With a passion for teaching and coaching, Jessie Buttons, “The New Zealand Super Nanny” is using her extensive experience to help and empower parents, nannies and caregivers. She shares her knowledge and techniques in order to raise a generation of children who are not only confident and caring, but are excited about who they are and how they can make valuable contributions to society.
The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
As a teacher by trade, I have always had a passion for coaching and learning. The international nanny scene saw me travelling with and caring for many children of different ages, cultures and personalities. I witnessed all sorts of parenting practices and daily behavioural challenges. My toolbox of strategies grew.
I then spent three years in Sydney managing a Montessori Preschool where the framework for learning is child-led. That is, children have the freedom to learn and explore in their own way, motivated by their individual preferences. This confirmed my idea that children are happier and learn better when they are in an environment that suits their nature.
After returning home to New Zealand I began helping parents who were struggling with their children’s behaviour.
I was then inspired to make a change.
The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
I saw a need for a framework that parents could easily understand. The method of decoding and supporting the four primary natures was a simple concept that parents understood, and the results were rewarding. I developed programmes for families that were easily implemented and created effective change. After helping many families, I was recognised and labelled the New Zealand Super Nanny.
The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
Teaching parents about the Four Natures of Children and why they behave the way they do has provided them with a new perspective on behaviour and the tools they need to respond. This new perspective has surpassed old-fashioned thinking around behaviour and discipline and research explains the detrimental effects of punitive parenting, as it does not meet the needs of the child or teach the skills the child is lacking.
Feedback from parents highlighted the need for ongoing parent coaching. These are weekly support calls focusing on real life situations. Such as, how to respond to challenging behaviours, setting up appropriate schedules and routines, and supporting each child in conjunction with their nature.
