Nanny Views on the Use of Nanny Cams
We've all seen or heard horror stories on the news or from people we know about a trusted babysitter or nanny abusing or neglecting a child. These incidents that received lots of attention have spurred many parents to use "nanny cams" or hidden cameras to record the actions of their caregivers.
Other People Are Reading
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Surveillance Cameras
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Small surveillance cameras are easy to obtain and can cost about $100. Some technologies enable the parent to watch a live feed or get a periodic snapshot from the camera on their cell phone or other mobile device. The camera can be so small that it can be hidden anywhere inconspicuous so that the parents and homeowners can make sure there are no questionable activities taking place in their homes.
Legal Issues
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Before installing a nanny cam in your home, you should do a little research about what is legal in your area. In all 50 states, it is legal to record someone visually without their knowledge, while in 15 states it is illegal to record someone's speech without their consent. The states that require consent to record audibly are California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington. There are also off-limit areas for hidden cameras, such as the bathroom and bedroom if the nanny lives in-house.
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Ethics
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While consent is not legally required for visual recording in your own home, it is ethical to let the caregiver know that she will be watched. The caregiver can then decline or agree to the offer. Being upfront about the camera will also prevent abusive, neglectful or theft incidents in the first place.
Nanny Views
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Even if a caregiver loves children and would never think of abusing or neglecting them, most of them have strong opposing views on being recorded. The act of spying suggests that even though the parents have formed a good relationship with the nanny, they still have major trust issues. Some nannies understand the parents' need to be 100 percent sure that their children are being properly cared for, and some are appalled that they're not trusted and feel that their reputation as an excellent nanny means nothing.
More Preventive Measures
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Before you hire a nanny you should call several references to see what prior employers have to say about the caregiver. You can also come home early unannounced to do a "spot-check" to see what goes on during the day when you are not expected to be home. Extensive interviewing should be carried out to get to know the nanny and her background and childcare experience. There are many ways to help prevent abuse or neglect in the first place.
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