Nanny Share Information for Nannies

Nanny Share Information for Nannies  

What is a Nanny Share?  

A Nanny Share is when two families share one nanny. This means that two families come together and hire a nanny to look after both families’ children at the same time. Depending on the situation, both families could take turns hosting or one family could serve as the primary host.

Benefits of a Nanny Share

A Nanny Share position can be very rewarding and beneficial for a nanny. The two main benefits of a Nanny Share are increased earning potential and more comprehensive benefits. Since the Nanny will be employed by two families and each family is paying half of the wages, it can dramatically increase the level of income.

Working for two families greatly increases the prospects of acquiring a potentially comprehensive benefits package, such as, health insurance, sick time, and vacation time.

When participating in a Nanny Share, you have access to more resources, as you may pool the resources from both partnering families and you get to help the children foster lasting relationships with other children.

Drawbacks of a Nanny Share

Although there are numerous positive characteristics of a Nanny Share, the negative elements should be acknowledged.  One issue is that you will be employed by two separate families with different needs.  This may cause communication and scheduling issues. Another potential area of concern can arise if there are differences of opinion between you and the partnering parents.  Another drawback can be the increased pressure of being responsible for multiple children and changing houses between families. One way to handle this is to create a routine that works with all the children and in each environment.  Being organized is the key and planning itineraries that are structured to developmental, nutritional and sleep requirements will help alleviate stress and establish a successful routine.

The best way to handle any issue with the families is to this is to lay a foundation of open and honest communication from the very beginning.

It is also important to have a signed contract with both families and an employee handbook detailing the expectations of your services. As a Nanny is important to be your own advocate and you need to discuss all your expectations and agree upon all the aspects of the job before accepting a position.

In a Nanny Share, it is important to be flexible and to be open to finding solutions to any issues that may arise. If you facilitate an open, honest relationship, you are more likely to have a successful placement as a Nanny Share Provider.

 

 

Submitted by: Sharilee M. Stafford, Founder of Kids First Consultants, LLC.

With 15 years of Nanny/Household Manager experience and professional training from the Ashford Nanny Academy of Auckland, New Zealand, I have started a consulting agency specializing in establishing Nanny Shares.

Check out my website at www.kidsfirstconsultants.com .