis Center as well as train other volunteers. I also give talks and presentations on various topics.  In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, cooking, watching old sitcoms, reading (especially Harry Potter), Scottish and sword dancing, cleaning, spending time with friends, window shopping and learning ASL (American Sign Language).”

“My name is Rebecca and I am 32 years old. I am a special education teacher who is taking time away from full time teaching due to my desire for a more flexible schedule. Working with kids is my passion and babysitting and subsitute teaching gives me the flexibility to work with the non-profit organization my husband and I founded and to finish my masters. The non-profit is called African Youth Outreach and we support people affected by HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Many people we support are orphan children and I have experience leading educational day camps and teaching life-skills to these South African children. I have also worked with American children of all ages in a variety of settings including: Wisconsin Early Autism Project, Prevent Child Abuse Wisconsin, Head Start, and Early Childhood Special Education. I am currently a respite provider for special needs foster children. I enjoy creating a fun learning environment for the children and am not afraid of being silly and having fun with the kids.”

“Hi everyone!  My name is Samantha, I’m 21 years old and I am from Madison, WI, but I grew up in the small town of Lodi, WI. I have always enjoyed being around children, they are so much fun, and I believe that they can teach us just as much as we can teach them. I am from a big family so I was always helping my mother with my younger siblings. When I was a freshman in high school I started babysitting for a family, they have two children and I watched them 3 days a week, I still watch them now six years later. I am a creative person so I like to come up with activities for kids to do other then watch TV.  I worked at a daycare in my home town for 2 years and had a blast doing it. I have taken care of children 6 weeks to 12 years old. I can cook and even though I'm not a genius, I am always happy to help kids with homework.  I am so excited to get to know as many of you as I can.”

“Hi, my name is Sara. I am a Medical Assistant for the UW Hospital. I am 26 years old. I am the oldest of 5 and being the Big sister I have learned many things about kids. I love watching children learn and grow. My hobbies include scrapbooking, photography, being outdoors, and spending time with my friends and family. Children like me because I am fun and like to be creative. I hope to get to meet you and begin a new friendship.”

“Hi, my name is Sarah Weber, and I am a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in Marketing and Management. I love children and have had tons of experience interacting with them. I was a lifeguard at Cole Acres Swimming Pool, a local pool where I am from, for four summers where I taught swimming lessons and chaperoned children at the pool. I worked at Meriter Children’s Center, a daycare, for my first two years of college. I am currently volunteering with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County. I enjoy playing sports, doing crafts, and playing the piano. I look forward to getting to know your family!”

Availability: Summer only
“Hi! My name is Siri, I am starting my junior year at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, where I plan to major in Sociology and Studio Art. I have worked with kids for a long time and love doing so. Aside from much babysitting experience, I worked two years, while in high school, at an after-school daycare program for kids K-5. When I left for college I missed working with kids so much that I picked up a job tutoring the elementary and middle school kids in town, and one supervising infants through 5-year-olds in a nursery. I love being outside, playing games, doing crafts and helping out with homework. I look forward to meeting you and your kids!”

“My name is Sybil.  In the past I have taught kindergarten at my local church.  My duties were teaching, testing and choreographing musicals and plays.  I have also worked as a youth leader for teens from 2000-2004.  I love working with kids.  My husband and I were married in 2004.  I moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma where I took a job as Director for Victoria’s Secret for a year until I became pregnant.  My husband did his first and second year of residency in Tulsa as well.  Both my husband and I are originally from Texas.  We moved to Madison in June of 2005 so he could be in the great surgery program here. My daughter, Sydnie Jade was born in October of 2005 and I have been staying home since I became pregnant.  With my husband spending most of the time at the hospital and Sydnie now six months, I feel I am ready to do something more with my time.  I've always been one to be busy!  We will be residing here in Madison for at least the next few years.  Since I have been in Madison, I have been babysitting out of my home as well as at the homes of some families in the area.  I am truly interested in babysitting for you.  I hope you might consider me in your decision making when choosing a sitter.”