Nora writes: "I was scheduled to work a full week, but then the kids' grandparents came to town and wanted to watch them. The family told me if I still wanted to get paid for that week, I had to make up the hours at another time. Should I still be compensated for the entire time I was scheduled?"
A: One word: contract! I can't stress enough the importance of a contract for every nanny position, including part time. Even if it's a casual email exchange between you and the family outlining duties, benefits, and pay, it's imperative for both parties to be clear about expectations at the beginning of your employment term and have a written reference for these types of situations—which seemingly only pop up when your rent is due. Naturally. Many part time nannies only get paid for actual hours worked, others have a set "salary" or minimum they will be paid every week. Unfortunately, with no prior written or verbal agreement it's hard to force an employer to pay you for hours you aren't needed. Here's my two cents: take this opportunity to request a review with your employer. If you've been with the family for six months or more and don't have a contract, now would be a good time to schedule a check-in with them as a gentle reminder of what a great job you're doing and that—hellooooo—they don't want to lose you. Suggest a written contract that includes a minimum weekly salary, so when grandma and grandpa want to pop in for a surprise visit, you can still pay your bills. But! Be prepared to see those surprise days off all but disappear, or learn that the family can't accommodate your request. The bottom line is, you may not get the answer you're hoping for, so be prepared to either accept what they can offer or start looking for a new family who can give you what you want.