Working from home can be extremely beneficial to maintaining a well-balanced family and work life. This is an extremely common situation, with 50% of the workforce in some sort of telecommuting role (according to Global Workplace Analytics). However, along with the advantages come some challenges when you have a nanny caring for your children in your home.
- Letting Go: Even when your children are not in sight, they will be aware of your presence. In order for your nanny to maintain her leadership role, we encourage you to trust your nanny, and don’t come running in if your child is crying. Empower your nanny to fully embrace her role. If you are always keeping tabs, it won’t allow your nanny and children to get into a routine. If your nanny is constantly doing things wrong, or you don’t trust her judgment, it is time to have a bigger conversation.
- Blurred Personal/Professional Lines: It is extremely easy to cross boundaries and become close with your nanny, however, it is important to set a tone of mutual respect and professionalism. This way, you are able to have important, and sometimes difficult, conversations without the additional complications of a friendship.
- Jealousy: You want your nanny to be great at her job, but it can be tempting to feel they need when they are too good at it. Instead of comparing, or feeling down about your lack of crafting, baking or musical skills, know that no nanny will ever replace the love they have with their parents. Instead, appreciate the fact that your children have multiple positive role models in their life, and they bring something new to the table that will benefit and grow your children.
Other options to proactively do for the most positive outcome:
- Time Away from Home: Allow, and even suggest, that your nanny take the little ones out of the house on field trips. Encouraging your nanny to do so will allow you to work uninterrupted, and give them an enriching, shared experience.
- Respecting the Space: When you are working at home, you are working for your employer. It could be tempting for your nanny to interrupt with questions that would normally be saved until the end of the day. Conversely, your nanny is working as your caregiver, and if you pop in when he/she is in the middle of games, projects, etc. with your children, it can be disruptive to their schedule. Establish a procedure for interruptions that works for both of you. Consider setting up predetermined times to visit with your kids such as snack and/or lunch time.
If you have additional questions, or would like information about hiring a nanny, please contact us!