does anyone have a nanny cam?

I don't think it's because the dcp or nanny isn't trusted or because you have reservations... IMO I think you can't be too careful when it comes to your kids.

After all, a HUGE percentage of kids that are sexually abused, for instance, are kids that are sexually abused by a close friend or relative, people that both you and your child are supposed to trust implicitely, trust a lot more than a dcp or nanny, and likely wouldn't even think of checking up on...

The name "nanny cam" shouldn't be used. It should be a security cam, period.

OMG

I'm mortified. I don't know why I called you Becky, Rocky! Please forgive me.

lol

i've been called worse... don't worry about it!

While I've never used a nanny, before I had children I worked as one. And one of the rules I worked by was to act as if there were cameras on me at all times. Acting the same as I would if the child's mother was in the room ensured I gave the best care and stayed on my toes.

I'd like to think that now with how popular these cameras have become, more nannies will just assume there's one in the home and behave accordingly. Also, dropping in at unexpected times is a good way to size up the care the child is getting.

As a former day care worker and nanny ( I now watch kids in my home) I am not crazy about the nanny cam, I agree parents have the right to see what is going on and if you use one you should tell the nanny but seeing things on video can also be decieving, the wrong angle can make it look like the nanny did something that she didn't and such. I just think it raises more questions and I agree if you don't trust them enough not to watch them then they shouldn't be there.

On the cleaning issue, yes it needs to be spelled out, what is expected. I would tidy up the rooms we were playing in, possibly put the dishes in the dishwasher but that is about it, my job is to take care of the kids, make sure they are safe and in a loving and learning environment, what I do when they are sleeping, that should be my time, everyone that works, or watches kids, needs a break, as was said before, you get a break where you are working why shouldn't the nanny. And the nanny may not always get that break if they decide to be fussy and don't nap. I used nap time, to plan my activities for the next week or what have you. Why should I have to do all that on my own time, I don't think parents understand sometimes how long it takes and how expensive it is to do some of the art projects and activities we do.

I am the same why if dirty dishes is a health hazzard I am in big trouble. I would rather spend time with my kids then do housework, that is the last thing on my list. So I am sure you would think my house unworthy of even entering. After taking care of many kids during the day the last thing I want to do is housework I want to sit and relax and catch my breath and get ready to do it all over again. I get stuff done but I don't stress about it. Sorry that is just me. I used to work for a women who was a clean freak and we had a few issues. To each his own.

If I had a nanny, I might use one. You could think someone was nice and very trustworthy, but they could be the complete opposite. Just because they seem to be super nice, doesn't mean they arn't going to be screaming at my kids when I'm not there.

I don't have a nanny though, so I can't really say because I've never been in the situation of maybe using one. I think if you hired someone new, it would be a good idea to use it for a few days, just to make sure they arn't being someone they arn't when they're around you.

Thanks Rocky.

I'm shocked by the op regarding the baby sitter with the itch problem. I think if i was the mom i would have just ignored that and been happy she treated my kids well. How embarrassing for the baby sitter.

As for the nanny cam. I think they have saved many children from abusive situations and that being the case if someone wants to use them i say go for it.

Can I bring this thread up and start this discussion anew? Who of you girls (and guys if any here) use a nanny cam? I need advice!

UPDATE: while I was investigating on the topic, I found greatest app - Xeoma. I am in the testing of it now and amazed at what it can and what technology has come to by now basically!!! So many features that come so handy in I start to wonder why I never knew of them before) !!!