Since returning to work from maternity leave we’ve gotten a nanny and I have to say, it’s been the best decision ever.
I was in such denial about how soon I would have to return to work that I didn’t even bother to look into childcare up until about two weeks before I had to return (okay, it was the week before), at the suggestion of my husband. At a subconscious level, I knew that once I started making childcare plans, returning to work would be very real, instead of something I’d be doing in the somewhat distant future. I wasn’t ready to physically leave my babies, nor emotionally. After some phone calls, I soon realized that many day cares in the area don’t accept infants. The ones that do, I just didn’t have a good feeling about. I was told that the one day care I did like had a lot of violations (staff hitting the children and neglecting the children, so no, thanks). When my dad recommended a nanny who was a friend of a friend, and had just stopped working for another family, I decided to meet with her. I wasn’t too keen on having the girls stay with a nanny at home, but I decided to meet with her anyway.
I met with her in her home, which was immaculate — always a good sign — and she was very warm and kind. I learned that she had years of experience caring for children, was first aid-certified, and had references available. Not only was she great on paper, but I also had that good feeling that I had the first time I had to choose a day care. When I was looking for day care for Olivia, I literally chose the first one I walked into (sorry, Mom. I know I told you that I did an extensive search and background check, but the truth is I didn’t). It was one of those moments where my mother’s intuition kicked in. Turns out, it truly does exist.
It’s been about a month now with our new nanny, and my home and its members couldn’t be happier. She’s been such a great help to us. She’s there first thing in the morning and helps with the kids while my husband and I are getting ready for work. She plays with Olivia and makes learning fun for her. Each night when I get home, Olivia’s eager to tell me about her day.
Yes, the nanny is expensive, but we noticed such a huge change in just the first week of her being there that we feel the cost is worth it.
Coming home to a tidy house with bathed and fed children is probably the best gift for a working mom. My husband is ecstatic with her, too. He no longer has to leave at dawn to beat traffic before getting to a noisy day care (I truly appreciated you taking that on, baby), and I’m less stressed when I come home.
Truthfully, we don’t know how we got along before her and I’m so glad that I decided to give her a chance, even if it just encouraged my procrastinating ways. Timing is everything, right?
