Preparing children for a new Nanny

VFor children it can sometimes be exciting when a new Nanny comes to visit. Preparing the children for a new Nanny is an important process that can contribute to a smooth transition and a positive relationship between the Nanny and the children. With the following six tips you can prepare the children well for a new Nanny!

• To comfort

Start with an open and age-appropriate conversation about why there is a new Nanny is needed. Reassure them that you will always be available and will not be away for long. In addition, it is also good to tell positive stories about the Nanny and to introduce them in advance. This can ensure that they better understand why this change is going to happen and are less anxious about it.

• Create involvement

A child deals better with changes if he or she gets the feeling that he or she has control over the situation. You can create this feeling by, for example, having your child give the new Nanny a tour or telling them the house rules. It also helps if you can explain to the children that it can also be exciting for the Nanny. This will also reassure them that they are not the only ones feeling this way.

• Discuss expectations

Talk to your children about what they can expect from the new Nanny in terms of routine, activities and rules. It is important to review the house rules together with the Nanny and children. Give the Nanny space to have a good time. Make sure you emphasize that the Nanny is there to care for them and protect them and above all make it a really fun day.

• Plan fun activities

Planning fun activities with the Nanny can ensure that they quickly make a positive connection with the Nanny. Because they do fun things with the Nanny and do not get bored, children soon find it great fun when the Nanny comes. Fun activities can be outdoors or indoors, such as going to the zoo, play park, baking cookies, coloring, etc. 

• Comfort attributes

Encourage your children to have comfort items (such as their favorite toy or blanket) with them when the new Nanny arrives. This can create a feeling of security and so they will never be “alone”. 

• Reflection of the day

It is very nice for children that, after the Nanny has left, they can still tell their own story about their experience. Ask what they did, what was fun and what was less fun? Can the Nanny come again? If they do not feel comfortable with someone, it may be better to look for another Nanny. Above all, listen to your instincts. 

Some children are not at all enthusiastic about a (new) Nanny at the beginning, because they secretly hope that you will not leave, even though they had a great time. It can therefore help to ask the Nanny too! This way you will all work it out.

Remember that every child is unique and the reaction to a new Nanny may be different for each child. Pay attention to their emotional well-being and be prepared to make the necessary adjustments so that you can provide a positive and enjoyable environment for your children, the Nanny and yourself!

For more tips you can also read the articles below:

1. https://nl.care.com/magazine/gezinnen/8-manieren-om-je-kind-voor-te-bereiden-op-een-nieuwe-oppas/ 
2. https://www.allinmam.com/wennen-aan-een-nieuwe-oppas/