Corazon Redolme

I’m A Nanny – Day #1 6 Tips and thoughts into the first day at the job, how to ace it and thrive, not just survive. 1. Show up. You have probably read tons of how-to’s covering the nanny job you are about to take on. We are sure about it. You can only apply whatever you learned when you show up. Showing up is the first and most significant step to take. You decided to be a nanny, now choose to show up. Being a nanny is a great job, and you are a great gal. Take a deep breath, square up your shoulders and push down any last-minute doubts about the job and yourself, if any. 2. Ask questions. Never second guess yourself if you want or need to ask questions. Even if the topic you want to ask about has been covered previously, don’t hesitate to ask. Lighten up on yourself, this is your first day, and all good parents or guardians know that the nanny that asks is a nanny that cares. Each family is different and asking may uncover details that may have been unintentionally forgotten. Remember that if the parents hired a nanny, the chances are high that they are busy. They may even be overwhelmed. Pre-occupied human beings sometimes forget stuff. No efforts, including asking questions, are wasted when said steps will help serve your purpose better -looking after the kids. 3. Compose yourself and start light. You have asked the parents about anything you might want to reconfirm. Now it is time to ask the kids basic questions like their name or favorite thing. Even if the parents already introduced the kids. Remember to lighten up with yourself and your family. These are kids and remember that no matter how anxious you may be about your first day at the new job, they may also be a bit nervous. If a child is receptive, you may start light activities and ask more while they are engaged. For example, while walking or playing with their pet. Get to know them, and in doing so, you will relax as well. 4. Overprepare. You have a list of notes, which may or may not be followed to the dot, with the latter being more likely. As an adult in the business of caring for kids, making lists is not overrated. Over time, by taking notes, you will see useful patterns, and these will help you settle in more. Like how you thought the kids would like to spend the afternoon when the parents give you and the kids free rein in the matter, versus how the kids would like to spend this time. You can also note down details that you may want to tell the parents later. 5. Overview. Give the parents a casual report of how their kids spent the day. They know their kids and can probably give you a rundown of their activities and proclivities. Still, going over the kids’ day is usually a welcomed gesture if not a required one. Everyday things to tell the parents are: where you and the kids went (even if it’s just in the house), what they did, and what they ate. If there were medications to take, and have been administered, don’t forget to inform the parents. Starting this routine on the first day will go a long way in establishing rapport between you and your family. Not to mention that it is also appropriate. This professionalism will be rewarding to you as a nanny in the long run. 6. Be considerate. This goal may mean cleaning up and may or may not be part of your duties, as discussed with the parents. However, being considerate and thoughtful speaks up volumes about your professional take on the job. Cleaning up after the kids under your care is never demeaning, even if it is not in the contract. Even a bit of tidying up after the little people is appreciated by the parents. Small gestures usually leave good impressions on families. Acts of kindness often come a long way when you need a referral or a recommendation. Caring for children and families requires you to be in touch with your patient and considerate side. Be easy on yourself as well. You did fine on your first day. Rinse and repeat. You are a decent person, a competent employee, and you are on your way to being the great nanny you are. Enjoy your journey!