Rhodes Waterside’s new Shopping Nanny service is the first of its kind in Australia
RHODES Waterside has launched a new Shopping Nanny service which is the first of its kind in Australia.
Inner West
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A RECENT Friday was the first time in 15 months that Ni Zeng has sat down and enjoyed a coffee on her own without having her hands full.
She has Shopping Nanny to thank for that.
The new service at Rhodes Waterside gives shoppers “me time” to try on clothing, get their hair done or enjoy a coffee while the centre’s complimentary nannies look after little ones.
Parents are able to book up to two hours of childcare in a designated play area or choose whether the nanny accompanies them while they shop.
The concept, launched by Mirvac Retail on July 31, is a first for Australia.
“I enjoyed a cup of coffee by myself. It was a long time. It was my dream,” Mrs Zeng said.
“The last time I was able to do it was before my son (Brendon) was born which was 15 months ago.
“It’s a very good idea. I will definitely be using it again and going to the shops a lot more.”
Nanny Maryann Spaccavento, 21, said they had a few regulars and had received a lot of good feedback.
“There was one mother I did the roving service for who didn’t live in the area but wanted to use the service to go shopping and get a new pair of shoes for herself,” she said.
“I went around with her for two hours and helped out while she did a bit of shopping. This includes settling the baby by picking them up and giving them a cuddle or pushing the pram while the mother goes off to look at items.”
Nanny Jen Fear, 29, said parents were surprised the shopping centre provided a free nanny service.
“It’s great to be providing a service to parents and nice to know you’re helping them out because shopping with kids can be very stressful,” she said.
“Each nanny can take two to three children based on how old they are. We colour-in with them, play with blocks or at the wooden kitchen.”
Two stationary nannies are in the centre from 10am to 3pm on Monday to Friday for children aged 0-10.
Centre manager Amy McIver said all customers were entitled to book a nanny as long as they signed up to Mums & Co, which is a free parent and carer online platform.
“They watch and play with the children, either in a drop off play area or follow the parents around to help in the supermarket, while parents are trying on clothes, in appointments and can help them organise the children into the car once ready to leave,” Ms McIver said.
“Rhodes Waterside encourages parents to pre-book to ensure they get the nanny of their choice and their kids feel most comfortable with.
“However, all the nannies are well-liked.
“If the local interest increases, then the number of nannies will increase.”
What it takes to be one
● The job description to become a nanny at the centre through recruitment agency Lullaby Nanny Share includes being kind, caring and passionate about working with children, having a minimum of three years of recent experience working as a nanny to families in Australia or working within a childcare centre environment
● The nannies must also be creative and patient, have experience with children aged 0 to 12 years old, be trustworthy, enthusiastic and friendly, have a qualification in childcare and a first aid certificate, and must be a non-smoker
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