Constantly feeling like a failure
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Anonymous
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I’ve been a nanny for over 15 years. My current job is making me constantly feel like a failure. The kids are older school age. They have constant demands that I try desperately to fulfill. But I can’t meet every expectation every time in a timely manner according to their standards. They want service and they want it now ! Usually they want things at the same time. At dinner one needs more water the other more ketchup. I didn’t cut food small enough or I cut it too small and they won’t eat it so I must cook again.
Today I left something in the car from school pickup and you would have thought I killed the dog with how upset the child was. Anyone else constantly feel like a horrible nanny? I try my hardest , I try to anticipate needs and wants but they switch things up on me. |
Anonymous
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What’s horrible is spoiling these kids rotten.
Please start interviewing for your next job. |
Anonymous
| OP is a doormat, not a nanny in this job. |
Anonymous
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The children are horrific brats. There is no solution and nothing for you to do but find a new job.
This is why I only start with a first born newborn. I’ve stayed in my positions for 10 and going on 8 years through multiple added children. I know I’ve pissed off parents who desperately wanted me but I wouldn’t even meet with them if they had an older child. Even an older three year old. |
Anonymous
| My God their poor parents. You've spoiled these kids rotten. |
Anonymous
I only do as I’m told. |
Anonymous
| I'd tell them to knock it off right now and I'm not going to do as they say--they're children and children don't run the show. (Yes, I'd tell the kids that.) I also tell kids that not every meal will be perfect, or their favorite. Eat it or go hungry. I've told kids that many times. I'd also start looking for a different job--any job, even a temporary job and I'd tell the parents exactly why. |
Anonymous
| PP Here, I would also tell them they and they alone are in charge of their backpack and if they leave it in the car it's not hem, stop crying about, be a big kid and GO GET IT. Sounds like they're exhausted from school and need a nap or downtime. Normal kids don't act like that. |
Anonymous
God, you’re an idiot. |
Anonymous
+1. These kids are too far gone, OP. Look for a new position with a newborn, the first child, and teach respect and manners in a loving way from birth. |
Anonymous
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I'm a parent. Here are things I've said:
You know where to get more water. You know where the ketchup is. You can borrow my car keys. You can cut your own food. You're not getting a whole new plate just because you don't like the size of the food on it. Next time, cut your own food into whatever sizes you want. If my kids spoke to our nanny the way your kids are speaking to you they would be sent to their bedrooms, they'd get a BIG talking-to, and have to write you an apology. Totally unacceptable. |
Anonymous
By children? Ah I see. You’re a troll. |
Anonymous
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1. “Sweetheart, do you remember where the ketchup is? Perfect. Please close the refrigerator door after you get it.”
2. “Love, can you reach the faucet? Wonderful! Please make sure you turn the faucet off after you refill your glass.” 3. “I understand that you’re frustrated that your backpack is still in the car. Would you like to go get it now or later?” 4. “Does anyone want help cutting their meat? Okay, I cut one piece, your turn to try now. I’m so glad you were watching!” 5. “I hear that dinner isn’t to your liking tonight. While I can understand that, this is dinner tonight. You are welcome to eat or not, it’s always your choice. Breakfast is xyz and will be available starting at abc time. Tomorrow’s dinner will be rst, do you think you’ll want to cut it yourself so that it’s the right size?” I frequently work with older kids too, OP. I’m hired to help kids develop a work ethic, independence, self-confidence and competence. Typically, they’ve been coddled til I get there, and someone has jumped at every demand, so I get it. Just stand firm and don’t give in to their petty tyrannies, and they’ll start to learn that they are capable. |
Anonymous
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I would discuss their behavior to their parents.
Most parents would be appalled to hear how bad their children treat their care provider!! 
This is what our future is shaking up to be now that spanking (not abusing/beating the child!) but used solely as a last resort in discipline is now not acceptable. Think about it. |
Anonymous
| You are a fool for accepting this behavior and I would find a new job. |