Nanny - Live-In vs. Live-Out
Have you decided that you want a nanny? Would a live-in nanny or live-out nanny better suit your needs? Perhaps if you understood just what having a live in nanny entailed, the answer would be clear.
A full-time live in nanny is a wonderful option for many families. For parents with irregular work hours or very demanding work schedules that seldom afford them a nine to five work day, it is an ideal solution. However, having a live in nanny requires more on your part than simply having a private bedroom and bathroom available in your home.
Nannies themselves have made the following suggestions on how to make your home "nanny friendly":
- Help your nanny get acclimated. During the first week, make an effort to show your nanny around your town, introduce her to other nannies in your area. Get her involved in the local nanny network. Provide her with a local map and brochures, if available, of things to do in the area. If possible, use her first day as a welcome and orientation day.
- Have her room ready for her. Her room should not be full of your things. Clean out the closet and clear off the dresser. If you have them, put a TV and stereo in her room. And if you can swing it, put a private phone line in her room.
- In the beginning, make an effort to give the nanny as much time alone with the children as possible. Allow her to establish a rapport. And most importantly, impress on your children the nanny's authority.
- Provide your nanny with access to a car. They should not be confined to the house all day, every day. It is a good idea to put mileage restrictions on her personal use and have an agreement as to when she should pitch in for gas. It is also important that she have the proper auto insurance.
- Provide your nanny with the use of a phone. Perhaps install a private phone in her room and have her pay the long distance calls. You may also consider a cell phone. With the prices going down and unlimited long distance offers, it may be the more economical route.
- Make room in your pantry and refrigerator for the nanny's personal food items. If you can, place a small refrigerator in her room.
- Encourage your nanny to communicate freely with you. You want to know what she thinks of her working conditions and if things are not quiet rite with the children. Regular meetings, with no interruptions, are strongly advisable.
- Nannies are usually salaried. So be careful not to be tempted to heap on the hours without providing compensation for them. A nanny thrives when she feels a salary raise is possible. But keep in mind that children benefit from a nanny that is not burnt out and over worked.
- Any other "perks" you can offer make the nanny feel appreciated and part of the family and may ensure a more lasting relationship. For instance a membership to a local heath club or YMCA, an extra trip home during the year, tickets to a show or movie or even a gift certificate to a local restaurant are always greatly appreciated.
- Don't expect a live in nanny to be a live in housekeeper or maid. They are two very different domestic jobs. Some nannies may agree to certain housekeeping responsibilities up front, but they should always be compensated for this extra work.
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