Finding a nanny for your child may be necessary in order to balance work with your family life. However, choosing someone that you can trust to take care of your children while you’re not, there is not a decision to be taken lightly. The thought of leaving your child with a stranger can be downright unsettling.
Therefore, it’s important to make sure that you go through the hiring process carefully and thoroughly. Here are some of the best tips for helping you choose the perfect nanny for your family.
Ask For Recommendations With Friends
Word of mouth is a great tool when it comes to finding a nanny. Finding someone that already comes recommended by someone you know personally reduces the risk of putting your child into the hands of someone dangerous.
Don’t hesitate to post something on your social media mentioning that you’re looking for recommendations. You might even be surprised to find that you already know someone who is a nanny themselves!
Conduct a Background Check
Before allowing just anyone to come into your home and take care of your child, you should make sure you know everything about them. You should know their criminal history, and if they’ve ever been charged with sexual abuse, or any issues involving children.
Look into their previous jobs and find out why they quit. By doing your homework about their past, you’ll have an idea of how they’ll treat your children.
Be Specific About What You’re Looking For
When looking to hire a nanny, it’s important to be as specific as possible in your requirements. Failing to list the specifications could waste your time and someone else’s.
Make sure to clearly outline what kind of duties you’d like them to perform and what hours you’d like them to work. The last thing you want is to make time for an interview only to find that the person was expecting full-time when you’re only looking for a few hours a week.
Create a Contract
A contract is critical when you hire someone. It should outline everything from house rules to their hourly pay. A contract helps protect you and the nanny from unnecessary battles down the road.
The best way to make sure that everyone stays happy is to be as specific as possible from the beginning.
Agree On a Trial Period
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may not be a good fit for each other. It can put you in a bit of a pickle once you’re under contractual obligation.
Therefore, it’s helpful to agree on a trial period before hiring them indefinitely. It also gives your child the opportunity to tell you whether they like them or not.
