Nanny jobs are demanding. But if you love children, the job should not be taxing, but rewarding. If you are a stay-in nanny, you will have a place to stay. You get free meals and a chance to travel abroad in some instances. But if there is a nannycam, how should you deal with it and what questions should you ask to protect yourself from unwanted surveillance?



Nannies Have the Right to Ask Question Too

When the nanny scare hit the headlines, parents took up arms to defend their rights to install a nannycam in every room purportedly to monitor the nanny's activities. But the law is stern in protecting nannies and other workers. Hence, some states make it illegal not to tell nannies that there are home surveillance cameras around.

As a nanny, you understand this concern. But how about your right to privacy? Here the questions you should ask before you're hired as a nanny:

* Ask about the presence of cameras. Do not wait for the prospective employers or the nanny agency to tell you if a nannycam is installed in the home. It is not that you have something to hide, but it is a measure of protecting yourself from abusive surveillance. Be guided by the existing local laws on home surveillance; you will know your and your prospective employer's limitations on the subject of home surveillance. As in any job, it is always smart to start on the right footing.

* Ask if a nannycam is installed in your assigned quarters. The law definitely prohibits positioning hidden cameras in areas where privacy can be violated. There should also be no spy cameras in the bathroom or dressing room.

* Ask if the nannycam is hooked up to the Internet. You are not trying to be too nosey, but knowing it is makes you confident that the parents are aware of anything suspicious while you're bathing the baby or preparing his food, and they can alert you immediately.

Asking these questions shows you are aware of the issues related to home surveillance. But assure them you do not mind the presence of nanny cameras, as long as you are guaranteed your privacy.

Don't view the nannycam as an enemy tool. It can prevent parents from accusing you of any wrong-doing - the video camera will provide the proof that you've followed their instructions to the letter.

You've Found a Hidden Camera, Now What?

If you have heard of rogue nannies, then there are also rogue couples. It is still in your best interest to act as if there is a hidden camera in your room and in the bath. You will never know unless you discover a hidden camera by chance.

If you have found a nannycam in your room, leave it as it is and do not confront your employers about the discovery. A confrontation may lead to violence. You have two options - stay and keep quiet, or look for another job.

If you quit the job, report the matter to the police, but you need evidences to back up your claim that a pinhole camera was installed in your room. Your employers can deny this and with no back-up proof, think where it will lead you.

In your next nanny job, be wiser. Do your own "bug" sweep in your room and bath with a wireless hidden cameral detector. This may cost you, but it will be worth it. As for the nannycam, let it be.