New Nanny- First time having a nanny-

[Anonymous]

We are hiring a new nanny for the first time. Are there things we should discuss with them or make sure about before they start?

We interviewed a lot of people and have settled on one specific nanny who has great references and seems to genuinely be excited to join our family. We have 2 littles (both under 4). We discussed our goals/parameters regarding food, screen time, naps, hours, going out, playdates, engagement options, etc. But wanted advice on what we should be thinking about/doing since this is our first time with a nanny. Should we be setting up a review with her after x/ days/ time? Should we plan on being home or nearby the first few days to get things situated?

[Anonymous]

Yes and yes. To review and easing into the transition.

Also outline her responsibilities regarding child chores (kids laundry, clean up, food prep). Talk about her phone use - when and where is appropriate. Discuss promptness for both you and nanny. Food that’s available for nanny to eat.

[Anonymous]

You should plan to NOT be home. That makes it harder for kids to transition to her - even an 18 MO knows when you are home and will be crying outside your office door.

Please leave the house.

[Anonymous]

Treat her like an employee so far as stepping up to be clear about the expectations you have and have regular reviews. If you then treat her respectfully you’ll both be happier.

[Anonymous]

If the nanny is young, set expectations early about phone use.

[Anonymous]

Yes, everything should be outlined in your contract

[Anonymous]

One thing is true of all employees:

Always, always start out more strict than you intend to be. So, if you’re pretty lax about start times and leaving early, start out very strict. Set expectations about cleaning early on. It’s always to be more lenient with time than to start out lax and set stronger boundaries later.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:One thing is true of all employees:

Always, always start out more strict than you intend to be. So, if you’re pretty lax about start times and leaving early, start out very strict. Set expectations about cleaning early on. It’s always to be more lenient with time than to start out lax and set stronger boundaries later.

I could not disagree more regarding nannies or any employee. “Begin as you mean to continue”. Expectations on both sides should always be consistent and respectful.

And what nanny cleans?

[Anonymous]

Include covid clauses in your contract. Expectations (both sides) regarding risk and outline your covid Policy re quarantine, testing, covid pay. Who knows how long this damn virus is going to be with us.

[Anonymous]

Understand start and end times. Start time doesn’t mean when nanny walks in the door - it means the time nanny takes over the care of the children. End time doesn’t mean when the employer walks in the door. End time means the employer is ready to completely take over with the kids and nanny is out the door.

We have enormous respect for our nanny’s time and life away from us. She is walking out the door at her end time having given me a calm transition with the kids. And She has always gotten here ten minutes early (unpaid) to use the bathroom, put away her stuff, greet the children, and is transitioning the kids to her care.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:We are hiring a new nanny for the first time. Are there things we should discuss with them or make sure about before they start?

We interviewed a lot of people and have settled on one specific nanny who has great references and seems to genuinely be excited to join our family. We have 2 littles (both under 4). We discussed our goals/parameters regarding food, screen time, naps, hours, going out, playdates, engagement options, etc. But wanted advice on what we should be thinking about/doing since this is our first time with a nanny. Should we be setting up a review with her after x/ days/ time? Should we plan on being home or nearby the first few days to get things situated?

Contract
Shadow one day

Have your kids had any other caregivers? This is not going to be an easy transition, so step back and let her do her thing. Don’t rush in when the kids are crying.

[Anonymous]

I agree that a paid trial day should take place.

Just so if Nanny has any initial questions or concerns - these can be addressed immediately.
Also talk about hourly rate, whether you will be paying her weekly or bi.

Be specific regarding any household duties.
Picking up the toys & books is a given, along with washing any dishes/bottles used during her shift.

But also ask if she would be willing to do laundry or load/unload the dishwasher.

Good luck !