What is a Nanny?

Full Time Nanny: Is employed by the family and works 24-40 plus hours per week in their home. She may live in or out of the families house and she has made a commitment to the family for a specific and extended period of time (most commitments are for one year with the option of continuing beyond that point, although a nanny may fill a shorter term need if requested). A nanny’s primary responsibility is to care for children. Children’s laundry, transportation, meals, education, development, bathing, and up-keep of the children’s belongings and areas are all well within the scope of a nanny’s job. A nanny is responsible for anything relating to the children during her work hours.

Part Time Nanny: Works on a regular schedule but usually between 10-23 hours per week. She may live in or out of the family’s house. Part time nannies are responsible for any aspect relating to the children while they are working. These nannies have also made a commitment to the family for a specified period of time. They work on a schedule and play an important role in the family.

Household Manager: A household manager is a full time domestic employee. This person's job description will vary depending on the needs of the family. The household manager will have hours during her work day when her duties extend beyond childcare to things such as grocery shopping, errands, organization, appointment making,and general upkeep of the daily needs of the household.

It is important to remember that each family has different needs and job descriptions may vary. Some parents work while others stay at home, and each nanny has her own skills that she can apply to her job description. All of the nannies duties should be worked out before the nanny begins employment to avoid any miscommunication. Any duties performed by a nanny that are not related to the children should be considered above and beyond a nanny’s role, should be appreciated and fairly compensated for, and should not interfere with her ability to safely and successfully provide childcare.