How to Train Your New Domestic Helper for Household Tasks

Hiring a domestic helper in Singapore can be a great way to manage household responsibilities efficiently. However, ensuring that your new helper adapts well to your home and performs her duties effectively requires proper training. A well-trained domestic helper not only helps maintain a clean and organized household but also ensures smooth day-to-day operations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to training your new domestic helper for household tasks.

1. Establish Clear Expectations

Before beginning any training, it is essential to set clear expectations regarding duties, working hours, and house rules. Sit down with your helper and discuss:

• The daily, weekly, and monthly tasks she is responsible for.
• House rules, including etiquette, phone usage, and meal times.
• Safety protocols and emergency contacts.

Providing a written list of duties can be helpful, allowing your Domestic helper Singapore to refer back to it as needed.

2. Start with a House Tour

A house tour helps your helper familiarize herself with the home layout, storage spaces, and essential appliances. Show her where cleaning supplies, kitchen utensils, and household necessities are kept. Also, guide her on which areas require special care, such as delicate furniture, fragile decorations, or special laundry instructions.

3. Demonstrate and Explain Each Task

Rather than just telling your helper what needs to be done, demonstrate each task. This approach allows her to visually learn and understand the expected standards. Some key tasks to cover include:

a) Cleaning and Organization

• Show her the proper techniques for dusting, mopping, and vacuuming.
• Explain how different cleaning products should be used to avoid damage to furniture and surfaces.
• Emphasize the importance of hygiene, particularly in the kitchen and bathrooms.

b) Laundry and Ironing

• Teach her how to operate the washing machine and dryer, including the appropriate settings for different fabrics.
• Instruct her on proper ironing techniques and how to fold clothes neatly.
• Explain how to handle delicate garments that require handwashing.

c) Cooking and Meal Preparation

• If cooking is part of her duties, teach her basic recipes and how to prepare meals according to your family’s dietary preferences.
• Show her how to safely use kitchen appliances like the oven, microwave, and stove.
• Explain proper food storage and hygiene practices to prevent contamination.

4. Set a Training Schedule

Rather than overwhelming your domestic helper with all tasks at once, introduce them gradually through a structured training schedule. You can:

• Focus on one category of tasks per day.
• Allow time for practice and feedback.
• Encourage her to ask questions and clarify doubts.

A step-by-step approach helps her retain information better and build confidence in her skills.

5. Use Checklists and Reminders

Providing a checklist can help your helper keep track of daily and weekly chores. A printed schedule on the fridge or a simple notebook for task tracking can be beneficial. Digital reminders or apps can also assist in organizing tasks efficiently.

6. Encourage Open Communication

A good employer-helper relationship is built on clear communication. Encourage your domestic helper to voice any concerns or ask for guidance whenever needed. Regular check-ins can help address any misunderstandings and improve her performance.

7. Teach Household Safety and Emergency Procedures

Training should also include household safety, such as:

• Proper use of electrical appliances to avoid accidents.
• Fire safety measures, including how to use a fire extinguisher.
• Emergency contacts and procedures in case of medical issues or home security concerns.

8. Be Patient and Provide Constructive Feedback

It’s important to be patient as your domestic helper learns and adjusts to your household routine. Offer constructive feedback rather than criticism. If she makes mistakes, guide her on how to improve rather than scolding her. Recognizing and appreciating her progress will also motivate her to perform better.

9. Allow Time for Adaptation

Every new domestic helper needs time to settle into a new environment. Give her at least a few weeks to adjust to her responsibilities. If she struggles with certain tasks, offer additional guidance and reassurance.

10. Respect Cultural Differences

Domestic helpers in Singapore come from different cultural backgrounds, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Myanmar. Understanding and respecting cultural differences can help build a better working relationship. Learning a few basic phrases in her native language or sharing your own customs can help create a more harmonious home environment.

Conclusion

Training your domestic helper properly is key to ensuring a well-managed household. By setting clear expectations, demonstrating tasks, encouraging open communication, and providing ongoing support, you can help her become efficient and confident in her role. Investing time in training will result in a smoother household operation and a positive working relationship between you and your domestic helper in Singapore.