Received Thursday, October 20, 2006
I work as a nanny in San Ramon, California. I have observed a nanny who lives *quite* nearby on a regular base, encouraging the two boys that she nannies for to fight. I have seen them *around* their house. This play goes beyond the normal fighting as the nanny acts like a WWF coach and encourages them on. Because of the set up of *the homes* in this area, this does not happen in plain sight. Rather this is the kind of thing that is revealed when you hear a noise and check further in to it. My boss whom I have worked for for three years and am quite close has also noticed this behavior. She and I have even talked about it but neither of us wants to be slapped with an MYOB. Reading this blog, I am shocked that even anonymously, people are screamed at for submitting what they feel is a concern to the child's well being. But here it goes, the nanny you have had since the end of the summer is encouraging your children to fight on a near daily basis. This goes beyond usual fun and games. Listening to her comments and whooping and hollaring, I feel she gets some sort of sadistic delight from these fights-which she stages. Your boys are in second and fourth grades. I hope this is enough information for you the parent to look closer at the new nanny.
This is an ongoing and dangerous situation and the best you can do is an anonymous blog post? If anything happens to these children during these fights it will be as much your fault as the nanny's. As a child care professional you should be prepared to deal with difficult situations such as these. Leave a note in the mailbox if nothing else!!
ReplyDeleteI didn't know Courtney Love had a new job.
ReplyDeleteDon't be so judgmental. Obviously it pains her. Her boss knows of it too and not even she can stand up to a nanny? Please don't come on here and act so high and mighty. I have been in a situation where I had to go on anxiety medications because I couldn't help the children. It isn't always easy. But it should be easy. Can't we come together and think of a way to make it easier?
ReplyDeleteYes, this is one of those "mandatory" reporting situations, although the previous commenter could be a litle less nasty about it.
ReplyDeleteAs a nanny, you are a mandated reporter but responsible for the children in your care. Not your neighbors. I am not saying that is right-but it just is.
ReplyDeleteThis is bizarre and dangerous. I understand being apprehensive about approaching the nanny (or the parents), but I definitely think you should let them know what is going on. This blog is a great resource for spottings when the identity of those involved is unknown. In your case, an anonymous note in the mailbox would do the trick and preserve your identity.
ReplyDeleteI like Annie's idea
ReplyDeleteuhh they are boys! she obiouslly allows them to be that. and DOES supervise them to make sure they are PLAYING and not ACTUALLY fighting.
ReplyDelete