If you’re anything like me, there’s something oddly satisfying about sitting down with a cup of coffee and tackling the New York Times crossword puzzle. Whether it’s your daily ritual or your Sunday brain-stretcher, there’s no denying the cleverness (and sometimes frustration) that comes with trying to decode those cryptic clues.

One clue that recently got people scratching their heads? “Home monitors.” Sounds straightforward at first, right? But like most NYT crossword clues, it’s got layers.

What Is a Home Monitors?

Let’s break this down. At first glance, “home monitors” might make you think of tech gadgets—like baby monitors, home security cameras, or those smart systems that let you turn off your lights with your voice. That’s what I thought, too. I started imagining a Ring doorbell or some motion sensor in the hallway.

But then… nothing fit. Too many letters, or not enough. And the “aha!” moment just wasn’t happening.

So I stepped back. That’s usually a good strategy when the NYT puzzle throws a curveball. I reminded myself: sometimes the clue is not about gadgets at all. Sometimes it’s about people.

The Crossword Trick: Think Figuratively

That’s the thing with NYT crosswords—they love wordplay. “Home monitors” could mean devices, sure, but it could also mean people who watch over a home. Still vague? Think about people who are in a home, possibly watching someone or something.

Boom. NANNIES.

That’s the answer.

Of course! It makes perfect sense once you see it, but getting there? That’s a whole different story. I had to go through a few wrong guesses, a couple of blank stares, and maybe even an angry mutter at Will Shortz (sorry, Will) before I figured it out.

What Makes These Clues So Fun

Part of the charm of crossword puzzles—especially the NYT ones—is how they push you to see words differently. A clue like “home monitors” isn’t just about objects. It could be a metaphor, a job title, or a clever twist.

That’s what makes them addictive. You’re not just recalling trivia—you’re solving a riddle. One minute you’re confident, filling in squares left and right. Next, you’re stuck on a simple clue like “home monitors,” wondering how three words could be so deceptive.

And then, when it clicks, you feel like a genius.

Final Thoughts

So the next time you come across a deceptively simple clue in the crossword, remember: it’s not always about the obvious. Sometimes it’s about looking at things from a different angle—or even taking a break and coming back later with fresh eyes.

“Home monitors” may have stumped you at first, but once you land on “nannies,” you can’t unsee it. And honestly? That’s what makes crossword puzzles so much fun. They’re part trivia, part logic, and part mind games—and somehow, we keep coming back for more.