A live in nanny is sometimes more appropriate in some household than in others. Living arrangements are not always agreeable to both parties and more often than not, one party or the other is always aggrieved. Sometimes the mutual happiness of both parties lies in the way you treat your nanny. Here are things to consider when you are about to welcome a live in nanny into your home.
Accommodations
Remember that your nanny will be living in your own home. You should therefore consider that your nanny should have a room of her own. You should also remember that you will have to feed her and possibly offer some other special perks and benefits. Make sure that your budget is able to support another person.
Some households believe that nannies need not have the same accommodation that the rest of the family is enjoying. This is especially if your nanny comes from a third world country where she is likely used to lower grade accommodations. It is important to remember though that nannies are still human beings. Even if they come from third world countries there is no reason why they should be treated less well than nannies from your own country. Nannies may feel strongly about being given a separate set of utensils or eating leftovers on a separate table.
Private Time
The term live in nanny can be quite deceptive. A live in nanny is not a 24/7 nanny. Although live in nannies are much able to respond to short notice emergencies, they too have private lives to lead. Be considerate. Allow your nanny reasonable time off from watching your kids. Make it a point too to respect her privacy during her spare time. As long as you do not suspect anything dangerous, you should not meddle or inquire about your nannys whereabouts.
Another thing you have to consider is trying to make her fit in your area. For starters, your nanny may appreciate it if you took the time to help her discover your area. Tell her where the shopping areas are and where she can take great pictures to send home to her family. Give her tips on how to enjoy her spare time. Encouraging your nannys enjoyment can help you keep her longer.
Work Specifications
Nannies are nannies. They are not personal messengers, laundry women or cooks. Unless otherwise specified in the contract, do not let your nanny work on other household chores. You may however agree with her to let her do some cooking and cleaning for the kids. Be sure however to clearly specify what kinds of specific tasks you would like your nanny to perform. You should also never overwork your nanny. Just because you are paying her, it doesn't mean that she has to be on her feet 12 hours a day.
Special Arrangements
Your nanny is just like any other regular person. She can get lonely too especially if she is far from home. Do make arrangements for her that will allow her to invite some company at certain times of the week or month. If she does not have any friends then allow her some limited time on the phone to call home. You should also be flexible enough to give your permission if there are special events she may want to attend with other nannies.
The search for a good live in nanny can take weeks or even months. It is even tougher though to keep a good one. Make sure you treat a good nanny well to increase your chances of keeping her.
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