Thursday, November 20, 2014

Helping Nannies & Caregivers Learn to Swim




Do you think you've ever missed a good job opportunity because the family has a pool or lives near a beach and requires a swimmer? Unfortunately, we have exceptional nannies that experience this on a regular basis. So many nannies grew up surrounded by beautiful beaches but later developed an intense fear of the ocean, and never learned to swim. It is an unfortunate situation to be in but there is something you can do about it. 

Jeff Krieger, M.S., has a wonderful program called Strategies for Overcoming Aquatic Phobias (SOAP). Jeff is a combination of swim teacher and encouraging coach/therapist. He has worked successfully with many nannies and caregivers.  His mix of patience, understanding and empathy helps to put even the most fearful of beginners at ease. Of course, it helps that Jeff really loves what he does.  You can find him teaching his course throughout Westchester, Manhattan and the Bronx.

 I (Mellisa from Wee Care) always wanted to be a swimmer. However,  I was fearful of being in water over my head and could barely make my way across the pool. I recently completed Jeff's course and am now swimming laps!  I took the course with several other students from all walks of life.
None were swimmers. Some were terrified of even going into the pool and others only knew how to doggie paddle. After a couple of months of weekly classes, everyone was swimming, really swimming. Not like Micheal Phelps, but capable swimmers able to do multiple laps in an Olympic size pool. We are happy to recommend Jeff's course, it really works. 

For more information about learning to swim and the course click here.

    
Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency

Friday, November 14, 2014

Affordable Care Act (Obamacare)-FAQs for Nannies and Domestics



Over the last few weeks, we have been getting questions from nannies and families alike about the Affordable Care Act  (Obamacare) that went into effect last year. For those without health insurance or people shopping for new insurance, we wanted to put forth some helpful and reliable information. Open enrollment starts on November 15, 2014–February 15, 2015. Many who sign up are eligible for income based subsidies to help pay for the insurance. After the marketplace closes in February 2015, you cannot get coverage until next year unless you have a qualifying life event like losing your job, getting divorced or having a child.

Below are FAQs and answers from a recent NYT article. We hope this helps.




 Health Care Plans for Nannies and Domestics Residing in CT
  •  Access Health CT- Connecticut's official health insurance marketplace under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). (1-855-805-4325)
  • HUSKY- Healthcare for UninSured Kids and Youth. 

Health Care Plans for Nannies and Domestics Residing in NY
  • NY State of Health - Official health plan marketplace of NYS under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). (1-855-355-5777)
  • Child Health Plus - New York State health insurance plan for children.



Thursday, November 6, 2014

Healing Hearts Fundraiser in Stamford on Nov. 22, 2014 to Help Improve the Lives of Children with Developmental Disabilities and Neuro-Motor Challenges


We are proud to recognize and support our friends at Healing Hearts of Stamford, CT. They are holding their Gala Fundraiser on Nov. 22, 2014 at the Italian Center in Stamford, CT. Two of the key administrators and founders of Healing Hearts are good friends, and wonderful and caring souls. Tom Bacha and Kimberly Colletto dedicate their time, energy and resources to making a profound difference in the lives of children with special needs. 

Healing Hearts Recreational and Social Division is dedicated to improving the lives of children with a wide range of developmental disabilities and neuro-motor challenges. Classes are open for children of all abilities. Healing Hearts staff has vast experience in education and acquisition of skills in play, language and motor/sensory. Each class emphasizes the importance of peer interaction, increasing language skills and age appropriate activities.

Part of the proceeds will go toward the operating expenses and additions to Healing Hearts' new 1000 square foot indoor Sensory Gym and sponsorship of a room for the new Healing Hearts Club House.  For more information, please contact Kimberly Colletto (203-708-0076) or click here. It’s a wonderful cause!