Ok guys, I think we've all heard enough!! This is supposed to be a list
for sharing practical information and help. You both have different
opinions about parenting, this is not the place to have it out. Why
don't you just meet in person? A good old-fashioned dual perhaps?
Perhaps you wouldn't be so vocal Andrey, without the protective screen
of the computer in front of you? Saying that, I am now going to sit in
front of my computer screen-shield and have my 2 cents before you go.
It is completely understandable that some Russian people may resent the
fact that foreigners barge in to their country, flash their money
around and 'exploit' the people. However, this is not all foreign
people and I really don't think you have a right to generalise like
that Andrey. Tourists (who are often foreign) I'm sure are more
responsible for these things, so I can see how you could easily change
that lable to 'foreigners' or 'expats'. Please don't confuse the two,
they are very different things. We live here, work here, share your
economy and try to learn and fit in with your culture.
Now, as a nanny, I don't believe this job to be humiliating or
dead-end. I am very satisifed with my career as I believe education and
the care of children is the most important thing for the future. And
yes, I have a degree (in science) and have had been previously employed
in other jobs which you may view as more 'successful', but this is what
I love and I am proud of my choices. Of course, I see some very sad
cases of parents merely abandoning their children to hired help, but
believe me Andrey, this trait is not solely reserved for Westerners.
There are people like that in every country, and you are being very
naive if you think the rich and powerful people of Russia don't have a
bit of help at home.
I understand that there is a close family connection in Russian
families and admire it often. But if there is no extended family
available, would you really prefer a College girl who doesn't give a
damn about your family to be watching your kids if there is a choice?
If a family can afford it, why shouldn't they have a professional? You
said yourself that kids eventually go off to school and have
'outsiders' influence them, why don't we just send them to the woman
next door for their education?! I'm sure she would love the company!
You wouldn't because you want the best for your children and the best
comes from a professional. A teacher who is responsible, educated and
accountable. And that Andrey, is exactly what a good Nanny is.
I agree that some people are not very good at being parents and
hire help to compensate for that. But some people are not very good at
being parents and buy beer and vodka to compensate for that. Every
family is different, every circumstance is different and I do not
understand why you ave chosen to attack Peter and 'foreigners'. I think
you ought to go to one of the Russian Nannying websites and see
how many Russian families are seeking 'outsiders' and even... 'foreign
outsiders!!' for full-time care of
their children. It's not just expats, it's not just Russians.
Everyone needs some help sometimes. It sounds to me as though Peter is
really trying to do the best he can for his child, and if that's
different to what you would do, so be it! It's his choice. If you think
the way you were brought up was the best way, you are free to raise
your children as you please.
Now, I had best get back to my dead-end job. That's the same job that
sees me travel the world, help someone learn and watch them grow, wake
up with a smile and go to bed knowing that I have done something good
for at least one other being on this messy, crazy, wonderful planet.
Can you do that today Andrey? I hope so.
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