Whether you will have a live-in nanny or a live-out nanny, there are likely some basic rules and guidelines that you will want to put into place.

The first type of rules that you will outline for your nanny will typically be related specifically to her job responsibilities. These include rules for schedules, meals, activities, and supervision. They may include rules about child care, and they may include other duties that your nanny agrees to, such as doing laundry or dishes. While these are not specifically rules for the nanny herself, they are an important part of how you communicate your expectations to your nanny.

It is also important that you explain to your nanny what is expected from your children. If there are places they cannot go or television shows that they cannot watch, outline these things. You should also clearly communicate your discipline philosophy, and how you expect your nanny to deal with discipline issues.

Next, you will want to outline rules for your nanny’s behavior. Do you expect her appearance to meet certain criteria (such as wearing a uniform of some sort)? Is it appropriate for her to have visitors while she is working? If she is a live-in nanny, what are the rules for visitors when she is off duty? If your nanny will be using your car, what driving-related rules do you want in place? These can include general rules, such as obeying traffic laws, to specific procedures, such as not leaving the car with less than a half a tank of gas. This can also include rules about how the nanny conducts herself, such as avoiding foul language.

You also need to set certain limits on your nanny. If there are areas of the house, such as the parents’ bedroom, that are off limits, make sure that is outlined. If you have a live-in nanny, be specific about how she is to relate to the family when she is off duty, and be specific about how she is to keep her room, and what times of day and night are all right to come and go

If at all possible, you should include these rules in your nanny’s contract agreement.

Posted in Child Care Issues

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