Dress Code for Nannies

May 12, 2015 | Hiring an Employee, Household Employer Policies

Summer is on the way, and that means hot weather and time spent by the pool. The summer heat also means people like to wear less clothing; but what is appropriate attire for a nanny during this season?

As a household employer, you set the rules and practices for any employee that works in your home, including deciding on a dress code for nannies. Ultimately the decision lies with you as to what you find appropriate or not appropriate for your nanny to wear in your home and when he or she is out with the children. Be sure to include your dress code in the employee handbook, and that your nanny understands what the policy entails.

With some assistance from our friends at A New England Nanny, here are some tips for nannies on dressing professionally during warm weather.

Suggestions for What Not to Wear

High heels – even if you are confident you can walk in them (or more likely run in them), they are not suitable while caring for very active children.
Sandals – depending on the activities you have planned for the day, open-toed shoes may prove challenging when chasing kids around the playground or park. Plus you never know what will get spilled on those toes.
A favorite, stylish, expensive outfit – it will get ruined, either by spit-up, food, arts and crafts materials, or most likely it will get soaking wet from summer water play.
Low-cut shirts – nannies should always dress appropriately while in the children’s presence, and smaller kids will certainly pull and tug at shirts, so the lower a shirt is cut, the more “exposure” you risk.
Short shorts – again, you want to be a role model for the children and wearing short shorts, “Daisy Dukes,” etc., may not be considered proper nanny attire.
Long, dangling earrings or jewelry – be careful with this as well. Long earrings and necklaces can get pulled and caught on things, particularly if you’re running around a playground.
Swimwear – bikinis are usually not recommended. Anything too revealing is inappropriate when caring for children.

Suggestions for What to Wear

Comfy clothes – you want clothes that will stretch, not tear, when they are pulled. Cotton shirts will make the heat more bearable, and are durable.
Tank tops – these are fine as long as they are not low-cut; spaghetti straps may be too revealing.
Cargo shorts or pants – these are a great way to keep cool and comfy, plus you’ll need those pockets for all the treasures the kids will find at the park or beach!
Comfy shoes – you need to be able to run and be active! Comfortable sneakers are always a good choice.
Rain gear – rainstorms can pop up unexpectedly in many places during the summer, so if you’re outdoors with the kids, having a raincoat or poncho may come in handy (as will an umbrella).
Sweatshirt/sweater – sometimes the temperature drops lower than predicted, even during the summer, especially if it’s a windy day by the lake, so keep a sweatshirt or sweater around just in case.

For more information about how GTM helps families with this and other HR issues for their nanny or other household employee, contact us at (888) 432-7972.