It can be extremely stressful to have someone in your house with your child, this can render many parents to feel vulnerable, a feeling that no parent enjoys. Because of this, many parents are opting to install nanny cams in their home so that they can check in and review what happens with their children
For those of you who aren’t sure about what a nanny cam is, as the name suggests, a nanny cam is a camera placed in a house (often there are more than one), to keep an eye on your nanny babysitter or your children. Characteristically, they are installed in more than one strategic location throughout your home to gain a clear view of your nanny and child.
While, in honesty, no one can tell you if you should or should not use a nanny cam, you should discuss the subject with your nanny, preferably before the employment begins. If the nanny is not comfortable being taped it gives your nanny a chance to find other employment opportunities and you the chance to find a nanny who is comfortable. If the nanny does not object to being filmed during working hours it is always good to have a written and signed, employer work agreement.
The main benefit of a nanny cam is getting assurance that your children are being cared for effectively and safely. Trusting a near-stranger with your children can be extremely difficult, and a nanny cam can help you be sure you hired a responsible and honest caregiver.
It also might be a good way to spot things that you and your nanny need to chat about. For example, if you see her spending a lot of time texting, you may want to come up with an agreement where she only texts when the kids are napping. Do your kids seem to be playing indoors too much? Maybe they need frequent trips to the park.
Nanny cams can help you to check on your children when you’re not home. A nanny cam allows you to your house, and those in your home as if you were there. Using a nanny cam offers you the opportunity to observe events in your children’s lives, as well as see how they doing with your nanny.
Either way, it is important that you do a throughout background screening on a nanny before you hire them. Criminal record checks, references, verified education and employment history are all important when hiring someone to work in your home with what is most precious to you.