Confessions of a Nanny 

Part IV

A few years ago, I nannied for a family where the parents sucked and the little girl was on the autism spectrum.  I knew from the beginning but I wasn't really sure because the parents didn't give her the life tools to survive.  She didn't get enough sleep, her diet consisted of junk food, and she was run ragged everyday.  The parents worked full time and felt guilty.  So, they gave her what she wanted and didn't know that sleep was essential for growing.  Part of me thought it was just poor development due to the parents, but when I came to the picture and got her on as best of a schedule that I could, she still wasn't "right."  I became very attached and worked well beyond my hours to help this little girl.  I would google ways to cope her tantrums and how to help her get over her food issues.  I became VERY attached to her and actually worried about her when I wasn't around.  I absolutely adored this little girl.  I felt that her parents did nothing to help her and I was the only person in her life that made sure she got enough sleep and ate balanced meals.  When I found out that they were moving, I cried for days.  I almost wanted to call childrens services because I was so extremely worried about her future.  Her parents were not bad people, they just shouldn't be parents.  They are friends to her.  The day of the move finally came.  When they left, I went home and sunk into my couch for the rest of the night.  I missed the sweet little girl that had such an impact on me.  

Even though it doesn't seem like Nannies get attached, there's always that one family that we will never forget.  I will never ever forget her.  If I could adopt her, I would.