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Domestic Nanny

Domestic Nanny

Who in Brazil plays the role of a domestic nanny to help a foreign mom who has already given birth? What are her roles and responsibilities?

Is it okay to leave a newborn with a babysitter?

Leaving your newborn with a nanny is possible, provided that the nanny is experienced and qualified, such as those from BabyinBrazil.

These are a few important aspects that we take into consideration, and we recommend that you keep them in mind:

The benefits of leaving your newborn with a nanny:

  • Safety. An experienced nanny knows how to properly handle a newborn and can ensure their safety and comfort.

  • Care and attention. A nanny can devote time to caring for the child, allowing parents to rest or do other things without worrying about the baby.

  • Peace of mind for parents. Knowing that their child is with a trustworthy person can help parents relax and rejuvenate a little.

What to consider:

  • Choosing a nanny. If you are not hiring a nanny through us, it is important to be careful when choosing a nanny. Check references and experience, and make sure she understands your newborn's needs.

  • Discussion of rules. Discuss all aspects of child care with your nanny, including feeding routines, tucking in, and any special needs (such as allergies).

  • Observation and interaction. At first, leave your newborn for short periods of time to see how the nanny is doing. This will help you feel confident in her abilities and help your baby get used to the fact that mom can't always be there.

  • Communication. Communicate regularly with your babysitter about how your time with your child is going and be open to feedback.

So, if you have chosen the right nanny and are confident in her experience, leaving your newborn with her is quite safe and can be very beneficial for the whole family!

What are the responsibilities of a babysitter for an infant?

The responsibilities of an infant nanny are varied and include several key aspects of care. The main functions that a nanny typically performs are:

The main responsibilities of a babysitter for an infant:

  • Childcare:

    • Feeding. Preparing and feeding from a bottle or breastfeeding (if mom can't do that).

    • Diaper changing. Regular diaper changes, care of the baby's skin, prevention of diaper rash.

    • Tucking in. Putting your baby to bed, helping to establish a sleep routine.

    • Hygiene and care. Bathing your baby regularly and safely. Dressing, and help with dressing, taking into account weather and comfort.

  • Health Surveillance:

    • Monitor the child's temperature and general condition (paying attention to any changes in behavior or health).

    • Notifying parents of problems or seeking medical attention if necessary.

    • Stimulation and development:

    • Play and interaction: using toys, reading books, developing sensory and motor skills through play.

    • Socialization assistance: communication and interaction with the child to develop their emotional intelligence.

  • Parental support:

    • Informing parents about the child's daily regimen, progress and interests.

    • The ability to free up parents by allowing them to rest or do other things.

  • Safety:

    • Providing a safe environment for play and sleep.

    • Preventing accidents and following all safety measures.

  • Cleaning and organizing:

    • Maintaining cleanliness of the nursery and play areas.

    • Organizing toys and other supplies to care for your baby.

In our experience, these responsibilities help ensure that the infant is cared for, safe and comfortable, and allow parents to get some rest and relaxation.

Do nannies bathe babies? Who bathes a baby after birth?

Yes, nannies can bathe babies, however, it depends on the specific situation and parental preference. A few points about bathing newborns:

Who usually bathes a baby after birth:

  • Medical staff. In the first hours or days after delivery in the maternity hospital, usually medical personnel such as midwives or nurses will give the newborn baby its first bath. This is done in a hygienic way.

  • Parents. Many parents choose to learn how to bathe their newborn on their own. This builds a bond with the baby and allows you to better understand his or her needs.

  • Nanny. If the parents have an assistant, such as a nanny, she can also be involved in the baby's bathing process. Some parents choose a nanny specifically to help with these duties, especially if they don't have the experience or time.

It's important to consider:

  • Parents' preferences. Parents should discuss who will bathe the child and at what age.

  • Safety. The babysitter should have experience bathing newborns and understand safety rules to avoid accidents.

  • Communication. It is important that parents and nanny are on the same page and agree on all activities related to childcare, including bathing.

Thus, bathing a newborn can be done by both parents and a nanny, depending on their preferences and situation. The main thing is that it should be done safely and with love!

Do nannies change diapers?

Most nannies change diapers for newborns and infants. This is one of the main duties of a nanny, especially if she is caring for a young child.

Why it matters:

  • Hygiene care. Regular diaper changes help prevent diaper rash and infections, which is very important for your baby's health and comfort.

  • Convenience for parents. Having a diaper changing nanny allows parents to take some time off and focus on other things or just relax.

  • Experience. Good nannies usually have experience with infants and know how to change a diaper properly and safely to minimize discomfort for the baby.

What to consider:

  • Discussion of responsibilities. It is important to discuss with the nanny in advance her responsibilities, including diaper care, to ensure expectations are aligned.

  • Hygiene. The nanny should follow hygiene and safety rules when changing diapers, such as washing hands before and after changing and using clean and safe materials.

So, changing diapers is a natural part of a babysitter's job, and many parents appreciate the help!

How long is it okay to let a baby cry with a babysitter?

The question of how long to allow a child to cry with a babysitter is very individual and depends on many factors. remember a few recommendations that can help in this situation.

General rule of thumb:

  • The baby's age. Newborns and infants may cry for a variety of reasons, including hunger, discomfort, or fatigue. At this age, it is recommended to respond to crying more quickly, as it is the baby's primary way of communicating.

  • Causes of crying. The nanny should be able to distinguish between types of crying. If it is crying because of hunger, pain or discomfort, attention should be paid to it immediately. If the child is crying for no obvious reason, you can try to soothe him with games or gentle conversation.

  • Maximum time. As a general rule, if crying continues for more than 10-15 minutes without improvement, it is better to intervene to find out the cause and calm the child. It is important that the nanny has a connection with the parents so that they can advise on the specific situation.

What might help:

  • Communication with the nanny. Discuss with your nanny in advance how you want her to respond to crying and what she should do in different situations.

  • Training. Make sure the sitter knows soothing techniques* such as rocking, singing, or using white noise.

  • Support. If your nanny is having difficulties, it's important that she knows she can come to you for advice or help so she doesn't have to demonstrate that she's doing great.

* Calming a newborn can be an important task for both the nanny and the parents.

Learn a few effective techniques for soothing an infant:

The 5S Method (Dr. Harvey Karp)

  • Swaddling. Wrap your baby in a soft blanket to create a "squeeze" effect.

  • Side/Stomach Position. Keep your baby on his/her side or stomach, but always put him/her to sleep on his/her back.

  • Shushing. Create white noise, such as with a hiss or a special device.

  • Swinging. A slight rocking or movement in the stroller can soothe your baby.

  • Sucking. Give your child a pacifier or let him/her suck his/her finger.

Massage

A gentle massage can help relax your baby and improve their overall health.

Warmth

A warm bath or heaters (but don't overheat!) can help soothe your newborn.

Swaddling

Swaddling helps create a sense of safety and security.

Walks

A walk outdoors in a stroller or with a sling can soothe your baby through changes in surroundings and movement.

Music and sounds

Calm music or lullabies can help soothe your baby.

Contact with parents

Skin-to-skin contact, cuddling, and closeness to parents help the newborn feel safe.

Needs verification

Make sure your baby is not hungry, wet, or in discomfort (such as from colic).

Creating a routine

Establishing a regular routine can help your child feel more confident and relaxed.

These techniques can help soothe a newborn, but it's important to remember that every baby is unique and it may take time to find what works for your baby.

Having a well-trained babysitter can help you feel calmer knowing that she knows how to respond appropriately to your baby's crying.

What are the disadvantages of babysitting?

While having a nanny can bring many benefits, there are some disadvantages to consider. Here are a few of the common disadvantages:

Disadvantages of hiring a nanny:

  • Expenses. Babysitters can be expensive, and they are a significant expense in a family's budget.

  • Search and Selection. Finding the right nanny can be a daunting task, taking time and effort to check references and interview. Not all candidates may be a good fit for your child and family.

  • Lack of familiar surroundings. Some babies may find it hard to get used to being handled by another person, especially if they are not used to staying with strangers.

  • Different approaches to parenting. Each nanny may have different methods and ways of caring for children. This can lead to conflicts with parents if the nanny's approach does not match their views on parenting.

  • Trust issues. Parents may feel anxious about leaving their newborn with a stranger, even if the stranger is qualified. This can cause stress and anxiety.

  • Impact on family relationships. If one party (e.g. the parents) feels that the nanny is closer to the child, this can cause friction between the parents.

  • Dependency. Some parents may become dependent on a nanny, which can make it difficult for them to participate in their own childcare.

Choosing a nanny requires careful consideration and understanding the pros and cons. Make sure your family is ready for this step and choose the option that is best for you and your child!

How do you make your child feel comfortable with a babysitter?

In order for a child to be comfortable with a babysitter, there are a few important steps that can help create a trusting and comfortable atmosphere.

Tips for ensuring your child's comfort with a babysitter:

  • Choose a nanny carefully. Find a nanny with experience with newborns, good references and feedback from other parents. This is the basis for trust.

  • Gradual introduction. Give your child time to get used to the nanny. Start with short meetings where the nanny is just around and then gradually increase the amount of time you spend with them.

  • Communication and explanations. Explain to the nanny your baby's characteristics: his habits, preferences, sleeping and feeding routines. This will help the nanny better understand your baby and his or her needs.

  • Create a comfortable environment. Make sure the room where your child will be staying is quiet, cozy and safe. Having favorite toys or a cozy blanket will also help your child feel more relaxed.

  • Regular interactions. Allow the nanny to spend time with your child in your presence so that he can get used to her and feel your calmness around him.

  • Establishing a routine. Having a consistent routine (feeding, sleeping, playing) will help your child feel more confident, even when they are concerned about a new babysitter.

  • Positive interaction. Encourage your babysitter to play active games, read books to your child, and maintain a positive emotional background. Friendly communication will help create a close bond.

  • Feedback. After the first meetings, discuss with the nanny how the time with the child went and let her know that you are willing to support the adjustment process.

By following these tips, you can create a comfortable and friendly atmosphere for your baby with a babysitter!

What shouldn't you do with a babysitter?

When you're working with a house sitter, there are a few things to avoid to ensure a healthy and positive relationship.

8 important points on what not to do with a nanny:

  • Do not trust inexperienced people. Avoid choosing a nanny without properly checking references and experience. Make sure she has the necessary skills and experience with newborns.

  • Don't ignore boundaries. Set clear boundaries and expectations about the nanny's responsibilities. Avoid overburdening her with tasks that are not her responsibility.

  • Don't forget about communication. Don't leave your nanny without proper communication. Regularly discuss with her how the time with the child is going and ask questions about the baby's condition.

  • Don't control every move. Trust the nanny to do her job. Excessive control can create tension. Let her use her own experience and intuition.

  • Don't leave important instructions unobvious. Don't assume that the nanny knows everything about your child or your preferences. Make all instructions clear to avoid ambiguity and misunderstanding.

  • Avoid a lack of respect. Respect the babysitter's personal space and time. Avoid behavior that she may find disrespectful or demeaning.

  • Don't forget about compensation. Don't undervalue your salary or working conditions. Fair compensation is an important part of maintaining a good working relationship.

  • Don't disengage from communication. Don't avoid feedback. As a parent, it is important to listen to the nanny's opinions and experiences in order to improve the working environment.

Following these guidelines will help create a productive and respectful relationship with your babysitter, which will contribute to better care for your child!

Why do you need a house sitter?

As a rule, a young mother and her newborn firstborn child are already in an unfamiliar state. There may be their own health problems (which may be far-fetched), and do not know how to handle the child ... and the mother is not around. In this situation, the help of a house nanny is simply irreplaceable. She and soothe, if somewhere stabbed somewhere mommy, tell what diapers, where it is better to take ... And will conduct training as swaddling, change diapers, what to do if the baby does not want to eat. On a thousand simple, and sometimes obvious questions in an excellent nanny will find a thousand simple worldly answers, which you will not read about in any books, and do not study on any courses, but even if you study, you may just not remember in the right minute.

So think about what a home babysitter can help you with.

  • Child care support. A nanny can help with daily chores such as feeding, changing diapers, and putting the baby to bed. This is especially important when the mother is recovering from childbirth and may be tired.

  • About easing the burden on the mother. Caring for a newborn requires a lot of time and energy. A nanny allows the mother to take some time off, attend to her health and return to her activities.

  • Universal knowledge. A professional nanny usually has experience working with infants and can give advice on baby care, advice on eating and sleeping patterns, and help with problems such as colic or sleep problems.

  • Emotional support. Caring for a newborn can be stressful and anxiety provoking. A nanny can be a source of support and reassurance for the mother, helping her to adjust to her new role.

  • Extra time for the family. Having a nanny frees up time to spend with your partner, which is important for maintaining the relationship while the parents' attention is focused on the child.

  • Safety and Care. Babysitting makes sure that an experienced adult is with the newborn, ensuring safety and comfort for mother and child in their home environment.

Thus, a home nanny can greatly simplify a new mom's life and make the process of caring for a newborn, especially a firstborn, easier by creating a more calm and supportive atmosphere.

In Brazil, a foreign new mom can hire a babysitter (Babá).

We have arrangements with experienced nannies, each of whom will care for your child in a professional manner. Some of them can speak English or even the language of the visiting mom.

When we are looking for a house sitter for a newborn and young child in Brazil, we focus on reviews, how she performs her duties and interview her on the following points. If you are going to invite a nanny on your own, the list below will come in handy to help you find a desirable candidate.

  • Caring for a baby. Bathing, dressing and feeding an infant. Diaper changing and hygiene.

  • Observing the daily routine. Helping newborns to establish a sleep and wakefulness schedule, keeping feeding and walking schedules.

  • Developmental activities. Playing games and activities that promote the development of motor skills and intelligence. Knowing the age specifics of the child's development and conducting the necessary activities in a targeted manner is one of the most important functions of a nanny. The nanny must also know what books are best to read and what other developmental activities for the baby should be applied.

  • Safety. Providing a safe environment for the child, preventing injuries and accidents, and making sure that all toys and objects are safe for the child.

  • Communication with parents. Regular updates to parents about the baby's condition and any other needs. Opportunity to discuss concerns and give advice on how to care for the baby.

  • Assisting with household chores. Keeping the child's room and play area clean and tidy. Preparing food for the child (e.g. mashed potatoes, etc.).

  • Health care. Monitoring your newborn's health, possible allergies or illnesses. If necessary, help with medication.

  • Help with adaptation. Support in taking care of the baby so that the mom can rest and recover. Also, moral support and parenting advice, especially for first-time mothers.

These responsibilities can vary depending on the specific situation, the family and the needs of the baby. But the most important thing we look for when screening a nanny is that she should be clean, caring, attentive and love to socialize with children!

When you register with us, you can immediately discuss the additional functions that the hired nanny will be required to perform.

If you have any questions about finding a house sitter, then contact us on our contact form (link to form, or form below) or on WhatsApp (contact number) and our consultant will answer any question you may have.

All preliminary consultations with us are free of charge and do not oblige you to anything. Therefore, contact us right now and you will get answers to all possible questions. We are always happy to help our fellow countrymen.

If you would like to find a house sitter yourself, we suggest that you further explore the following list of places you can turn for help.

  • Communities. There are multilingual communities in Brazil where you can ask for help and advice on finding a nanny. You can often find information and advice from other moms.

  • Babysitting services. There are many services in Brazil that specialize in finding qualified nannies. Make sure that not only these services but also the applicants have good ratings and reviews.

  • Childcare agencies. There are agencies that provide childcare services and can offer a nanny with the necessary skills and experience. This is a very good option because they are responsible for the house sitters they provide.

  • Other resources. On other platforms and social media, you can find groups dedicated to helping moms, where nanny contacts and personal experiences are often shared.

  • An escort agency that specializes in helping moms. Some agencies offer specialized services, including help with newborn care.

When looking for a nanny on your own, it's important to interview, read experience and reviews, and talk to her before making a decision.