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- I still work, but I watch my grandson once a week to help my daughter save on childcare. It’s been beneficial for all of us. (businessinsider.com)
Grandpa Steve’s Brooklyn Babysitting Gig
Steve McCarthy, 66, spent years reporting on natural disasters and violent crime, but these days, his biggest challenge is soothing his crying grandson, Ollie. A documentary filmmaker and journalism professor at Montclair State University, McCarthy has found a unique way to balance work and family: He’s become a regular babysitter for Ollie, commuting weekly from New Jersey to Brooklyn.
This arrangement allows McCarthy’s daughter to return to work and save on childcare costs. While Ollie naps or plays, McCarthy stays connected with his students and colleagues, working remotely from his daughter’s home.
But the real reward? Bonding with Ollie and connecting with his family roots.
McCarthy’s grandfather, his namesake “Poppa,” lived and worked in Bay Ridge, just miles from where Ollie lives now. For McCarthy, caring for his grandson in the same borough feels like a full-circle moment, honoring his grandfather’s legacy.
From diaper changes to burping and bedtime stories, McCarthy has rediscovered the joys of childcare. He and Ollie enjoy sitting on the deck, taking in the Brooklyn skyline, and listening to the city’s vibrant sounds. He even serenades Ollie with Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” – a surprisingly effective method for calming a fussy baby.
The week often culminates in family dinners, reminiscent of McCarthy’s childhood Sunday dinners at his grandfather’s house. As Ollie drifts off to sleep, McCarthy reflects on the special bond they share and looks forward to sharing stories about his Poppa and Brooklyn’s rich history. This grandpa’s Brooklyn babysitting gig is more than just childcare; it’s a heartwarming tribute to family and heritage.