If you have a domestic helper who has been taking care of your child for a long time, it is natural for them to be attached to her. In addition, children are sensitive to changes in their environment and routines.
The arrival of someone new in the house may disrupt their sense of familiarity and security.
These are why introducing a new domestic helper can be difficult. We’ve gathered 5 tips to help your children adjust to a new domestic helper.
1. Prepare Your Children in Advance
Your children will be able to cope better with change if they know what to expect. Talk to your children about the arrival of the new helper before she arrives. Explain why there is a change. Use age-appropriate language and keep the tone positive.
Let your children know that the helper is here to support the family. Setting expectations early will make your children feel included in the process and less resistant to the change.
You can also show a photo of the new helper and talk about her background or interests to make your children feel more familiar with her.
2. Create Opportunities for Gradual Interaction
One of our 5 tips to help your children adjust to a new domestic helper is to create opportunities for gradual interaction. Don’t expect your children to bond with the new helper immediately. You need to give them time and space to warm up.
You can start with small interactions. For example, involve the new helper while you and your children do activities together like organizing toys or baking. Step back gradually and allow the helper to take the lead.
Gradual interaction like this allows your children to feel secure while building trust. It also helps the helper learn how to connect with your children.
3. Maintain Routines
Children like routine because it gives them a sense of control and predictability. If your children are already coping with the introduction of a new helper, sudden shifts in daily routines can add to their anxiety.
To help your children adjust, minimize changes in their routines (meal times, after-school activities, bedtime, etc.). This helps your children feel that not everything is changing, even though there is someone new in their environment.
4. Encourage Open Communication
Always encourage open communication. Let your children know that it’s okay to feel shy, unsure, or even upset about the new helper at first. Make space for them to talk about their feelings. Listen to them without judgment and reassure them that their emotions are valid.
If your children are too young to express themselves in words, pay attention to behavioral signs like irritability, clinginess, or withdrawal and respond with patience. Ask how they felt interacting with the new helper at the end of the day.
5. Set Clear Expectations and Boundaries
The last one of our 5 tips to help your children adjust to a new domestic helper is to set clear expectations and boundaries. This is important for your children and the maid.
Explain to your children the tasks the helper will handle and how she will contribute to the household. Set boundaries regarding privacy and personal space to ensure everyone’s comfort.
FAQs Help Your Children Adjust to a New Domestic Helper
How should I prepare my children for the new helper’s arrival?
Talk to them in advance using positive, age-appropriate language. Explain why the helper is coming and show them a photo if possible, so she feels more familiar when she arrives.
What is the best way to help my child and the new helper bond?
Don’t force it. Start with gradual interactions, like having the helper join you and your child in a fun activity.
Is it important to keep my child’s daily routine the same?
Yes, very important. Keeping daily routines for meals, playtime, and bedtime as consistent as possible gives your child a sense of security and control during a time of change.
Conclusion
Adjusting to a new domestic helper takes time and patience. With our 5 tips to help your children adjust to a new domestic helper above, you can make the process a positive experience for your entire family, especially your children.
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We understand how difficult it can be to find a domestic helper who can cater to your needs. If you need assistance, get in touch with our staff at Status Maids, your reliable maid agency in Tanjong Pagar.