A woman raised in California has shared how moving to rural Indiana led to an unexpected cultural exchange after she hired a young Amish woman as a nanny for her daughter.
Jaclyn Shaw, who relocated to northern Indiana during the COVID-19 pandemic with her husband, said she was initially fascinated — and shocked — by the strong presence of Amish communities in the area. Accustomed to suburban California life, Shaw admitted that seeing horse-drawn buggies on the road left her curious to learn more.
A childcare solution rooted in tradition
When Shaw and her husband welcomed their daughter in June 2022, childcare options were limited in the small, close-knit town. Friends suggested hiring an Amish nanny — a common practice in the region — prompting Shaw to consider an option she had never imagined.
That is how she met Rosanna, a 22-year-old Amish woman, whom Shaw later spoke about with her followers on TikTok.
Initially, Shaw said she felt nervous about cultural differences, especially when Rosanna asked to take the baby for walks despite not carrying a mobile phone, in keeping with Amish tradition. Over time, trust grew, helped by the safety and familiarity of the small town.
Breaking stereotypes
As their working relationship developed, Shaw realised that Rosanna’s understanding of modern life was far deeper than expected. Having recently completed Rumspringa — a period during which young Amish adults may experience life outside their community — Rosanna was comfortable with technology, music and contemporary culture.
“At first, I was scared of saying the wrong thing,” Shaw admitted. “But then I realised she wasn’t as sheltered as I thought.”
One moment that stood out was when Rosanna casually played hymns on an electric keyboard while the baby slept — a blend of tradition and modernity that surprised Shaw.
Mutual learning and respect
Shaw now describes the experience as eye-opening, saying it challenged stereotypes she unknowingly held. Their bond, she says, reflects how trust and understanding can grow when people from very different backgrounds share everyday life.
The story has resonated widely online, with many viewers praising the quiet beauty of cross-cultural connection built on respect, curiosity and openness.