Best way to start the conversation about leaving?

[Anonymous]

Nanny here. I've been in your place. I would give 2-4 weeks max.

I left a position recently because I found a position that suited me better. I gave 3 weeks and they fired me the next day. I think because this is such a personal job, many feel it's a personal rejection, just liked some of us nannies do. Some parents are understanding and some are less understanding. It's hard to tell so the best advice is to protect yourself.

I think it depends on the morals of some. I had an opposite situation where my employers gave me 7 weeks notice when they accepted a job in another state. Some people would of left as soon as they got a new job. I loved this position and kept to my commitment to stay until the end. I was given a two week bonus, an expensive gift, and one hell of a reference letter. I am still close to this family after almost a year of my position ending.

It's wonderful that you want to give that time. You seem like a very considerate person. Unfortunately you do not know how they will react. Only give what you would be willing to lose in pay.

[Anonymous]

If you can afford to lose 8 weeks pay, then give 8 weeks. If you can only afford to lose two weeks pay, then only give 2 weeks.. It is not your place to find a new nanny for them. Every family should have a backup plan for childcare and they can use this if it takes them longer than two weeks to find your replacement. Get on with your life.

[Anonymous]

Gosh, our last nanny gave us 3 months notice that she was moving. She picked her last day of work. Never would have fired her before the day she picked. Sad to hear that's so common that many are afraid to give a longer notice.

[Anonymous]

It is sad. I haven't experienced that myself but the stories I hear make me nervy.