What Should a Nanny Do All Day? Understanding the Role of a Nanny

A nanny provides help around the house that daycare can’t, but a family’s budget often decides. Celebrity nannies earn up to $185,000. A live-in nanny works 10-12 hours, 5-6 days, with a day off. Some families require 24-hour care.

Dinner ladies supervise students dining, ensure they wash hands and don’t waste food.

Misconceptions and Challenges

Many think nannies just watch children play. That’s far from true. Nannies face criticism for choosing this job. It’s hard to relate if you haven’t cared for kids yourself. I’m often met with silence after saying "I’m a nanny."

Job Description and Expectations

An au pair differs from a nanny. Nannies typically do chores related to kids, like meals, laundry, cleaning rooms. They leave the home as found. Required skills include experience and certifications.

The nanny-family relationship isn’t clearly defined like other jobs. But good faith regarding schedule is expected. Suggested tasks:

  • Play half hour each awake hour
  • Read
  • Meals
  • Snacks
  • Groceries
  • Wiping noses

A nanny provides quality, comprehensive care – feeding, changing, tummy time, naps, routine. They may do light housework and meals but that’s not the primary role. They may take kids to activities if agreed upon, depending on the need for supervision.

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