Can You Afford a Nanny?

This is a guest post from Monta Fleming.  Monta the mother of three children serves as an Expert Advisor on multiple household help issues to many Organizations and groups, and is a mentor for other “Mom-preneurs” seeking guidance. She is a regular contributor of “gonannies.com”. You can get in touch with her at montafleming6Atgmail dotcom.

Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Childcare is not something you can take lightly. If you are like most middle to upper class Americans, then both parents work. So, who is home watching the kids? Sometimes you have family members that are willing, or other alternatives like daycare or preschool. But what if you want something better for your kids? What if you do not like the corporate environment of daycares and need more than just a few hours of school? Then a nanny is the answer.

Today’s nannies are not glorified babysitters. They are often well educated and talented people, who choose a career of helping parents to raise responsible, intelligent children. They do more than just make sure the kids are fed and cared for. Nannies often provide the first steps to education, cook healthy meals, and make sure that the house is kept up. They also take the children to and from school and activities, and make sure that the schedule is followed. They come up with fun learning activities. They do a lot more than just watch the kids. And, best of all, they do it all in the safety and comfort of your home. No more dropping off teary eyed tots. Instead, your children stay in an environment that is familiar and comfortable to them, and free of the germs that hordes of other kids bring in, too.

Okay, you say, all this is really great. I love the fact that my kids will be getting one on one attention and care. I love that they will get the education and nutrition that fits my lifestyle. I love that they will get sick less. But the thing is, aren’t nannies expensive? Do I have to be rich to afford a nanny?

Well, the answer to that is no, you don’t have to be rich. I am not saying that nannies come cheap, but if you factor in the money you are paying for daycare or private preschool, plus the time you have to spend away from work, plus the time you spend shuttling your kids to and from activities… Well, it all adds up to more than you think. It can actually be more affordable to hire a nanny then what you are currently doing.

Alright, so you have added it up, and you still think hiring a nanny would be too big of an expense for you to take on at this point. Plus, you say, don’t kids need to be socialized? Well, there is still a way you can make this work. Called nanny sharing, a co-op with another family in your area could be just the ticket. Your families could agree to share the expenses of a nanny, and alternate houses daily or weekly. That way your child can still be socialized, but in a much more controlled environment. Both children would get much more attention than at a daycare, and they would be safe in your home, eating and learning according to your lifestyle.

Whatever you do, do not dismiss the idea of a nanny out of hand. If you take the time to really sit down and add everything up, I think you will see the advantages of hiring a nanny far outweigh the disadvantages.


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