Never Be Condescending to Your Boss

Nanny Confessions: Keep Your Attitude in Check

I confess, working as a nanny for 20-years I have developed some pretty strong opinions about how to raise children. I have a point of view on the best way to get infants on a sleep schedule, how to potty train them, and a preferred philosophy about disciplining kids.

But, while I do sell the fact that I have many years of working experience and a college degree when interviewing for nanny jobs – what has landed me my jobs is my attitude. No matter my age or my expertise, respecting the parents’ choices and opinions, and humbly following their directions, may be more important than many years of know-how.

Many of the parents I have worked for have had completely different parenting styles. While it may have upset me in the past when I thought a parent was too strict or too lenient, what I have noticed is that all of my previous charges have turned out great! They are all growing into wonderful young women and men (despite a few natural growing pains along the way).

So this week, I confess that while I do think it’s okay to gently share my insight with my employers, it’s vital not to overstep professional boundaries. Whenever I feel I know a better way to raise a child, I must always remember that I am not the parent of the kids left in my care.