Anonymous wrote:Nanny here.
OP, you really, really need to watch for red flags with your next nanny. Wanting to bathe any child in a solution of alcohol, sugar and salt is an issue, but to do it to a three month old baby?! And if she has no comprehension of which activities are appropriate (ie. wanting to go to a music class for independent 4 year olds instead of a music together class for nanny or parent and 2 year olds), that is also an issue.
While you are interviewing, ask the nannies pointed questions. What do they like to do physically at certain ages? What are their favorite children's books, and why? Which games do they play with children, and what do the games teach them? Which songs do they sing, and why? Any decent nanny should be able to show you that she understands child development by demonstrating connectivity between age, interest level, patience and academic curiosity/ability.
OP here.
Thank you for the advice. I've learned my lesson for sure. Sadly, it's come at the expense of my LO having to transition and form a new bond with someone during the height of his separation anxiety. I appreciate everyone on here validating the fact that those things were red flags and not my mom guilt creating petty feelings. I wish everyone that bashes MBs understood how hard it is to be a working mom and an employer to the caregiver of your child... very complicated even with a perfect nanny, I'm sure.
Have interviewed some lovely candidates and we hope to have someone in place by next week. Not looking forward to the drama that is sure to ensue from letting her go but, but excited about the next chapter. The stress of all this has been eating me alive!