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A Complete Guide To All Things

 

Nanny Share!


WHAT IS A NANNY SHARE?

Many families are looking for alternative forms of childcare that fit their unique lifestyles and budget. Nanny sharing could be the perfect option!



What is a Nanny Share?

A Nanny Share is the most affordable way to employ a nanny!

Nanny shares can be established in many different ways, but the most common share occurs when two families employ a nanny to care for their children at the same time. This allows the families to split the cost of the nanny, and share the employee management responsibilities. This is typically called a full nanny share, and is usually a full-time position for the nanny (40 hours per week). 

A partial nanny share is also an option. This occurs when families only need part-time childcare, but the nanny is looking for a full-time position. Typically, two families split the 40 hour schedule, and have more freedom with how they want to manage the nanny. 


What are the benefits?

Affordability:

  • Cost of a nanny share is lower than being the sole employer of the nanny

  • Each family typically pays two-thirds of the average rate, so each family saves on the cost of childcare while nannies earn more!

  • Benefits of having a personal nanny, but at a significantly reduced cost

Socializing with other kids:

  • Social benefits of daycare services, but more attention for each child

  • Strong friendships between the children

  • Stimulating and familiar environment while getting in-home care

  • Improve social skills like sharing and independence

  • Lower risk of spreading germs and getting sick

Schedule flexibility:

  • No strict daycare closing times

  • Opportunity for personalized schedule that fits the families' unique lifestyles

Help with household chores:

  • Tasks such as laundry, ironing, doing the dishes, tidying up, and meal preparation are some common job requirements for nannies

  • Reduces the stressful household responsibilities of share families

Convenience:

  • Most nanny shares are established between families that live close to each other

  • Makes drop-off and pick-up much easier

  • Don't need to worry about getting stuck in traffic, or running late


What are the disadvantages?

Management Styles:

  • Have to find both a nanny and a family, all of whom must get along and be satisfied with all parties involved

  • Need to share the management of an employee with another family, and be able to solve any conflicts that could arise

  • Also require similar parenting styles in terms of things like disciplinary actions

Financial Cost of One Child:

  • Costs of childcare vary depending on state, and daycare may be a cheaper option

  • Also depends on the number of children per family; a nanny/nanny share will almost always be the most cost effective solution for a family with more than one child

Payroll Complications:

  • Household employees must be paid in accordance with tax and overtime laws

  • Splitting costs between families can get complicated when families have different work schedules and require varying hours of care


What should be considered when finding a share family?

Family Logistics:

  • Location of both families

  • Where the share will take place

  • Work schedules

  • Compatible ages for the children

  • How long the share setup will last

  • Nanny wage, and other expenses

  • Payment methods

Family Philosophies and Personalities:

  • Discipline/parenting styles

  • Technology rules

  • Vaccination beliefs and requirements

  • Conflict resolution tactics

  • How to handle a sick child or nanny

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Is it better to find a family or a nanny first?

There is no wrong answer to this question - sometimes you'll have a family in mind for a nanny share, but you could also have a nanny that you're looking to start sharing. Either situation can produce a successful nanny share!

If you're starting to set up a share from the beginning with no one in mind, it is typically best to find a share family first. This can avoid any power dynamic struggles that can occur when one family already has a strong bond with their nanny, such as:

  • Lack of flexibility - They are already comfortable with their schedule and location; sharing can be a tough transition.

  • Favoritism - The original family could seek special treatment for their child since they already have an established bond with the nanny.

  • Differing parenting styles - The nanny and original family could have a clear parenting strategy that neither wants to deviate from.

The benefits of finding a family first include determining the type of nanny share you're both looking for and with that the required hours you will need, the nanny wage expectations of both families, as well as parenting philosophies just to name a few. 

Overall, as long as everyone involved is on the same page, you're one step closer to finding your perfect childcare situation!

Check out these great interview tips to help you find a nanny share!


How do you start a Nanny Share?

Whether you're looking for a nanny or a share family, there are a few ways to get your nanny share started! 

1. Nanny sharing websites

Nanny Lane is a great resource to find both a family and nanny for a nanny share! It's really easy to use, and includes a built-in matching system to help you find the perfect fit for your unique childcare needs. All you need to do is:

  • Create a profile - tell families and nannies about yourself!

  • Browse and connect - message users to find the perfect fit.

  • Hire or invite - click 'hire' or 'invite' to send your offer!

It also offers a payroll service, so you can find everything you'd need to start a nanny share in one place.

Want to get started? Sign up here!

2. Facebook Groups

There are tons of nanny share Facebook groups available in most major U.S. cities. It's a great way to advertise what you're looking for, and connect with potential matches. You'll have the chance to learn more about them via their social media account as well.

These groups are also a welcoming environment to ask questions, and learn more about how a nanny share works. 

3. Word of Mouth

Mutual friends can help you connect with the perfect candidate! They could know other families that are looking to start a nanny share, or have personal experience with different nannies. They're actually a great, reliable resource for nanny recommendations.  

Playgroups and activity classes are also a great resource. You could meet neighbourhood families with similar-aged children, that are also looking for alternative childcare situations. 


Still have questions? Check out the rest of our resources and determine if a nanny share is right for you and your family!