travel expenses for part-time nanny?

[Maria2007]

Hi, just wanted to ask a question to all you wise MNetters. We have a part-time nanny- 24 hours a week, has been working for us since our DS was 5 months, and we're very happy (he's now 1 year). She asked me recently (very politely & nicely, without demanding this at all) whether I should be paying all or part of her travel expenses.

She uses a greater london weekly travelcard, and uses a bus to get to us & back. She also uses the bus sometimes (not that often) to take DS to local soft-play centres or playgroups. I tend to give her a small amount of pocket money per week for a coffee etc, but I hadn't thought of paying her travel expenses, given that she would have the bus travel card anyway.

What do people usually do? Should I pay part of her weekly bus card? Is that fair? or is it up to her to cover her travel expenses to our place & back?

She should pay her travel expenses to get to work and back but you should be paying them for her to take your child out.

I'm a bit unsure - the trips she takes your child on the bus might be free for her (because she has chosen a particular type of travel card) but in theory - I think you should reimburse her for any bus trips taken to play group etc.

I would offer 5 quid a week, as a good will gesture, and just offer less for coffee if need be.

As you are in London, some things are free... like Museums - whereas where I am, many places to take children are charged (at least for the adult, and for over 3's).
Costs for activities/places to visit will vary from location to location - so you will need to establish what is a reasonable amount for your area.

pmsl @ cultral exp&tapas