Awa J.
Education
US Nanny Institute,
Basic Childcare Certification
US Nanny Institute,
Intermediate Childcare Certification
US Nanny Institute,
Advanced Childcare Certification
US Nanny Institute,
Specialist Childcare Certification
US Nanny Institute,
Newborn and Infant Care Certification
Holyoke Community College,
Associates in Psychology
Putnam Vocational Technical High School,
High School DiplomaCertification in Business Information Management
Tryv Consulting,
Health and Human Services Training Certificate
University of Massachusetts Boston,
Bachelor in Psychology
Professional Childcare Experience
Nanny
Flatiron, NY, , 08/22 - 02/23
2, 5, 8, 12
Nanny
Springfield, MA, 10/19 - 10/21
1 girl, 5 months
Nanny
Indian Orchard, MA, 06/21 - 09/21
Two boys, 4 and 6 years old
Nanny
Springfield, MA, 06/21 - 09/21
1 boy, 4 months
Residential Counselor
Springfield, MA, 08/20 - 02/21
10+ Boys and Girls, Ages 8-13 years old
Therapeutic Mentor
Springfield, MA, 03/20 - 08/20
Case load of 15, Ages 6-21 years
Behavioral Technician
Springfield, MA, 01/19 - 05/19
Case Load of 5 Boys and Girls, Ages 4-17 years old
Other Experience
Mental Health Counselor
Holyoke, MA, 06/21 - 12/21
Direct Support Professional
Holyoke, MA, 01/19 - 08/19
About me
Hi Smart Sitting Families! My name is Awa. I have a BA in Psychology and I speak 3 languages (Wolof, French, on an intermediate level, and English). While I would describe my general demeanor as calm, I love to smile, make jokes, and have fun with kids. One of my greatest strengths as a caregiver is my ability to be fun and silly, while being firm and serious when needed. I love working with children of all ages, from changing diapers to helping kids with algebra.
In order to have a successful working relationship, it is important to maintain healthy and respectful boundaries with children and families, so I make it one of my top priorities to ensure we’re all on the same page. I have a strong moral character and I value all forms of life. I won’t kill a stray spider even if it lands right on my face! A quick learner and detailed communicator, I send videos, pictures, and/or text messages as a way to check-in with parents. I believe the best way for parents to know their child is having a great day is for them to see it for themselves!
While my passion for being a caregiver has led me to Smart Sitting, I have previously worked with children in clinical settings. As a behavioral technician, I worked with kids between the ages of 4 and 14 years old who had various developmental disabilities. Through play, they learned how to wash their hands, how to clearly pronounce words, and how to identify different objects.
As a Therapeutic Mentor, I’ve worked with kids from 5 years old to 16 years old with adjustment disorders, depression, and severe trauma, using play as a catalyst for discussing the causes of their trauma and working through them together.
Being a nanny for children between 4 months old and 6 years old, I've cooked, cleaned, and assisted the children with homework, no task is too big or too small. Some of my favorite activities to do with kids are playing video games, doing puzzles, coloring, and playing catch. I am a passport-ready SmartSitter, as I’ve got the travel bug and would love to join your family on your next adventure! I am a dedicated caregiver who brings a variety of experiences and a unique perspective to those in my care. I cannot wait to meet your family!
I have professional child care experience with...
- Toddlers
- Preschoolers
- School-aged (K-5)
- Preteen
- Teenagers
- Special Needs
In 5 years, I hope to be...
In 5 years, I plan to have obtained my Newborn Care Specialist Certification, my Lifeguard certification, and be a Registered Behavioral Therapist.
Activities & skills I love to teach & share with children...
I teach respect, self confidence, and independence. I want children to enjoy being around me, so I try to maintain a great balance of work and fun.