Every Chicago family is different, so it goes without saying that the rules you establish with your Chicago nannies will naturally be unique. That being said, there are a few rules that just about every family will want to remember as they get to know a new nanny during the first week.

Here they are.

1. Your behavior management style

Naturally, you should have already gone over “house rules” and overall behavior rules with your nanny. But after that, it’s time to explain what they should do if one of your children acts out of line?

Request that your nanny follow the same behavior rules that you follow at home with your children. You need to keep a through line when it comes to discipline.

2. Rules for the car

Will your nanny be driving your children? If so, it’s important to establish car rules with them.

For one, explain how any car seats you have function. Make sure they know the proper way to buckle your children in. If the children are too young to sit in the front seat yet, make sure your nanny knows this. Next, ask that your nanny never use their smart phones (or any other devices) while driving.

3. Your social media policy

Chances are, basically all Chicago nanny have social media. That’s fine! But it’s important that your nanny knows how you feel about them possibly posting pictures of your children online.

If you’re okay with it, great. If you’re not, however, make it known. Request that they please do not post any pictures of your children at all, or alternatively, ask that if they post photos involving your children (on a private account, for example), they do not use your children’s faces.

Lastly, it’s wise to request that nannies not include location tags if they do end up posting anything involving your children.

4. Rules for technology

Speaking of social media and technology, what rules do you have for your children’s use of technology? This is a big one, so make sure your nanny knows any time limits you’ve set and what your children are allowed to do (and not allowed to do) when using technology.

5. Your policy for visitors

Lastly, discuss your visitors policy. What happens if your nanny connects with other Chicago nannies? Are they allowed to arrange a playdate?

Generally speaking, it’s best to discourage your nanny from inviting friends, relatives, or significant others to your home or to visit them while at the park or going to the library.

Establishing these 5 rules at the very beginning of your nanny’s employment should set a strong foundation for the rest of their time as your children’s caregiver.