Should I Tell Nanny That I am Using a Nanny Cam?

You’ve employed the same nanny since your oldest was one year old. She is wonderful with the children, and you enjoy her company during the off-hours. You’ve never really had a reason to distrust her, but neither did the growing number of parents whose children were neglected or even abused by their beloved caregivers. That concern has led you and your spouse to decide to place nanny cams in your home. What will your nanny think if and/or when she finds out?

Many caregivers, especially ones with nothing to hide, are comfortable with the idea of being monitored while working. A big part of her reaction will be dependent upon your relationship to this point. If you have treated her as an employee to this point, surveillance may seem a natural course of action. If she has been more of a family friend doing your family a favor, a nannycam may seem to be an offensive lack of trust. This is not to say you can’t have a friendly relationship with your child’s care giver, but you should not ignore the reason she is working for you.

The main concern that caregivers have expressed regarding nanny cams is a lack of communication. Nannies that would be fine with surveillance if you informed them may be opposed to a camera they are unaware is operating. This “secrecy” might make her feel as though you don’t trust her specifically and that it is a personal matter. It may be in your best interest to inform your care provider that you are installing cameras in the home, and that it is a simple matter of security and nothing against her personally. Her reaction may give you an idea of whether or not she is the nanny for your family.

Some caregivers may have a problem with video monitoring no matter the situation. This may be a red flag to you indicating that there could be something she is hiding. Keep in mind that hidden cameras are completely legal whether or not the employee is informed. If you feel that monitoring your child is your top priority, then whether or not that particular nanny is comfortable with it will be a non-issue. You can always find another nanny; you can never replace your child.

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