Qualities of the Family/ Nanny Relationship
What makes one partnership thrive while others go their separate ways?
I often ask myself this question. As a nanny placement consultant for the past 15+ years, I am in constant study of why a partnership either flourishes or fails. It’s my job to help these partnerships blossom.
Some of the most influential people in history have had nannies and touted their love and admiration for their caregivers. Winston Churchill’s nanny not only shaped the man he would become but had also been given credit for transforming a nation.
That is pretty powerful when you think about the potential influence your nanny can have on your children.
THE ROLE OF YOUR NANNY
The number of families with two working parents has more than doubled since the 1970’s so inlay the growing need for the Nanny. The existence of the ‘nanny’ is not a new concept and it continues to thrive in modern society.
Nannying dates back to the 17th century although respect for the profession has come a long way, there is still a very long way to go. The modern-day nannying position is as complex as ever and navigating how to find a balance within the household can be challenging.
We have all heard of “nesting” or a “blended” family and I think the word “melding” is a great way to describe the family/ nanny partnership.
It’s when a family and their caregiver form a strong lasting bond. It goes beyond the typical employer/ employee relationship. It’s when both the family and nanny merge to create something better. A concept in holism.
Related to the idea that the total effectiveness of a group of things each interacting with one another is different or greater than their effectiveness when acting in isolation from one another. If you and your caregiver have the same goals in common and both care equally about each other with then create more melding.
A RELATIONSHIP THAT LASTS A LIFETIME
There is a certain kind of magic that occurs when you genuinely care about someone else. Just like a beloved pet, child, friend or family member, your nanny may also become a part of the family and if you are lucky enough to meld with your nanny it is a healthy part of the process.
It means both parties mutually respect each other, are in stride with one another and are truly cultivating a village of support around the child/ren. It’s cheesy but it really does take a village!
The tricky thing is that kids grow up and nannies move on to impart their knowledge and love to the next family so just remember, this is an extraordinary person in the lives of your children and your family.
They may become more important in the lives of your children than you think. So make sure to show your nanny how much you care about her. How much of a positive impact she makes and how loved she is.