AIBU to hire a nanny?

[froggydoo]

Hello all

Not a biggie but just wondered AIBU?

I'm going to start a 3 month contract at work in the new year which will involve working 3 x12 hour shifts each week (on consecutive days). Some weeks I will be working overnight 10pm - 10am. I have an hour long commute each way.

I have two DCs - 4year old in nursery 9-12 daily, 6 year old in school. Nursery and school are 1.5 miles apart. There is no childminder who can pick up both of the kids, trust me ive REALLY looked.

So I've decided the only way to deal with childcare is to get a nanny on a temporary contract.

But I've just been surprised by the number of people who've reacted with amazement - "really, you're going to get a nanny??? WHY?" as if I'm trying to show off, or make a big fuss of nothing. I think it's the only viable option, or AIBU?

If that is the most suitable option for you then that is the most suitable option. People are probably surprised as it is the more expensive option but if you can afford it then do it.

Err your life, your choice..I wouldn't ask anyone's opinion on something like this.

Sounds like a good idea

As you have learned, people have a very strong reaction to the word 'nanny'.
It is apparently acceptable to send your child to be looked after by a childminder in someone else's home but it is a social no-no to have someone look after your children in your own home. I don't get it.

Just go ahead and organise the best childcare option for your family. (If you want an easy life, tell people you're getting a babysitter!)

I think I'm most surprised that anybody cares- I mean as long as people aren't leaving their DCs in the care of wolves, I couldnt give a monkeys what they do with their kids!

Was just a bit surprised that a whole bunch of people decided to question my sanity over something like this.....

Sounds like a very good idea.

Good idea whatgoodisthis - I can't tell the kids they are getting a nanny as they will either expect mary poppins or Maria Von Trapp to walk in. And anyone short of Julie Andrews will be a bitter disappointment to them!

I thought you will say you are both at home and you want to hire a nanny.

Well, you go to work and you hire a nanny. What is the problem? Do your friends lock the kids in the cupboard?

With three kids it would be more expensive to pay per head (ie childminder).

Or is it you that thinks you are doing something so non-ordinary?

good idea. I think I Will have to do the same, despite only working part-time, due to shifts. It is cheaper than nursery

I think maybe my friends are expecting someone to turn up in the playground in a uniform! It's basically just a. Childminder who will work only for me.

I DO know lots of SAHMs so I guess I don't move I circles where having a nanny is commonplace

YANBU - my friends who use childcare are typically split 50/50 between nanny and childminder. It is what works for you and your family that is important.

Smileitssunny

Hmmm... not unless you have 3+ children... on top you your nanny's net salary (nannies seem to talk in terms of net wage) you also have to pay her employees NI and tax, plus employers NI and tax. Plus extras for the daily kitty for activities for the children, plus extras in terms of heating and electricity, plus food whilst on duty for the nanny.