So, you’re considering becoming a nanny…
It’s a rewarding profession, allowing you to play an integral role in a child’s development and become a cherished member of a family. Once a nanny finds their groove, they often stay in the role for years.
Often, it also pays well with included benefits that can boost your overall well-being. Lastly, if frees you from the confines of a cubicle, allowing you to enjoy holidays and time outside that can add a little spark to your life.
However, like any profession, it comes with its challenges. But don’t fret! For every challenge, there’s a solution waiting for you.
What to know before considering your first nanny position.
- Long and Unpredictable Hours: Many nannies work beyond the typical 9-5 routine. Last-minute late-night shifts, weekend duties, family travel, or overnight stays might be part of your job description.
- Solution: Set clear boundaries. Before you start, discuss and agree on a working schedule with the family. Be open about your availability and ensure you get adequate rest and personal time. If you don’t advocate for yourself, your life could get swept away, so speak up!
- Emotional Attachment: Growing close to the children is natural and beautiful, but it can also lead to difficulties when it comes to discipline or if you ever have to leave the job.
- Solution: Always remember your professional boundaries. It’s okay to love and care for the children, but ensure you uphold the family’s values and rules consistently. Stay in touch with the children after you leave so they know you weren’t a fleeting part of their lives.
- Lack of Privacy: Living or spending a lot of time with a family can sometimes mean you’re always “on duty,” leading to feelings of intrusion into your personal life. You will also be a part of intimate family situations requiring tact and finesse.
- Solution: Establish clear “off-duty” times to recharge and have personal space. If you’re a live-in nanny, ensure that you’re provided with a private space just for you. Communicate with your employers on how they’d like you to participate or exclude yourself from delicate family situations. Establish boundaries for occurrences that make you uncomfortable.
- Managing Expectations: Sometimes, parents might have unrealistic expectations about what a nanny should do or how situations should be handled. This can include housekeeping or other duties that were not agreed upon in your Nanny Working Agreement.
- Solution: Communication is key. Regularly check in with the parents, share updates, and ask for feedback. This helps keep everyone on the same page.
- Staying Updated: Childcare methods and safety guidelines evolve. Being out of the loop can impact your efficiency and safety practices.
- Solution: Take advantage of resources. Attend workshops, read books, or join online nanny forums. Staying educated empowers you to provide the best care possible.
While being a nanny presents unique challenges, with the right mindset, tools, and resources, you can navigate them successfully. Embrace the opportunity to mold young minds and remember, as with any career, continuous learning and open communication will be your best allies.
*Image by Robin Higgins from Pixabay
