What is nanny burnout?
Nannies are highly committed individuals who give their all to their role. Unfortunately, this dedication can lead them to become physically and emotionally exhausted. Signs of nanny burnout include irritability, unexplained tiredness, and dips in performance.
1) What is nanny burnout?
Caring for children is highly demanding, and nannies often work long hours with limited opportunities for adult social interaction. Over time, this can lead to a state of mental or physical fatigue known as nanny burnout.
Many potential stressors can trigger nanny burnout; often a combination of multiple factors over an extended period is to blame. These factors might include unrealistic employer expectations, low remuneration, poor work-life balance, and an inadequate support network.
2) What are the signs of nanny burnout?
Signs of nanny burnout include:
Chronic fatigue
Reduced motivation
Disturbed sleep patterns
Changes in appetite
Irritability
Reduced job satisfaction
Whether you're a nanny or a parent, it’s important to be aware of nanny burnout’s early signs. This is a problem that often creeps up slowly and goes unnoticed until your nanny reaches the breaking point. It can result in a prolonged absence from work or even the end of the working relationship. Fortunately, early intervention can help your nanny and your family avoid both of these scenarios.
3) How to prevent nanny burnout
Nannies and their employers can help prevent nanny burnout by forging a healthy working relationship built on clear boundaries and expectations and open communication.
Long-term childcare arrangements can be highly rewarding for parents and their nannies alike. Over time, though, the intensity of the family-nanny relationship can become overwhelming. You should take time to regularly check in with your nanny, even if you've worked together for years. Feeling taken for granted or underappreciated is a surefire path to nanny burnout for even the most dedicated nanny.
Changes in your home life may accumulate over time, adding unseen, additional pressure to your nanny's workday. For example, when your oldest starts school, that means one less child for your nanny to care for during the day. It also means your nanny will have to navigate the logistics of school drop-off and pickup with your other children in tow.
At Sommet Nannies, we only work with experienced nannies who understand the rigors of daily family life. We’re here to help parents create realistic expectations of their nannies' roles and responsibilities. We’re also on hand to assist should any issues arise.
Welcome to Sommet Nannies, a nanny agency with presence in Boston, Chicago, Washington DC, New York, and nationwide. We help busy families find dedicated and caring college-educated nannies.
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