How to Ease Anxiety About Your Nanny Following House Rules: 5 Simple Tips for Peace of Mind
Bringing a nanny into your home for the first time can be daunting, especially if you’ve never had a ‘stranger"‘ care for your little ones before. One of the most common concerns parents have is whether the nanny will respect and follow their house rules.
While it’s totally normal to feel anxious, there are 5 practical steps you can take to ensure your peace of mind.
1. Set Clear Expectations from the Start
One of the best ways to help a new nanny or caregiver follow your house rules is by stating your expectations clearly from the beginning. A nanny can only follow the rules if they know exactly what those rules are.
Create a list of non-negotiable rules: Write out your most important house rules, such as screen time limits, meal restrictions, or safety guidelines.
Explain your reasoning: Explaining why a particular rule exists helps nannies understand its importance, which makes them more likely to follow it.
Cover everything from discipline to daily routines: Clarify how you expect certain situations to be handled, like discipline methods or bedtime routines.
Remember, unless you clearly share your preferences and expectations, the nanny will default to their own preferences and usual way of handling things.
2. Use Open Communication
A nanny-family relationship thrives on communication. This doesn't just mean at the start—it should be ongoing. Here are 3 practical ways to foster open communication with the nanny:
Regular check-ins: Schedule short, informal check-ins to discuss how the kids are doing. Ask if the nanny has any questions or suggestions regarding the house rules.
Encourage feedback: Let the nanny feel comfortable asking for clarification if something isn’t clear. Building a collaborative environment makes rules easier to follow.
Daily updates: Ask for a brief summary of the day in person or through a nanny communication journal. This keeps you informed and reassured about how your guidelines are being followed.
3. Trust and Flexibility
While it’s important to set boundaries, remember that the nanny is a professional with their own experience and skills.
Trust their expertise: Once you’ve set the rules, trust that the nanny will follow them. If your child enjoys their time with the nanny and routines are going smoothly, small deviations from rules may not be cause for concern.
Be open to adjustments: Sometimes, nannies might have suggestions for improving routines or rules that work better for your child. Be open to these suggestions—they come from a place of care and experience.
4. Have a Trial Period
A trial period is a great way to test the waters and ensure everyone is on the same page. This allows both you and the nanny to feel more comfortable with the arrangement.
During the trial period:
Discuss concerns early on: If something doesn’t seem to be working during the trial, address it right away to avoid misunderstandings later.
Adjust rules if needed: Sometimes, flexibility in minor areas can foster a better relationship between the nanny and the family.
5. Technology Can Help
For some families, using technology can provide an extra layer of reassurance when you’re feeling nervous.
Nanny cams: While it’s important to inform the nanny about any monitoring systems, using a camera in common areas can help provide peace of mind, especially during the first few shifts.
Family apps: Apps that track meals, naps, or activities can keep you in the loop and remind your nanny to follow the routine you’ve set.
Conclusion: A Trust-Based Partnership
Parental anxiety over house rules is common, but your relationship with your nanny can flourish with clear communication, trust, and flexibility.
Remember, nannies are professionals who are there to support you and your child, and they take their role seriously.
If you live in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, or Ottawa and are looking for an occasional nanny to cover school professional development days, daycare closures or date nights, Nannies on Call is here to help.
Learn more about how to book one of our trusted, occasional nannies today!