Show up early. Stay late. Work nights. Diapers. Spit up... Nannies are behind the scenes holding it all together. Often nannies are there to see those first steps or be there for moments of sheer bliss when a child accomplishes something amazing. The role of a nanny is multifaceted. Nannies not only meet your kids’ basic needs but we educate, guide and love them. That makes all the difference.
Many may view the role of nanny as a side job or a way to support one’s self through college, but there are a whole bunch of us who are passionate about caring, educating and loving our clients’ children. In addition to childcare, some nannies also juggle other household management duties such as taking care of pets, preparing meals, making homemade baby food, stocking the home with essentials, coordinating lawn care, maintaining the pool and keeping house. The job can be demanding, but at the end of the day, it’s so rewarding.
I am a mother of three boys and have been a career nanny for the past 12 years. When I was asked to nanny for my first family in 2003, I never dreamed it would become my passion. My nanny jobs have taken me to different cities and countries and have given me so much experience and many great memories.
This summer, I hired my first nannies: three sisters who teamed up to take care of my sons while I worked — as a nanny! I get a lot of surprised looks when I share this, but being a nanny is my job, no different than a teacher hiring a nanny to care for her kids while she teaches. I am here to say that without my nannies, I could not have done my job. I rely on them 100% as much as my employers rely on me.
National Nanny Appreciation Week is September 22-28, and it may be the perfect time to honor your nanny. There are different ways to do it. One of my families gave me a spa day. The idea of being pampered when I should have been working made me feel a little guilty, but then I realized how nice it was to relax. A gift card can be a great way to treat your nanny to his favorite restaurant or stock her book collection. And everyone loves a gift card to Target or Amazon, right? You can also help your nanny practice healthy habits by offering to pay for a gym membership. It’s a great way to remind your nanny to take care of him- or herself. Kids can also join in by creating handmade gifts and notes. Nannies are sure to treasure these presents. Or, you can offer to send your nanny to the International Nanny Association Conference to show you care about his or her career.
So, nannies of Southlake and beyond, thank you for all you do. You know we parents could not manage without you on our team.
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