How to Fire a Nanny

It's never easy to fire an employee, but when that employee is a nanny, someone who has cared for your children and is a part of your family, the task can take on an added emotional dilemma. It's no easier for the caretaker, but nanny jobs have this occupational hazard. Here's the best way to fire a nanny.

Instructions

1. Talk to the nanny when the children aren't present. They might be very upset to see you letting go of their caretaker. It also will make firing more emotional if the kids are nearby.

2. Come prepared with any wages you owe her along with several additional weeks in lieu of notice, papers you need her to sign if she worked under a contract--and if she's being fired for poor performance, nanny cam video footage or other evidence you feel necessary to share. On the other hand, if you have to let her go for reasons unrelated to her abilities, have on hand a glowing letter of recommendation.

3. Be compassionate. Your nanny probably cares deeply for your children and might be upset, angry or both. If you're firing her because you're moving or your job or financial situation has changed rather than due to poor performance, be grateful, apologetic and offer to be an enthusiastic reference. Even if she's being fired because she was a bad nanny, you can express appreciation for her time.

4. Keep her away from the children if she's fired for being a bad nanny. Pay for her hotel room so she won't sleep near them--or offer to pay her way back home so she'll be able to stay with her parents. It's crucial that you terminate the relationship quickly and completely if you felt she was a danger to your children.

Tips & Warnings

• You might get stuck with an unemployment insurance claim--even if you were paying her under the table. Paying her on the books and filing the appropriate paperwork is the best way to prevent this problem.

• Notify your children's school and the doctor's office that your nanny is no longer authorized to pick up your children. If you have a doorman or other security, let them know of the change as well.