Employing a nanny for the first time

Having your first Nanny will be a strange experience. You may feel guilty for leaving your child or even jealous of someone else looking after them but if you handle it right it can also be a very happy situation.

Communication

With good communication all your worries about letting a stranger look after your child should disappear.

It's a good idea to have a certain time each week or fortnight where you and your nanny can talk (if possible without older children around who can understand what you are discussing). Being in a relaxed atmosphere and not being rushed always helps. Sit down, have a cup of tea and talk, maybe start off with the things the child has been doing. Good nannies love telling you about funny things your child has said and done, the progress they have made and if anything seems to be worrying them (e.g. If they have begun not wanting to go to school or if their eating or sleeping habits have changed). This will also give you the opportunity to catch up on the things you have missed whilst being at work.

Always bring up anything that's bothering you, e.g. if plates are always left in the sink when they go off duty, or if you feel that they should be taking your child out more often. Try to say your comment in a positive way and avoid heavy criticism. Always thank your nanny for doing the little things, like taking out the bins, putting the bottles in the bottle bank, or tidying the child's bedroom after a very messy weekend, as it makes them feel appreciated and they are more likely to keep on doing a good job. If your nanny has helped with a child's party or worked extra hard it is always nice to give them a small bonus just to say thank you.

Information to leave your nanny

It is a good idea to leave your nanny a list of emergency phone numbers and address's, even if you're in the house most of the day. This list should include:

The child's doctor and dentist.
The child's school their teacher's name and class.
Their activity classes.
The local hospital.
The local police station.
Your direct line work number.
Local friends and family.
The vets number if you have any animals

It is also a good idea to write down:

School times.
Activity times.
If the children have any allergies, etc.
The child's favourite foods and what they won't or you don't want them to eat.

The Nanny's first day

It is best if you can stay with your nanny for the first day or part of the day, this way the child can become used to them whilst you are around. It is a good idea if you can:

Introduce the nanny to the child's teacher, your local friends and neighbours, etc.
Show them how to work the washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, oven, microwave, etc.
Show them where the first aid box is.
Show them where the gas, water and electric cut-offs are for emergencies and also when the meter reader's call.
Discuss the child's routine, bed times, feeding, activities, bathing, etc.
Go through the duties you wish them to do (these should not be different from what you discussed at the interview) and when you want them to baby-sit, etc
House rules, e.g., locking doors and setting alarms when they go out, having people around, etc.

The Do's and Don'ts

Do....

Leave your nanny a kitty so they can pay for playgroups, activities and extra food, etc. and top this up frequently.
Discuss problems straight away. Don't let it carry on for a long period as it will be harder for them to change.
Set suitable standards and ensure that these are met.
Let them know if any repair people are expected, what they are going to do and what time they are coming.
Remember that your nanny has her own life, don't expect them to baby-sit at a few hours notice.
Pay them on time and review their salary on a regular basis.
Appreciate your nanny, remember a good nanny is hard to find.

Don't....

Ring every few hours to check how every thing is going, as they will feel that you don't trust them.
Assume they will know what you want doing and how to do it.
Be late home, or if you are going to be, ring and let them know.
Worry that your child will get more attached to your nanny than to you. Children always know who their parents are and if your child likes being with the nanny be reassured that they are happy with the situation.