Steal This Job

Starting Early: Teacher/Nanny

LIZ BLAYNEY, 28

JOB: Teacher and caregiver from the Reston, Va., office of TeacherCare, based in Chicago

SALARY: About $30,000 to $41,000

EDUCATION: Bachelor's in psychology and Russian from Oberlin College

WHAT SHE DOES: A nanny with an educational tilt, Blayney keeps two-year-old Ryan's schedule packed with enriching activities. Some are planned, such as a trip to a farm, while other learning opportunities arise out of everyday life. At the playground, they work on turn-taking and sharing; feeding ducks can lead to an explanation of webbed feet. At the end of the day, Blayney gives Ryan's parents a detailed report. That said, every minute can't be cranium crunching. "He's a little boy -- he's into the television and into a lot of his toys. You can't cut that out all together."

WOULD YOU WANT HER JOB? She still performs some of the more traditional nanny duties, such as preparing meals, doing dishes and washing Ryan's clothes.

HOW YOU CAN GET HER JOB: You'll need at least an associate's degree in a child-related field such as early childhood education or psychology. Work experience with kids will be equally as important. At TeacherCare, expect a criminal background check, a look at your driving history and verification of education and employment credentials.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: TeacherCare (teachercare.com) or the International Nanny Association (nanny.org)

This article originally appeared in the Express on October 4, 2004.