nanny doctorOther than you and your significant other, your nanny is one of the most important people in your child’s life. It may be hard for some parents to think of their nannies in this way for various reasons, many related to your own feelings about being separated from your child, however your nanny’s relationship with your child is an incredibly important one. One of the most important aspects of the nanny-family relationship is being on the same page so that your child is guaranteed to be living in the most nurturing and healthy environment possible. If you and your nanny have a harmonious relationship, your child will benefit ten-fold!

1) Communicate: This is the #1 focus for having a healthy relationship with your nanny. Make sure your expectations are laid out clearly and that she understands what is needed from her – she will appreciate it and the whole family will benefit! This should start during the hiring phase: your job description needs to be clear and thorough. Don’t add any surprise duties after the agreement is signed.

2) Give her what she needs: Make sure she is equipped with everything she needs to do the best job she can. Ask her if she has everything she needs to do the best job possible. Does she need storage containers for toys? Maybe she recommends a particular booster seat. You won’t know until you ask.

3) Be Available: Make sure that your nanny knows that she can contact you at any time if she needs something. Email, phone number, and text messaging are all useful. Let her know if you don’t answer right away, you’ll get back to her as soon as you can.

4) Trust her: trust will build overtime but it’s the cornerstone of your relationship. She needs to know that you have confidence in her and her ability to care for your children.

If you keep these 4 top tips in mind, you will be on your way to having a great relationship with your nanny

Lindsay Heller, known as The Nanny Doctor consults with families and nannies around the globe and can be found on Facebook, Twitter (@TheNannyDoctor), and her website: http://www.TheNannyDoctor.com.