Dear DNB,
Our youngest of four is starting first grade. Now that all four kids will be out of the house during the day, we will no longer need a full-time nanny. However, my husband and I don’t get home from work until after 6 PM, so we’re trying to find a solution for after-school care for our kids. What do you suggest?
Sincerely,
No School Nancy
Dear No School Nancy,
Congratulations, your babies are growing up! We have two solutions to help you transition successfully:
1. Transition to a family assistant
A family assistant is part nanny, part personal assistant. When your children are home, she’s taking care of the kids. Tasks include meal prep, playing, helping them with their homework, and driving them to and from their activities. While the children are at school, her focus turns to household management and errands. This typically includes grocery shopping, prepping school lunches, folding the laundry, managing other household staff (gardeners, cleaners, etc.), running to the dry cleaner, and whatever else you may need.
Remember, nannies and family assistants have very different skillsets. Since a family assistant has more responsibilities, their starting rates are higher.
2. Hire a temporary nanny part-time
A temporary, part-time nanny is the perfect solution for families with ever-changing needs. Whereas a permanent nanny stays with a family for at least one year, a temporary, part-time nanny works 4+ hours per day on a weekly or monthly basis. Just like with a permanent hire, you will need to establish a set schedule and a guaranteed weekly minimum.
There are an exuberant amount of no-school days per year, not to mention seasonal breaks and holidays. For busy families that still need consistency and continuity, a family assistant or a temporary, part-time nanny are ideal options. You’ll never have to scramble for childcare.
Whatever you decide to do, the important thing is that once you’ve found the right person, you can sit back, relax, and let your personal Alice Brady work her magic.
Good luck!
Love,
DNB