Comments on: Agony

By: Melissa

Melissa — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 16:42:26 +0000

I haven’t had to hire a full-time nanny but I’m on my fourth regular babysitter, so I sympathize. A was quite fond of a couple of them but each time, she’s adjusted just fine to the new person. Frankly, the changes were harder on me!

The contract sounds like a great idea. The easiest way to cause bad feelings is to assume the nanny knows what you want her to do. Getting it all written down will save you a lot of trouble. (Not that I have done this…but I only have someone for a couple of hours a day.)

By: Melissa

Melissa — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 16:42:26 +0000

By: Melissa

Melissa — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 16:42:26 +0000

By: Frances

Frances — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 09:39:02 +0000

I’ve already told you this before – we switched to a youngster (well, 26) and I’m so, so happy we did. Whatever she may lack in initiative she more than makes up for in willingness to do whatever we ask.
I thought Smacky would be emotionally affected by the nanny change – (we changed when he just turned one) and he really wasn’t. I stayed home with them the first day to kind of ease the transition, and I realized the anxiety over it was all about me; he was fine – I was the wreck.
His first nanny (in her thirties) came by to say hello and visit last month. Smacky was happy to see her but after a hug and a hi he quickly went about his business. I think she was a little upset by it, but if you ask me he likes the younger nanny much more. She’s more active, more engaging, more fun.

Good luck, and keep us posted! Not boring! This is important stuff!

By: Suz

Suz — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 09:33:36 +0000

This isn’t boring at all. I think that more people need to talk about their nannies and child care issues because, well, it’s huge. The problems are real problems and the stakes are high. The only thing that I have to say is that R. is 23 and, usually, a consummate professional. She does do some things that 23-year-olds do, for instance, I’ve never seen her get excited about ANYTHING, but she’s amazing with the boys. She’s kind. She’s caring. And aside from the week where she burnt herself out and got all pissy (later apologized), she’s been a joy to work with. Never late. Ever. In Nine Months.

As someone else said, a contract is the way to go. If you email me privately, I’ll send you our contract (if I haven’t already).