How can nannying be better right now?

[Anonymous]

We have a wonderful nanny and one preschooler, one child in elementary with special needs.

I’m looking off feedback on how to keep our nanny’s job rewarding and fun. I know it is hard right now.

We both work from home. I have started skipping lunch so I do not come out during the day except sometimes to grab a glass of water. I try to not look on too much,or get involved to give nanny her space. Dh sometimes comes downstairs for lunch But stays away too. He is good with the kids, type B. Our house is large enough that we have two studies separate from other spaces, which include kids bedrooms and a large playroom and outside with swing set and sprinkler.

I try to be supportive and tell nanny things we have done with older thst are working and send opportunities for virtual programs that may be of interest ( not obligatory of course just a reference). Have asked nanny’s opinion and said we will pay for things that are needed for supplies ( she has a family credit card). She has a car and know s she can take kids to parks etc as long as there is social distancing.

Looking for things I might have missed / suggestions of how to keep us all sane while we are in the house for the next 7 months plus and keeping her feeling comfortable. Thank you!

[Anonymous]

A lot of nannies are getting a COVID/homeschool bonus right now. If that’s not doable then maybe look into some extra PTO for her. Days are REALLY long right now. It’s super hot outside and there’s nowhere safe to go with AC, and kids are sick and tired of being home and getting on each others’ nerves...a break is a big help! It could be a full day that you plan in advance, or you could just text her at lunch and tell her “I’m taking over at 2 so you can head home early.” Either way, make sure to include a note or card telling her that you are grateful for how hard she works.

[Anonymous]

Take a break, eat lunch with your kids and give her a break. You hiding isn't helpful.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Take a break, eat lunch with your kids and give her a break. You hiding isn't helpful.

I disagree somewhat. If you have the ability to consistently come take over linch with the kids at the same time each day, then offer that to your nanny. But if you would sometimes be 11:30 and sometimes 1:00, that would add more stress to her day trying to make sure the handoff goes smoothly.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:We have a wonderful nanny and one preschooler, one child in elementary with special needs.

I’m looking off feedback on how to keep our nanny’s job rewarding and fun. I know it is hard right now.

We both work from home. I have started skipping lunch so I do not come out during the day except sometimes to grab a glass of water. I try to not look on too much,or get involved to give nanny her space. Dh sometimes comes downstairs for lunch But stays away too. He is good with the kids, type B. Our house is large enough that we have two studies separate from other spaces, which include kids bedrooms and a large playroom and outside with swing set and sprinkler.

I try to be supportive and tell nanny things we have done with older thst are working and send opportunities for virtual programs that may be of interest ( not obligatory of course just a reference). Have asked nanny’s opinion and said we will pay for things that are needed for supplies ( she has a family credit card). She has a car and know s she can take kids to parks etc as long as there is social distancing.

Looking for things I might have missed / suggestions of how to keep us all sane while we are in the house for the next 7 months plus and keeping her feeling comfortable. Thank you!

Are the sn physical, cognitive, emotional, cognitive, behavioral and/or related to learning? As a nanny who specializes in sn and education, there is a significant difference in my recommendations for both nanny and family based on what the situation is.

You and dh need to stop skipping lunch. Depending on the sn and whether you have a consistent schedule, coming out for lunch everyday may be helpful or detrimental. If it’s not an option, get yourselves a cooler for in your office and take it with you in the morning with any lunch and snacks. It will lead to better healthy eating habits, and it won’t be the case of growing resentment.

[Anonymous]

You shouldn't have to skip lunch it isn't healthy.
The fact that you are thinking about this is a good sign.
How much do you and your nanny communicate together? For instance, when the whole virus thing started at any time did you all have a sit down and figure out how you would all handle it?