Getting a Maid to take care of your children

- in work-oriented country like Singapore, foreign domestic helpers are employed to do the bulk of the household chores and taking care of the children
- takes two hands to clap, and really can't blame everything that goes wrong in the household on the maid
- your maids are not housekeeping machines and do require that touch of empathy

That Human Touch
- a little kindness and understanding goes a long way.
- the first few days with maid in your home are always the trickiest, with her feeling completely disoriented and insecure about using a language that she is not used to.
- try to make her feel as comfortable and at home as possible.
- engage her in as much as conversation as possible, and encourage her to voice out her feelings
- forging a stronger bond with your domestic helper can also help them to cope better with a new environment, thus performing much better.

Are the Lines Open?
- establishing clear communication with your domestic helper is essential
- important to state your expectations clearly from the start, so that they are met.
- always let you maid feel that she is able to contact you anytime she needs to, without getting chastised.
- leave a list of instructions, should she forget her tasks, and also your phone numbers, should she have any queries.

Finding the Right Balance
- play the part of the firm but kind employer, instead of a patronising parent.
- speak to her as an equal, and instead of scolding her when she does something wrong.
- always be very clear with boundaries and let your maid know of what can and cannot be done.
- eg. left the kids alone in the house for a short period of time whilst she went to the supermarket to get something, was unacceptable .
- communicate your fears to her and dangers of leaving young children unattended.
- you may suggest that the next time she had to go somewhere, she take them along or give you a call and let you pick it up instead.
- people management skills are required
- time and practise make for happy, long lasting relationships for all.