Why Do Some Nannies in Bali,Indonesia Avoid Working for Foreign Families?
🅿️ Many foreigners in Bali hire local nannies to help with their children or homes—but not all realize that some Indonesian nannies actually avoid working for foreign families 😟 This may seem surprising, especially when foreigners assume they offer better pay or comfort than local employers.
🅰️ Some nannies feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or even disrespected 😓 They mention being asked to skip prayer times, do jobs outside of their contract, or work overtime without extra pay. Cultural misunderstandings, lack of privacy, and unclear roles only add to the stress.
🆂 These issues can be avoided through better communication, clear job descriptions, and cultural sensitivity 🤝 When foreign employers take time to understand local customs and respect personal space, it builds trust and makes nanny relationships stronger.
🆃 “I worked for a kind foreign family, but they didn’t understand my religious needs or time off,” said Ayu, a nanny from Gianyar 💔 “They were nice, but I still felt invisible sometimes.”
🅴 For example, Ayu was expected to do childcare, cleaning, cooking, and even pet care—without any clear agreement 🛑 She stayed quiet at first, but over time, the stress became too much and she had to quit.
🅰️ This blog will help you avoid these common mistakes and become a better, more respectful employer in Bali 💡 By listening to what nannies really need, you can build a warm, professional relationship that lasts 💛
Table of Contents
Cultural Mistakes Foreign Employers Make with Nannies in Bali 🌏
Many foreigners in Bali have the best intentions when hiring a nanny—but sometimes, cultural differences lead to misunderstandings 😬
What seems “normal” to you might feel uncomfortable to your nanny. For example, some employers talk loudly, use direct language, or avoid small talk. While this might be common in your home country, many Indonesians see this as rude or cold.
Others forget about prayer times or don’t allow time for religious practices. Respecting a nanny’s culture doesn’t mean you have to change your own—it just means being aware and showing kindness in daily interactions 💡
Even small gestures like removing shoes indoors or learning a few Bahasa Indonesia phrases can help build trust from day one.
Why Some Indonesian Nannies Feel Disrespected by Foreign Families 😞
Respect is everything in Indonesian culture 🙇♀️ But sadly, some nannies feel ignored or treated like background staff.
Employers might not greet them, thank them, or even ask about their well-being. Some foreign families also give instructions like orders, without eye contact or polite tone. For nannies, this feels like being invisible.
Even when the salary is good, the emotional environment matters. Nannies want to feel seen, appreciated, and treated like part of the family—not like a robot.
A simple “thank you,” a smile, or a short chat about their day can go a long way in making your nanny feel human and respected 😊
Overworked and Undervalued: When Nannies Are Asked to Do Too Much 🧽
One of the biggest complaints from nannies in Bali is being asked to do too many jobs at once 😩
Many contracts are for childcare—but soon they’re also cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, walking dogs, and more. This makes them feel overwhelmed and undervalued. Worse, some employers don’t even realize they’re asking too much.
If the job scope changes, the pay and hours should too. Think of it this way: you wouldn’t ask your babysitter back home to clean the bathroom and cook dinner, right? 🤷♀️ Clear roles and fair expectations keep everyone happier—and help your nanny stay longer.
How Language Barriers Lead to Frustration on Both Sides 🗣️
Communication can be tricky, especially when English isn’t your nanny’s first language 🧠 Many misunderstandings happen simply because of unclear instructions or rushed conversations.
Some employers speak too fast, use slang, or get upset when the nanny doesn’t understand. On the other side, nannies often feel nervous or embarrassed to ask questions. This silence can cause small issues to grow into big problems.
What helps? Speak slowly, use gestures or examples, and check that your nanny truly understands. And if you learn a few Bahasa Indonesia words, it shows that you care—and builds trust faster 🗨️❤️
Discipline, Religion, and Daily Routines: What Foreigners Often Misunderstand 🙏
Raising children in a foreign country brings new challenges—especially when it comes to discipline and daily routines 👶🍬
Some foreigners don’t realize that many Indonesian nannies are uncomfortable with yelling, hitting, or overly relaxed discipline styles. Others forget that religion plays a big role in a nanny’s day, especially during Ramadan or prayer times.
If you expect a nanny to skip meals or miss religious breaks, it causes deep stress. Respecting their schedule, asking about their routines, and including them in parenting discussions makes them feel valued—and keeps harmony in your home 🌿
Why Saying “Thank You” Can Make All the Difference 💛
You might think your nanny already knows you appreciate her—but in many cases, she doesn’t 😔
In Indonesian culture, appreciation is shown openly and often. If you never say “thank you,” never smile, and never offer praise, your nanny may feel underappreciated—even if you pay well. A small compliment like “The baby’s so happy today—thank you for your care!” can boost morale more than you realize 🌟
Also, remembering her birthday, giving a small gift during holidays, or just saying “how was your weekend?” creates connection. Gratitude is free—but the impact is priceless 🥰
What a Good Nanny Contract in Bali Should Always Include 📝
Many problems between nannies and employers start with one thing: no clear contract 📄 Without written terms, both sides are guessing. Some nannies are told they’ll work 8 hours—but end up doing 12. Others don’t get paid on time or lose their days off without warning. A good contract includes: work hours, salary, job scope, days off, sick leave, and notice period. It protects both you and your nanny—and helps avoid confusion. If you’re not sure how to write one, many local nanny agencies in Bali offer templates. And once it’s signed, honor it 🙌 That builds trust more than anything.
FAQs About Building Better Relationships with Nannies in Bali ❓
Q: My nanny seems quiet. Is she unhappy?
A: Not necessarily. Many Indonesian nannies are shy at first or avoid direct criticism. Try asking gently if she needs anything or has ideas.
Q: Is it okay to ask my nanny to do extra tasks?
A: Yes, but only if it’s discussed respectfully—and she agrees. Extra work should come with extra pay or time off.
Q: Do I need to let my nanny practice her religion during work?
A: Absolutely. Indonesia is a religious country. Allowing short prayer breaks shows respect and improves your relationship.
Q: How can I make my nanny feel appreciated?
A: Say thank you, smile, ask how she’s doing, and include her in conversations. These small acts go a long way.
Q: Why do nannies leave even if I pay well?
A: Because emotional respect matters just as much as money. Being kind, fair, and understanding builds loyalty 💕