 Photo by Raleigh Skyline Nearly twenty-two years ago, I moved to Raleigh for college, not knowing that it would become home. As someone who has spent my entire adult life here, I have met some amazing people and had some life-changing experiences in this beautiful city. One of the main reasons I decided to stay here was the family-friendly amenities, not to mention, the great sense of community. I've seen Raleigh change a lot in the past couple of decades, but I have absolutely no regrets about making such a permanent change. If you’re thinking about growing your family and want more than just a place to live, Raleigh should definitely be at the top of your list. This vibrant, fast-growing (and I mean fast) city combines quality of life, economic opportunity, family-oriented accommodations and a culture of community in ways few other cities can match. Here’s why people are increasingly choosing Raleigh as the place to put down roots, raise their children and invest in community. Nationally Recognized Quality of Life Raleigh was recently ranked the #6 Best Place to Live in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report for 2025-2026. Not only does Raleigh have safe neighborhoods and lower crime rates than many similarly sized metros, but it also offers job security, shorter commuter times, accessible health care and abundant outdoor recreation, giving families comfort and peace of mind. This kind of environment helps children thrive socially, emotionally and physically. A Thriving Economy and Strong Job Market Raleigh’s economy continues to outperform many U.S. cities. It consistently ranks high due to job growth in tech, healthcare, biotech and education. Because of this, families can look forward to stable employment opportunities, stronger household incomes and the ability to balance professional and personal life. For many couples, this stability makes it easier to plan for children and secure family support services like doulas, child care, camps & extracurricular activities, and even higher education. Unmatched Work–Life Balance Last year, Raleigh ranked #4 nationally for work-life balance, highlighting its affordable cost of living, flexible work options (including remote and hybrid roles), and abundant green space per resident. For many parents, this balance is critical and means more meaningful family time, less stress during pregnancy and early parenthood and better integration of supportive services (like doulas, nannies and elder care for aging parents). High-Quality Schools and Education Families often cite education as a top priority and Raleigh does not disappoint. The Raleigh-Wake County area regularly ranks among the top cities in the nation for public school quality and overall education outcomes. Our strong education ecosystem boosts property values, attracts family-oriented communities and creates opportunities for children to excel from early learning through high school. Affordable Cost of Living Compared to Major Cities With an average of 50+ people moving to Raleigh each day, housing is always being developed. And while Raleigh’s housing market has grown, it still offers better affordability than many large U.S. metros like New York, D.C., or San Francisco, especially when you compare total living costs and quality of life. Currently, home prices in the Triangle area remain significantly lower than in larger coastal markets. Many families find that their quality of life improves as housing costs decrease relative to their income, leaving more money left for monthly expenses like childcare, groceries and activities. This affordability can also free up resources for important family-building expenses like savings & emergency funds, family enrichment activities and travel. Growing Healthcare Infrastructure Families with young children often prioritize access to strong pediatric and maternity care. Raleigh is part of the Research Triangle region, which is building North Carolina’s first standalone children’s hospital, a major development that will expand pediatric services and access for families. This kind of long-term health investment complements supportive services like prenatal and pediatric care, ensuring families have more options for comprehensive care. Family-Focused Neighborhoods for Every Stage of Life Whether you’re a first-time parent or planning your forever home, Raleigh and its surrounding suburbs offer diverse living options. Each of these areas has unique advantages while staying connected to Raleigh’s economic and cultural core.
A Community That Values Family Support Raleigh has developed a community culture centered on families that includes support networks for new parents, group activities, festivals & family events, robust parks, trails, outdoor spaces and countless family & parenting resources. Whether you’re seeking support for your first baby or enrolling children in after-school programs, Raleigh offers the social fabric that nurtures families, not just houses. Choosing where to raise your family is one of life’s biggest decisions. Raleigh stands out not just for its rankings and statistics, but for the real lived experiences of families like mine who move here seeking support, balance, community and opportunity. From economic stability and educational strength to outdoor living and family resources, Raleigh provides a foundation where children can flourish and parents can build the life they’ve always dreamed of.  NC State Fair in Raleigh Want to learn more about Raleigh? Here are some interesting facts that just may persuade you to settle here sooner rather than later.
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 This blog was originally written on September 1, 2014.
I wrote a post last year sighting the differences between a nanny and a babysitter. But I didn’t even scratch the surface when I began to describe what a day in the life of a caregiver entails. While we try our best to keep routines and schedules, each day is different and we have to be prepared for surprises and all things unexpected. I am grateful to have a wonderful relationship with my current nanny family, but that has not always been the case with other families. Over this past year my eyes have been opened to so many different scenarios and situations. I don’t have many nanny friends so I decided to join various nanny groups on Facebook and I started following some nannies and doulas on Twitter as well. I’m amazed every day at what we as nannies go through. I remember reading a post from a fellow nanny stating that she found a business card for a nanny on the coffee table when she arrived to work that morning. She asked the group if she should be worried. My answer: Hell yes! I don’t know her or the family she works with, but I do know the holidays were approaching and many families decide to make changes during that time. And the truth of the matter is that she could be let go. Hopefully she has a contract in place. But then again, I could be totally wrong. I thought I would share just a few things that I feel would be helpful to my fellow nannies and the families they work with. These things can also be applied for other household employees as well. As a nanny:
As a family:
Is there anything you as a parent or nanny would add to this list? Comment below!  This blog was originally written on August 29, 2013.
So you’ve decided to hire a nanny? Now what?! As parents and parents-to-be, the most stressful part of preparing for a new addition to the family is not making sure you have the nursery ready and stocked or adjusting to a new schedule, but searching for child care. It has to be one of the most difficult tasks that all parents face. Should I choose a day care center or hire a nanny? This question can be daunting for those who may not even be expecting yet, but it definitely requires a lot of thought, time and research. Both choices are great for their own reasons, but the bottom line is that you should have a plan in place (and a back up plan just in case your situation changes) well before your bundle of joy arrives. Hiring a nanny versus placing your child in day care has numerous advantages. With a nanny, you get a very personal kind of care. And not just for your children, but for the whole family. Generally, a nanny not only cares for your children, but they look after your household and pets too. Nannies offer routine and consistency, but they can also be flexible when something unexpected arises as well. With a nanny, your children can have excellent care in a familiar environment and get the same educational and developmental experiences they would get at a day care center (but with less germs). When hiring a nanny you should have these things in mind:
When contacting potential nannies about their services you should be open and upfront about what you are looking for and what you are willing to offer. You may include things such as:
Also, be sure to ask for a current resumé, a list of references and any letters of recommendation and a contact number for a phone interview. Phone interviews help narrow down your choices. When interviewing potential nannies, here is a list of questions to be sure to ask:
Additional questions may need to be asked to fit your family’s individual situation. Just be sure to be open and honest. After you have narrowed down your choice for a nanny there are a few things you should do before she/he starts. Formally offer the position to your potential nanny by phone or email and set up at least one “trial day.” Trial days are set so that you, the children and the nanny can get acquainted and see how a typical day would be for everyone. Also, if the nanny requested a contract, details should be discussed at length, agreed upon and signed BEFORE he/she starts. This will protect both you and the nanny if anything happens. Nannies also have their own requirements and preferences when looking for potential families. They may want a lower hourly wage than others, but they may ask for benefits. Be willing to compromise on things for the right nanny. I have worked in the child care industry for over 14 years now and I have learned a lot about what I want in a nanny position. Generally, I look for a warm, young family with a traditional work schedule and bit of flexibility. I really appreciate families that have been understanding about me having a family of my own. Especially the ones that have allowed me to bring my son with me to work. Openness, honesty and genuineness are my top priorities when searching for potential families. Hiring someone to care for your children is never easy, but I hope this helps you with your nanny search-Good Luck!  This blog was originally written on October 15, 2013.
I love my work. I truly do. I believe caring for children and families is my calling. But I have been through a lot over the years. I’ve worked with some fantastic families and I’ve also worked with a couple of families who didn’t appreciate or acknowledge my hard work. I have been in the childcare industry for half of my life now (wow, I feel old) and the most debated issue that always seems to come up, whether I’m at the library with the kids or speaking with other nannies, is the difference between a nanny and a babysitter and the lack of respect we sometimes receive for choosing our profession. When I first started what is now my career, I was 14 years old and just a babysitter. I must admit, that’s what I thought everyone in the industry was called. But then I went to college with the intention of becoming a teacher. I spent 5 years working towards something I didn’t really want. If I had listened to my heart, I would have spent that money on certifications and trainings. All through college I had numerous jobs, from a style consultant at the mall to telecommunications. I even interned at the N.C. General Assembly for a senator one summer. But I always seemed to gravitate back to childcare. I’ve worked in day care centers, been both a part-time and full-time nanny and I’ve also been a tutor. Nothing fulfilled me more than being with kids and helping them develop and learn. So a few years ago I decided I wanted to be a Career Nanny. Now, to the average person that sounds insane. Why would you want to spend your life caring for other people’s children? Besides, that’s not real work. I’ve never heard these words personally, but I get the looks and stares sometimes. And the fact that I could pass for a teenager doesn’t help at all. But realistically, nannies are teachers that work both inside and outside a home setting. We just don’t have to deal with all the politics and paperwork. I chose (yes, chose) this profession and it is real work. The statement that a babysitter and a nanny are the same simply isn’t true. These terms should not, at any time, be used interchangeably. The main differences between a nanny and a babysitter are based upon education, experience and duties. A babysitter may be needed occasionally for after school care, evenings or date nights. They are only expected to care for the children and perhaps prepare a quick meal and put them to bed. But a nanny provides a multitude of services not only for the children, but for the entire family. These services can include but are not limited to childcare, housework, cooking, errands, pet care, carpool & driving to various activities and homework help. Nannies usually have an extensive background in childcare, advanced training and may be highly educated as well. There are more college-educated nannies in the field now than there used to be, most of them coming from other fields. We also continue our education with trainings & workshops and make sure we keep up with the latest certications. On top of all of this, nannies provide a very personal aspect to their charges and families. We are counselors, nurses, friends, confidants, body guards and some people even refer to us as second moms or dads. Never aiming to take the place of the parents, but special aides to the families we care so dearly about. Nannies are also employees. We have a work agreement and get paid a salary. We get sick/vacation days and yes, we have to pay taxes. Some nannies even get incentives and perks such as a nanny vehicle, credit cards, health insurance, gym memberships and access to summer homes. And you do what for a living? Right…. :-) But it’s not about the extras. It’s about having a passion for what we do. Most nannies wouldn’t do it if they didn’t absolutely love the job. Truth be told, it can be exhausting. But the children we care for are like our own. We invest time into them and we see the pay offs and rewards each and every day. That is enough for us. As a nanny, every day is a new challenge because you never know what can happen. You have to be prepared to expect the unexpected and be able to handle it quickly, calmly and most importantly, safely. When you hear comments like, “How can someone pay that much money for a babysitter?” it can be a bit disheartening. But each one of us knows exactly how much we are worth. We don’t have to prove anything to strangers. It would be nice to be taken as seriously as a doctor or lawyer though. I am currently searching for a new family to work with after the new year. This will be my 7th family in nearly 6 years. I began my nanny career right when the “bubble burst” and the economic turmoil began in America, so I was not prepared to change families so many times. Every family has different circumstances. I was let go in some instances and other families I chose to leave because they didn’t meet my personal standards and expectations. Again, every nanny knows their worth and I definitely know mine now. I am a nanny. I offer a wide range of services to the families I work with from potty training to registering the kids for activites and arranging play dates. I invest my time and effort to make sure that the children I care for are mentally, emotionally and socially well-rounded and the parents are secure in knowing that someone like me is there when they can’t be. I am also a mother. A mother who has the privelege of bringing my son to work with me. Until recently, he was with me every day. He now goes to preschool part time. The thought of leaving him with someone was scary at first, but when I thought about it, I realized that I am in that same position. I am the trusted person that cares for Baby N when her mom and dad leave each day. So why is there so much stigma around our profession? Why don’t people respect what we do? Maybe because they simply aren’t educated. I have read a few articles and heard so many stories in the last few months from different nannies. Their awful encounters with strangers and even family members is hurtful to hear. We give virtually hugs and support each other in our online groups. It is difficult enough to work for a family that may not appreciate all that you do, but not being respected by others who have no clue what we go through each day is annoying and dare I say ignorant. If you are not a nanny and you are reading this, I hope I opened your eyes even a little bit. If you are a parent looking to hire someone, be careful not to make the mistake of asking for a nanny if you really need a babysitter. If you are a nanny and you are reading this, know that I appreciate you. Keep up the good work! Babysitters are great, but please refer to me as a nanny. We are special. Thinking of hiring a nanny? Click here!  Raise your hand if you are secretly (or not-so-secretly) freaking out about school? I get it and I understand completely. At some point early this morning, I turned over and almost jumped out of bed thinking that today was the day. Thankfully, we still have one week until school officially starts in the Collins household. Once again, Summer has magically flown by and will soon become a distant memory as school starts all over the country in the next few weeks. Some schools have already begun classes and while I have so many feelings about school and the American education system, I won't drag you down with all my thoughts about that right now. Yes, I whole-heartedly understand that there are families that don't have the necessary resources for virtual school and frontline workers who clearly need child care, but no child's life is worth the risk of sending them to an unsafe school environment right now. Now if you know me, then you probably know that my son is homeschooled and has been for a few years now. Next week he will start fourth grade and we are ready. We have all of his books and materials, his homeroom teacher called today to check in and we have received emails from his advisor, counselor and the principal welcoming us back. Over the years, I have shared our experience with family and friends who have wondered how my husband and I balance our careers and family life and honestly, virtual (home) school has a lot to do with it. Today I'm going to share my/our virtual school experience as well as some local education and child care resources for your convenience. The K-12 Program The K12 program offers tuition-free public school (and tuition based private school) options that meet your student where they are and gives your family the room and flexibility for online, at home educational instruction. With state-certified teachers, the support and structure of a school community, and online curriculum, students learn in the way that's right for them and at their own pace. For twenty years, K12 has served over one million students and has expanded to over 29 states and D.C. Additionally, K12 offers special education services, online live tutoring, summer school courses & programs, career readiness assistance and adult education programs. Individuals also have the option to supplement their own homeschool curriculum with specific K12 courses. Why virtual school? Virtual school provides the flexibility and convenience of working with your student and their teacher directly for a more personal learning experience and comfortable environment. Parents are able to get up close and personal with the curriculum and adapt the school day based on how their child learns. It also allows families with non traditional schedules and routines to frame their day as they see fit. North Carolina Virtual Academy (NCVA) North Carolina Virtual Academy is an online public charter school in North Carolina and one of many K12 schools throughout the states. My son has been attending NCVA for four years now and it has been a great experience for our entire family. Not only has it allowed my husband and I to work both in and out of the home when needed, it has given us the opportunity to see our son's learning strengths and weaknesses and integrate specific resources into his daily learning. We are able to challenge him in certain areas and give him extra attention in others. My son really enjoys being able to participate in his weekly class meetings and complete is coursework throughout the day at his leisure. Most days we start with class meetings and then we move into coursework. In between subjects we do yoga, listen to music, watch YouTube videos, water the plants, play outside and more. Mixing the day up keeps learning fun and interesting. We've had a few hiccups over the years, but it has allowed us to create the lifestyle we want for our family. Overall, we have been pleased with the curriculum and pleasantly surprised with the balance of both modern and traditional leaning methods. What to expect Contact K12 for more information about schools in your area. Please be advised that although the particular school you choose may have a waiting list, you will be contacted when space opens up. You can enroll and accept a space even if it is in the middle of the school year. Once enrolled, you can expect consistent communication from your K12 school staff to ensure your child's success. All materials including a laptop, printer, books, teacher guides and curriculum materials are mailed to your home, free of charge. While there is a standard curriculum, parents or learning coaches have the flexibility to tailor instruction based on how their child learns. Students will have a full team that includes a homeroom teacher, advisor, counselor and learning coach (the parent) for guidance, resources and solutions. The majority of daily lessons are online and school can be done anywhere that WiFi is available for your convenience. Parents of younger students will need to be available to help them navigate lessons and live class meetings with teachers. Older students should be able to do a lot of coursework on their own, with occasional help. The K12 app is a great way to keep up with your students daily and weekly lessons and attendance on the go. Tech support is available for any issues that may arise with the OLS (online learning system). Parents and students will also have access to more learning tools and resources throughout the year to supplement the curriculum as well as online clubs and extracurricular activities. If you are thinking about virtual school, K12 is a great place to start! Contact them for a full overview of all that they have to offer.  Other Resources
Below is a list of local resources including nannies & sitters, preschools, tutors & test prep and more. WakeEd Partnership Kim Keith An academic childcare collaborative [email protected] The Nurtured Nest Kathryn Dunn, owner Virtual Preschool & Family Support Services [email protected] Kreative Kidz NC Brenda Atiya Kithcart, owner Childcare Center [email protected] Greater Promise Elite Learning Steven Harrison, owner Tutoring, Learning Center [email protected] One of One Educational Services Tenica Williams, owner Tutor/Teacher [email protected] APlus Test Prep Test Prep/Tutoring [email protected] Select Sitters Kara Varnell, owner Nanny/Sitter Placement [email protected] Benita the Babysitter Benita Edgerton, owner Teacher/Tutor/Sitter (Virtual & In-Person) [email protected] Carrie Cook, MA CCC-SLP Virtual Speech Pathology Services [email protected] Serfancia Starr Childcare (In home in Durham. NC) [email protected] Available now until April 2020 Kala Hinnant K-12 Tutor, Virtual Services [email protected] Availability M-F, 8-11 am Triangle Nannies & Babysitters (Facebook Group) Wake County Babysitters/Nannies (Facebook Group) Wake/Raleigh Area Babysitters & Nannies (Facebook Group) NCDPI Resources for Parents & Teachers NC School Aid (search for resources OR upload your own resource or business) |
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