Speak softly and carry a big stick.” -Teddy Roosevelt

The Teddy Bear is finally living up to the words of its namesake. Nanny cams have made their way to the beloved stuffed toy. The use of obvious cameras result in an obvious disadvantage. If indeed your nanny or sitter cannot be trusted, the undesired behavior may take place out of the camera’s view. An object such as a teddy bear is quite common in any home, especially one with children, and will probably not be suspected as a recording device.

The cameras placed in teddy bears are called “Pinhole” cameras because of their size. These cameras placed in teddy bear nanny cams are designed to record a surprising amount of space despite their small size. The recordings are generally transmitted through wireless adapters and can be viewed on a DVR or from any computer. You have many options when choosing a teddy bear nanny cam including resolution, color vs black and white and if you would like audio. Keep in mind that it is legal to record video with or without a person’s consent, but recording audio may not be allowed in your state.

You do need to be aware of a few things when using a teddy bear Nanny cam. First, it needs to be placed on a shelf or in some stationary position. This is not a bear that is for playing and cuddling. Its purpose is to comfort you, not your child. In order to promote anonymity, you may want to place it on a shelf with other “pretties” and things that are not usually moved. You also need to research the quality of a cheaper camera. While micro-cameras are a reliable technology, they are still developing. You will generally get what you pay for. Finally, while it is legal to record your home and those working in it without their permission, you need to consider the ramifications of such an action. It may be that your sitter is fine with being recorded, just not with being recorded secretly. Talking with your cargiver will maintain an open relationship between you and may give a clue as to whether she has something to hide.

The soft, sweet teddy bear is now equipped with a “big stick,” accountability between you and your child’s care provider.