When hiring a nanny, conducting a trial period is an essential step that should never be overlooked. Think of this trial as a test drive where the family and nanny can see if they’re comfortable with each other, and if their expectations align. Success is within reach if you can thoughtfully lay the groundwork during this trial period, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
One common mistake some families make is rushing into a travel situation with a new nanny during the trial period. While it might seem like a good way to get to know someone quickly, traveling with a new nanny can actually be counterproductive. Travel disrupts routines, takes everyone out of their comfort zones, and doesn’t provide an accurate picture of what day-to-day life with the nanny will be like.
Children’s behavior can be particularly unpredictable when they’re away from home. They may act out more, struggle with sleep, or simply behave differently than they would in their usual environment. Suddenly, what could’ve been a fabulous partnership turns south due to petty quarrels and frustration. Mixing childcare with new surroundings is a recipe for chaos as consistency is the glue that holds it all together.
Forming a strong bond with your nanny before traveling together is vital – it’s the secret to a harmonious adventure. Trust, understanding of each other’s communication styles, and familiarity with the family’s routines and expectations are all important foundations that should be laid before adding the complexities of travel to the mix.
Rushing into a hire out of desperation, whether it’s for an upcoming trip or any other reason, can lead to poor decisions. It’s understandable to feel pressure when you need childcare, but making hasty choices often leads to disappointment and the need to start the hiring process all over again. The reality is that precious time and resources are simply thrown away, sapping everyone’s energy and leaving the kids feeling emotionally drained.
Instead, a trial period should be part of the regular day-to-day routine. By immersing herself in daily family life, the nanny gets a firsthand look at morning chaos and nighttime wind-downs. It gives everyone a chance to see how they interact in real-life situations, how the nanny handles challenges that may arise, and how well their caregiving style aligns with the family’s needs and values.
Take note of the nanny’s communication style and how she talks to the children, and how she connects with you. Observe how they handle discipline, how they engage the children in activities, and how they respond to the inevitable hiccups that occur in daily life with kids. As you sit down with the nanny, encourage them to pepper you with questions. What do you do on rainy days? How do bedtime routines go? This is their opportunity to suss out your needs and flaunt their expertise.
Remember, a good trial period isn’t just about the family evaluating the nanny. At the same time, the nanny can use this opportunity to decide if the position checks all their boxes. Open communication during this time is crucial. Encourage the nanny to share their thoughts and concerns, and be prepared to provide feedback as well.
While it may be tempting to rush the process or test a nanny in a high-pressure situation like travel, resist that urge. A well-conducted trial period in a normal, day-to-day setting is invaluable in ensuring a good match between a family and a nanny. With a solid base in place, you open the door to a productive alliance that benefits all parties, with the children’s welfare at the forefront. Take the time to do it right, the investment in a proper trial period will pay off in the long run with a harmonious and successful nanny placement.
