How to help your nanny and children bond
March 29th, 2016
Employing a nanny can be a life-changing move for a parent, saving you time and stress by sharing your childcare duties with someone who becomes a trusted extension of your family. However, to get the best out of your nanny, it’s crucial to get the children on board with your new recruit.
Not all children welcome new faces gladly, so nurturing a bond between your child and nanny is a stage that shouldn’t be overlooked. To make the transition a smooth one, we have a few expert tips on how to help your nanny and child bond.
Choose a nanny wisely
In order to gain the trust of your children, it’s important to prevent a high turnover of childcare. This makes choosing the right nanny absolutely essential as a parent; this person will be in your home, caring for your children, when you’re away.
The little ones will instantly pick up any jealousy, distrust or lack of respect. So as well as finding a nanny experienced in dealing with children of the same age, it’s important to select someone who shares your values and approach. As we explored in our previous blog, a nanny agency will help you do just that, to ensure you get off to a flying start with your new recruit.
A warm welcome
Don’t throw your nanny in at the deep end. Make the children’s first encounter with your nanny a positive one, by planning an activity where you can all spend time together. Whether that’s a celebratory meal, or a day out on neutral territory such as the park, cinema or beach, take the time and make the effort to welcome your new nanny as a family.
Stay on side
In the early days, it’s inevitable that there will be some things your nanny misses, or does differently to you. But refrain from addressing these in front of the children, or you could risk undermining their authority. When the little ones are around, stay on the side of your nanny, and have a private word when the time is appropriate instead.
Share the good times
Time is precious as a parent, so it’s tempting to reserve your favourite moments with the children, such as bathtime, trips to the park and stories before bed for you. However, bear in mind that if your nanny is left with all the less desirable chores, they could become ‘bad cop’. Your children are going to be spending a lot of time with their nanny, so make sure their duties involve activities that will help them bond.
Make your nanny a valued member of the team, by following these essential tips when taking them on and throughout your relationship. By encouraging the children to bond with their nanny, you’ll experience the countless benefits of long-term childcare.
Want to find a nanny that the whole family will love? Nannyplus Childcare Limited can help. Call 01925 768188/ 07766290802 or email support@nannyplus.co.uk to start your search today.