How to prepare for a job as a live-in nanny
Working as a live-in nanny is a unique and rewarding experience. For some, it’s the ideal set-up in a competitive housing market or a rewarding way to commit fully to a job while able to save money. For others, it’s a great way to move to a new place and immediately have both work and housing arranged from the get-go.
Live-in nannying does provide some challenges that babysitting or live-out nannying does not, so it does require some careful preparation and clear communication. As you’ll be living in the home of the family you work for, it's essential to set expectations and establish boundaries before you start, some which you may not have thought of yet.
This guide will help you navigate the key aspects of preparing for your role as a live-in nanny, so you can rock it from day one.
Communicating your needs
Working as a live-in nanny is professional position, which of course means that there will be expectations set on you about your tasks and expectations. However, since you’ll be living in the family’s home, it is fair for you to also communicate your needs and make sure they are aligned with the family’s offering.
Before you start your job, communicate any specific needs or preferences you have, and see if the family is able to accommodate them. This includes:
Allergies and dietary restrictions: With a live-in job, the family is expected to pay for your food. If you have food allergies or specific dietary needs, discuss them with the family beforehand. This ensures that meal planning can accommodate your needs, and avoids any uncomfortable situations at mealtime.
Personal preferences: If you have particular preferences for your living environment, such as needing a desk in your room for after work, or it’s important to you to have your own bathroom (which is a given for many families, but sometimes hard in urban settings with smaller homes), it’s best to express these needs upfront. This helps avoid misunderstandings later on.
Remember, this is all a part of conversations during the hiring process. A family may not want or be able to accommodate some of your preferences, and you may be flexible on certain points as well. The more of this that is settled up front, the less there’s a risk there’ll be disappointments or conflicts down the line.
A written contract is key
Having a written nanny contract is essential for any nanny, but maybe especially so when working as a live-in nanny. A written contract will reduce the risk of conflict, disagreements, and misunderstandings. It protects you in case your work situation is not up to par. This contract should cover all aspects of your employment, including:
Accommodations: Your contract should clearly outline the living arrangements provided by the family. This must include a private bedroom and possibly a bathroom, but it’s important to confirm the details. Will you have free access to their kitchen? Laundry facilities? Common spaces when you are off the clock? Will you have a separate entrance? All of these details should be clarified in writing.
Work hours and compensation: Ensure that your work hours, days off, and compensation are all clearly stated in the contract. Live-in nannies often have set schedules, but because you live where you work, it’s crucial to establish boundaries to avoid being “on call” all the time. Make sure overtime pay is addressed if applicable.
Duties and responsibilities: The contract should list your specific duties, such as childcare, meal preparation, or light housekeeping, so that expectations are clear from the start. Live-in nannies typically handle more housekeeping than other nannies.
Discuss your off days
Another key aspect of preparing for a live-in nanny job is discussing the household setup as it applies to your personal time:
Guests: If you plan to have guests over on your time off, discuss this with the family before you start. Some families may be fine with occasional visitors, while others might prefer that you don’t entertain guests in their home. Don’t forget to cover potential overnight visitors.
Living arrangements on off days: If you plan to spend your off days elsewhere, such as with a partner or in your own home if you have one, discuss this with the family. This can help set expectations about your presence in the home and ensure there’s mutual understanding about your schedule.
Additional considerations
When preparing to work as a live-in nanny, here are a few more things to consider:
Privacy and personal space: Make sure you have a clear understanding of your privacy when off duty. While you’ll be living with the family, you’re entitled to your own space and time. Discuss what areas of the house are considered private versus shared, and make sure you have a comfortable place to unwind after work.
Work-life balance: Living where you work can blur the lines between professional and personal time. It’s important to establish a routine that allows you to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Setting clear boundaries and sticking to your agreed work hours is key to preventing burnout.
Cultural and lifestyle fit: Before committing to a live-in position, consider whether the family’s lifestyle and values align with yours. This includes everything from their daily routines to their approach to parenting. A good cultural and lifestyle fit is crucial for a successful long-term placement.
It’s a conversation!
Remember, all of these are negotiable thoughts meant to help you find a position and a family that are a great fit for you. The family should want the same thing – a nanny who is a great fit for them will stay longe and give them peace of mind.
You’re not coming into this conversation demanding to hang out in the living room on your off time or declaring that you’re going to have visitors come stay for weeks on end, just as the family isn’t saying you have to sit quietly in a closet when not working. All of it is a conversation before the hire, to see what you can agree on and what makes everyone comfortable.
Are you ready for a live-in nanny job?
Working as a live-in nanny can be an incredibly fulfilling job, offering the chance to become a valued part of a family. If you’re ready to take on a live-in nanny position, or if you have more questions about what to expect, reach out to us here at Smart Sitting. We only work with the best, but it allows us to personally get to know our nannies and hand pick the nanny jobs that are just right for each individual nanny. It also lets us maintain a community with loads of resources, meet-ups, and support to elevate your professional childcare career year after year.
Do you have what it takes to be one of us? Apply via the link below, and let’s find you a great live-out or live-in nanny job!
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