Creating a nanny/family work agreement is essential to ensure a successful and harmonious working relationship. Such agreements not only outline the professional relationship but also establish clear expectations and responsibilities. Here’s a detailed guide on what to include in a nanny/family work agreement:
Basic Information and Employment Terms
1. Full Names and Addresses: of both parties involved: the employer (family) and the employee (nanny).
2. Schedule: Detailed daily and weekly work hours.
3. Hourly Rate and Overtime: Compensation details according to the state-specific labor laws.
4. Guaranteed Hours: Minimum hours per week the nanny will be paid for, regardless of actual hours worked.
5. Overtime Laws: Understanding of how overtime will be handled.
Roles and Responsibilities
1. Duties for Children: Specific childcare responsibilities, including bathing, feeding, educational activities, and bedtime routines.
2. Household Duties: Clearly define what, if any, housekeeping responsibilities the nanny has.
3. Travel Understanding: Conditions and compensation related to travel with the family.
4. Overnight Stipends: Compensation for overnight care.
5. Vehicle Availability and Gas Reimbursement: Whether a vehicle is provided for transporting children, and policies regarding fuel costs.
6. Communication: How and when the nanny and family will communicate, including regular meetings to discuss the arrangement.
7. Emergency Contacts: List of contacts and protocols for emergencies.
Rules and Expectations
1. Rules of the Environment: Safety and household rules that the nanny is expected to follow and enforce.
2. Screen Time Rules: Guidelines regarding the use of TVs, computers, and other electronic devices.
3. Dietary Restrictions and Allergies: Important health-related information that affects meal preparation and activities.
4. Transportation and Safety Rules: Guidelines for driving children and vehicle safety if applicable.
5. Discipline/Redirection Methodologies: Agreed methods for managing behavior.
Financial and Legal Aspects
1. Credit Card and Expense Handling: If a credit card is issued for work-related expenses, and how to handle receipts and spending.
2. Health Insurance: Whether health benefits are provided.
3. Raises and Bonuses: Criteria and schedule for potential raises and bonuses.
4. Holiday, Sick, and Vacation Pay: Policies regarding paid time off.
5. Advance Notice for Time Off: How much notice the nanny must give when requesting time off.
Contractual and Miscellaneous Terms
1. Regular Review Meetings: Frequency and expectations for performance and relationship evaluations.
2. Separation Agreement: Terms detailing how either party can terminate the employment, including notice periods and any final pay details.
3. Safety Clause: Protocols for ensuring the safety of both the nanny and the children.
4. Signature of Both Parties: Ensure that both the nanny and the employer sign the contract to validate the agreement.
This comprehensive nanny/family work agreement is designed to provide security and clarity for both parties, fostering a positive and respectful working relationship. By addressing all these aspects in the agreement, both the nanny and the family can enter into the employment relationship with confidence and a clear understanding of their respective roles and responsibilities.
