Being a nanny is a wonderfully fulfilling job for many people. It’s a job where you can genuinely say that you are making a difference every day in the life of a child and their family. Unfortunately, it is also a job that can sometimes feel very isolated. So how do we, as nannies, go about making sure that we stay connected and fill our cup with adult interaction and nanny friends?
Join Nanny Facebook Groups
There are tons of groups on Facebook dedicated to keeping nannies connected. Whether it is to share ideas and best practices, to ask for and offer advice, or to just be part of a community of like-minded individuals, these groups can be great! Many agencies have their own groups for nannies employed through them. Check out Boston Baby Nurse and Nanny’s Facebook group – it’s open to anyone interested in joining and is a great way to make nanny friends and stay connected with others!
Nanny Outings and Playdates
Getting out to meet up with other nannies for outings, playgroups, or playdates can be an awesome way to make nanny friends. So how do you find out about these outings? Head back to those Facebook groups! There are often groups that are specific to the area in which you work, which can be a wonderful way to connect with local nannies and plan get togethers at public places.
Meetup.com is another site that can help you find local parent/nanny outings. Can’t find the outing of your dreams? Think outside the box and create your own meetup that others can join! Think about things you and your nanny kids love to do and bring the fun to you. You can even plan events for after work hours if you are looking for “child free” time to socialize with nanny friends!
Safety tip: Always air on the side of caution, and meet in public initially so that you can be sure the person you are talking to is who they say they are! Also, prior to attending any playdate at someone’s house, be sure to check with your nanny family to be sure that they are comfortable with it!
Get Out of the House
If you are looking to stay connected to the outside world, pack up the kids and find a local story time, craft time, or other child focused event in town. Often local libraries will host weekly events in their children’s section. These are excellent (and free!) ways to get the children out and participating in age appropriate activities, while also allowing you to meet other nannies or parents.
Playgrounds, splashpads, and local children’s museums are also places that can be full of other nannies or parents looking to make some local connections. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to people!
Build a Network & Stay Connected
Surrounding yourself with a positive and professional network of peers can make a huge difference in your mental wellness and overall lifestyle. Most importantly, try to connect yourself with nannies that have qualities that you yourself hold or admire. These are people that will impact your emotional wellbeing, and are also people that you are exposing your nanny children to. Spending time with people who ignore their children, text non stop, or complain constantly can have a negative impact on both you and your kids. Keep it upbeat and you’ll find that you are a better nanny for it!
About The Author
Sarah Proctor has worked with young children for over 25 years as a teacher, childcare director, nanny, and mom of two girls. She has her Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education and Administration from UMass Amherst. In addition, Sarah has her Director 2 certification from the Department of Early Education and Care.
