I enjoy all ages - truly! - but if I don't already have a relationship with the child, I don't like starting fresh with four year olds (generally speaking). Much easier if you know them from 2yo or younger or 6yo and up.

Anonymous wrote:I'm a twin specialist and prefer newborns for a number of reason. One being job security and two being that they haven't been through a number of other nannies.

Twin specialist... why would you do that?!?!

My favourite age is 3-4 - you can reason with them, you can do more stuff with them, they say the most hilarious things every two minutes. For working I prefer two or more kids from the age of 2 so that they can get used to my discipline style from the get go - and more kids than one because one is boring and I'm constantly fighting sleep.

That said my 4yo and 6yo recently got a baby brother and it is my first experience caring for a newborn - it is the loveliest thing in the world. The way he smells! And looks at you and smiles! Awww my ovaries.

I love every age IF AND ONLY IF I have been their nanny since birth. Being bonded makes every age a true joy.

I love newborns. There is something almost spiritual about holding a newborn baby, to me at least.
I love those first couple of years, when they learn and change so much. I feel honored to be entrusted to be part of the team that introduces the little one to the world.

I am good at being patient and loving. Not so good at being a tough disciplinarian, which you have to do more and more as they get older.

If you are saying young children for job security purposes what do you think about the kids when they are 2 yo, 4 yo or 6 yo?

I prefer easy peasy babies, preferably one who naps 2-3 times a day.

school age and teens

I prefer toddlers.

under two; they tend to be less sassy and fewer tantrums. But there are pros and cons to all the ages. Older is fun because you can do more stuff with them and it's fun to watch them discover the world around them. The nonstop chatter isn't as fun. '

Newborns only

I'm a twin specialist and prefer newborns for a number of reason. One being job security and two being that they haven't been through a number of other nannies.

Excellent point made above.

Also, I prefer to care for one child if under four because younger children tend to be (obviously!!) much more work.

Most people like younger kids for job security.

Just curious what age you prefer to nanny for and why?
Do you also have a preference in number of charges?