From Nanny to Mummy: Paula’s Story

What happens when a nanny becomes a parent and hires a nanny of their own? The dynamic shifts, perspectives change, and valuable lessons emerge. In Episode 8 of Playdate, hosts Layla and Rée sit down with Paula, a former au pair turned mother of two, to explore her unique journey from professional nanny to parenthood.

Paula shares how her experiences as a nanny shaped her approach to raising her own children and what she’s learned from being on the other side. Whether you're a nanny, a parent, or someone who’s simply curious about the differences between the two roles, her insights offer a fascinating look at the full-circle nature of childcare.

Starting as an Au Pair: Learning the Foundations of Childcare

Paula's journey into childcare began when she moved abroad to work as an au pair. Like many who enter the profession, she quickly realised that nannying isn’t just about keeping children entertained; it requires patience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of child development.

Reflecting on her au pair days, Paula shares how these early experiences shaped her confidence in handling tantrums, building routines, and forming strong bonds with the children she cared for. But at the time, she never imagined just how much these skills would come into play when she had children of her own.

From Nanny to Mummy: A Whole New Perspective

Fast forward to becoming a mother herself, and Paula faced an entirely different reality. Even with years of childcare experience under her belt, she found that looking after her own children presented unexpected challenges.

While many of her nannying techniques like maintaining consistency and setting clear boundaries  helped, she also discovered areas where being a mum felt completely different. The emotional weight of making every decision, the exhaustion of 24/7 responsibility, and the personal attachment to her own children added layers of complexity that she hadn’t fully appreciated as a nanny.

This shift in perspective led Paula to a newfound respect for both parents and nannies alike. She realised that while a nanny plays a vital role in a child’s life, the weight of parenting is something that can’t truly be understood until you experience it firsthand.

Hiring a Nanny: Being on the Other Side

One of the most eye-opening parts of Paula’s journey was hiring a nanny for her own children. Now, as an employer, she found herself considering aspects she hadn’t thought about before.

She shares how she approached the hiring process—looking for qualities she admired in great nannies she had worked alongside and ensuring that the person she chose felt like the right fit for her family.

The biggest lesson? Trust and respect go both ways. Paula realised how crucial it is for parents to create a positive, professional environment for their nanny. Setting clear expectations, establishing healthy boundaries, and maintaining open communication made all the difference in fostering a strong working relationship.

Final Thoughts: Full-Circle Moments in Childcare

Paula’s transition from nanny to mummy, and now as someone who hires a nanny, offers a unique look at both sides of the nanny-family relationship. Her experience highlights the importance of empathy, communication, and respect; whether you’re the one providing care or the one seeking it.

To hear Paula’s full journey and all the insights she shares, listen to the full episode of Playdate on Spotify. And if you’re a nanny or a parent with your own experiences to share, we’d love to hear from you! Join the conversation on Instagram @pronannies or email us at playdate@pro-nannies.com.