Having a nanny is important specially to working parents to reduce stress and workload. Finding for the right person to take good care for your child can be stressful.
10 Tips below:
1. Look for a Nanny Agency
Find a nanny agency that has a good reputation. It can help you create a contract to govern the relationship and terms between you and your nanny.
2. Know your search
Understand the need of your child on what kind of nanny he/she needs. Do you want a nanny to stay with your family? Are you looking for a part-time nanny or a night-time nanny? The criteria need to be clear. You do not want a person walking in expecting to work part-time and you offer them a full-time nanny job. This way you are clear. It also saves a lot of time during the interview.
3. Know your budget
Knowing your budget is one of the most important points while hiring a nanny. A little flexibility in the offered price is okay. Do not over-budget yourself with hiring a nanny.
4. Relevant childcare experience
It is important to consider the candidate’s relevant childcare experience. A prospective nanny should have at least one year of cumulative prior experience as a paid childcare provider.
5. Education
Consider the candidate’s education and make sure it fits with your family’s needs.
6. Background check
You are allowing a person to have access to your personal life. A nanny will have the right to enter your family, your home, and your baby’s life. You need to know the background of the person you are letting into your life.
7. Safety training
Find out if he/she is certified in pediatric CPR and First Aid. Make becoming certified in pediatric CPR/First Aid a prerequisite to employment.
8. Legal Status
Check the candidate’s legal status. A person can be a legal resident or in the United States with a visa, but that does not mean he or she is legal to work in the U.S. Ask the prospective nanny to prove their status by filling out an I-9, before offering a position.
9. Childcare related references
When checking references, be smart. Think like a detective, and do not give the reference any information up front. Ask the reference to give you the dates, duties, schedule, ages of the kids, etc. You want to make sure his/her story matches the prospective nanny’s.
10. Trial period
A trial period is compulsory before hiring. During this trial period you’ll get to observe the way she works. It will also give you time to get to know her and get comfortable with her. Another point to keep in mind is to stay back during the trial period of your nanny. Let your children get comfortable before you leave them alone with this stranger.
