Edith Fiol: Seaside’s Nanny of the Month for March

In the warm coastal community of San Diego, few professionals touch lives quite like our dedicated nannies. Edith Fiol has dedicated herself to childcare for almost the last 30 years of her life. The result? Countless families whose lives she’s enriched.

A Lifelong Passion

For Edith, caring for children isn’t just a career but a calling that dates back to her teenage years. “Since I was a teenager, it has always been my dream to work with kids,” she shares. Children are her everything. The way she cares for them builds supportive learning spaces where kids can grow.

With nearly three decades of experience, she understands child development incredibly well. Because of this, she provides care that’s perfectly suited to each child’s unique personality and stage of growth.

Professional Growth Through Education

What sets Edith apart is her commitment to professional development. She stays current with childcare best practices by “assisting as much as possible for workshops, attending annual conferences, taking CPR courses,” and more. Montessori, Pikler, and RIE are just a few of the childcare approaches she’s studied. She puts this knowledge to use every day, helping children grow and learn.

Montessori methodology emphasis on independence, the Pikler approach is one in which represents respect for natural motor development, and RIE’s focus on respectful interaction all inform Edith’s caregiving style. “My approach to children is completely different now, thanks to these philosophies”, Edith shared. “I’ve learned to observe more carefully, intervene less, and trust in children’s innate abilities.”

Cherished Moments

When asked about memorable experiences, Edith lights up recalling when one of her charges decided to call her “GaGa” which is a sweet nickname that captures the special bonds she forms with the children in her care. She loves her job; as she exclaims, “seeing the children grow and watching them play is the best part!”

Parents frequently comment on how well Edith connects with their kids. “It’s those small moments when a child runs to me for comfort or shares a discovery with excitement in their eyes that make this profession so fulfilling,” she says.

The Art of Childcare

For Edith, childcare is both a science and an art. She knows every child is different; they all learn and communicate in their own special way. Children and parents trust her because she’s patient, watches carefully, and is always ready to adjust her approach.

“Children teach us as much as we teach them,” Edith reflects. “They remind us to slow down, to be present, and to find joy in simple discoveries.” This philosophy has guided her through nearly three decades of nannying, ensuring that each child in her care feels seen, heard, and valued.

Building Family Partnerships

Edith believes that successful childcare involves strong partnerships with parents. Open communication is a priority. She’s sensitive to family life, offering professional advice only when the family is receptive. Consistency for children means less anxiety for parents. Our collaborative approach delivers both. Many families who have worked with Edith speak of her as more than a nanny because she becomes an extended family member whose influence lasts well beyond the years of active caregiving.

Beyond Childcare

Away from her nanny duties, Edith maintains an active lifestyle with yoga, Pilates, and hiking. New skills, new books, new friends are all things she actively pursues. She’s always growing. Taking an interest in many things helps her care for children; it keeps her excited to work with them. Taking care of herself is how she makes sure she can give her best to those around her. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s smart. “I bring my best self to the children when I take care of my own well-being,” she notes.

A Community Treasure

Seaside families consider themselves fortunate to have dedicated professionals like Edith in their community. Helping families isn’t her only focus. She also builds relationships with other childcare workers, sharing ideas and forming a support system that benefits many children in the community.

Edith’s dedication, experience, and warm heart shine through in her childcare. The impact of a skilled nanny is clearly seen in Edith’s work. She creates a nurturing environment where children thrive, building a foundation of confidence, inquisitiveness, and happiness that will serve them well throughout life.