You love your nanny. You really do. What's more, your child loves her too. But the first time you come home from work and your child cries for your nanny, those feelings of resentment start to bubble up to the surface. Your first instinct? Fire her.

As the founder and CEO of Sittercity.com, and author of “Love at First Sit,” I can promise you that there is a better solution. Here are some tips that I've gathered through my experience as a former babysitter and from some of our own amazing nannies on Sittercity.com.


Don't Fire the Nanny

Some parents consider the "rotating door" policy with nannies, hiring and firing them every time the child gets too attached. Don't. It teaches your child not to let his guard down or become attached to people. The fact that you have a trustworthy, sincere nanny means that your child is getting fantastic care. Be proud of yourself that you handpicked such a perfect fit for your family!


How to Strengthen the Mommy-Child Bond

• Create a special ritual that exists only between you and the child. This could be a secret handshake, a certain hug, a silly bedtime phrase—anything—as long as it's unique, and it's just for you and your child.

• Make mailboxes. Make "mailboxes" (which can be as simple as a basket from the craft store) and leave a message every so often for your child to read—or for your nanny to read to him—while you're at work. He can then leave you a message of his own in your mailbox, so you can both look forward to each other's little love notes.

• Have the nanny talk about you. Pre-prepare a snack, lay out your child’s pajamas, buy a special dessert or make some other small gesture then have the nanny tell your child that "this is the snack Mommy made especially for you" or "these are the clothes Mommy picked" or "that is the special dessert Mommy bought for you since you're so good."

• Start a mother's day out. Choose one day each month for just you and your child. This bonding not only begins a family tradition, it also creates some great memories.

• Re-focus nanny's tasks. Encourage the nanny to handle more of the menial tasks like washing dishes, putting laundry in the wash and vacuuming. This lessens your to-do list so you can spend more quality time with your little one when you get home.

What message would you write to your child today?


Article adapted for w2wlink.com by Genevieve Thiers, http://www.sittercity.com.

To learn more about Genevieve and her expert appearances nationwide, visit http://www.sittercity.com/press.