With home surveillance camera systems rising in popularity, some are choosing to use a nanny cam to watch over nannies. Here's everything you need to know.

A company in New York has been studying 10 million pedestrians through video cameras.

Surveillance of people in public spaces to collect specific information and promote security is on the rise. In homes, the use of a nanny cam is growing in popularity.

If you are a working parent, getting a nanny to look after your baby is sometimes inevitable. Yet, trusting a stranger to take care of your baby in your absence is chilling. With the myriad of cases on children abuse, a nanny camera is something to consider.

Read on for everything you need to know about nanny cameras.

Why Should You Install a Nanny Cam?

Nanny cams have a variety of benefits for parents. The cameras ensure real-time monitoring of your home. With features such as wi-fi streaming, audio, and motion tracking, the nanny cams are ideal if you are a parent.

These babysitter cameras are not solely for recording wrongdoings; instead, they aim at prevention. When the nannies know that you can see all their movements, they wouldn’t harm your baby. The real-time feedback is essential for timely action in case of an incidence.

Besides having your home secured, having a nanny cam provides added security from unscrupulous visitors. The camera can capture break-ins or theft within the house. You should ensure that you choose a camera that has a high definition to allow you to get clear face recognition.

Most camera systems have two-way communication. You can remind your nanny about important things when you have a nanny cam. Your nanny can also reach you when needed.

Manufacturers of nanny cams consider the average parent, making the devices easy to use. Most of these cameras require you to activate with an app. You can position them in an angle you deem fit.

With the convenience brought about by nanny surveillance, you will have peace of mind. The cams will make you feel calm when living your young one with a stranger. Nonetheless, a nanny cam should not make you hire any Jane Doe to take care of your baby without doing background checks.

The Key Features to Consider when Buying a Nanny Cam

Now that you have decided to install a nanny cam, you need to know how to go about it. Nanny cams have different features. They include the following.

Wireless Vs. SD card

The wireless aspect of some nanny camera gives you a live view of the happenings in your home. The SD card type of nanny cam records videos that you can watch later. Having a camera with these two features increases versatility and eventualities such as loss of key footage.

Night Vision

The nanny cam should have clear night vision. Based on the technologies used, the night vision might be of low quality. Check out the cameras that have a Wide Dynamic Range because they enhance clarity.

Two-Way Audio

The two-way audio is becoming a prevalent feature in most of the nanny cameras manufactured today. The camera allows you to speak into your phone, prompting the cam to play the audio. This can allow you to calm your fussing baby even when she is miles away.

Compatibility with Your Smartphone

Get a nanny cam that is compatible with your smartphone to allow you to control the camera remotely. One of the main concerns when using your smartphone is the risk of hacking. Yet, integrating your Android or iPhone with the camera increases its effectiveness.

Download the app related to the device before the actual purchase. Ensure that the interface is easy to use and the options are configurable. Check out the app to know whether it is compatible with your phone.

Motion Activation

When you are out running errands, watching your smartphone throughout is impossible. Get a nanny camera that has motion activation to alert you when there is any motion in front of the device. Based on the position of the camera, the motion can be frequent.

Power Source

Nanny cameras have two types of power supply, which are AC or battery operated. The battery-powered nanny cameras use rechargeable battery packs. The AC use power from an electric outlet.

The AC powered surveillance camera is better for continuous recording and monitoring. The battery operated camera stops working immediately it runs out of battery.

What Are the Main Concerns When Using a Nanny Camera?

With the growing concern of breach of privacy, you might be in a dilemma on the use of nanny surveillance in your home. But are nanny cameras legal? If you live in the US, the use of some hidden cameras is legal.

Yet, recording someone’s speech without their consent is illegal in some of the states. The law also prohibits installing cameras in the bathroom or your nannies’ bedroom. It would be unethical to even put cameras in rooms that your nanny would require privacy.

You can read more about nanny cams and their legality in different states. If you are unsure about recording using your nanny cam, inform your nanny and have them sign a written consent. Recording in states that prohibit can make any evidence on tape unacceptable in a court.

While it is recommendable to notify your nanny about the hidden cameras, your relationship might change. Babysitters might feel they are untrusted because of the monitoring. Some might even turn down a nanny job.

Instead of waiting for your nanny to discover the cameras, discuss with them. Explain your concerns and the importance of cameras in your home. Being honest can cement your relationship with your child’s caregiver.

The cost of the initial purchase of the nanny cameras and data storage can be high. If you need several cameras, you might need to dig deeper in your pocket. However, the cost is worth because of the myriads of benefits.

A Nanny Cam Will Give You Peace of Mind Regarding Your Baby’s Safety

Surveillance in your home can enhance the security of your family members. The decision to have a nanny cam is personal. Yet, if you feel you don’t trust a nanny, it is crucial to consider a replacement.

The aim of a nanny camera should not be the recording of your nanny's wrongdoings. The camera can give you peace of mind knowing that you can connect with your baby while away.

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