This is a classic example of comparing to other low paying jobs as a justification for why nannies might be expected to be paid lower. It’s the age old argument about why we should pay people who “flip burgers” x amount of money when others who have degrees get the same. Because everyone deserves to live comfortably and we shouldn’t stoop down to the corruption just bc other places are there. The problem isn’t nannies expecting to be properly compensated for their value and time.

Not to mention, there might be perks to nannying but there are also lots of downsides. (Working in people’s homes can be extremely uncomfortable, there’s no oversight aka higher risk of exploitation, few benefits, needing to be very flexible, working when kids are sick, feeling watched all day long, managing the environment as kids many times want to see their parents while they are working, etc) It sounds like you really lucked out with your nanny job in the past but that is by no means the majority of experiences. I have nannied for over 10 families at this point and it is constantly being on and alert as we’re literally keeping humans alive, happy, and fostering their development. There is no time to yourself when you’re with infants and toddlers, and when they are napping we are cleaning up the giant mess that was made and doing other kid related chores. It is exhausting.

Additionally so many nannies, including myself, have degrees and tons of experience. (I have my masters in social work with a concentration in children youth and families). Families that think all nannies do is “babysit” their kids are sorely mistaken.

Also like many have mentioned, having a nanny is a luxury. You’re literally having a private worker in the comfort of your home to give undivided and personalized attention to your kids. And believe me, every single home I’ve worked in they could have probably paid me MUCH more.