How can a nanny help with homework and school projects?
The role of a nanny is a varied one, encompassing, at various times, the duties of chauffeur, chef, nurse and cleaner as well as, obviously, generally taking care of the children of the family employing them.
So these professionals, especially when they live in, typically become a key part of the family, and fully share the responsibility of bringing up the little ones.
That often extends beyond basic childcare to educational support. When it comes to homework, for example, it’s a reasonable expectation that the nanny will ensure that those children who have homework complete it on time, and that they study somewhere appropriate – i.e. at a proper desk rather than sprawling in front of the television. What’s more, this can be especially helpful if work or other commitments mean you can’t always be home until later in the day. So nannies can be very useful in getting their charges into good study habits which will endure long after the kids have grown up and no longer need a nanny.
At the same time, a nanny can double-check that homework has been done to the best of the child’s ability, and that enough time has been spent on it, before they’re allowed to play or watch TV. And if your son or daughter’s carer has a specialist skill, for example they speak French or Spanish or previously worked as a maths or primary school teacher, they can help with guidance on a specific
point if the child is stuck. So they ensure that homework time runs smoothly and can keep any younger kids occupied while older ones are studying.
Equally, with school projects, whether that’s a costume for Book Day, a science assignment or anything else, again a nanny can help collate materials and offer supervision, inspiration and encouragement as required. So nannies often have a key role to play in children’s educational development, and this can be a key factor behind their success at school – although of course they can’t do your child’s homework for
them.
Here’s how you can make sure things work to everyone’s advantage:
Tips for collaborating with your nanny on your child’s schoolwork
1.) Be clear from the outset on the expectations on both sides – be sure you know what the nanny is happy doing, their skills and experience and what level of support with academic
work is appropriate. Then discuss and communicate regularly to ensure the plan is still working.
2.) Agree on the action the nanny will take if, for example, a child is reluctant to study after
school.
3.) Set down the times for homework and breaks so that a regular routine is in place. This
extends to the child also completing their work in the same location each day.
4.) Discuss how the nanny will help their charges with time management, prioritising of
assignments and so on – all areas in which these employees can come into their own.
5.) Will you have a reward system in place? After homework, for example, there could be a treat such as some TV, a snack or a game.
6.) Remember that you’ve hired a nanny and not an academic tutor and be realistic in what you
expect.
Academic support from nannies from Fox and Cubs
At London-based nanny agency Fox and Cubs, we offer childcare support tailored to your family’s situation. Talk to us about what you need, whether that’s a multilingual nanny so you immerse your child in a second language, or anything else. We source live-in, part-time and full-time nannies, or someone who just works with you during the critical after-school hours, when they can get stuck in
with homework supervision among other duties.
We also find solutions promptly, and personally know everyone we recommend, so you can be sure we’re putting forward a bespoke solution involving a thoroughly reliable, fully vetted professional.
Contact us to learn more.
