When/how to switch?

[Anonymous]

Hoping to get some good advice on the best way to handle this situation. We hired a nanny in June for DD and another child in a share. She seems to love the kids and they like her which was the most important thing for us. However, we're expecting a baby in the late spring and for various reasons don't think this nanny will be a good long term fit for our family once we have an infant. She doesn't do housework, even folding DD's laundry or making meals, she's fairly forgetful and there have been some communication issues. So far we've just been living with it because the kids seem to like her and that's what matters. With an infant though, I know we'll need more actual help in terms of some of the chores (not heavy housework, just tasks related to the baby) and it will be more important to us that she can understand and follow instructions with the baby than with our 3 year-old. I know she's not open to any housework because she was very clear about that as were her references, and the communication issues I think are just a style thing so I'm not sure we can do much on that front either. I'm pretty sold on transitioning but would like to know what would be the best way to do it? The other family doesn't want to keep her on either so it's not an option for her to go with them.

[Anonymous]

Just end it. Find a new nanny who fits your criteria and tell the old nanny when her last day is. feel free to day it's because you need help with other tasks. Baby laundry, Swyping, occasionally vacuuming are pretty normal tasks.

[Anonymous]

OP here, thanks. I guess part of my question was should I wait until the spring since everything is fine for now or should I start looking and let her go in Jan/Feb? I thought she'd probably have better luck finding a new job in the spring rather than winter? I know there's no good way to let someone go, but I'm trying to get a sense of what would be best given the circumstances.

[Anonymous]

I think you should start looking you might find someone awesome now or it could take time.

Im pretty upfront on what I will do to. I think kids laundry and cleaning up after them is standard though. I probably do more than I will admit to because I don't like parents to get to comfortable.

[Anonymous]

It comes down to the question of when do you want to take on the cost of a nanny solo? If you want to save money, wait as long as possible - many a month before your due date? It takes about 1-3 weeks to find a new nanny, so just start your search then.

Don't lose sleep over ending the relationship. Most nanny shares end with the birth of a sibling. NannyAnyone get a higher rate with a nanny share, but can potentially face higher turnover. It's just the market.