NOT Wearing a SeatbeltConsidering all of the kids and parents who have been kicked off flights in the past few years, it's clear that parents in the sky need some help. I'm recalling the beginning of one flight that was particularly messy when a nice lady from the next aisle offered me a hand. That one moment of help was what I needed to get myself and my toddler together, but can you imagine having a nanny for the duration of your flight? Someone you pay (without paying her airfare) to take care of your kids?
Well someone imagined it enough to start a company called Nanny in the Clouds, which offers just that. Another pair of hands that will keep your kid from harassing all of the other passengers, and instead just the one passenger that you're paying to take the abuse. Genius!
Here's how it works. You register (as a parent) and nannies register as well. If you both happen to be on the same flight, you are matched up for a $10 fee, paid for by the parents. You then negotiate seating, the hourly rate, and for how long you need that nanny. For the car ride to and from the airport, in the terminal, or just while you're in the air.
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Of course there are downsides. The company doesn't do background checks, so you're on your own in that scenario. And unless you arrange a meeting beforehand, you really don't know what you're going to get. (Neither does the nanny, for that matter.) Also there's that whole "Oh my god, who do you think you are traveling with a nanny? Can't you control your own kids?" factor. But isn't that better than annoying the hell out of the entire airplane and possibly getting kicked off?
I have confidence in myself, my husband, and my kids to travel without major incident. If I were travelling with my kids by myself, however, I would totally sign up for this. An extra pair of hands can be the difference between an enjoyable trip and a nightmare that causes you to get the shakes anytime you head out on vacation.
Would you use Nanny in the Clouds?
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Comments 22
What is it with all this kicking kids off of planes if they are noisy? How terribly untolerable travelers are becoming, There are worst things that having to brave a crying baby for a few hours. I never had to iar travel with my kids when they were young, but the time I have, never found it annoying if a kid was crying, talking or yelling. Adults do worst thing, like stinking up the whole plane after a trip to the bathroom or passing gas.
I'm sure if they worked out some of the kinks (background checks), I would use it if I traveled alone with my two y.o. and my 5 month. I would appreciate another set of TRUSTworthy hands.
@momlily - i get what you're trying to say, but i think there's a pretty big difference between a kid throwing a tantrum and someone with some flatulence. one of these things can be controlled, the other - not so much. lol
also, just how well would this work, anyway? if you, as a parent, can't get a kid settled down in such a small confined space, how in the hell would a total stranger do it? unless they're adding "nanny rooms" for the kids to go off and play in until the flight is over, i don't really see how this is helping in the slightest. unless you have 2 parents and 4 kids, then maybe you need an extra hand - but you're still all sitting on a cramped plane with a bunch of other people. it's a good idea in theory, but in execution, you pay a stranger $10 to negotiate where they'll sit and if they'll help with your kid (which is another fee on top). it doesn't make sense...
Good gravy - if you can't handle your kids (1) space them further apart and (2) don't fly with them.
No I wouldn't- I'm the parent and it's my job to take care of them.
i dont think a stranger would be much help unless they were handling your baggage. Other than that, all there is to do on a plane is sit in your seat and walk to the bathroom. Nothing parents shouldnt be able to handle. Unless you are that family who tried to have their baby sit on a 2 year olds lap, they could have used a "nanny"...or some common sense.
Smh
If you can't control them as toddlers and preschoolers, good luck with the teen years.
I was waiting for the sanctimommies to chime in. *eye roll*
I think this is a great idea (assuming that they work on those background checks). Children are generally restless on planes (duh)... they're not bad kids and the parents aren't bad parents, but I think it's unreasonable to expect a child to sit quietly in a seat for hours. A restless, frustrated child (or children) can be overwhelming for a parent. It may helpful for the parent to have someone else to watch one child while you take the other to the bathroom, or help with meals, or entertain them. I know my daughter finds anyone more interesting than boring old mom who she sees 24/7. And what about parents, like myself, who get sick on planes? I hate flying because I spend the majority of the time trying not to vomit... having another adult to take over storytime while I'm sick would be fantastic!
Anyway, judgemental mommies, judge not lest ye be judged. Shame on you.