Communication is key to any strong relationship, and the working relationship between you and your nanny is no different.
Keeping the lines of communication open between you and your child carer is important to the cohesiveness of the relationship. Not addressing issues as and when they arise can be a recipe for disaster.
Despite this, there are naturally some things your nanny may choose to keep from you rather than rock the boat. Here are 10 things your nanny may keep from you:
1. I Don’t Get Paid Enough
Your nanny probably doesn’t want you to know that nannies compare notes, but they do. If she feels underpaid, she might start looking. Calculate the going rate for nannies in your area.
2. Your Child Is a Spoilt Brat
Parents — especially first-timers — often have stars in their eyes when it comes to their kids. Your child isn’t bossy, she’s just self-assured. But your nanny knows the real deal — and deals with the bad behavior day-in and day-out. If you don’t recognize the problem, her hands can be tied.
3. I Hate Putting Away Your Underwear
Your nanny may lend a hand with some cleaning, but folding grownups’ undies might fall into the icky category for her. She should be focusing on your kids, not your laundry.
4. I Work for Your Neighbour
When your nanny takes a different job, feelings get hurt. If she starts working for someone else part-time, she might be unhappy with you or she might just need a little extra cash. Every couple of months check in with her to gauge her job satisfaction and make needed changes — including yearly pay rate increases.
5. Your Friend Offered Me A Job
This is almost as bad as a friend hitting on your spouse! A friend who offers your nanny a job throws both of you into a tough spot. Your nanny probably doesn’t want to drive a wedge between you and your friend.
6. It Angers Me When You’re Late
Do you often come home late from work, leaving your nanny with your child for an extra half hour or more? Did you ask her if it’s okay or even apologize? She might have plans, but doesn’t want to complain. Ask her if it’s a problem before you assume she can stay. And make sure you pay her for the extra hours — with a little extra for being so accommodating.
7. Your Kid Has Development Issues
Your nanny may notice something suspect that you don’t. It’s a sensitive subject, but don’t ignore her concerns.
8. I Would Like to be A Taxpayer
She knows it’ll cause extra work for you — that’s why she hesitates to bring it up. But your nanny also realizes being paid under the table is illegal and damaging to both of you in the long run.
9. I Am a More Experienced Mum-Figure Than You
You’re the parent, but your nanny is a pro at childcare and has seen a lot. Every now and then ask her advice as a professional, not as a mom who always knows best.
So how can you encourage your nanny to open up about things she’s feeling or dealing with? Establishing a mode of communication between nanny and family is extremely helpful. Some families keep a journal that the nanny updates each day with the children’s schedule and activities. Designate a separate space for concerns and review them routinely.
10. I Am In Desperate Need of a Holiday
Yes, your nanny loves caring for your child, but the crying and tantrums that come with it gets old — very quickly. Your nanny needs a vacation, just like you do.
Your Next Steps: