And Ariel isn't the first nanny to give Kate the kiss-off. "She has gone through about 11 nannies and tons of helpers in the past few years," says the insider to Life & Style. "Shifts can last up to 24 hours, and you have to go on trips with the family. Sleepovers are often required, and there is no set schedule with days off. You work when Kate says she needs you to work."
The Kate Plus 8 star, who's currently not on TV, could save some money by being a more hands-on mom (she's been known to pay her nannies $25 an hour) -- but that, of course, would interfere with her salon appointments and bid to make it in Hollywood.
"Kate is unavailable to her children," says the insider. "She never plays with them anymore and is constantly busy with her personal affairs. That's why she always needs a nanny!"
Photo Credit: Startraks