Nanny Code of Conduct 101

I know this post may come off as more of a rant... However, there are a few things I would like to stress for all you nannies and even babysitters out there...

1. Do not sit on your cell phone all day (I promise Facebook will still be there when your shift ends)
2. Wear appropriate clothing (cover your navel, chest & behind!)
3. Be on time
4. Speak nicely to the children
5. When talking to other Nannies and adults (you never know who your engaging with) speak nicely OF THE CHILD(REN)!
6. Pay attention to the children

I cannot stress enough all of the points listed above. That is not even all of them. I am a professional nanny who is proud of the career I have. I am college educated and chose to take the path I have and expand my business. It is just too often that I go to the park, or a gym class or even to the library with the little guy I watch and see how terrible other caregivers are. 

A lot of nannies out there go to the park and literally park their butt on the bench while the kids try to get their attention. HELLO NANNIES.... WE ALL SEE YOU! I definitely take pride in what I do for a living and how I conduct myself. I have had parents come up to me and compliment me, and I quote on, "being a normal nanny." Parents have told me that I am one of the few nannies they have seen who doesn't sit on her cell phone and actually pays attention to the child. 

Recently, I had even met a nanny who every single time I see her complains or talks badly of the child. I mean, really?!?!? People like that belong in another line of work. Clearly, this is not the field for you. But, better yet, I wonder what the employers are like that had actually hired this person. 

Nannies and caregivers, please speak nicely to the children and treat them with respect. These children are not your own to speak ill too. When and if you have your own children then feel free to practice your own style of parenting. Until then, you need to follow the rules and wishes of your employers even if you do not agree with them. Everyone is different and are allowed to their own set of beliefs. It is not up to you. Unless of course it is abusive or illegal. Then, report it. 

When talking to other adults... NEVER belittle the child or your employers!! YOU NEVER KNOW WITH WHOM YOUR SPEAKING TO!!! I have seen this way too often. Everyone knows someone!! Again, I have had parents come up to me and make comments about nannies they have met that just speak bad of the child(ren) they care for. It does not impress them nor does it make you sound like you know what you are doing. It certainly won't get you hired elsewhere in the future.

I understand most nannies and caregivers are in this line of work while putting themselves through school. However, for all of us full time professional nannies please do not give us a bad name or image. It is scary enough for parents to find someone to bring into their home and to trust with their child. Help to make the transition easy and fun for the parents and the child(ren) too!

Lastly, remember when out and about in this line of work you are constantly REPRESENTING YOURSELF!!!! This is a BUSINESS. If you ever want to continue working in this business you ABSOLUTELY need to follow the guidelines listed above and then some. 

PARENTS: If you ever have any questions about how to go about hiring the right nanny for your family please do not hesitate to contact Keri and myself. Please click on the PLAY IT SAFE link to get a hold of our email addresses. 

Have you seen any nannies who do not act appropriately when out in public? Any pet peeves that just get to you? Feel free to comment below and tell us your stories and experiences.

-D