PRIVATE PLACEMENT GUIDE FOR NANNY SUPPORT

Placement Details:

  • Client: [Client's Name]

  • Start Date: [Insert Date]

  • Working Hours: 06:30 AM – 16:30 PM

  • Children: One toddler (3 years), one infant (a few months old)

1. Expected Duties

As a private nanny supporting a mother of two young children, your role will include (but is not limited to):

Childcare Duties:

  • Assisting with morning routines (dressing, feeding)

  • Preparing and serving meals/snacks

  • Stimulating age-appropriate play and educational activities

  • Outdoor play and walks (as instructed)

  • Nappy changes and toilet training (if applicable)

  • Nap time supervision

  • Bottle preparation and sterilization for the baby

  • Supporting the mother with baby care as needed

Household-Related (Child-Focused Only):

  • Tidying up play areas

  • Washing and folding children’s laundry

  • Keeping nursery and kitchen (child areas) clean and organized

  • Packing away toys and preparing for the next day

2. Professional Conduct and Expectations

  • Always arrive on time, groomed and in uniform (if applicable)

  • Maintain respectful and open communication

  • Maintain confidentiality at all times

  • Respect the family’s values, privacy, and parenting style

3. Discussing the Contract with the Client

You and the client should have a formal meeting before starting to review:

  • Duties and boundaries

  • Working hours and overtime

  • Salary and deductions

  • Leave policies

  • Trial period (if applicable)

Tip: Keep everything in writing for clarity—ideally in a signed agreement.

4. Family Dynamics & Meetings

  • Understand the family’s routines and parenting style

  • Be observant, respectful, and ask questions where needed

  • If you have any concerns or need to raise questions, request a private conversation with the parent during a quiet moment (e.g., after the children are asleep)

  • Regular check-ins (weekly or bi-weekly) are encouraged for smooth communication

5. If Arriving Late

  • Notify the client immediately via call or message

  • Apologize and explain the reason

  • Consistent lateness may result in termination, so always plan ahead for transport delays

6. Negotiating Salary

When discussing salary, consider:

  • The number of children

  • The level of responsibility (e.g., infant care is more demanding)

  • Your experience and qualifications

Talk confidently and respectfully. Be open to negotiation but ensure the pay reflects the workload.

7. Leave Days, Tax & UIF

  • Clarify the following with the client:

    • How many paid/unpaid leave days you are entitled to

    • Sick leave procedures

    • Will the client register you for UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund)?

    • Will tax be deducted or are you being paid as a "net" salary?

8. Payment Details

  • Clarify:

    • Will you be paid weekly or monthly?

    • Payment method (cash, bank transfer, etc.)

    • Will there be payslips?

    • Will salary be increased if hours extend or duties increase?

9. Uniform

  • Ask if there is a required uniform (e.g., plain black pants and a top, apron, etc.)

  • If not, wear neat, comfortable, and practical clothing

  • Closed shoes are advisable for safety

10. Cameras/Nanny Cams

  • The client may have cameras in the house. These are typically for security or peace of mind.

  • Always act professionally and remember that your actions might be recorded

11. Caring for Two Children

  • Baby care will often be priority when the mother needs rest or is attending to the toddler

  • Be prepared to manage both children calmly and efficiently

  • Follow a routine and adapt as needed

  • Communicate with the mother if you feel overwhelmed or need support

12. Support and Additional Info

  • You are not alone—speak to the mother if you’re unsure

  • Keep a daily log or verbal report of the child’s day: meals, naps, moods, activities

  • Be patient and flexible, especially during the adjustment phase

13. Placement Duration

  • Ask the client how long they expect the placement to last:

    • Is it permanent, temporary, or a fixed-term (e.g., 3 months)?

  • Understand whether there will be a trial period and what the expectations are for long-term employment

14. Final Notes: Family Dynamics & Routine

  • Every family has different dynamics. Watch, listen, and adapt respectfully

  • Learn the household routine:

    • Wake-up and nap times

    • Meal times

    • Rules and discipline approach

    • Visitors (e.g., grandparents, helpers)

Don’t be afraid to take notes or request a routine sheet if it helps you stay organized.

? Summary Checklist:

✅ Duties understood
✅ Contract discussed and signed
✅ Working hours confirmed
✅ Payment terms agreed
✅ Leave and UIF discussed
✅ Family routines reviewed
✅ Clear communication plan
✅ Professional, respectful behaviour at all times