Keeping Your Nanny Happy

Why is it that some families keep a nanny for years while other families go through multiple nannies without finding one that fits well with their household? There could be a number of reasons, but one that often comes up is that the family did not do everything it could to keep the nanny satisfied and connected in her job. This doesn't have to be a difficult task - there are many things that a family can do to keep a nanny happy and ensure that she works for them for a long time.

 

Establish Realistic Expectations for Nannies - Contracts

Nannies who are confused about their duties, or who feel that they are being asked to do more than they were originally told, are not likely to want to stay in their situation. You want to set realistic expectations from the very start of the relationship in order to avoid this pitfall. The easiest way to do this is to create a nanny contract that both the family and the nanny herself will sign. That way, if there is ever any concern about something down the line, the nanny contract can be referred to for clarification. If a nanny is going to do housekeeping along with watching the children, spell out just what housekeeping she is responsible for - and then don't add new duties until you have discussed it with her and made an addendum to the nanny contract.

 

In addition, if the family does need help with something out of the ordinary - an extra hour of babysitting one night, for example - nannies always should be asked about it as early as possible. That way, your nanny has the time to see if the request is feasible with her schedule. Do not assume that just because you have hired a nanny, that she will be available at all hours and for everything you need. She will expect you to stick to the schedule you established at the outset and will want advance notice if something has changed. An occasional night of both parents working late by a few hours may not affect your relationship with your nanny, but if this were to become a regular occurrence you might find you have an unhappy nanny on your hands.

 

Reward the Nanny Financially - and Emotionally

 Most importantly, you can reward your nanny by making sure she knows what a valued member of your family she is and what a good job she is doing. A nanny's job is love and nurture your child. When he/she spends their entire job pouring out love and affection to your family, it is important that she knows she is cared for as part of your family as well. Nannies who only hear criticism become unhappy in the exact same way that anyone else with a critical boss would become unhappy and might seek another job.

 

Nannies are trying to make a living just like everyone else. Keep your nanny happy and willing to stay with your family for the long term by setting up a regular schedule of yearly raises - around 5 to 10 percent, depending on the standards set in your area (ask other families what they offer if you are not sure). Nannies also appreciate financial bonuses during the December holiday season.

 

Of course, there are other ways aside from money to reward nannies and keep them happy. You can give your nanny paid time off to go to the doctor or to run other important errands that she needs for herself. You can increase her vacation time each year. You can also give her more privileges, such as use of the family car while the children are at school.

 

Rein in Jealousy

Sometimes nannies are unwittingly faced with a jealous mother. The child may appear to prefer his or her nanny on the surface, which could make the mother feel uncomfortable. Bear in mind two things when this happens: this means that the nanny is doing a good job with the child and they have developed a close bond, and it is not the nanny's fault that this is happening. You can take time to talk to the nanny about your feelings and concerns, but do not lash out at her. It is far better to have a nanny that makes your children happy than it is to find a nanny who makes your children miserable until you walk in the door.

 

Treat Your Nanny with Respect

Above all nannies need to be treated with respect. Your nanny should feel as if she is a valued member of your household at all times. If you have a problem, you should discuss it with her directly. If you think he/she has done something well or gone out of their way to take care of something that was not explicitly part of the job, you should recognize that and let her know you appreciate their hard work.

 

It's a hard process to go through nannies and to find someone who will be a great fit in your home. Once you have found the right person, you will want to make sure she will stick around. By following these guidelines, you are more likely to have a nanny who is happy and who wants to stay with you and your children for years to come

 

US Labor Laws

Finally, it is inappropriate to verbally, mentally or physically abuse your nanny in any way. Please review the US Department of Labor Workplace Harassment Laws. Nannies are subject to workplace laws as is any employee working in the United States.  If you have any issues with the nanny, please use a professional and respectful tone in dealing with any issues that may arise. You can contact Southeast Iowa Nanny Agency if you need assistance in resolving conflicts in a fair and professional manner.  Southeast Iowa Nanny Agency is committed to protecting your children as well as the rights of the nannies that care for them.