Change is a part of life. Families grow, children change schools, and parents start new jobs. Think back on your life and the changes that have taken place over the last five years. Maybe you moved, had a baby, or experienced other major life changes. Your nanny has probably experienced equally important life changes during this time, too!
Many nannies are in their twenties and early thirties, which is a very pivotal age. During these years, people often graduate from college, get engaged and married, and have children. My nanny experienced all of these events during her employment with our family! What makes these changes especially tricky is that they are often unexpected. Your nanny can’t predict the future, so she doesn’t necessarily foresee when she will meet her future husband, have to plan a move because of his job, or care for her parents if they become ill. We just experienced an unexpected situation like this when our nanny went on bed rest and delivered her baby early.
When change happens, it’s important to keep an open dialog about the implications of the events, both with your spouse and with your nanny. There are always multiple options to consider, while keeping the needs and desires of your family as a priority. Consider some of these options:
- Can you make adjustments to the schedule on a short-term basis? Mom’s Best Friend can help you with temporary back-up childcare if your nanny has a wedding and honeymoon planned or needs to travel for a family emergency.
- Are you at a place that you can scale back hours long-term to accommodate your nanny’s changing needs? Perhaps your children are starting school and your own needs are shifting simultaneously.
- If your nanny becomes pregnant and has a baby, can you encourage her to bring her child to work? If she would like to continue working and if you feel comfortable with this option, it can be a very beneficial arrangement for both parties.
Changes are bound to happen, but being flexible and open will help you ease the transition no matter what adjustments you decide on. If an arrangement cannot be made that meets both the needs of your family and the needs of the nanny, you may naturally choose to go your separate ways. With open communication, this transition can also be made on good, respectful terms and hopefully your nanny will continue to maintain a special relationship with your children for years to come.