ANI Spotlight: Shelah Shackelford!
By Crystal Nelson
ANI is delighted to announce our Nanny Spotlight- Shelah Shackleford! Shelah is a top-notch nanny who adores teaching, learning, and all the joy children bring. We recently had the chance to dig into her career highlights and learn more about her amazing nanny skills. She shares some of potty-training success stories, her favorite transfer station activity, and how a four-year-old beat her at chess. Shelah, we are so proud to represent you!
How did you become involved in working with families and children?
I came from a large family of 11 and was always surrounded by children. When I became a teenager, I babysat a lot until I switched to nannying at 17. I have always been passionate about working with children and the joy they bring.
What did you want to be when you were a child?
When I was around 9 years old, I desired to become a veterinarian (I loved the Animal Ark books). Which is comical because I am not an animal person. Shortly after, I decided I wanted to work with children. Being a nanny has been so fulfilling and wonderful!
What is your proudest accomplishment as a Nanny?
I had been teaching a previous nanny boy how to play chess for several months. A few months after he turned four- he got it! Then, he beat me at chess. He understood the game and I lost. I didn’t make it easy for him either. I was so proud of him!
Do you have any tips for other providers in The Greater Seattle Area?
The Wallingford/Fremont Transfer station is a huge hit on a rainy day! It’s perfect for teaching children about the importance of recycling. The viewing room has a transfer station model with cars to play with and three bins to teach children. Garbage, compost, and recycling. There is a fabulous cafe a block away which has delightful tea, coffee, and pastry options. It is also within walking distance of a playground and the Fremont Troll.
What is your favorite/funniest on-the-job memory or story?
A previous nanny girl was being potty trained at the time. We were in a public restroom because I needed to use it. The second I started peeing, she starts cheering, jumping up and down, and clapping while exclaiming, “good job, Sheely! You did it! I’m so proud of you!! You’re such a big girl. You did it! You went in the potty. Yay!” Then throws her arms around me. There were ladies laughing in the other stalls. It was hilarious and the sweetest thing ever.
What do you love about your job?
Being a huge role in the child’s life and growth. Having an incredible opportunity to help raise the child/ren alongside parents. Also, I love taking children on adventures!
What do you love about working in the Pacific Northwest?
All the park options! There are so many great places. All of the beautiful greenery and mountains. Absolutely glorious.
What’s your favorite family or friend tradition?
Every Christmas my family writes encouragement cards to each other and sticks it in everyone’s stockings. So, it’s the first thing we see/read Christmas morning. It brings so much joy to everyone’s hearts.
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you travel on an epic adventure?
I travel several times a year and love it! My next go-to place will be Africa. I would love to go on a Safari and do ministry work to learn more about the people and culture. It’s amazing how many different cultures there are in this world and how much we can learn!
What do you love most about a rainy day?
Hot cocoa/tea, fireplace, a book, and board games, laughter with friends and family.
Why did you come to ANI? How has ANI helped in your job search?
My friend had been telling me to apply for several months. I finally did and am so happy! Annie’s has been super awesome, kind, and helpful.
If you’d like to nominate an ANI Nanny for our Spotlight Series, please contact Crystal at crystal@aniseattle.com.
