How Do I Tell My Nanny I’m Installing Cameras?
Transparency and Trust: family therapists share tips on discussing nanny cams with caregivers.
By Rachel Sokol
Photo provided by Pixsee
In an online parenting forum, a post from a concerned parent gained traction:
"Should I inform my current nanny about installing cameras at home? We trust her, but…"
Pause. Reflect on that "but." If there's a hesitation... do you truly, completely trust your current nanny if something is bothering you? Ignoring that uneasy feeling isn't an option, right? After all, one can never be too cautious when it comes to ensuring your child's safety.
Discussing the presence—or future installation—of cameras with your current nanny, or even a prospective one, can be awkward for everyone involved. However, it's a crucial topic that shouldn't be ignored, especially if something about your nanny’s actions is making you, as a parent, uncomfortable.
During the interview process, “Having a nanny cam is a great way to stay connected to your child while you are at work,” says Dr. Renee Solomon, Clinical Psychologist and CEO of Forward Recovery. “It’s becoming common practice to have a nanny camera in the house.”
Dr. Solomon believes it’s important to tell your nanny that they’re on camera. In some states, you MUST disclose this information immediately to the nanny, so research what the nanny camera rules are for your state.
For example, according to the law firm Mirman, Markovits, and Landau PC, residents in New York have the legal right to install hidden nanny cams in their homes. “Keep in mind that New York is a one-party state. This essentially means that as long as at least one party is aware of the recording, it’s legal.” (There are some restrictions, such as you cannot place a camera in the bathroom.)
Dr. Solomon’s suggestion for what to say to potential nannies is: "I find it difficult to leave my child, so having a camera allows me to check in on both of you throughout the day."
Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Tasha M. Brown agrees that parents should be as transparent as possible, “so that the prospective nanny can decide if a camera is something they are comfortable with. Being ‘open’ about the nanny camera helps create a trusting and transparent relationship with the prospective nanny.”
Camera after nanny starts
If your family didn’t previously have a nanny camera, Brown recommends explaining why one is being installed. “Very often, nannies take that as a sign that there is a breach in trust. I like to frame it as an extra layer of protection not only for the child, but also for the nanny.”
Just remember, says Dr. Brown, parents shouldn’t just assume that their current nanny will be okay with this arrangement. “The nanny may see it as an invasion of their privacy and a sign that the parent or caregiver does not trust them,” she says. “In the end, the nanny may choose to end their work with the family.”
If you’re unsure whether or not to install a cam, Dr. Brown points out the pros of having one: “Parents can check in and see what is happening with their children throughout the day, feeling like they are a part of their child’s everyday activities,” she points out. “Nannies may feel an extra layer of protection because there is documentation of how they are caring for the children throughout the day, decreasing the likelihood they are falsely accused of abuse or neglect.”
And, of course, “parents can protect their children against abuse because their nannies are informed that there is a camera present.”
Cameras are already everywhere
Dr. Solomon believes if a nanny is uncomfortable about being on-camera, they are not a good fit for your family. “I would be concerned about what they are hiding. If they’re doing their job and acting in a responsible way, it should not matter if they are on camera.”
After all, she says, there are so many Ring cameras out there that let you view via cell phone who is standing on your porch, “and people have cameras in their homes for security reasons. I would be very suspect of someone who is uncomfortable with this.”
Adds Dr. Solomon: “A nanny cam is not an invasion of privacy as long as it’s not placed in the bathroom. Many fast food restaurants have cameras, so why would this be any different?”
You also don’t want to have any regrets. Dr. Solomon had a patient who was worried something happened with the nanny (or someone else) “and wished she had a nanny camera and see if the suspected inappropriate behavior had occurred with the nanny or someone else.”
That’s why it’s better to be safe than sorry! But the choice to install a nanny cam is entirely up to you.
Conclusion
Just remember, it’s sometimes legally required to inform someone if they are being recorded in private spaces, especially if it involves audio recording. Consult with a lawyer or look up state laws online about camera recording. Overall, it’s respectful and wise to inform your nanny about any surveillance cameras in your home, even if not legally required. This honesty helps establish clear expectations and fosters a positive working relationship.
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