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Why is it that some families keep a nanny for years while other families go through multiple nannies without finding one that fits well with their household? There could be a number of reasons, but one that comes up time and time again is that the family did not do everything it could to keep the nanny satisfied and connected in her job. This doesn't have to be a difficult task - there are many things that a family can do to keep a nanny happy and ensure that she works for them for a long time.

Establish Realistic Expectations for Nannies

Nannies who are confused about their duties, or who feel that they are being asked to do more than they were originally told, are not likely to want to stay in their situation. You want to set realistic expectations from the very start of the relationship in order to avoid this pitfall. The easiest way to do this is to create a nanny contract that both the family and the nanny herself will sign. That way, if there is ever any concern about something down the line, the nanny contract can be referred to for clarification. If a nanny is going to do housekeeping along with watching the children, spell out just what housekeeping she is responsible for - and then don't add new duties until you have discussed it with her and made an addendum to the nanny contract.

In addition, if the family does need help with something out of the ordinary - an extra hour of babysitting one night, for example - nannies always should be asked about it as early as possible. That way, your nanny has the time to see if the request is feasible with her schedule. Do not assume that just because a nanny lives in your house that she will be available at all hours and for everything you need. She will expect you to stick to the schedule you established at the outset and will want advance notice if something has changed. An occasional night of both parents working late by a few hours may not affect your relationship with your nanny, but if this were to become a regular occurrence you might find you have an unhappy nanny on your hands.

Reward the Nanny Financially - and Emotionally

Nannies are making a living just like everyone else. Keep your nanny happy and willing to stay with your family for the long term by setting up a regular schedule of yearly raises - around 5 to 10 percent, depending on the standards set in your area (ask other families what they offer if you are not sure). Nannies also appreciate financial bonuses during the December holiday season.