In this age of technology, cameras are everywhere. Although it can feel a little Big Brotherish, hidden cameras have served as a valuable security device for businesses, airports, and school campuses. This technology has also entered the home front with parents hiding Nanny Cams to spy on babysitters while mom and dad are away. It is an effective way for parents to keep a watchful eye on their children and ensure they are being cared for properly. But before you hide a camera in your alarm clock or your kid’s teddy bear, consider whether this type of technology is legal, ethical and effective.

Legal
According to Michael Dear, president of Spy Centre Security, “it is legal in all 50 states to have hidden cameras in your home. However, parents should never put cameras in private areas such as your nanny’s bedroom or bathroom.” It is also important to note that, in some states, you can not record audio without a person’s consent. Check the state laws before making the investment.

Ethical
For some, an ethical dilemma exists. There are those who feel hidden cameras are an invasion of privacy. However, Dear responds to this concern by stating, “your child is your most important asset. Parents should do everything they can to make sure their child is safe. In some cases, you don’t get a second chance to protect your child.” But should you tell your nanny that there are cameras in the house? I would respond with a resounding “Yes!” Many responsible care givers would be open to being monitored while working. Dear agrees stating, “be up front about the surveillance cameras. Let her know that you are attempting to protect your child, not sneak around and spy”. However, problems will likely arise if she is unaware of the surveillance camera until you come home with detailed gripes about how long your child in parked in front of the TV. Let your nanny know about the cameras and explain that they allow you to not only monitor your child’s safety, but also record childhood milestones that you may otherwise miss.

Effective
The quality of the nanny cam is critical. Dear sites a recent trial in which a case was thrown out because the quality of the Nanny Cam was not sharp enough to definitively claim that abuse took place. “The court couldn’t discern if the nanny was actually shaking the baby. Parents should use professional equipment and not settle for homemade versions of surveillance.”

Availability and Cost
Nanny Cams have become increasingly more popular largely because the cost is going down and the usability has improved. Dear states that “anybody can install and use a Nanny Cam at a reasonable price.” Parents have a wide range of options with prices ranging from $100-$800 depending on the technology. The cameras are so small that they can be easily installed in almost anything including a smoke detector, mantle clock, child’s toy or even air purifier.

The newest and coolest in Nanny Cams are cameras that are no bigger than the head of a pen. This specialized equipment can send pictures through the electrical lines to your home desktop. Other advanced equipment includes a built-in digital recorder. Dear states, “it is virtually impossible to detect that it is a camera. It is a camera and DVR all in one that records on a photo card that can be played on any video monitor including a cell phone or PC.”

It is important to note that even the best-of-the-best in Nanny Cam equipment cannot monitor every interaction between your caregiver and your child. Nanny cams are just one tool in your tool box of resources that can be used to ensure your child is receiving quality care. Nanny Cams should be used in conjunction with other methods that include: open communication with your care giver; watching for signs of abuse; paying attention to your instincts; and most importantly talking to your child.

For information on equipment and services available, check out www.spycentre.com.