When a nanny applies saying:
‘I don’t do kids’ laundry’
‘I don’t cook for the kids’
‘I don’t organise their clothes or toys’
(it’s happening more often than you’d think, and some parents see red…)
Every nanny has the right to set boundaries and negotiate responsibilities, but setting it as a rule that you won’t do any child-related tasks… are you sure this is the role you want?
Being a nanny is more than a job. It’s hands-on care, helping children thrive in their daily lives. That naturally includes tasks like meals, laundry, and organizing their clothes and toys.
Let’s be real: some of the things candidates are refusing these days are… well… the core of what being a nanny means.
Boundaries are important, but not every household is fully staffed. It’s equally important to understand what the role truly entails.
Of course, if you’re expected to do the ironing while chasing a toddler, that’s not childcare, it’s unrealistic. And let’s be honest, being asked to cook for the whole family or handle all the family laundry? That’s not why you became a nanny.
Boundaries matter—but so do the basics of childcare: meals, laundry, organizing toys.
If you’re unwilling to do basic child-related tasks, isn’t it better to rethink the kind of job you’re applying for?
Nannies, where do you stand? Is this reasonable boundary-setting, or part of the job? What counts as childcare vs. household work?
Parents, what are your non-negotiables when hiring a nanny? What tasks do you expect to be included in childcare vs. household help?
