Questions from a nanny newbie

[Anonymous]

Hi all! I have a part-time sitter taking care of my youngest. Here are my questions:

Gifts: I gave her something small for Mother's Day. Aside from an EOY/Christmas bonus, what other gifts should I be considering, cash or otherwise? She's really great, so I want to keep her around.

Leave: We don't have any official time off built in since she's part time, but just kind of an understanding that she's covered when we go on vacation and she can have some sort of vacation too. Basically, let us know what you need and we can make it work. Do I need to clarify or does that sound sufficient?

Baby's birthday: Do nannies get invited to charge's birthday celebrations? She's such an important part of our family but I also think she might feel awkward around any family member that isn't me or the kids.

Anything else to consider?

[Anonymous]

Give her a number for paid time off days, and make the guaranteed hours official by putting it in writing (that's where you pay her even if you don't need her). You're making it hard for her to ask for vacation days -- she's not going to want to upset you by asking for too much. That's your new perk right there.

[Anonymous]

Create a written contract spelling out what guaranteed hours there are and what happens when you or she go on vacation. I am amazed by people who don't put things in writing and assume they all fell off a turnip truck.

I give a tip when my nanny goes above and beyond.

We let the nanny know when birthday parties are and say "We'd love for you to come as a guest, but understand completely if you have plans or need a break." Our nanny has attended some and skipped some.

[Anonymous]

Yes, always invite your child's caregiver to the child's birthday party. If she as good as you say she is, your child would want her there.

Spell out as much as possible in your contract or memo of understanding.

Birthday gift (something more personal) and end of the year bonuses (holiday) are pretty standard.

[Anonymous]

I would give a gift just for no reason that shows you have been listening like "I remember you said you loved daisies so I picked these up for you."

Also yes she should be invited to the party but like pp said with the "we understand it's your time off so please don't feel like you need a break."

You sound like a nice mom.