We’ve been keeping a close eye on the forecast the last couple of days. In case you missed it, the National Weather Service just issued a Winter Storm Watch for tomorrow (Sunday) and Monday for the Puget Sound region.
It is also looking like we may get more snow later this week…
If you find yourself needing “snow day” child care or if you are a provider and would like to offer “snow day” child care, please review the following information:
If you are a parent and find yourself in need of child care…
Step #1: Check out the Snow Day Care Map
The Snow Day Care Map is a tool that we launched last year during the February “snowmageddon”. Care providers place markers on a map showing where they are located and how far they will walk, ski, sled, etc. to offer child care. Check the map and see if there is a care provider in your neighborhood who might be able to help you with child care.
Click here to see the Snow Day Care Map
Step #2: Browse/post an event to the CareCalendar
The CareCalendar was launched just before the holidays last year and many nannies are using this to offer temporary/last minute child care. Browse the calendar and see if there is a nanny or sitter in your neighborhood offering care. Also, take a few minutes and post your own event to the CareCalendar for care providers to see and connect with you through.
Click here to view the CareCalendar
Step #3: Send out a Last Minute Care Text request
If you weren’t successful finding care through the Snow Day Care Map or CareCalendar, send out a request through our Last Minute Care Text Service. We have hundreds of nannies and sitters signed up for this service in the Seattle area. Simply fill out a form with the details of your child care need and it will be instantly text messaged to all subscribed care providers. Interested providers can then call or text you to discuss your need and set up child care.
Click here to send out a Last Minute Care Text request
If you are a nanny/sitter and would like to offer “snow day” care…
Nannies/sitters: f you can’t make it to your regular family’s home or just want to make yourself available for “snow day” care in your neighborhood, see below. Please don’t attempt to drive if the conditions are too dangerous or you are not comfortable with trying!
Step #1: Add your location to the Snow Day Care Map
We launched the Snow Day Care Map during the February 2019 snowstorms and I heard from many nannies and sitters that were able to find families needing child care down the street or around the corner (I even heard from one nanny who found a family in the same apartment building!) Add your location to the Snow Day Care Map, indicate when you are available and how far you will walk, ski, sled, etc. to offer care. Parents can then use the map to see if any providers are located within walking distance and could help out. A win-win for everyone!
Step #2: Browse/post an event to the CareCalendar
Many care providers have started using the CareCalendar (launched right before the 2019 holidays) to offer temporary/last minute child care. One of the reasons that we built the CareCalendar was specifically for “snow days”! Browse the calendar to see if there is a family in your neighborhood that needs child care. Also, take a few minutes to post your own event to the CareCalendar so that parents needing care near your location can find and connect with you!
Click here to see the CareCalendar
Step #3: Subscribe to the Last Minute Care Text Service
By subscribing to our Last Minute Care Text Service, you will be instantly notified via text message when a family in our area needs child care. The text message contains the parents’ location, number and ages of kids, pay rate, and any special information. If you are interested in providing care for that family, simply call or text the parent back and set it up.
Click here to sign up for the Last Minute Care Text Service
I know how difficult inclement weather can make our lives when schools are closed, work wants you to still come in, or you live on a hill (like we do). Please share this with anyone you think would find this information beneficial!
Fingers crossed that the coming days just bring a light dusting that melts before the next day 🙂