What are the benefits of hiring a Male Nanny aka Manny?

Thinking about hiring a manny but a little unsure?

Here we cover some important points about the new age manny. Naturally we associate females with being maternal, more caring and sympathetic towards children than we associate males, mostly because of the natural maternal instinct that comes with being female. Fortunately, in the childcare industry however, families are beginning to understand and appreciate the positive influence of the ‘manny’ ‘governor’ or as some like to call him ‘hairy Poppins’ can have on their children and more and more families are welcoming the idea of hiring mannies.

From Mary Poppins to Hairy Poppins

Naturally we associate females with being maternal, more caring and sympathetic towards children than we associate males, mostly because of the natural maternal instinct that comes with being female. Fortunately, in the childcare industry however, families are beginning to understand and appreciate the positive influence of the ‘manny’ ‘governor’ or as some like to call him ‘hairy Poppins’ can have on their children and more and more families are welcoming the idea of hiring mannies.

Without being gender specific, but showing an understanding that often children’s entertainment activities like playing football and taking part in outdoor activities, often came about on daddy’s days off having a manny or nanny around to entertain your children outdoors and keep them away from the iPad is truly wonderful! As more and more families are showing both parents working long and exhausting hours, perhaps it’s time to consider the role of a manny in your household? Aged preconceptions of the manny are gone and after speaking with families who have/had mannies said that it is one of the best decisions they have made on their children’s behalf.  They mentioned how wonderful it was to have a male role model, especially families with boys, that they were relaxed and often very active, and the felt secure knowing their children didn’t have to wait for one day per week to enjoy all their favourite activities. They often found that discipline and rules set out by their mannies were often adhered to very quickly.

Of course when looking for childcare being gender specific is not your main concern, we certainly hope that the manny industry continues to boom. It’s about getting the right person to add quality to your child(s) life and understanding what they need, whether that be male/female, sporty and active, creative, musical, theatrical etc.

1. They can be Excellent Role Models

We find that many families are looking for a supportive and protective masculine energy to nurture their son (s) in sporting activities and fulfil an ‘older brother’ type role which may allow for an increase in their child’s confidence and sense of self. By nature, men thrive in active, outward pursuits which make them great companions for particularly junior and senior school age children.

2. They Offer a Fresh Perspective  

Whilst nannies tend to naturally offer compassionate care, nurturance and patience, Mannies offer the inherently masculine traits which are of course essential for balance. Men tend to innately posses rational, linear and goal orientated thinking and a sense of independence with a bias for action. Having a Manny in your family allows your child to enhance their left brain functioning skills of practicality and logic.

3. Offer Discipline and Motivation 

Many Mannies come from a sports coaching background which means that they may be able to offer a boost to your child’s confidence and self-esteem. Coaches are skilled in bringing out the best in others, encouraging whoever they work with to follow their passions and hone their skills. It’s amazing how positive reinforcement can really allow children to thrive and having a Manny who promotes the notion that ‘anything is possible’ will undoubtedly provide your child with a ‘can do’ attitude. A Manny is able to model positive thinking and habits.

4. Feelings of Safety and Protection  

Many single mothers or parents travelling without their partners feel a sense of safety and comfort as an additional benefit of hiring a male Nanny. Whilst many high profile families have specialised members of their team such as bodyguards and security professionals, a masculine presence within the childcare environment is often highly valued.

Dependant on your families needs, Mannies can provide sole charge care or proxy parenting. You may also prefer that your Manny works alongside you as a caregiving support. Hiring a native speaking Manny allows your child the opportunity to learn a second language in a fun, effortless and interactive way.

Many parents find that having a native speaking Nanny or Manny is the best way for their child to enhance their second language acquisition skills, as it is informal and their child is able to learn subconsciously. A Manny is able to tailor activities to the interests of your child which in turn builds feelings of connection and bonding. When children are engaged and excited about something they naturally flourish and this is the type of attitude that all Great British Mannies possess.

Great British Nannies have a group of top mannies and nannies with several years of experience so if you want to explore this option. The decision making process should be taken with time, often trialling different candidates is a wonderful way to find the right fit for your family. For more information contact us. 

For more information on considering a Manny visit our post here.