Frustrated nanny needs HELP!! [Archive] - Parenting Message Boards

marypoppins

07-08-2009, 12:03 AM

I recently started working for a family with 3 beautiful children, ages 12, 2, and 4 months. I absolutely adore these kids, but the 2 year old (boy) is really giving me a challenge. When I went to interview for the job, his parents were talking about how he has entered the "screaming and tantrum phase" and how frustrating it can be. He still isn't talking, so we all understand that this is part of how he communicates with us. Problem is, these little screaming fits can turn quite nasty, and they're almost always directed at me. Mom and Dad are both home quite a bit, so it makes me think that it's not so much about separation anxiety. In fact, when he and I are alone together, he's an angel...but as soon as they walk in the room, if I so much as look at him the wrong way (and that's definitely not an exaggeration), his little face gets all red and crumpled, he points his finger at me, and starts shrieking what I can only assume are baby profanities. I love this kid, but he apparently does not love me. I don't know how to ease his tension or anxiety when his parents are around.

If anyone has any suggestions about how I could help this situation, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks in advance!

may2mac

07-09-2009, 12:40 AM

I love your username - very clever.

For some reason kids seem to act up when their parents are around. My daughter does it all the time. She is perfect for whoever is watching her until the moment I arrive. That is when the whining and fits begin. The only advise I would give is to try and not put up with it. Hopefully once he knows that mom/dad and you aren't going to react to his behavior it will go away. Good luck!