Nanny employee contracts play a crucial role in establishing a solid foundation for a trusted relationship between the nanny and the family they work for. Having a written contract is incredibly beneficial for both the nanny and the employer, especially in the case of unforeseen circumstances.
A well-structured contract safeguards the nanny and family and ensures that everyone receives fair treatment in situations that may develop.
When creating a nanny employment contract, it is not strictly necessary to involve a lawyer, but it is vital to ensure that all the terms are equitable and mutually agreed upon. The nanny employment contract should cover key elements to ensure that the employer and nanny have clear expectations that will ultimately foster a positive work relationship.
Ultimately, a clear and detailed nanny contract protects the rights of both parties and enhances the experience of families hiring a nanny, while the focus remains on the care and well-being of the children involved.
Establishing a Clear Employment Relationship
Drafting a written employment agreement or contract is essential for the understanding of the employment relationship, and the nanny’s duties and helps to prevent any future misunderstandings. The contract must define the precise employment relationship to ensure that the nanny and employer are both on the same page regarding proceedings.
The contract must initially outline the name of the employee and the legal employer, as well as the start and end dates of employment. This clear employment relationship will help to prevent any disputes further along and ensure a smooth working relationship.
6 Important Considerations to Create the Employment Contract for a Nanny
The nanny contract will remain in place throughout the nanny’s time with your family. Thus, it must contain clear expectations from start to finish. It is a basis for both the employer and nanny to understand their role and honour their responsibilities. Having all the rules, expectations and terms of employment in one contract is essential for both parties.
Here are a few key considerations for creating a basic nanny employment contract:
1. Salary and Entitlements
Firstly, it is essential to establish clear payment terms in the employment agreement. This means you must specify the nanny’s salary and payment schedule. The contract should outline the nanny’s regular work hours, and conditions for overtime with the applicable rates.
Also consider holiday and sick leave entitlements, and whether they were unpaid or paid in accordance with the local employment laws.
Employers need to clearly define and align tax and insurance responsibilities with laws and regulations. There may be a trial period for the nanny, after which reassessment is necessary. The contract must also stipulate when performance reviews are due and provide an opportunity for a salary increase or negotiation.
2. Work Schedule and Other Benefits
The contract agreement must stipulate the nanny’s work schedule and hours, as well as any overtime. Nannies should receive other essential benefits such as sick leave, maternity leave and designated holidays.
Furthermore, nannies require additional compensation for working on public holidays, which recognises that these days are typically required for rest, however often require the presence of the nanny. Ensure that you clearly outline all these considerations in the nanny employment agreement to ensure a fair working relationship and compensation.
3. Household Rules
A good relationship between a nanny and the family in their care hinges on mutual trust and respect, because of the more personal nature of this unique job role. As a family, you invite the nanny into your home and they become vital members of the family because of the extensive working hours there. Thus, to foster a successful partnership, it is crucial to establish clear expectations, especially regarding household rules within the contract.
Try to specify key issues such as designated living spaces, visitor policies, work hours, and basic house rules such as smoking or the consumption of alcohol. Also, outline your expectations of the nanny’s general behaviour and conduct. These considerations are vital to a harmonious working relationship.
4. Childcare Expectations
The nanny’s contract must provide a comprehensive description of all their duties and responsibilities, as well as the specific work hours and tasks expected within those hours. Clearly outlining all your expectations is crucial, otherwise the nanny may decline certain additional responsibilities not included in the contract.
Here are a few examples of things that should be included.
- Basic childcare needs such as bathing, feeding, and meal preparation.
- Help with schoolwork and tasks.
- Outdoor and indoor activities and playtime.
- Transportation to school and other activities or appointments.
- Light housekeeping, such as tidying up and cleaning kids’ rooms, laundry, and dishes.
- Organisation and handling planning of trips and other excursions.
- Specific care requirements, such as allergies and medical conditions.
5. Contract Review and Revision
Within the contract there you should also include the procedures for reviewing and revising the agreement, as well as the period such as annually or bi-annually. There must be a notice period for employees making changes to the contract as well as procedures in this regard. Included in this section is the outline of procedures regarding resolving disputes and disagreements, as well as disciplinary steps if required.
6. Performance Management and Contract Termination
Performance management and contract termination are considerations to include in the contract agreement. Clearly outline all the terms and specific grounds for employment termination and discuss if severance pay is applicable in certain situations.
There must be a notice period specified should the nanny choose to resign. Also, outline the frequency of performance reviews, such as monthly or every three to six months and whether a trial period is required before employment. These provisions are all essential to ensure full compliance with employment regulations and laws, as well as safeguarding the well-being of both parties involved.
As a Final Thought:
Creating a well-drafted nanny contract ensures that both the family and nanny can set out their terms and conditions for employment, which in the end will prevent misunderstandings and disputes, to create a long-lasting professional relationship.
It is, however, vital to include all the essential items, such as those discussed to ensure your children receive the best care possible, and that the nanny feels confident and valued by being treated fairly and compensated appropriately.
