Are you afraid to use those sick days or paid time off? Knowing how and when to ask can make or break a nanny/ parent relationship. Key word here is ASK. We have come up with five helpful tools to help you advocate for yourself and get some much needed time off.

First thing first, consult your work agreement. Make sure you have a work agreement that clearly explains how this works so their is NO question on the who, what, whens and how is clearly spelled out. **NEVER** ask for time off within the first 3-6 months of working with a new family. Don’t have a work agreement? That’s okay. We suggest asking your family if there a good time to talk when they aren’t busy about needing some time out. SUGGESTION: “Hi MB or DB, I would love to sit down when you aren’t busy and ask when it would be best for me to take some time off that I need…”.

Second, give ample notice: asking for a day off the day before is a risky choice. To ensure you can get time off, ask as soon as you possibly can. The longer you plan to take off, the more notice you should give.

Third, ask for permission: Even if you are entitled to a certain number of days off, it's more polite to ask for time off then to tell.

Forth, put it in writing! Even if you have it via text or verbally always follow up with a nice email outlining the time you need off and get specific.

Five, catch your mom or dad boss at the right time. In order to increase your chances of getting time off, ask when they aren't busy. Bonus points if you can catch them in an especially good mood. If you want to ask them in person, ask them when they are free to chat. If you want to send the request via email or an online portal, send it when you know they have extra time.

Remember asking gets you a lot further then demanding. We hope this helps!

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