Should parents use nanny cameras?

There are many sides to this story. There is the side that says that you shouldn’t bother hiring someone if you feel the need to monitor their behavior and actions. Then there is the side that sits on precaution and says that it is nothing personal about the individual and it’s just something to make the parent(s) more at ease when they can’t be with their child(ren). On the caregiver’s side, there are nannies that will not work for a family that uses surveillance because they feel uncomfortable and violated, being watched at all times (even when they are eating or feel the need to scratch their noses or buttock). Many nannies have quit jobs due to finding a hidden nanny camera in a stuffed animal, clock or electronic device. Then there are nannies that don’t mind but they usually do want to be told in the beginning. That is the norm among most nannies. However, parents say that the whole point of the nanny camera is to catch her if she’s doing something bad and if she knows she’s being taped then she will be on her best behavior. Well….yes and isn’t that what you want anyways?

There is also the law. It is currently legal in every state to make a video-only recording of anything happening at your home, at any time, without informing anyone. The fact that the camera is hidden has no effect on this concept. If your camera is video only (no sound is recorded), then you can do whatever you like with it, in your own home (but be careful because in 13 states it is illegal to record someone’s voice without their permission). Courts only allow these devices to be used for acceptable and “reasonable” purposes, through (i.e. monitoring the baby and/or your behavior with the child, or preventing theft). If the court finds that the cameras were for some illegal purpose (such as voyeurism, or disclosing private information to the public, or using the video for any sort of commercial purpose), then they will certainly not be covered, and you may be found liable.

Every so often a story comes out on the evening news of a nanny horribly neglecting a child. This becomes the talk of the town and is plastered all over the Internet. To avoid these situations it is essential for families to do proper screening. Here are some questions to ask yourself. 1) did you request references and call them directly? 2) did you background check your nanny? 3) does your nanny have legal status? 4) is your nanny CPR certified 5) do you have a good gut feeling about this person? It is extremely important to take the time out to do these things. Don’t be the one who skips on the screening and buys a nanny camera. Point being, make sure you do your due diligence and don’t cut any corners when it comes to finding and hiring a nanny. Don’t be the one who finds out the nanny is bad by catching her on a nanny camera. If you take your time to do all the essential screening then your chances of hiring a bad nanny will be nominal.

If you’ve decided to purchase nanny cameras, there are many options available to parents. Professional surveillance systems come with everything, from the monitors, cameras, DVR, cables, all power supplies and installation. Use a reputable company in your area or click here for a list of surveillance companies we recommend.

These wired and wireless hidden cameras have helped many people catch abusive nannies that otherwise would have continued to abuse or neglect their children. One thing is certain, if you suspect your child is not being properly treated, get a hidden camera. You owe it to your children.