Postby carissab » Mon Sep 03, 2012 8:53 am
My suggestion would be to do up a rough time schedule of what is espected each day plus notes on how to use appliances, where to find things in your house and in your local community and your kids preferences with play, food etc. I also had my nannies start a day or 2 before I had to so that I could have them "shadow" me for a day to see routines, food prep etc and explain things along the way. This was a great introduction as I would encourage them to do things with the nanny as they became comfortable and started slipping out of the room, first for 5 mins, then for 15, then for 30 then finally an hour. When I had 2 days with them the first day they followed me, the second I was just there if needed, but kept a distance and let them go.
I encouraged them to stay around the house for the first few days alone, not venturing too far until in a comfortable routine.
I also had a petty cash bag that I always left money for bus fares, treats etc to be used. Set clear guidelines on where time should be spent and what to do if unsure of anything. I always let the nanny know that I will call morning and afternoon for the first few days to check in on them, so if they can save questions until I call the better, and then moved it to lunch times for another few days. Then it was up to the nanny only to call in emergencies but text if they were doing anything I did not know about such as taking them to the museum at last minute.
Hope this helps, just remember to try and be organised without looking stressed and relax but be assertive of what you require! And what works for one nanny may not work for you but you work out the right balance. Good luck!
