Nanny Video Interview Tips

Everyone knows that interviews are your window into the job of your dreams, but what happens if that window is Google Chrome and the interview is a video? More and more busy families are moving towards video calls to interview nannies. Even the most tech savvy individual can have reservations about participating in a video interview, which is why we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you get through the monitor and into your next nanny home.

Background

When prepping for your nanny video interview, find a quiet, well-lit room away from any distractions. Make sure your webcam frame is set up against a neutral background to ensure that you will have your interviewer’s full attention. Take steps to ensure that you will not be interrupted by family, roommates or pets. You don’t want to lose your train of thought while cataloging your nanny experience during the interview, and you want to impress interviewers with your ability to prepare. Don’t be this man (and after you’re hired, don’t be the nanny that let this happen!):

Tools

Don’t sign up for your childcare video interview only to realize two minutes before you’re supposed to start that you don’t have the necessary tools. Generally, you will need a computer or tablet with a built in microphone and webcam, headphones with a microphone and internet connection with bandwidth at least 1 megabits per second. If you are missing any of these, check out the resources at your local library, ask a friend or rent equipment. To ensure optimal internet speed, clear your history and empty caches. Closing unnecessary windows or applications is also a big help to boost your connection. You don’t want to be lagging or pixelated during your nanny video interview.

Dress Professionally

There is a novelty of interviewing from the comfort of your own home, but this isn’t something you should abuse. You may have the urge to wear sweatpants with your blazer, who would be able to tell? But if you feel professional you will act professional, and you never know if you will need to stand up at any point. Shy away from bold colors or prints as they can be distracting or even glitchy depending on the connection. Once you are hired it may be acceptable for you to dress in athleisure (or even a full on smock to avoid juice stains and pasta ricochet) but during your interview it’s best to present yourself in the best light and dress well.

Body Language

Act as you would if you were in the room with your nanny interviewers. When you’re listening be sure to engage with them, maintain eye contact and nod when listening. Just because you are not in the same room does not mean that all social graces fly away, they can still see you and will take note if you act disinterested or distracted. If you talk with your hands, do that! If you are hyper aware of your movements,you won’t be able to be fully present and explain why you would be the best fit for their nanny. Just be yourself! Your body language should stay the same even though you are on camera.

Troubleshooting

Before the day of the interview, be sure to ask for a number to call in case you have any technical difficulties or unforeseen issues. You don’t want the family to think you just didn’t show up.

Video interviews are becoming increasingly popular with families looking to hire a nanny. Be ahead of the curve and be prepared to interview virtually by setting the scene, gathering all of the necessary tools, dressing professionally, maintaining body language, and covering your bases by troubleshooting any issues. If you have any further questions or would like specific advice and training in video interviewing, let us know! We’d be happy to provide a mock interview and help you find your next nanny family.

Cooking

It is well within your nanny’s responsibility to feed your child at appropriate and necessary times during their scheduled shift. A nanny may prepare multiple meals and snacks for your child throughout their working day. The grey area begins however, when the nanny is asked to cook for your whole family. It is one thing to request that a nanny prep for your dinner while a child is at school or napping, but if a nanny is forced into the responsibility of preparing and cooking for a family of four while also assisting the child with their homework, it is easy to imagine that the immediacy of the meal takes precedence and the homework suffers. The nanny is there first and foremost to assist in the development and rearing of the child, and if cooking takes away from that responsibility, then it should be forgone.

Cleaning

Many families ask their nanny to engage in light housekeeping. This is completely acceptable when the duties are related to the child. Sanitizing and organizing toys, tidying and disinfecting the high chair and surrounding areas, loading the dishwasher after snack and meal time, restocking and cleaning the changing table, and even the child’s laundry are all things that are reasonable and even encouraged to ask your nanny to do. Having your nanny tidy your child’s room with your child present is a great way to teach your child by example the importance of organization and cleanliness. Most light cleaning tasks regarding the child can be done during your child’s nap or while they are at school. It is important to reiterate that any cleaning that takes away from your caregiver’s ability to nurture and comfort your child to the best of their ability should not be asked of them.

When thinking about the job duties you wish to ask your nanny to accomplish, it is imperative that you ask yourself whether or not that duty will contribute to or detract from their ability to care for your child.

Laundry

Issues arise around the job duties when expectations are not made clear from the get-go. Many nannies expect and even welcome the task of doing the child’s laundry, as folding warm, clean clothes while the child is napping is sometimes considered a cherished repreve. However, the idea of washing their employer’s underwear can make some nannies, extremely uncomfortable. The addition of expensive clothing that needs extra precautions during the washing process can add unnecessary stress and time to the nanny’s day as well. It is one thing if you are in a pinch and ask your nanny if they are comfortable doing a load of your own laundry, it is different to consistently throw in your washing without having had a clear discussion beforehand. There are many simple and cost efficient ways to get one’s laundry done.

Pet care

A nanny is a childcare provider, not a dog-walker or cat-medicine-administrator. If a nanny has to be thinking about the dog’s needs while a child is having a tantrum, it can be difficult for the nanny to give the child the full attention and care that they need while the dog is endangering a priceless rug or a corner of the couch. Letting the dog out in the backyard or refilling it’s water is one thing, but asking a nanny to groom is not within their job title. Some nannies may be allergic to pets or even have a fear of animals. It is important to discuss your pet care needs with your nanny prior to starting so that everyone can be on the same page.

Many domestic issues can be sorted out simply by having a clear discussion about expectations upon hiring. Ask your nanny during the interview process what they are comfortable with and what their domestic strengths are. If you lay out the expectations from the get-go, it will greatly avoid any awkwardness or resentment down the road.

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Racism and Children

Racism is taught. Racism is learned. Racism is not inherent. Right now, it’s not enough to be against racism, one has to be anti-racist. It is a lifelong fight for equity and basic human rights for Black people. Racism and children needs to be discussed.

One of the first lessons a white or white passing child learns is how to dial 911. We tell them that if there is any ever trouble to call the police, the police will help them and keep them safe. Black children, on the other hand, learn that keeping themselves safe looks very different.

“Remember that children learn by example. If you are preaching inclusivity while benefiting from a system that oppresses others, what are you really showing your children? Talking to your children about racism shouldn’t be a one time thing, it should be a continued, open conversation in which you both honestly evaluate your actions and beliefs.”

While we watch the news and talk to our friends and relatives about police brutality, racism and protests, children are listening. Children’s developing, inquisitive minds that seek to relate and understand are forming their own ideas based off of what they hear on TV, what they hear their parents say, and how they see their parents act. Often what they are absorbing now is not processed on a conscious level but ingrained in their minds, which is why its imperative that these conversations are had to steer their minds in a positive way. While the topic of race is uncomfortable, don’t be the parent who avoids the topic of race because you’re not sure how to handle it. It’s okay to be uncomfortable right now, because that discomfort brings change.

Equip your child with the tools they need to grow up and be an adult who stands up against and actively fights racism. Raise a child who will be a mediator, a peacemaker. Raise a child who makes a safe space for everyone.

Heal Yourself

How does one raise such a child? By first acknowledging and dealing with your own biases. Unlearning white supremacy and white privilege is a difficult task which can and will be deeply painful. Do it for your children and for George Floyd’s daughter. Do it for all of the Black children who are not taught to call 911 because the police pose the most danger to them. Read books and watch movies curated by BI and POC. Learn about how our systems in America are built on slavery and profit off of the oppression of Black lives. Understand systemic racism and how school districts are segregated. Think back to the times in your life where you exercised your privilege for your own advantage. It will be painful. Do it for your children. If you don’t uproot and unlearn your biases, they will stick with you and show their head when you least expect it, and that will be what your child sees and learns from. Children learn from example, don’t say one thing about race and then show them something different.

Talking to Children Under 5

Young children learning about their place in the world will point out differences they notice in people. This is done usually in an embarrassing and uncomfortable way for parents in public. Rather than silencing your child when they point out these differences, embrace and celebrate them. “Mommy, that woman’s hair is in braids!” “Yes sweetie, and aren’t they beautiful? They are a symbol of her culture.” Resist the urge to shush or shame them, this will only begin the process of internalization and will make them feel like they can’t come to you with questions and create a stigma around “otherness.” When describing racism to your children of this age, refer to it as being “unfair.” That BIPOC are treated unfairly in the workplace, on the streets, by doctors, and police. Children understand the concept of fairness and this will resonate with them on a tangible emotional level they can comprehend. This will also inspire their beautiful young hearts to want to take action. Encourage them in doing so. Read them books about racism and watch age appropriate content.

Children Aged 5 through 11

Older, elementary aged children can be more difficult to speak to racism about. They understand more and their questions can be intimidating or hard to answer for parents. That is okay. Recognize within yourself that you won’t have all the answers. It’s okay to say “I don’t know,” to a question they have. If you find that’s the case, make a plan for the both of you to investigate together. Make it a learning experience to go out and find your answers about race. Find out what they’re not learning in school, or what is being covered up. Encourage them to give a classroom presentation on what they’ve learned. Being open and honest with your child builds trust and encourages them to seek out the answers they don’t have. Discuss with them what they are seeing in the news and on their own social media. Ask them what their friends are saying and their opinion on it. Unpack any stereotyping or biases that your child or your child’s friends are beginning to form. Remember that racism is learned, not inherent, and can be imposed upon by peer pressure. Do not shame your child or your child’s friends for their thoughts, but steer them in the right direction of thinking with guided questions.

For Kids 11 years+

Pre-teens know a lot more about the world. Their history classes, while undoubtedly skewed to avoid the real race issues pervasive in American History, will have taught them something about discrimination. Usually along the lines of “we had slaves, we abolished slavery and everything was fine! Then Martin Luther King came and everything was great for Black people!” A dangerous and blatantly incorrect curriculum designed to keep the truth from children who benefit from that very oppressive system. Find out what your child knows about racism in school and let them talk, listening to understand, not to respond. Depending on the school, your child may be angry at the injustice, allow them to feel this. Don’t try to tell them “it’ll all be okay” but rather encourage action. Get involved in your local chapter of Black Lives Matter. Research policies in your local government that suppress Black voices, like lack of affordable housing in areas with higher funded schools and make a plan to take action. Volunteer, encourage diversity. Children are natural empathizers. Encourage them to think about how their lives would be different if they were the subjects of systemic and ingrained racial injustice. You may want to protect your child from these “negative” emotions and truths about the world, but the truth is that children are our future and children will save the world. Create children who grow into caring allies.

Remember that children learn by example. If you are preaching inclusivity while benefiting from a system that oppresses others, what are you really showing your children? Talking to your children about racism shouldn’t be a one time thing, it should be a continued, open conversation in which you both honestly evaluate your actions and beliefs. While this is a time of pain, anger, and injustice, it is also an opportunity for growth, inclusion and coming together.

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Employment Rights All Nannies Need to Know

Since nannies work in the private homes of their employers it’s often mistakenly assumed that they are not protected by labor and tax laws. While not all labor and tax laws apply to household employers because they employ less than the minimum number of employees required before they kick in, many of them do; and it’s great to know your employment rights.

According to the International Nanny Association, all nannies, whether they are legally authorized to accept employment in the United States or not, are protected by these 10 basic employment rights.

Nannies must be paid for every hour that they work.

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, whether live-in or live-out, nannies must be paid for each hour that they work.

‘If a nanny files a claim for unpaid wages or abuse, an employer may not turn their nanny in for an immigration violation. The Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration & Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) has written rules that prohibit their interference in labor disputes.’

Nannies are entitled to be paid minimum wage.

All nannies are entitled to be paid at the state or federal minimum wage rate, whichever rate is higher.

Live-out nannies, and some live-in nannies, are entitled to overtime pay.

Live-out nannies are entitled to be paid overtime at the rate of 1.5 times their hourly base rate for all hours worked over 40 in a seven day period. Live-in nannies, in some states, are also entitled to be paid overtime.

Nannies must receive a W-2 form at the end of each year.

Nannies are not independent contractors; they are employees of the families for whom they work. Nannies who earn more than $1,800 per calendar year (2012 threshold) must be given a form W-2 and not a form 1099.

Nanny employers are required to withhold payroll deductions.

These deductions include Social Security and Medicare and state taxes. Income taxes and other benefits, such as contributions to health insurance premiums, may be withheld if the nanny and employer agree.

Nannies are entitled to be paid regularly.

Each state determines the maximum number of days between payroll dates and the maximum delay an employer may place on a nanny’s periodic payroll. Some states even dictate the frequency in which nannies must be paid. The employer must keep accurate payroll records, including the dates and hours worked, for three years.

Nanny employers are required to have Workers’ Compensation policies in states that require it.

Workers’ Compensation provides financial assistance to nannies who are hurt on the job. Most states require nanny employers to have a Worker’s Compensation policy, though not all of them do.

Nanny employers are entitled to work in an environment free from abuse.

Federal and state laws protect nannies from physical and sexual abuse by their employers.

Nanny employers cannot confiscate a nanny’s passport or any other identifying documentation.

Nanny employers cannot take and keep a nanny’s passport, Social Security card, work permit, or driver’s license.

Nanny employers are not allowed to retaliate against nannies from workplace grievances by turning them into immigration.

If a nanny files a claim for unpaid wages or abuse, an employer may not turn their nanny in for an immigration violation. The Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration & Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) has written rules that prohibit their interference in labor disputes.

Want to share a story with us regarding your employment rights? Comment below.

Homework Solutions is our preferred payroll provider and has mountains of resources for domestic employers and employees

The International Nanny Association is a non-profit educational association. For more information about nanny employee rights, click here

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What is TIKTOK?

As a Nanny Agency made up of millennials, we like to think of ourselves experts on two things: kids and social media. Growing up we beta tested MySpace, Facebook, Instagram and SnapChat and like to think of ourselves as both social media savvy and technologically capable of staying safe on the internet. However, one thing still eludes us: TikTok. It seems TikTok is a seemingly harmless platform made for kids and teens to share and watch quick videos of dances and learn how to do pranks on their parents. But like all things on the internet, it can be exploited by people with ulterior motives. So what is TikTok? We don’t know. But we can tell you what we do know about the company, it’s technology, and how you can ensure that your kids stay safe while using it.

The Basics

TikTok is a free social networking app designed to allow users to create and share original videos. The social aspect surrounds the ability to follow other accounts and like, comment and share videos. The capacity for videos and accounts to go viral is large on TikTok, and many new household names have appeared from popular accounts on the app. TikTok is a fun way for kids to get creative, learn the basics of cinematography, get exercise from learning viral dances, and occasionally learn unique life hacks, science experiments or history facts. Like all social media, TikTok is not inherently good nor evil, but it’s the way in which it’s used that can become dangerous or beneficial for kids.

“Are your kids high energy? Does the candidate mention they love to work out, swim or go on hikes in their free time? These are hints that you could be a great fit for each other. We have a long list of extra questions available in our on-boarding packet for new families, just ask to see more!”

Safety

In 2019 TikTok settled for millions after federal regulators charged it with violating the children’s privacy law. TikTok does not have an age limit in order to use the app. When signing up for an account, TIkTok asks that users input their birthdays. Kids who are truthful and sign up as 13 and under, receive curated, clean videos and aren’t allowed to post, comment or search. This is obviously not any fun, however, and kids can easily be remedy this by inputting a false birthday. Accounts can be made private, but that only limits who can watch your kids, and not what your kids can watch. TikTok does have parental controls where adults can manage screen time, block inappropriate content and disable direct messaging. However, kids are smart and know they can simply undo whatever their caretakers set up for them or simply delete and re-download the app. So what can parents and caregivers do to keep their kids safe on TikTok?

If you can’t beat them join them

The easiest way to make sure your kids are staying safe on TikTok is by joining them in the fun. If you set strict boundaries condemning their online use, that will only drive them to sneak around you, which in the end could get them into more harm than good. Instead, monitor your kids on TikTok by getting involved. Showing that you are interested in their interests, rather than shaming them or punishing them, not only fosters their confidence and creates a healthy relationship with social media, but also allows you both to create a new opportunity for a shared experience. As they say, keep your friends close and your enemies closer. The closer you can be to your child’s TikTok usage, the safer they will be and the more informed you are. Not only will you appear way cooler than other caregivers, but the trust you form by accepting their interests rather than trying to control them, will set up a life-long foundation of dependability.

TikTok Challenges

The average TikTok feed is full of viral challenges that each user has the opportunity to get creative with. Challenges can be dances, songs, or activities that encourage users to copy in their own unique way. It’s a really fun way for kids to exercise their creativity. Many schools have cut funding for music, art and dance, and TikTok is a platform that can immerse kids in their interests by providing project-like opportunities for them to express themselves that they wouldn’t get in school. The downside to this is that the praise or rejection they receive on their self expression is very tangible in terms of likes, views and comments. This social transparency is another reason why it’s a good idea to have an open dialogue with your kids so you can talk about this praise/rejection ratio in a healthy way that allows them to learn both resilience and confidence.

Engaging in a TikTok challenge with your child is an awesome opportunity to get creative together. Get the blood flowing by learning a dance. Get creative by trying a science challenge. Offer to hold the camera while they do their thing. Use it as an opportunity to let them direct you and learn leadership skills. Show them that what they are doing matters. By encouraging them in their creative pursuits, you are setting them up for a life time of success by saying “I see you and value you”. You may think that something as silly as a social media app wouldn’t have that big of an impact on your child’s personal development, but to a child, these creative pursuits are their way of feeling seen in the world and learning their place in it. Whatever the challenge is that sparks your kids creativity, do it together and enjoy the opportunity to strengthen your bond.

So what is TikTok?

We still couldn’t tell you. But what we can tell you is that being present in social media is the new way of the world, and it’s important for your kids to feel like they can be part of the pack, in their own unique way. Protect your kids by being an active part of their life. Support them, encourage them, and be there for them when they need you. If you have any questions about your kids and TikTok or social media in general (MySpace, anyone?) do not hesitate to reach out to us.

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Homeschooling / How to Homeschool Nanny Kids

Many career nannies know that the time between drop off and pick up at school is sacred. The school hours are where nannies can do laundry, schedule appointments, sanitize toys, and gear up for an afternoon of homework help. We’ve seen how the recent change in the childcare industry has affected nannies with parents working from home, but homeschooling has had just as significant an impact. How can nannies navigating in this new zoom school territory succeed?

Here are some tips:

Brush up on your educator skills

Nannying while kids are homeschooling means that you will inevitably become teacher yourself. Remain patient, ask leading questions, and always help them come to their conclusions and assignments on their own. Doing tasks for them is not going to do anyone any favors. If they don’t respond to a certain explanation, try and show them another way that they will understand. The beauty of being a nanny and a teacher is that you know the kids and their interests much better than a teacher would be able to. Spark their creativity by using dinosaurs as metaphors for counting if they’re into paleontology right now. Let them practice letters by writing their favorite words. If you don’t know how to answer a certain question, there is a wonderful new invention called Google. Of course, be sly about when you look things up, kids learn by example and we can’t have them copping out via the convenience of search engines.

“We are in uncharted territory, and all of these big changes can be really difficult for children to digest. When it gets hard, remember that your focus is on being a caregiver. The child’s grades are not a reflection of you or your nannying abilities, so remain compassionate and patient, as confidence and care are the main foundations for a child’s academic success ”

Create a classroom environment

A similar issue with nannies working around work from home parents is spacial boundaries. Kids are used to having their entire homes be just that – their home. But now their sacred-kid-space has been turned into office, home and school all in one and this can become stressful and confusing for developing minds. Designate a specific classroom area where kids will do their learning. Kids need structure and boundaries in order to thrive, and knowing that the dining room or a specific section of the living room is now their “school section” of the home will help them focus their energy to that specific task. Spruce up the area maybe with posters or familiar classroom objects to help them feel more at ease. Take breaks and eat snacks away from the classroom area to better help them adjust and concentrate while they are working.

Remain compassionate

We are in uncharted territory, and all of these big changes can be really difficult for children to digest. When it gets hard, remember that your focus is on being a caregiver. The child’s grades are not a reflection of you or your nannying abilities, so remain compassionate and patient, as confidence and care are the main foundations for a child’s academic success. It is also imperative that you have patience and compassion for yourself. You are a nanny and not necessarily an educator, so it may take some time for you to get into the swing of things. Remember your first day as a nanny, and how far you’ve come since then. Your educator skills will grow exponentially as well, which is a great thing to have on your nanny resume for future opportunities.

Nannying has always been fraught with rewarding challenges. If you are a nanny currently providing care to homeschooling children, we’d love to hear your stories of success and struggle alike. As always, reach out to us with any questions or concerns.

eas and tips on how to make every day equally fun and educational. There are a ton of awesome nanny blogs for creative solutions, as well as nannying groups you can join on social media.

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5 Nanny Interview Questions that should not be skipped

Searching for the right nanny for your family can be a daunting task, especially if it’s your first time finding someone to entrust your child’s safety to. How do I find the right nanny? How do I know if a nanny is the right fit? What questions should I ask a nanny in the interview? If you’re a first time nanny-hunter (or even a nanny looking for a job and a way to brush up on your interview skills), these childcare interview questions can help you find the perfect fit for your family (or your next job). If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! If you sign up for our newsletter, you can get weekly tips like these directly to your inbox.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.

This is a great opening interview question. It allows the candidate to focus on something they know a lot about (themselves) and ease them into the slightly intimidating process of interviewing. It also gives you a great jumping off point for future questions, as well as a sense of their personality. Are your kids high energy? Does the candidate mention they love to work out, swim or go on hikes in their free time? These are hints that you could be a great fit for each other. We have a long list of extra questions available in our on-boarding packet for new families, just ask to see more!

If you are a nanny and get asked this question, try not to talk too much about your qualifications at this point, the family wants to get a sense for who you are when you’re not watching their kids or working.

Why did you choose to become a nanny?

Some people fall into childcare, others seek it out. There is a big difference in the kind of care you receive from someone who genuinely loves making a difference in a child’s life compared to someone who is looking for what they deem to be an easy paycheck and fridge access. This interview question narrows down your nanny candidates.

Nannies, when asked this question in your interview, be honest! Describe what you love about working with kids and what you find rewarding about the job. When the parents see the glow in your face when you talk about watching a child grow or the opportunity to play and be creative, you’re bound to score major points with your prospective employers.

What do you think is the most important aspect of a nanny job?

This is a big one to ask in the interview with your nanny applicants that will weed out the worthy from the paycheck seekers. An obvious truth is keeping the child safe from danger, but the more deeply a candidate goes into their commitment to the emotional / social well-being and development of the child, the more they will allow your child to thrive with them. Their answer to this question will give you insight into the candidate’s priorities. Does the candidate place emphasis on rule-following or freedom to explore? Does the nanny believe in forming a firm bond with the child and promoting development and trust? This interview question and the answers given will help you get a better sense of who this nanny will be in your home.

If you are asked this question in your nanny interview, start by saying something like “my extensive experience as a childcare provider has shown me that of the many essential aspects of nannying, the ones I place the most importance in are….” You can also give examples of past childcare experiences and how you’ve aided a child’s growth to give the family you’re interviewing with a better sense of your priorities.

What are the qualities children see and like in you?

This nanny interview question will give you a greater insight into the personality of the candidate. Do they like to get down and play pretend, or are they more reserved? Are they silly and energetic or more nurturing and compassionate? Each child has different needs, and as a parent you know more than anyone what your child needs to thrive, and this question will help you find the perfect nanny for your child. If you aren’t sure what exactly you’re looking for from your next nanny, reach out to us and we can help you articulate your needs with a no-obligation consult.

Nannies, when asked this question, refer to your strengths like your sensitivity to the demands of children or your patience and understanding. However, be truthful! If you say in your interview that kids love you because you like to craft with them, but in reality you have no idea which end of the glue stick to use (spoiler alert – it’s the sticky part), you’d be better off leading with how you played soccer in college and kids love to play sports with you.

What do you consider to be the major challenges of a nannying job?

This is another very telling question to ask in your nanny interview. If the candidate responds saying they never have challenges with children, they either aren’t working hard enough or have never spent significant time with a child. We all know it takes a village! This question is another way of understanding the candidate’s strengths and weaknesses. If they say they have a hard time communicating or discipline is hard for them, you can know what to expect later on down the line. Care also has some great questions to ask.

If you are asked this question in your interview for a nanny position, mention an example of a past situation that challenged you, and how you overcame it. One of the most challenging parts of being a nanny is how you constantly need to adapt to different situations and different children with their many ever-changing needs. If you can show potential employers how you handle adversity and overcome it, you’re scoring major points.

We hope these nanny interview questions are of some assistance to you!

Families – have additional questions or comments about interviewing a nanny? Let us know! We would be more than happy to assist you in your interview process.

Nannies – have you had to answer some totally random interview questions? Leave a comment below!

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UPDATE YOUR EDUCATOR NANNY RESUME TO INCLUDE YOUR TEACHING SKILLS

As businesses begin to open back up and work from home families open their doors to their nannies, many caregivers are gathering their materials, arming themselves with their certifications, letters of recommendation, and most importantly, their resumes. In this new, extremely competitive job market, it’s imperative that nannies highlight their unique skill set in order to market themselves. After months of zoom classes and the possibility of a continuing online school year, nannies need to highlight their ability to educate as well as care, in order to stand out in a sea of applicants. The best way for nannies to rise above the rest is to highlight their educator experience in their resume.

Comparative Analysis 1

This doesn’t mean that nannies need to throw their current CV’s into the wind, but rather they need to tweak what’s already there to showcase their ability to be both nanny and tutor. Most nanny resumes are formatted as follows:

The Example Family, Culver City, 2010-2020

Ages of children upon hire: 3 and 7

Transported children to and from school
Assisted in scheduling and provided help with homework when needed
Provided meals

The new, educator targeted resume edition should look like this:

The Example Family, Culver City, 2010-2020

Ages of children upon hire: 3 and 7

Assisted in tutoring in math, science and reading
Used education level appropriate tutoring techniques to help child reach targeted grades in all subjects
Provided emotional and educational support, lifting child’s confidence and helping them raise their GPA by one whole letter grade
Assisted with school projects that resulted in 33% average improvement in the child’s grades
During the summer months, created and instructed child in fun and engaging curriculum to ready them for the school year

Comparative Analysis 2

In this example, the nanny is simply placing the attention on their educational background, rather than the overall range of care they provided.

The key to crafting your nanny resume is in polishing what is already there. You absolutely should not fabricate any part of your resume, but you should be able to apply emphasis where needed. The same can go for coaching or art instruction:

Instead of:

Played backyard sports
Monitored arts and crafts

Try:

Provided pointers and engaged the child in fun drills and exercises to improve overall skill and ability in soccer. After weeks of targeted practice, the child went from bench playing to starting in games.
Based on the child’s interest in the ocean, researched and created exciting nautical crafting projects for the child to create.

“In this new, extremely competitive job market, it’s imperative that nannies highlight their unique skill set in order to market themselves. After months of zoom classes and the possibility of a continuing online school year, nannies need to highlight their ability to educate as well as care, in order to stand out in a sea of applicants. ”

To bolster your nanny resume to highlight your educator skills, it would also behoove you to mention your own academic experience. Were you part of a peer mentoring group in high school? Did you graduate Cum Laude? Have you taught a sport or art class? Get creative! Think back on your past experiences to what parents would most like to know about how your educational experience can assist in their child’s development. If you feel like you may be lacking in this area, or you simply want to give your resume the extra push forward, sign up for an online educator class, and add it to your resume.

In Conclusion

The new nanny job market is going to be a learning curve for many nannies to navigate. Highlighting unique educational experience will be what helps many nannies stay on top of the applicant pool, and make sure that they are the first to be hired. If you are a nanny struggling with their resume, reach out to us!

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Creating a Return to Work Plan for Your Nanny

As zoom classes come to an end and the open abyss of a summer vacation with an empty calendar looms on the horizon, parents who are still working from home are beginning to wonder how they are going to manage it all. Shelter in place orders are being lifted, many businesses are beginning to plan to return to work, and many families are getting ready to bring their furloughed nannies back into their homes. How does a family bring a nanny back while the pandemic is still reeling? Here are some tips on how to prepare a return to work plan for your nanny:

Know the Risks

While parents may be at their wits end trying to be an entertainer, educator, parent, and work their own full time job while also managing the psychological tole of living through a pandemic, the decision to bring a nanny back must be an educated one. Now that we are a few months in, we know a little more about COVID-19 than we did originally. We know the virus is spread by close contact, specifically through the respiratory route like any other cold or flu, the main reason why we have all been social distancing for the past two months. An infected person can carry the virus for up to 14 days before they even begin to show symptoms, and can be picked up through shared air vents, contact on the street, or on high traffic surfaces. If you are a parent reading this, you may be reaching for that “How To Do it All” self help book, but if you remain vigilant, and take strong, proactive actions, you can absolutely make your nanny’s return to work safe and beneficial for all parties.

Be Honest

The first step towards a safe, healthy and happy new work agreement is honesty. It is imperative that you and your nanny are both are honest about your social activities within the last 14 days of coming back to work. If you are explicit about who you have been seeing and where you have been going, it will inspire your nanny to do the same. It is important that you both understand the risks going in and can be prepared. Set a date to work together again, and encourage that both your family and the nanny stay as quarantined as possible to reduce risk of spreading the infection. Make sure you continue to social distance even after your nanny has returned, just because you regain some sense of normalcy after a few weeks of working together does not mean you should relax in your protocol.

“A nanny’s eligibility for benefits depends greatly on the reason for unemployment, and the state will be taking a careful look at the details. You can expect to be contacted by an Unemployment Officer to tell your side of the story, as will your former employer.”

Consider Live-In

If you have a guest house or guest room, it is a great idea to extend the invitation for your nanny to live-in temporarily. This way you will both have a better understanding of where each has been and the risk of transmission will be far less. Living-in is a great way to promote bonding with your nanny and strengthen the relationship they have with your children. They can work longer hours with less of a commute and become more of an integrated role to help you and your family. It’s also a great opportunity for your children to have some much needed extra social interaction.

Be Realistic

Just because you and your nanny have decided to work together again does not mean that all has gone back to normal. Make sure that you are still using strict precautions, especially if the nanny is not living with you. Your family and your nanny should still be washing their hands for at least 30 seconds, avoiding sharing food and drinks, continuing to practice social distancing outside of your household, refraining from touching eyes, nose and face, and regularly cleaning and disinfecting high touch areas. As long as your family and your nanny are taking proactive actions against the spread of the virus, there should be no reason that your nanny can’t come back to work safely.

For the Future

The CDC has recommended social distancing for a reason, but nannies are essential workers and there are ways in which your nanny can come to work safely. Continue to practice social distancing and wear your mask when you leave the house, wash hands regularly and disinfect high traffic areas. Remember to treat your nanny with respect, as they are human beings who both want to work, and want to be safe. Looking to hire a nanny? Reach out to us to get your search started!

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Nannies - How to File For Unemployment

Whenever we interview our nannies and ask them what they are looking for in their next employer, the majority express a desire to “feel like a family.” Unfortunately, even the most close-knit families with perfectly matched nannies eventually have to go their own ways. Children go off to school while nannies need more full time, or either party end up moving house for new opportunities. Even the most experienced, caring and impressive nannies can have a difficult time finding new employment opportunities with an ideal family. Luckily, if you’re a nanny struggling to find a new job, there are unemployment options open to you. Here’s how to file for unemployment as a nanny:

Eligibility

First, you must make sure that you are eligible for federal or state unemployment. Nannies are eligible for unemployment when they are paid legally, or on the books with taxes withheld and paid. They are also eligible when they are not dismissed for a serious infraction, which could even include consistent tardiness. Nannies are not eligible to receive unemployment if they simply quit their job.

The Application Process

Start your process as soon as possible. Applying within the first week of termination ensures that you will not lose any benefits. Each state has different qualifications and requirements to receive unemployment. More details for state to state processes and how to begin them can be found here.

Gather Information

Nationwide, you will be asked about your employment information. You will need the dates of your employment, your salary, and any documentation that describes your unemployment situation, like the nature of your termination. In California, employers must give a written letter explaining an employee’s termination. The reason for nannies will most likely be along the lines of the child outgrew the needs for a full time caregiver and will be attending school.

Give Details

A nanny’s eligibility for benefits depends greatly on the reason for unemployment, and the state will be taking a careful look at the details. You can expect to be contacted by an Unemployment Officer to tell your side of the story, as will your former employer. Nannies who were fired for serious infractions will have a much harder time receiving benefits than one who was let go because the family could no longer afford help.

If You’re Approved

If you’re approved, congrats! However, employers still have the right to appeal a decision, as one unemployment claim could potentially increase the likelihood of future claims. Should this happen, you will be notified of a hearing, which is done rarely in person and usually takes place over the phone.

If You’re Denied

If you are a nanny denied unemployment, you have the same rights to appeal as an employer does. Ask your representative for a second look, and a hearing, also via phone, will likely be called.

Still Look For Work

Unemployment is not a permanent paycheck. The government expects that you should be using your time to apply to jobs weekly. The government can offer you assistance via Unemployment Officers who can assist you in applying to new childcare jobs. It will help your case greatly in avoiding an audit to keep a written record of resumes sent, potential employers spoken to, jobs applied for and interviews conducted. Check out our current listings here. Care.com and SitterCity are also great, free resources for nannies to find work.

What Happens to Your Former Employer When You File?

For nannies who had the ideal relationship with their former employers, they may experience some hesitation in applying for unemployment, for fear of burdening their former family with fees or extra work. Upon filing for unemployment, families will receive a notice of an open claim, but they are under no obligation to act in any way. However, they do have the right to confirm or deny the details you laid out stating the facts of your termination with them and thereby refute your claim for unemployment, so be sure that you are truthful in your application.

For the Future

Nannies should always keep records of your job, especially because it is unlikely to have Human Resources in a domestic setting. It’s a great idea to log times worked, details of any negative incidents, copies of pay stubs and any positive reviews which can help you should you ever have to file for unemployment again.

If you are a nanny now seeking unemployment benefits and need any assistance in the process, please do not hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. Please also check out Homework Solutions, who has fantastic resources available to you

Have you been through this situation with something to share? Let us know below.

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How to Nanny With Stay at Home Parents

Being a nanny with a parent working from home can be a challenge for many reasons. For some children, it can be difficult to adjust to a new nanny or caregiver. It takes time for the bonds to form and for trust to blossom. This can be especially difficult when one or both parents are also working from home. Some children may defer to a parent if they’re just in the other room, to the horror of many caregivers who know that parent happens to be on a conference call. As a new or long-term nanny who finds themselves caregiving alongside a work from home parent, how can you set the boundaries needed for the child to thrive?

Communicate!

While the child is not present, have a conversation with the work from home parent. If the child frequently calls upon the parent during the day, ask the parent to verbally defer to you so that the child hears from their own mouth that you are the authority on all matters. Some parents may not mind being sought out during the day, but it is important that as the caregiver during your working hours, your authority is not undermined in the eyes of the child. Our Honest House Promise details what a positive, healthy working environment looks like for all. Ask the parent leading questions so you both can be on the same page and avoid any awkwardness in front of the child. Some questions to consider:

How do we handle mealtimes and bathroom breaks where you and the child are in the same space?
Do the children need to play in areas away from where you will be working? Does the noise level matter?
If you plan on interacting with the children during the day, how involved would you like me to be? Is there a task, such as laundry or meal prep, that could get done while you interact with them?
If the child needs comfort, at what point would you like to be notified or involved?

Leading questions can help set the foundations for a positive and productive working environment for all. If the idea of communication sets your stomach into knots, here are some effective tips on better communication.

Establish a routine

It is no secret that children thrive under a routine. The idea of having a parent working from home while a caregiver is present may be a novel idea to them, and they will try and push the boundaries to see how they relate in this new environment. Children will want to update their parents during the day, showing them what they made and telling them a funny joke, especially since they’re just in the other room! But designating times throughout the day, such as meal time or “hand off” time where children know that they will have an opportunity to see their parents, can assist nannies in quelling the child’s urge to barge in on the parent’s zoom call to tell them about the especially tasty grape they ate. Here are CDC tips on establishing routines for children.

Create designated areas in the home

Having a “kids section” and a “parents’ work section” can greatly assist in creating the types of spacial boundaries children understand and relate to. Discuss with the parents areas that are “off limits” for the kids and request that you both enforce that with equal measure, ensuring that the message hits home. Having specific play areas that are unique to the child will help make the bitter pill of not being allowed in a certain area easier to swallow.

Recognize that bonding may take longer

If a child has the choice to be comforted by someone they just met vs. the parent in the other room, they will of course choose the parent. If you are having difficulties forming a bond while a parent is working from home, ask the parent to help you form trust with the child by reassuring the child that you are there for them and you can be trusted. If the parent is verbally reaffirming their choice in you, the child will have an easier time opening up. Engage with the child as much as possible during this period, and if feasible, take them on outings where they can more easily recognize you as the caregiver.

Be ready for parents "popping in"

Having a parent that works from home who frequently checks in can make it difficult to establish authority and trust with the child, and can sometimes lead to meltdowns and disruption of activities. This is why it’s imperative that you create firm boundaries and communicate with the parent your needs as a nanny and stick to the schedule as much as possible.

There will always be a learning curve when nannying while a parent is working from home. In any relationship, communication is key. Make sure that you and the parent have an opportunity to voice your needs and expectations so that a clear routine and schedule may be formed to allow the child to thrive and avoid any meltdowns or confusion. At the end of the day, as a nanny you are there to create a safe and loving environment for the child and it is important that both you and the parents remember that often. Look at these tips for developing a happy and healthy parent – nanny relationship.

If you have any questions or concerns or are having a difficult time performing your nanny duties while a parent is working from home, reach out to us and we will do our best to assist you.

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