Should You Choose a Live-In or Live-Out Nanny?

Hi Everyone!

Recently, I’ve had a lot of clients asking me if they should hire a live-in or live-out nanny. There are definitely positives and negatives of both but I believe the most important factor is your family’s lifestyle. Here are some important questions you should ask yourself: Do you have enough room for a live-in nanny? Are you comfortable having someone else in your house all of the time? Do you have a busy schedule and need the flexibility of a live-in nanny? These are things to think about before making your decision. To help you decide, I’ve listed some pros and cons down below:

Live- In Nanny

Pros

  • Flexibility- It is easier for a live-in nanny to be more adaptable to sudden changes in the schedule. They can work split-shifts and will be around in case of an emergency. If your family has an unpredictable schedule, a live-in nanny could be a huge benefit.

  • More Bonding Time with the Child- A live-in nanny will be around a lot more than a live-out nanny. This creates the opportunity for a stronger bond with your child and live-in nannies typically work more hours.

  • No Commute- You don't have to worry about the nanny having a car or getting caught in traffic

  • Additional Care- If you go away and choose not to take your nanny with you, they can help with plant/ pet care.

Cons

  • Less Privacy- The nanny will be in your home most of the time and you will not always get privacy in the common areas such as the kitchen, living room, etc.

  • Extra Expenses- In most live-in nanny positions, candidates will expect to be provided food, a private room/ bathroom, and transportation (such as use of a car.)

  • More Boundaries- It is extremely important to set boundaries with live-in nannies to ensure that it will be the best situation for your family and the nanny.

Live- Out Nanny 

Pros

  • Bigger Pool of Candidates- We typically see the largest number of applicants for full time live-out nanny positions. You will also get more local candidates applying for a live-out position. 

  • No Extra Costs- You are not required to provide transportation, food, or a private room/ bathroom.

  • Complete Privacy- You will only have a live-out nanny for the hours scheduled and will still have complete privacy when the nanny is not there.

Cons

  • Commute- They must have their own reliable transportation and there is always the chance of being late due to traffic.

  • Less Flexibility- They will want a more set schedule and will sometimes not be available for extra hours.

Let me know your thoughts on which one would work better for your family. If you have any questions please email me at info@beaumondenannies.com.

Best,

Emily Bender

Founder of Beau Monde Nannies

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