Would you pay a family nanny to care for your young children?
A family nanny is arguably the most popular solution for many parents. Relatives are believed to be more attentive and caring for children, so they are considered first rather than other available short-term options.
Despite the many babysitting jobs advertised all over the place, a family nanny with a flexible schedule would probably be the first to be considered. Nanny jobs are various and well managed by placement offices. However, parents still opt for family nannies as most of them do not charge.
Familiarity and trust of a family nanny
A family nanny was among the options considered under temporary nanny options a parent might have. A relative who really loves her baby and wouldn’t mind giving her a hand at any time, gives her the confidence to entrust her baby to him. Of course, this works well if you’re both on good terms, as a healthy relationship between the two of you will extend to the baby. However, if you urgently need help and her relative reluctantly agrees to your request, she probably won’t worry about your baby while you’re gone. You will often find yourself checking on her and the baby, this can only worry you more.
A mature family nanny (especially one who is already a mother) will almost always accept your values about child rearing. However, she should be careful and modest in the advice she gives about what she should (not) do. If she’s close enough, find out if she has any helpful ideas and suggestions to help your baby’s well-being—something a hired or paid babysitter wouldn’t do to save her job!
Reward a Family Babysitter
This must be decided from the beginning. And by doing so, you’re basically creating an employer-employee relationship. Remember, baby itch is long term, as long as the baby is growing and needs constant attention. A relative who voluntarily agrees to care for a child is obviously exchanging his personal freedom for the well-being of his baby. This sacrifice is based on mutual respect and the healthy relationship or friendship they may have. A nice gesture on her part would be to acknowledge her generosity in cash or otherwise.
One last thing, never underestimate the need for a written agreement! Yes, boldly put it in writing! If your family nanny will be caring for her baby for an extended period of time, talk about it, come to a mutual agreement, and don’t feel uncomfortable about having a family member sign a contract! If you’re paying her, then she guarantees a contract.
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