13 Jul Do’s and Don’ts for Traveling Nannies – Everything You Need to Know

If you are passionate about traveling and nurturing young minds, consider being a traveling nanny. The prospect of exploring new destinations as a perk of the job is fascinating. However, you need to approach this role professionally and preparedly. Before embarking on this journey, it’s essential to have a compass of knowledge about what to and what not to do. Here is a complete guide on do’s and don’ts for traveling nannies!

Do’s For a Traveling Nanny

1. Have a clear conversation about salary and responsibilities

Money matters can sometimes be uncomfortable to discuss, but addressing them upfront is crucial to avoid misunderstandings. Transparent communication is the key to fostering a positive and professional working relationship. Thus, you must have an open and transparent discussion about the remuneration you expect as a traveling nanny. Confirm whether it’s on an hourly, daily, or weekly basis. Also, chat about additional compensation for overtime hours with your employer.

Furthermore, you should also define your responsibilities, such as feeding the child, taking them to the park, and putting them to bed. Confirm whether you’ll be assisting the mother in caring for the kids or you’ll solely be responsible for everything. This conversation helps you understand the parents’ specific needs, allowing for a personalized caregiving approach.

1. Confirm living arrangements

Traveling nannies should always make it a priority to confirm their living arrangements with their employers. Imagine the frustration and inconvenience of getting on a plane and reaching your destination to discover no room reservations or accommodations are arranged for you. This awkward situation can easily be avoided by confirming the living arrangements beforehand with the parents.

Ensure you have a designated space where you and the kids you’re looking after can stay comfortably. It includes discussing whether you will have a separate room or if you will be sharing accommodations with the kids. Sometimes parents may request the nanny to share the room with a baby and attend their nighttime awakenings. Don’t hesitate to ask for appropriate compensation for overnight hours.

1. Plan and pack accordingly

Planning and conducting thorough research about the destination you’ll be traveling to as a nanny can make the trip a breeze. Gathering information about the climate, local customs, and potential safety concerns gives you an insight into what to pack and how much to pack. Additionally, it would help if you collaborated with the parents to plan age-appropriate activities for the children and pack their favorite toys, picture books, and comfort items.

This level of readiness helps set realistic expectations for the journey ahead. You can mentally prepare yourself for the different experiences and adventures. So, get your sunglasses and catch that flight confidently because you have packed everything you or the children may need for comfort and happiness throughout the trip.

1. Be flexible and adaptable to any unforeseen circumstances

Traveling can be fun but also full of unexpected twists and turns. Things may turn out differently than your plans. Unforeseen circumstances are always possible, even if the trip is planned meticulously. As a traveling nanny, you need to be flexible and embrace such events with a positive attitude. You should exude professionalism and remain calm when faced with flight delays, unexpected weather conditions, or changes in your employer’s travel itinerary.

Children are sensitive to the emotions and reactions of those around them. They will get anxious if they sense panic or stress in your demeanor. So, you must be adaptable to any situation and put on a brave face to help the children remain calm and feel at ease. Your positive and composed attitude creates a sense of trust and reassurance for the children.

Don’ts For a Traveling Nanny

1. Overstep boundaries

It’s natural to feel a sense of connection and develop a close bond with the children and their parents during your time as a traveling nanny. However, remember that you are a caregiver, not a parent. So, refrain from overstepping your role in making major decisions without consulting the parents. Maintain professionalism, communicate openly, and be mindful of their personal space to create a comfortable environment for everyone.

The boundaries set by parents can encompass various aspects, including specific rules or restrictions that may be in place for the trip. Moat families don’t want the nanny to drink alcohol during the journey. It’s always best to communicate openly and honestly with the parents if you have questions or concerns about certain boundaries.

1. Ignore parental instructions

Parents know their children best, and their guidelines and instructions are based on their understanding of their child’s needs. Ignoring their guidelines may lead to unintended consequences compromising the children’s well-being. It also undermines the trust placed in you. Don’t forget you are there to provide care and support, not to replace or undermine the parents’ authority.

Parents may provide specific instructions on childcare, such as meal times, nap routines, discipline techniques, and screen time limits. Listen attentively and follow the instructions diligently. Respect their parenting choices and only implement your methods with prior approval from the parents/guardians.

1. Forget to document important information

Don’t overlook the significance of documenting important information while traveling and caring for children in a new environment. They may encounter changes in temperature, humidity, and allergens present in the background. It can affect their health and comfort. So, a comprehensive record of children’s routines, medical history, and allergies can help you anticipate and tackle potential health issues.

Maintaining organized records can be simple. You don’t have to go overboard with the record files. Keep a notebook or digital document with the necessary information. Nonetheless, prioritize accuracy and maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information.

Being a traveling nanny is not a vacation but rather a professional commitment. Although the opportunity to travel may be an enticing aspect of your role, you still need to act professionally and take responsibility. Maintain transparent and open lines of communication with the parents and respect their authority. Remember these guidelines, and you’ll have a smooth ride as a traveling nanny.