How Immigrant Nannies Enable a New York Family to Thrive
The Role of Immigrant Nannies in New York City: A Family Perspective
In the vibrant and diverse landscape of Brooklyn, New York, the significance of immigrant nannies in modern childcare is increasingly evident. Liz, a fourth-generation New Yorker, shares a personal narrative that illustrates this reality. Her journey began when she found her family’s first nanny through a neighborhood parent group and later sourced a second nanny through a cooperative amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Both nannies, emblematic of the larger trend in the borough, are immigrants; as Liz succinctly states, “The bulk of nannies who are working in Brooklyn are immigrants.”
With both parents engaged in fulfilling careers, Liz and her husband made the decision to enlist professional childcare when their firstborn was an infant. The child’s serious food allergies necessitated meticulous management, prompting Liz to seek an arrangement that would allow her to balance her professional aspirations with her family’s needs. Liz is deeply entrenched in the realm of child welfare and philanthropy, advocating for families nationwide, while her husband works as a medical researcher focused on pioneering gene therapies that have the potential to save lives.
For Liz, the decision to work in a demanding field is rooted in her belief that her professional contributions are significant. “I like working. I want to be working. I think that the work I do is worth doing,” she remarked. The peace of mind that accompanies her employment hinges on the quality of care provided by their current nanny, Maria. Having been a part of their family for four years, Maria offers invaluable support by caring for Liz’s three children, ages two to six, for approximately 42 hours a week. Her compensation stands at per hour, amounting to nearly ,000 annually.
While this compensation underscores the financial commitments involved in securing reliable childcare, Liz notes that daycare services in New York City are prohibitively expensive for families with three children, averaging around ,000 each year. “The nanny’s work makes all the other work happen,” Liz emphasizes, reflecting on the crucial role that Maria plays in their daily lives. She expresses gratitude for the genuine bond between her children and their nanny, highlighting that Maria’s child often accompanies her, fostering familial connections.
Beyond daily care, the intercultural exchange that occurs within the household enriches the children’s upbringing. Liz is intent on providing her children with exposure to various cultures, which includes informal Spanish lessons. This approach is not just about language acquisition; it represents a broader commitment to celebrating diversity. “We live in a diverse city, and I want my kids to know a variety of people from a variety of places, and to value people from different backgrounds,” she stated.
With trust established over the years, Liz reflects on the exceptional care Maria provides, particularly for her son with severe allergies. “My son with anaphylactic allergies has never had a reaction with her,” she asserts, emphasizing the critical nature of this trust in her family’s routine.
Maria’s contributions extend beyond the domestic sphere; individuals like her are integral to the fabric of New York City’s labor market, serving as essential pillars in nurturing the next generation. As families navigate the complexities of modern life, the role of immigrant nannies stands as a testament to resilience, cultural exchange, and community support, highlighting the indispensable nature of their work within society and the economy.
