Housework

What housework can I expect my Nanny to do ?

How do I get my Nanny to do more around the house ?

What housework can I expect my Nanny to do ?

Every Nanny is different in this regard.  Some Nannies will adamantly refuse to do housework claiming they are "child caregivers" not cleaning ladies.  Then there are others who will agree to do a lot more around the house.  You definitely need to address this issue in the interview and be very clear about what you are looking for.  A word of caution however, don't look for a Housekeeper/nanny.  This is a pet peeve of many experienced Nannies including myself.  I saw an ad in the paper recently that said Wanted: Housekeeper/nanny.  Now what kind of message is that sending. " I'm looking for someone to keep my house spotless, and oh by the way, if you have time, watch my kid."  A Nanny's job should be first and foremost to watch, teach and nurture your children.

With that said, most Nannies will agree that housework directly involving their charges is usually their responsibility.  Therefore, keeping the children's rooms clean, doing their laundry, preparing their meals and cleaning up the dishes after the meals is usually part of the job. But don't assume anything, discuss this in your interview and make sure it is in her job description and contract.

Now, if you'd really like her to vacuum the house once a week, prepare some dinners, or do more than just the kids laundry these things really need to be brought up during the interview.  You should ask how she feels about doing these tasks and listen carefully to her response.  If she gives a half-hearted answer of "Oh, that's ok." and you sense she's not really too thrilled about the idea, discuss it.  "I get the feeling you may not like the idea of the added housework."  It is best to really try to get an honest answer from her now, then find out two months from now that it's too much for her to handle and she's leaving for a job that doesn't require all the extra sweat.

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How can I get my Nanny to do more around the house ?

Well, so you didn't know to discuss all this stuff during the interview and now you have a Nanny who isn't living up to your expectations. The best way to address this is honestly but gently.  Statements like "You need to start doing more around here" are not going to promote anything but hurt feelings and resentment.    If you have a regular meeting with your nanny, bring it up then by saying "I'm really feeling frazzled lately juggling work and all the housework.    Do you think you could pitch in a little with the laundry and some meal preparation?"   Be sure you listen to her response.   

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