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Original poster

Nanny bringing own child?

31 replies

ReaganSomerset · 12/02/2019 11:08

I'm meeting a prospective nanny who would like to bring her own child along every day when she comes to work. My DD will be a year old, hers is a few months younger. I like the idea of the girls growing up together, but I'm not sure how it would work in practice. Does anyone have experience of this set up? Can it work? Or should I search for a traditional nanny set up instead?

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Original poster
ReaganSomerset · 12/02/2019 14:03

Have you thought about a double buggy? Two cots? Two car seats? What about when her child is unwell? Play dates? Baby classes?

It's a good point, and I have considered that. I'm curious to see if my prospective nanny has. I think it would probably work better if the children in question were older. The cots/highchairs/buggy thing makes it trickier. Thanks for your viewpoint.

@iSiTbEdTiMeYeT1 thanks for sharing your experience. I think I've nothing to lose by going along and asking her but I'd rather not start with her as a nanny if there are serious concerns still afterwards to save on disruption if it's not working out.

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iSiTbEdTiMeYeT1 · 12/02/2019 13:36

I work as a nanny and take my daughter with me. I make a point of prioritising the children I work for over my daughter during work hours. She is much younger so 99% of activities are tailored for the older children.
I also do not charge less as I'm still doing exactly the same work.
I would just make it clear on your expectations, if they feel they cannot complete house work or some such due to her bring her child then it's time to negotiate a lower price.
Perhaps try a longer probation period so you all have time to see how it works out?
You can but try, make your expectations clear and voice your worries at interview. Perhaps their answer will set you at ease?

Imperfectsusan · 12/02/2019 11:30

I wouldn't do it, based on the two examples I have seen. The mothers always priorities their own. I think it might work if there is a decent age gap, eg two years.

7salmonswimming · 12/02/2019 11:28

I would never do this, honestly. Your child will always come second.

Also, the nanny will essentially be paid to raise her child in your home, using your child’s toys, feeding her child your child’s food, using your child’ nappies. You’ll find your child will miraculously start napping at times that suit her child better than yours. It’s only natural.

Have you thought about a double buggy? Two cots? Two car seats? What about when her child is unwell? Play dates? Baby classes? Looking after both kids at the playground? Will both children be sleeping through the night? What if your child just doesn’t want to be with another child all the time?

Being in sole charge of twin babies and toddlers is completely different from dealing with singletons.

Original poster
ReaganSomerset · 12/02/2019 11:23

It is relatively inexpensive as nannying fees go, £10/hour gross.

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TortoiseLettuce · 12/02/2019 11:17

I’d expect it to be cheaper as she’s spending part of her time looking after her own child and isn’t 100% focused on your child.

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