Nanny Sick Leave Deliemma

I don't think I really need to tell you that you should have figured this all out before she started working for you. It is quite possible that she is taking advantage of the situation--but you have created the situation.

Hard feelings? She is in your employ. While those who take care of our children tend to become part of the family, as the employer, it is up to you to maintain a professional relationship.

If she is claiming to have been hurt on the job, you can justifiably request that her doctor write the "rest" order or require that she get a second opinion (at your expense).

If you like and trust this nanny, that is priceless and you should pay her for this time off. That being said, you should use her "annual review" to define her contract.

As a single mom, I don't have the option of staying home. But I also have an agreement with the daycare. Just because I don't define their policies doesn't mean I don't make sure they are following them.

If you either resolve this with her or hire a new nanny, one thing to consider is to codify how sick days work. I used to work for a big company, and they allowed for 10 sick days per year WITHOUT a doctors note. So, that's pretty simple, you can still be home if you're sick, but you just need doctor's confirmation after several days. Also, did you ever say you would pay for sick days? If you never discussed this with her, and pay for holidays, then I don't think you have a dilemma. Has she specifically requested to be paid for the sick time?

Anyway, if you do feel you have to pay - she might have a real medical problem. But did the doctor recommend total rest? Sprains usually just require some walking assistance like a cane or crutch at worst. I would ask her to provide a doctors note that she can't attend work at all since this is starting to cost real money.

I believe she is not motivated to work. I'd look for a new nanny or a fill-in nanny while she's resting. She apparently doesn't take her job seriously or would rather work part time. If you rely on her, I'd find someone to fill in the gaps. You're going to need it.

Good luck!

To me, it is obvious that you can't depend on her being able to work. Now, I'm approaching this from the perspective of a FT working mom... Quite simply, I'd jeopardize (or lose) my job if my childcare suddenly evaporated. So, at the first sign of instability, I'd have to find a new childcare solution. I can't do the yo-yo with childcare.

She might have sprained her ankle... maybe at the park, maybe somewhere else during her off-hours.

So, she's suppose to be at work on Monday. Good. Evaluate her over the next 10 days. If its not working out, I'd give her notice that you're ending her employment on February 15th. That should give you a month to find a replacement, find a daycare until you find a different nanny, and/or to schedule your time for the next 4 weeks to stay at home with the kids as necessary.

hello D.,well if she aint working she dont get paid i would think.we would not get paid at work every little time i take off.so no i dont think u should pay her.i would be on the look out for somebody esle if it was me thanks J..goodnight