The Three Most Common Mistakes Made by Families in a Nanny Search

The Three Most Common Mistakes Made By Families in a Nanny Search:

1. Failure to Clearly Define Your Nanny's Duties and Responsilities at the onset. Don't be vague; it is essential that you inform your nanny what a typical & atypical day will be like. Draw up a contract that clearly defines the work schedule, days & hours off, salary, benefits, sick days, holidays, working vacations and other details you have both agreed to, and you will minimize misunderstandings later on. If needs change, it is important to sit down and renegotiate your new hours or duties needed with your nanny.
2. Different Philosophies of Child Rearing and Discipline. Some families chose a nanny because of their effective discipline approach, but when they come home, they fail to follow through on that agreed upon approach. Support your nanny when they apply the approach you have told them to use. For example, when you come home ask your child, "Did (your nanny) say you could do that?/ have that?/ eat that?" All children try to "get away with murder" at transition time. ~Let your children know there is only one discipline approach in your home.
3. Poor Communication Skills. Both families and nannies are often quilty of letting things "fester under their skin" and breed resentment. In your nanny's first month, clearly define her role and your expectations. Tell your nanny your child's idiosyncrasies and what approach works best with them. -Your old nanny knew what you wanted before you knew what you wanted; but that took months and years of observation. ~ It is essential that both parents sit down for 20-30 minute nanny/parent meeting once a month to discuss issues going on with the children, and how you will all work in concert in addressing those issues. The reality is ALL PARTIES WILL ANNOY EACH OTHER AT TIMES in a home. Try to let the trivial things roll off your back.

Katherine Leary Robinson

President

Beacon Hill Nannies, Inc.