Hi,
My father passed away almost one year ago and am trying to help my mom find a job to gain a sense of independence back and keep her busy. She is 67 years old and has been a homemaker most of her life. My parents are from Italy, and although she has been here forty years, she is not fluent in English but definitely understands and can speak it probably more than she thinks (she is a bit insecure about her English). She has always relied on my dad for everything, he took care of the working, and all the external stuff while she took care of the home. She is busy with the household stuff and her grandchildren but really want her to gain a sense of independence. Since she's relied on my father so much in the past I think it would be great for her to get out there and find a part time gig. And she is definitely open to it. She sews, knits, and is a great cook! She is in good health and has more energy than me! She does make dresses and hem clothes for people out of her house, but its mostly for family members and friends and has done actual jobs doing that for brief periods of time. She worked briefly for a few months in a uniform store stocking and folding clothes but that's about it. She lives in the san fernando valley.If anyone has any suggestions I would greatly appreciate it! Thanks!
What about looking for a part time job at an Italian grocery or bakery? Her accent would be a plus there. I think there is one on Ventura Blvd in Encino. She could also check the pre schools, a grandmother figure would be great, and the little kids won't care about the English.
HI C.,
there are always numerous women looking for a good nanny. Are there any places of business like the Pump Station that we have here in west LA in your neck of the woods? Your mom could post a note offering herself as a part-time nanny or babysitter at a place where young mothers frequent. Good luck, K.
Does she enjoy being around babies and/or toddlers? Perhaps she could work as an assistant at a home daycare. When my son was in daycare, his favorite caregiver was a grandmother who worked half-days to help out the provider. (that way the provider could get some paperwork or other business stuff done, knowing that she wasn't the only set of eyes on the little ones.)
This woman also spoke English as a second language, but it really didn't matter at all. She was wonderful with the kids -- a great addition to the daycare. Maybe your mom would enjoy something like this.
Best of luck!
I NEED HER!! Can she drive? I am looking for a little extra help around the house and with the children. Even if it's only once a week it would be great. We have small three children (4 years old, 2 years old, and a nine month old). We live in La Crescenta.
Please let me know your thoughts.
Hi C.!
What about volunteering or working part-time at a child-care center? Lots of children need the kind of attention and love your mother seems to have in abundance. Also, I know St.John's in Santa Monic has a program where elderly people knit booties and caps for the new babies if your mom would be interested. I think you can find out more about it on laworks.org or the St.John's website. Good Luck!
