The Nanny is on the phone again
By jureathome
@jureathome (5361)
Philippines
April 27, 2012 10:21am CST
Lately, Ive been noticing my daughter's nanny on the phone talking to who knows who and I can hear her voice the moment I open the door from upstairs. She's only been with us for a month, and she used to hide her phone from our sight, but now she's leaving it just anywhere and can't seem to live without it.
I didn't mind her texting or talking on the phone, because anyway, she's done with the chores and my daughter's busy playing.
But, I'm concerned that she may abuse it and later on will just leave my daughter unattended because she's busy with her business on the phone.
Are you particular about phone use, with your househelp, babysitter, or nanny?
How do you set fair rules with them?
2 people like this
5 responses
@LushVelvet (20)
• Philippines
27 Apr 12
Well you can talk to her about that frankly just try to be sensitive about what she may feel.You can tell her that it's okay for you to use her phone always as long she would never leave your daughter unattended.She already knows what's her obligation as a nanny and if you think she's not doing her job well a simple conversation could fix it.
2 people like this
@jureathome (5361)
• Philippines
20 May 12
That's right. I just have to remind her but I'll find the right timing so I won't sound like I'm always breathing at her neck.
@thinkingoutloud (6127)
• Canada
27 Apr 12
Well, where I live, it's not common to have househelp or a nanny... and babysitters would only be on a few occasions to have a night out or to tend to an appointment, for example. But, if you have regular, paid help in your home, then you have the right to set your expectations. I would simply let the nanny know that you expect your daughter to be her priority (which is, I assume, why you hired her). You can certainly ask her to limit her personal phone calls and texting to times that your daughter is napping or otherwise safely occupied... much the same as you would do yourself. As you said, she is certainly entitled to a break and you can let her know you realize that... but you just want to be absolutely sure that you are both on the same page about what you expect in return for payment for her services 
1 person likes this
@jureathome (5361)
• Philippines
20 May 12
I actually didn't know she has a cellphone when she started. So, it wasn't part of the initial reminders I've given her. She kept her phone out of sight for about a month. But, now, she has gone comfortable bringing it with her around the house and even leaving it on the table.
1 person likes this
@thinkingoutloud (6127)
• Canada
21 May 12
Makes sense... it's like being in a relationship with someone and both people are on their "best behavior" in the beginning... and then, as they get comfortable together, the bad habits start to show up 
I would nip it in the bud and speak to your nanny, though... you can tell her that you notice she has a cell phone and you see she is comfortable using it throughout the day. Just tell her you expect her not to be on the phone when your daughter is active. Ultimately, you're paying her to be your nanny so she should accept your request without hesitation.
I would nip it in the bud and speak to your nanny, though... you can tell her that you notice she has a cell phone and you see she is comfortable using it throughout the day. Just tell her you expect her not to be on the phone when your daughter is active. Ultimately, you're paying her to be your nanny so she should accept your request without hesitation.1 person likes this
@jureathome (5361)
• Philippines
21 May 12
They were at my mother's place for a visit, while my husband and I had to do some stuff outside. I asked my mother to give her some advices and reminders while she's there. Apparently, I seldom see her holding her phone in the house. So, that was a good move. Thanks.
If she wants to use her phone, there should be a limit to it and she should still keep her sight on who she's babysitting.@jureathome (5361)
• Philippines
9 May 12
If only it was that easy to find a new one everytime they do something that pisses me off. However, it would take time before we can find replacement, and then we have to retrain and all.
I would really call her attention if I catch her doodling on her phone in the middle of her job, but so far, I just see her using it when she's done with her tasks at hand.
@jureathome (5361)
• Philippines
29 Apr 12
And, how did you manage to deal with your nanny? Did you stop her from using her phone?
@riempie9 (1021)
• South Africa
18 May 12
I think if the nanny has done her chores, the child is contented and playing with her toys, she is fed and her diaper is dry, that a nanny should be able to use her phone. She should not use YOUR phone for anything. And she is not allowed to leave the baby on her own at any time. Toddlers put things into their mouth, they can choke, they can slip, they can fall down the stairs. The nanny's first job is the child and her needs and to always be within sight.
@jureathome (5361)
• Philippines
18 May 12
That's right, and I hope she keeps that in mind, even if my husband and I are away.
When my kid was only a year old, she attempted to touch the turning electric fan blade, and it gave her a bad cut. The nanny was too engrossed in watching tv, and lost track of what my daughter was doing. I was really very mad at the lady and I wish I could just strangle her. 
@jureathome (5361)
• Philippines
19 May 12
I'm sure she was also scared and couldn't forgive herself for not having done her job well, and caused my baby an injury. And, that incident did teach her a big lesson. I noticed a big change on how she looks after my daughter. So, that made me feel better.
