Editor's opinion

At this time of year nannies are the envy of many a nanny employer, or any worker tied to a desk, computer or cash till. The freedom to spend lots of time outdoors in the company of children is one of the job's blessings. In this issue we look outward, at just a few of the ways to enhance being out and about in enjoyable pastimes. Children, too, have more freedom and flexibility in getting out and about with a nanny than in other childcare settings, so it's a wonder more parents don't choose the nanny option, when it offers this value that is beyond price. Nannying also offers the broader horizon of being able to take your skills abroad, if you're the right person for it, as we see on page 10. And then there's the flexibility of choosing the clothes you want to wear, an interesting but overlooked subject that we consider on page 6. As one Norlander says, wearing her uniform in another country distinguishes her as a nanny and allows her to fit in any culture. Of course, wearing combat trousers, trainers and a baseball cap will just as clearly mark out the Briton abroad - and makes her no less capable as a nanny.