Early-Childhood Educator & Nanny

Mahler Private Staffing•Palo Alto, CA

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

A private family in Palo Alto is looking for someone rare, a ROTA Nanny and Early-Childhood Educator who brings both the warmth of a devoted caregiver and the intentionality of a trained educator. This is a rotational position, live-in or live-out for candidates who live near the area. Candidates must be based in California, ideally within the Bay Area. Their child is 2 years old, right at the beginning of that magical window when the world becomes endlessly fascinating and every day holds something new to discover. The family understands that the best caregivers aren't hired, they're found, and they're taking their time to find the right fit. Someone who will become a constant, trusted presence in their child's earliest years, who thinks carefully about how children grow, and who finds genuine joy in the toddler and preschool stage. If you thrive in a polished, private-home environment, know when to follow a plan and when to follow a child's lead, and find meaning in the quiet work of early childhood, this role was written with you in mind.

Requirements

Significant experience with infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children
Background in early-childhood education, Montessori, RIE, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, Pikler, or another developmentally grounded approach
Experience in private households, ideally with high-net-worth families or highly private families
Strong understanding of play-based learning and preschool readiness
Excellent judgment, discretion, flexibility, and communication skills
CPR/First Aid certified with a clean driving record
College degree, ECE coursework, teaching credential, or comparable training strongly preferred
Willingness to travel occasionally as needed
Must be based in California, ideally within the Bay Area
Fluency in Mandarin or Cantonese is a strong plus

Nice To Haves

Weave a second language naturally into daily life through songs, stories, and play

Responsibilities

Create a warm, safe, and developmentally appropriate environment for daily care and play
Plan and lead age-appropriate activities across language, motor, sensory, music, and social-emotional development
Support sleep routines, feeding, and healthy daily habits, including potty training when age-appropriate
Prepare simple, nutritious meals and snacks
Manage nursery organization, child laundry, supplies, and developmental materials
Drive or accompany the child to classes, outings, playdates, and appointments
Maintain clear, professional communication with parents on milestones, routines, and observations
Partner with the family to uphold a consistent, attachment-centered parenting philosophy