Starting a New Nanny Job

Updated on August 30, 2010
R.F. asks from Austin, TX
5 answers

Hi Mamas, I'm starting a new nanny job this week with a 6 month old. I'm very excited, but also somewhat nervous. I've met the baby once, and will have a 'playdate' the day before I officially start work to hopefully get to know the baby better. My question is, what can I do to help the baby adjust to a new person in his life? I held him the first time I met him and, of course, he cried and wanted to go back to his mom immediately. I know this is normal, but I'd like to know the best way to get him to accept me quickly, since his parents both work from home and will be around while I'm there (so if he's crying, it may distract them from their work-day, or if he sees them, i'm afraid he'll start crying.)
Thanks, Mamas!
-R.

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J.T.

answers from Victoria on

If you can take him for walks in a stroller most all babys really like that. Both my kids have always loved spong bob square pants. My son was always calmed from an infant by youtube.com the lion sleeps tonight...the one with the hippo. We gave our son to ppl when they came over and had a wonderful neighbor/friend that we always handed him over too. So he never really had fear of new ppl. (exception was a church nursery and we switched churches...it was very odd for him to be upset at new ppl). Its not going to be instant but he will learn to be comforted by you and your constant playing with him he will begin to trust you. Sing abc's and itsy bitsy all sorts of silly songs even make some up if you can. He will eventually be comfrotable with you.

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V.C.

answers from Wheeling on

They'll probably have to just refrain from coming to him when you're there to let you have the opportunity to become his primary caregiver when you're on the clock. He'll learn pretty quickly who 'butters his bread'. LOL Just try not to 'smother' him by standing over him or catering to him before the actual need arises. Stand by until he needs you, and then provide what he needs. The more you do for him, the more he'll trust you.

The fact that they've hired you means that THEY trust you -- or else you were the only applicant for the job! Q,Q

Good luck and God bless!

I hope this helps!

K.L.

answers from Chicago on

Two things. First, being around him along WITH the parents lets him know you are a safe person that his parents know, so the play date is a great idea and should help, along with the fact that the parents work from home. They can be around more initially and then wean it down and allow the baby to realize that you are capable of being trusted and that they won't run in at every cry.
Second, maybe try having something around that mommy has worn like a t-shirt so there is the comforting scent of mommy. Scent is a strong soother. And don't wear perfume. Too much for baby and annoying--will make them hate you!
Lastly, you say they BOTH work from the house? I used to be a nanny and I hope this job works out for you. You will have to a be the kind of person who is comfortable being honest and straight forward with the parents and put up boundaries from the start. Work at home parents can be really annoying if they step in all the time and don't let you do your job all the while being annoyed at your for not doing your job! Good luck.

S.W.

answers from Houston on

It will be very important that where you work (the nursery, the kitchen, the living room, the play room, whatever) be able to be completely separate from where they are working. The baby is going to cry from time to time, probably much more as you get started, but this is normal. He will get to know you, and as he does and gets used to you being around and being the one to care for him, it will get easier. It will also be important right from the beginning that you have completely open communication with the parents, and clear boundaries. Setting up a routine right from the beginning is a good thing to do, that way everyone learns what the expectations for the day are, even the baby. Everything hinges on communication and consistancy.

Good luck!

L.M.

answers from Dover on

He will cry, they will be distracted but they will have to refrain from responding. He will have to adjust to you just as you will have to learn what his different cries are.

The best way to make this happen is to be attentive and take care of him without smothering him. Be confident because kids pick up on our insecurities.

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