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Why do children start considering the nanny as their 'mother'? What effect does this have on the mental state of children?
KalamTimes | August 23, 2025 1:39 AM CST

Child and Nanny Attachment Impact on Mental Health: How a child's deep attachment with the nanny affects the mother-child relationship and mental development, and how it can be avoided.

Child and Nanny Attachment Impact on Mental Health: It has become necessary for working parents to have a nanny to take care of their children. From morning to evening, the nanny takes care of everything- food, clothes, play, sleep of the child. In such a situation, the child spends most of his time with the nanny instead of the mother. Gradually, the child starts considering the nanny as his "mother". This situation can deeply affect the development of the child on an emotional and mental level. 

According to Dr. Harpreet Singh, the initial development of a child's brain happens in the first few years. During this time, the child considers the person who is closest to him, fulfills his needs and forms an emotional bond with him as his primary caregiver.

  • Spending more time together: Due to parents going to office, the child spends his entire day with the nanny.
  • Immediate response: Whether the child cries or is hungry, the nanny immediately fulfills his needs.
  • Emotional bonding: Through everyday care and affection the child starts feeling comfortable with the nanny.

Effects on mental state

  • Distance from the mother: An emotional distance may increase between the child and the biological mother, which may make the child view the mother as 'less important'.
  • Change in attachment patterns: The child becomes more attached to the nanny, which may later create discomfort in the relationship with the parents.
  • Confusion and insecurity: The child is unable to understand who the 'real mother' is, which can lead to mental confusion and insecurity.
  • Impact on future relationships: Attachment patterns formed in the early years can affect friendships, relationships and self-confidence in the future.

What parents can do

  • Spend quality time: Even if time is limited, it is important to play, tell stories and talk to the child.
  • Get involved in important activities: Try to take care of routine tasks yourself, like putting the baby to bed, feeding them, or getting ready in the morning.
  • Expression of love: Hugs, kisses and eye contact, these small gestures make the child feel that you are his primary caregiver.
  • Keep the roles of the nanny and mother clear: Let the nanny help with care, but take charge of important decisions and providing love.


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