Nanny fear ?

[Childcaremama]

Just wondering if anyone else can't get comfortable with having a nanny looking after their kids. It sounds odd ( and I know of so many people who are happy with their nannies) but I just can't get comfortable with the thought of having a nanny. I have just been offered a new ( and badly needed) well paid full time job, which I am considering not accepting because I just can't get comfortable with having a nanny. (Other forms of childcare will not work due to long hours and we have no family nearby). I have a preschooler and a 5 year old so it's not as if they are helpless babies. I have always worked and dcs spent time in nursery so it's not as if I can't leave them. We are lucky in that we can afford a nanny rather than a childminder. I wonder if it's something to do with losing control?

Just wondering if anyone else has experienced this?

What exactly is it that worries you?

Did you not feel you lost control over what happened to them when they went to school / nursery?

As a nanny I can understand that parents are anxious about leaving their children with a stranger, so try to make the transition as easy as possible, sending photos, texts with details of how much milk taken, that sort of thing, though for some parents that may make them worry more if a baby goes on milk strike.

You will probably find the reality is not as bad as you're imagining.

Hopefully when you interview some nannies you will find one that 'feels right'. It's a more personal relationship than a childminder as the nanny will be in your home and you need to find a nanny that you feel you comfortable with and can get along well with. As the employer you will be much more in control of your children's day than if they go to a nursery or childminder and if you get the right nanny it will make your life much easier - no getting the children out of the door in the morning, coming home to children that have had their tea and maybe even bathed and ready for a bit of quality time with you before bed. The nanny should do the children's washing and change their beds and help the children keep their rooms tidy which is a bonus if you will be working full time.

Is it the fact they will be on their own and in your house doing what they like compared to a nursery setting where there are lots of other adults?

Have you met any nannies yet? What were your first impressions?

Do you have a dp/dh? Have you discussed your fears with him - what died he say?

Do you want to take this better paid job or is childcare an underplaying factor iyswim?