Can you aim a video camera at the crazy neighbors' without getting caught? Catch enough good tape, and you might be able to get the nutjobs next door on the next season of Nanny 911.
The Fox show has put Strollerderby on notice that they're looking for a few crazy kids (and a few frazzled parents) for the next season of stern British "talking tos" over a nice cuppa tea (Aga not required).
I started gathering my evidence when I heard they're limiting their scope to Connecticut, New York and New Jersey for now. That means I've only got the naughtiest kids in the armpit of America to beat when I submit pics of the little hellion who taught my daughter "nah, nah, nuh, nah, nah." He'll be a shoo-in when they see the tape of him landing his helicopter on her head - with his oblivious mother standing nearby. Not that my parenting's any great shakes, but I'm not ready to share that with the TV audience yet - I prefer to give you 'Derby fans first crack. Don't you feel special?
Actually, of any reality show experts, the nannies are among the most useful. The shows can definitely be a "there but by the Grace of God go I" example and a reminder that sometimes we're not the horrible parents we sometimes fear. But a lot of parents have big hearts, good intentions and have gotten in over their heads. The fact that they'll call on someone for help rather than throwing in the towel, earns them my respect. Sound like you? Call your neighbor for their best footage and send it in. Maybe I'll be picking up some nanny tips watching your kids get a lesson in good old-fashioned English manners.
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