How to Quit a Nanny Job
Quitting a nanny job can be more difficult than quitting other types of jobs because there's often a family attachment involved. It can be difficult to explain to young children, especially if you've worked with them for years, that you will no longer be a part of their daily lives. It can also involve finding new living arrangements if you were a live-in nanny. Although resigning can be difficult, it certainly doesn't have to be a painful process if you are vigilant about your business and personal responsibilities.
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Instructions
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Write a letter of resignation. No matter what kind of emotions are involved, resigning any position is a business transaction which needs an official record. Camilla Patten of the National Business Association warns that, no matter how satisfying it may be, you should "never burn your bridges." Even if you are dying to let your employer know how you feel, avoid spilling it out in your resignation letter. It's unprofessional and doesn't help advance your career.
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Give proper notice. If you are under contract to work a certain amount of time or to give a certain amount of notice, honor that contract. It's not only the right thing to do, but it can save you from costly court proceedings should your employer want you to honor your deal. If you are not under contract, 2 weeks notice is standard in the business world.
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Talk with the parents about what the transition means to the children. They might not want you to talk to the children about your leaving until after they've had a chance to. Whatever you do, keep the conversation positive. Pamela Kruger from Parenting.com says that when talking with children about leaving, it is important to emphasize that "whatever the situation might have been, the sitter's departure isn't his fault."
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Ask for references and a recommendation. Having official references and a letter of recommendation from your employer will help you get jobs in the future without you needing to track down past employers. This is especially important as time wears on. Even if your relationship ended badly, there are still good things to be said about your skills and abilities. Asking for a record of those isn't imposing, it's standard.
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Negotiate future contacts. Talk with the parents about whether they are comfortable with you visiting or occasionally babysitting the children in the future. If you were an important part of their lives for a long time, this may be a great arrangement for all involved. If the parents are not interested in your future contact with their children, you must respect their wishes.
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