Telltale Signs of Nanny Troubles: What To Watch Out For and What To Do

Doctor Says
Child psychologist Boots Mendoza gives a few telltale signs that may tip you off on nanny troubles in your home:

1. Check the kids for bruises, welts, or wounds before going out and check them again when they get home. “One good way to do this is to be the one to give the kids a bath at night,” she says.

2. Observe the child’s behavior. There might be something wrong if:

• your child doesn’t want to be left alone with the nanny in the morning even if they were okay during the trial period
• your child seems to be frightened or becomes aloof 
• your child remains distant and never seems to warm up to nanny
• the nanny seems uninterested in her job, and frequently asks to leave (or sneaks out of) the house.

Tot’s Mischief
Mendoza, however, noted that parents shouldn’t be quick to judge. “They have the right to be suspicious, but it shouldn’t be a habit and shouldn’t go overboard.”

Parents should be able to tell if the children are merely complaining or just telling on the nanny to attract attention. Observe your child and how your child relates with the yaya. It is always best to investigate first and be open to reason before doing anything drastic. “Wait for the right time to snoop and check,” she said. “Also, if an argument arises, bring in someone who is willing to listen to both sides. However, try to handle the problem within the family; bringing more people into the argument might just complicate matters more, rather than solve it.”

SOURCE:

• Boots Mendoza, child psychologist

Photo from flickr.com