Nanny Etiquette

There are some general rules that need to be considered when you are working as a nanny or an au pair in addition to any individual house rules of the family that might apply.

We highly recommend to follow these rules to avoid any uncomfortable situations.

What’s encouraged

• Safety of the kids is most important – such as applying sunscreen, wearing hats and make sure they are drinking lot of water on hot days, wearing warm clothes when it’s cold outside and always holding their hands when you crossing the street with them.
• Discipline without using physical punishment, smacking is not something that is looked upon favourably and is illegal too.
• Always keep the parents informed about any accidents (however minor) that occur, and likewise if the children are sick or distressed when they are with you, regardless of how you think they might react to such facts.
• Keep track of the things the children do and say so you can keep the parents informed of their growth and development.
• Children should be fed and put down to nap at the times set by the parents to ensure the children get used to a set routine.
• A Nanny should contribute to children’s learning by doing things like reading and allocating time for them to do their homework and spend time on their interests.
• Driving safely is paramount when driving the children anywhere.
• Household chores can be part of your job.
• Always respect the privacy of the family by not snooping or eavesdropping.
• If you notice or suspect any signs of child abuse or neglect with the family you are working with or if you have any concerns we would encourage you to contact Child Protection Helpline on 132111 (24 hours/7 days)

What’s discouraged

• Do not leave the children alone, specially when bathing the children or walking the street or spending time near a pool.
• Alcohol or drugs while working are not permitted or within 24 hours of needing to be at work.
• Unless you have received permission from the parents to do so, do not invite any personal guests over even whilst the children are asleep.
• Don’t go against the requests of the parents when it comes to feeding the children, including treats and always strive for a healthy well balanced diet.
• Don’t ever swear or speak badly of the children’s parents in front of the children.
• Do not use the television to substitute for keeping the children engaged.
• Children should not watch movies or play with toys that are inappropriate for their age.
• Don’t allow the children to regress when a parent has asked for assistance with things like weaning a child off a bottle or dummy, moving from nappies to pull-ups or changing their sleep patterns, just to make things easier for yourself.
• Finances that are supposed to be spent on the children is reserved for that only, so you are not allowed to spend it on yourself.
• Attachment-Even though you will form bonds with the kids and family, don‘t get too attached because that will make the transition to a new family very difficult when you have to leave.
• Avoid imposing your values , be religous or cultural on the children, especially if it's contrary to what the family believes in.