Bringing toddler out in the rain

[RainRainRain123]

Just started a new nanny position. Mother of the child (20 months) is quite insistent that he should be brought out twice a day even if its raining. He has rain gear, I do not. Just arrived this morning to be told he loves the library, its only a 30 minute walk each way, it's lashing rain here. I said if it eases of later I will get out with him. Questioned me yesterday if we went to the park. Has sent me numerous groups, all of which are at least 20 minutes walk away, not allowed take him out in the car. Where they live is also quite hilly and buggy isn't the best.

Mam seems to walk everywhere and always has her rain gear on. AIBU to not want to go out twice a day when the weather is bad.

Are you made of sugar? This is the UK in winter - it rains! People can’t just stay in for months on end! Children need fresh air and routine. Get a raincoat or umbrella and crack on.

I don't see that her expectations are unreasonable. Also surely you weren't expecting to stay indoors with him when it was raining so I don't see why you don't have any appropriate outdoor clothing?

I'm with the mother here and I wish there were more people like her. I can't stand staying in all day and will happily go out in the rain to get some fresh air. If you want to continue working for this particular family, I'd get a big waterproof, some cheerful looking wellies and learn to love the rain.

Does she work at home? Maybe she wants you out the way. How many days do you have the little one? What's wrong with the buggy? Doesn't sound like this position is for you.

I would suggest you get some rain gear!

Why aren't you allowed to use the car?

You need to have the appropriate equipment for your job, and that means a raincoat and rainproof trousers. It's part of your job.

to be honest it sounds like she has made her expectations clear. if you are not happy to do as she asks then maybe this isn’t the job for you?

All kids should be outdoors, whatever the weather. It's brilliant for everyone's mental health. If you stop doing things in the UK (if that's where you are) just because of the rain, you'd never leave the house. Buy a coat.

So if it rained for a week you wouldn't go out? Buy a cagoule and take them out.

Your not going to melt it's only a bit of rain. Invest in some rain gear, it sounds like you'll be using it a lot.

I would definitely want him to get out doors regardless of weather but I wouldn't micromanage that.

Can you get a raincoat/waking boots off Vinted?

Put a coat on.

How do you not have at least a raincoat in your life?

do you literally never go outside when it rains?

Yeeeees get out there! Get proper wellies and a coat and you'll have a great time. DC bloody loved being out in the rain when they were little. So many puddles and so much to see, it's like a theme park out there. 😁 I always took mine out at least once a day, rain or shine and I have such fond memories of mucking about in the rain. We're not made of sugar like my dad used to say (and still does tbf).

So yeah, I think I would be the mum in this scenario. 🙈

Well unless one is related to the Wicked Witch of the West, going out in the rain is simply a matter of waterproof shoes and a macintosh. Maybe an paraplut too.

I'm with the mum too, we frequently walk in the rain me getting wet while the small person is warm and dry in his wheelchair under his waterproof poncho and blanket. Get rain gear if you want to stay in this position or look for something else if you're unhappy with the expectations.

AIBU to not want to go out twice a day when the weather is bad

Twice a day if it's absolutely pouring, blowing a gale and freezing is a bit much, although we always try to take our 2 yr old out at least once a day, even if it's just a quick run around.
But it sounds like you don't want to be out in the rain at all. And 20 mins is not a long walk.

OK, seems like I am being unreasonable. All of the other positions I have had the parents have never been so insistent. Points taken, I will get my raincoat on.

Plenty of affordable rain gear on Amazon and Asos too. It doesn't have to be expensive Rains stuff. You can get a coat & trousers for under £40. Wellies for another £15 or £20 - look on Ebay or Vinted for better quality. I'd also get waterproof gloves (Decathlon?) if you're pushing a buggy.

If it’s was your kid you can choose to stay in but it’s her kid who you are employed to look after so you’ll have to follow her wishes

I would stop at gale force winds, danger of tree branches falling down, that sort of thing. But a bit of light rain, no. As long as you're both wrapped up warm.

I hope you have some good wellies!

Sounds like you will benefit from walking. 20 minutes is no distance at all and neither are the hills. If you find it strenuous, then more reasons to go out and build some fitness and stamina.

Will probably make your work easier too as the fresh air and exercise will make the toddler nap better and most likely be in a better mood than if cooped up inside all day.

Just get good rainclothes, don't skip the rain trousers - they really help you keep warmer and dryer, especially if you go to the park and want to sit on a bench for a rest

I think twice a day in very poor weather is maybe a bit much. But I think getting outside daily is important for kids. It also seems that some of this isn’t about getting outside it’s about going places like the library, groups, etc. If the ones the mother has suggested are too far, then find some closer ones and ask if they are suitable. You’re meant to be replicating the experience a child would get with a stay at home parent, and parents don’t generally just sit in their house with the kids day after day. They have to run errands, attend groups/classes, go to local libraries/parks/softplay/cafes/etc.

We go out in all weathers, it's only rain.