How to survive the nanny ‘transfer-window’
Phylis Webi, a HR practitioner who shares tips on what to do after your house help does not return after the holidays.
When the new year rolls in, so does the dreaded 'nanny crisis' for many families. Suddenly, you're left juggling chores, kids, and work without a safety net.
But you can turn the chaos into calm and keep your home running seamlessly. Phylis Webi, a Human Resource practitioner and founder of HR@Home conversations says that parents can handle the phase of not having a nanny by getting temporary help.
"Hire someone part-time, perhaps a day-burg for tasks like laundry and cleaning. This will ensure the house stays organised, even if your regular nanny is away."
She adds:
“You can split up the tasks among family members and create a weekly schedule to keep things running smoothly while at it. Batch cooking is also another tip that can help moms who are left with no house help.”
Signs your nanny is not coming back
Ms Webi says one signal that your nanny or house help is unlikely to return is if they request additional time off.
"If they start requesting extended breaks, it could be a sign they're planning to leave. Sometimes, nannies may use this as a way to test their employer's patience or ease into their departure."
Secondly, they pack up all their personal belongings when travelling home and become unreachable on the phone.
"If your nanny stops answering calls or texts, it could mean they've decided to move on."
Reasons for leaving include low pay, heavy workload, unclear work hours, lack of leave days, unmet expectations, or personal reasons like further education, starting a business, marriage, or other family commitments.
Ms Webi says employers should maintain open communication with their nannies as this helps in addressing any concerns early and ensures that if a nanny plans to leave, an amicable notice period can be agreed upon. "It's essential not to be hostile when a nanny expresses their desire to move on."
Once the nanny leaves and you hire a new one, Ms Webi advises employers to have a checklist that includes work experience, salary expectations and the right documentation
"Get a feel of who they are. If possible, have a trial period to see if they're a good fit. A trial run helps you assess how they handle tasks and interact with your family before making a long-term commitment."
On documentation, she advises:
Ensure they have a national identity card (they must be over 18), and a recent passport-sized photo. Ensure they have the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) number so that they are covered by health insurance.
"Take their National Social Security Fund (NSSF) number, emergency contact and next of kin details, their certificate of good conduct, referees who will help you understand their work history and reliability and also request letters of recommendation from the local leader or religious leader."
Last but not least, have a clear employment contract that
ensures both parties are on the same page as this can prevent misunderstandings down the road.”
Orientation
Ms Webi says you can smoothly transition with a new nanny by welcoming them warmly in your house.
"Show them around your home and introduce them to the family, so they feel comfortable. A friendly introduction helps build rapport and allows them to get acquainted with their new environment."
Secondly, go over house rules.
"This could include things like where they're allowed to go, taking photos of your children or expectations for meal times. Setting boundaries early on avoids any confusion later."
Additionally, you should outline job responsibilities. "Be specific about their duties — whether it's childcare, cooking, cleaning, or other tasks. Let them know any preferences or routines you follow, and which medical concerns or allergies they should be aware of."
You should also set up a work schedule which should review their hours, breaks, days off, and how to request time off if needed.
Ms Webi also shares that you should explain safety procedures like fire exits, first aid kits, and emergency contact numbers. If they'll be driving, explain how to handle traffic emergencies.
Lastly, discuss the living arrangements. "If your nanny will be staying with you, go over the living arrangements and what facilities they have access to. Discuss where they'll sleep, what amenities are available, and any other necessary details to make them feel comfortable in their new space."
