Weekly Trip to the Library

Nanny Etiquette by Lynn Wariara

 "As nannies our duty is to positively enhance and respect the family’s household values not to overtake and usurp their values." Lynn Wariara

Lynn Wariara, author of the new book NANNY ETIQUETTE kindly shared a sample of her book with me to review. The book is merely six chapters and under 20-pages in length. It has quite a few grammatical errors. But, if you can disregard the typos there is some good advice, it's a quick read, at an inexpensive price.

CHAPTER ONE: Professional Nanny Interviewing

The short chapter is divided into two headings: Interviewing Process and Be on time!!!.

Under the heading Interviewing Process the author discusses how to dress on a nanny interview. Ms. Wariara says when possible nannies should wear their hair in a ponytail. She also recommends always asking before holding a baby and to wash your hands before holding a baby.

The next heading is Be on time!!! Prior to the interview the author recommends googling the directions to the interview to ensure the nanny arrives on time. She advises allowing an extra 15 to 20 minutes in case of traffic. She writes, "If by unavoidable circumstances you notice you are going to be late, call them and address your reason, don’t wait till you get there."

Then, she includes more information about the interview process. She urges nannies to introduce themselves with a firm handshake, soft eye contact, and a smile. She explains how to sit with legs crossed. The author cautions nannies not to cut-off the interviewer when they are speaking and not to take over one minute to answer questions because some people are turned-off by others that talk to much.

After thanking the parents for taking time to for the interview the author writes, "Don’t impose an urgency on them getting back to you on your terms, that can also be a turn off. Wait at least two or three days or until the time frame they suggest to you."

Then she explains on the first days of the job to pay close attention to instructions and not discuss or compare your last working position with the one you are in now.

One of my favorite quotes in the book is the last sentence in the chapter: "As nannies our duty is to positively enhance and respect the family’s household values not to overtake and usurp their values."

CHAPTER TWO: Communication Pointers for Nannies

I like chapter two of the book. Ms. Wariara directs nannies to schedule a weekly or monthly meeting with the parents and how to discuss problems that may arise at the job.

She writes, "Emailing and texting is not the correct way of communicating to try and resolve emotional matter. A lot has been and can be miscontrued through written communication, it is better to wait meet face to face."

She continues to describe the proper etiquette of sharing feelings and having conversations about difficult topics with employers.

She includes advice on asking for a pay raise annually and when there is an additional child or duties.

CHAPTER THREE: How a Nanny Should Handle Hiccups/Issues Professionally

In this chapter the author provides a hypothetical situation between a nanny named Susan and her employers, the Smith family. Ms. Wariara explains again that having open and honest meetings with the parents at least once a month can help alleviate misunderstandings.

CHAPTER FOUR : How to Professionally Draw the Line Between Nanny and Friend

Ms. Wariara effectively points out how important it is for nannies to maintain professionalism and separate their private and work lives at all times.

She writes, "So keep your relationship professional first at all times and learn to balance between friendship and professionalism. This will make things way easier and healthier."

She briefly discusses the uncomfortable topic of affairs and sexual misconduct. She says, "I always tell a nanny, If by any chance the client makes a pass at you, then it is time for you to leave the job. Don’t hang around in hopes that the situation might change!!"

CHAPTER FIVE: How to Handle Private Matters of the Family Professionally

In this chapter Ms. Wariara suggests nannies refrain from lecturing parents how to care for a child. She also recommends having a written work agreement to avoid conflicts at a later stage or her employment.

She warns nannies of showing too much affection towards a child. She writes, "Few families let nannies develop a motherly rapport with kids, especially when the nanny is an elderly lady."

CHAPTER SIX: The Essential Nanny Vitamins

This is a cute article describing the best characteristics nannies should have.

You can pick up your own copy of NANNY ETIQUETTE by Lynn Wariara below.