September 2007: Page 18 Contents
Karen Ryan, President of Estate Staffing by Heartland, has compiled some of the best advice from professional nannies around the country. These 10 tips will help you create a positive working relationship with your nanny and a loving environment for your children for years to come. 1. The first week or two that a new nanny is in your house can make or break your relationship. Take the time to show the nanny around, especially if she is from out of town. "9. Have respect for your nanny's free time. Arrange for other baby sitting if you plan to be away from the house during your nanny's off hours. Accordingly, if you ask your nanny to accompany you on a family vacation, you should pay all her costs for the trip (transportation, lodging, food, etc.) on top of her regular salary. 10. Always remember that the safe and proper care of your children is a nanny's number-one responsibility. Do anything in your power to ensure that your children thrive from a creative and motivated nanny, not one burned out by too many strict rules or additional domestic chores. 18 PREMIER LIFESTYLES salary reflecting overtime to comply with 40-hour workweek Labor Law regulations). Although salary range varies throughout the country, a typical salary for younger nannies with strong childcare experience is generally $400-$500 per week. Experienced nannies can earn up to $1,000 per week, but their salary can fluctuate depending upon hours and number of children in their charge. Baby nurses are nannies with exceptional experience with newborns, and many have a medical background. Baby nurses are usually responsible for the care of a newborn around the clock, and need to be compensated closer to $1,000 per week for the 2-24 weeks they are in your home. An au pair is usually a young woman from another country, receiving room and board and a small stipend to work overseas. Au pairs usually get lower salaries for acting as a nanny while living in your home; however their travel expenses are almost always compensated by their host family. Whether employing a nanny from home or abroad, always be sure to check on federal tax regulations regarding live-in employees. Your nanny's compensation package could include health insurance, some state/federal holidays off with pay (or other days off in compensation), two weeks paid vacation per year, use of a car and cell phone, and personal and private living accommodations. 2. Make the arrival of your nanny a celebration--try not to put her to work the very first day, but rather welcome her warmly into your home. 3. Give your nanny her own personal space. If turning an extra room into your nanny's new bedroom, be sure to clean out all of your belongings before she moves in. Give her a clean, special space where she can keep personal belongings and photographs. 4. Successful placement of a nanny requires that the children understand the nanny has the parents' full support. 5. Providing your nanny with her own vehicle will allow her to take your children safely on fun outings and also be mobile on her days off. Make sure to have a copy of your nanny's driving record and insurance coverage on hand. 6. Getting your nanny a cell phone is a must, both for your nanny and for your peace of mind. 7. Encourage frequent meetings with your nanny to discuss the progress of your child. Because most nannies are young women, remember to criticize gently as feelings can be easily hurt. 8. Discuss up front what discipline and child rearing issues you and your nanny may have. You should come to an agreement on household rules for your children, including TV time, allowed foods, types of toys, etc. Baby nurses are nannies with exceptional experience with newborns, and many have a medical background. Baby nurses are usually responsible for the care of a newborn around the clock...
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