How to Manage a Part-Time Nanny

A good nanny can be a help for both mother and child.

A nanny is a huge help for parents. While you may not want to hire one full-time, a part-time nanny can relieve a lot of the work of parenting. The tricky part is usually in the transitions, so put extra thought into how you handle the switch from "parent time" to "nanny time." Being very clear on expectations helps both you and the nanny, and using routines will give your children continuity.

Instructions

1. Write everything down: the times and days you want your nanny to work, what her responsibilities include, what the household routine is, where to find essential supplies, your contact information and the children's schedule. You can (and should) discuss all these things too, but don't expect yourself or your nanny to remember the details of the conversation. To be sure you both understand and agree to what you have discussed, keep a copy for yourself and give a copy to the nanny.

2. Have the nanny work the same hours every day or week. For example, if your nanny works three days a week, have her arrive at the same time for each of those three days rather than switching up the hours. This makes it easier for the children to know what to expect, which eases the transition.

3. Set up simple routines and stick to them. Have a routine for meal time (e.g. wash hands, set table, serve food, clear table and wash face and hands) and follow it at every meal time yourself; then communicate it to the nanny and have her stick to the same routine. Routines are especially helpful for meal time, bath time, nap time and bed time.

4. Provide some ideas or activities for the nanny, especially during the first several weeks. You can have a few special movies, some games, craft activities or outdoor play planned. Let the nanny know about these options and where the supplies for each one are.

5. Give clear instructions about discipline. This is usually the most difficult part of childcare, and you'll make it much easier if you provide clear standards for your childrens' behavior and clear consequences for violations.

6. Have regular meetings with the nanny to find out how things are going. These don't need to take more than 10 or 15 minutes, perhaps once or twice a month. It gives you a way to hear about any issues, to provide explanations or instructions, to deal with problems before they arrive, to talk about scheduling changes, to find out about supply needs and to make sure you, the nanny and the children are all happy with the arrangement.

References

• The New York Times: Why Moms Need to Learn How to Communicate with Nannies