We have a nanny working for us in our home and we're debating what to do about days when we don't need her, but she would normally work. (For example, we get a day off unexpectedly or take the day off to take our son to the doctor.) She is an hourly employee, but I also understand that she needs to rely on a consistent income. It's not like she can get other work for that day since she's commited to us. What do others in this situation do? Does your nanny get paid?
Maybe you could offer her other work on those days? Things you don't like to do or can't find time to do... cleaning out the fridge, weeding the flower beds, ironing clothing, putting photos in albums, whatever. If you value her as an employee, make an effort to keep her income consistant so she has economic stability in her life.
I would shorten the weekly hours by an hour, so there are alternative hours she can swap to, upon occasion, or get EXTRA pay some weeks for an extra hour.
Or have her come on those days I didn't need her for the kids to do other stuff for the household or the kids.
If thats not appropriate or there is nothing she can do when you remove the kids - half pay.
You cant just not pay her.
I think it's totally up to you. If it were me I would be a sap and pay her a consistant weekly wage no matter how much she worked (although if she went over her expected hours I may pay her more). But I don't think it's inappropriate to NOT pay her for days she doesn't work, either. Unfortunately, this is probably something you should have discussed with her up front so she's not taken by surprise. Whatever you do I would say discuss it with her.
I worked as a nanny in college for two different families. When we encountered these situations they would give me half pay. Or, I would work a half day so they could get errands and chores done with out the distraction of the kids. Hope that helps!
Yes, you should pay her for the days you described. It's great that you recognize she needs to rely on a consistent income. I think what others suggested about finding alternative work for her around the house is fair also.
Although my comment is based on daycare rather than for a nanny, for daycare governing rules, you typically pay the daycare for any days that you are "contracted" for regardless of whether or not you need use her or not. Although it is hard to pay for a service you are not getting, it's the opportunity cost loss for your nanny. Hope that helps!
-D
