It is good to have an extra set of ears and eyes looking out for your children, but just make sure that your friends and neighbors are being fair in any gossip.

Nanny psychological problems

If your nanny has eating disorders, depression or suicidal tendencies, you should get help immediately. Signs to look for:

If your nanny does not ever eat in anyone’s presence

If she eats and then goes to the bathroom immediately afterwards

If you discover she is hording food

If the nanny appears despondent and low energy

If the nanny seems to be crying a lot or have just been crying

If the nanny seems to be exhibiting big mood swings

Slurring words

Children’s psychological problems

Some “red lights” to look for in your children, that may indicate that there is some psychological anxiety:

Your child stops eating

Dramatic weight loss or gain

More cranky and clingy than usual

Bruises or signs of lacerations or irritations anywhere on the body that cannot be explained

Discomfort (physically or emotionally) when going to the bathroom

Reverting to infantile behavior

If you suspect that something is not right, call your pediatrician for professional advice.

Security devices

There is an entire industry that will help you find out what your nanny is doing when you are not home, without her knowing that you are running surveillance on her. If you use the phrase “nanny cams” in your computer’s search engine, you will come up with a long listing of surveillance items you can purchase or learn about.