The most epic nanny guide ever! In this blog we go over where to start, where to find one, defining your non-negotiables, questions to ask on an interview and other things to consider when choosing a nanny!
Nanny search checklist
- Figure out your budget
- Decide what works in your budget or for your schedule – nanny, daycare, etc
- Define your non-negotiables
- Post a job/ask a friend/join social media groups
- Find suitable candidates and set up phone interviews
- Check references
- Interview ones you are serious about in person
- Obtain background check
- Make an offer and mutually sign a contract with agreed upon responsibilities, salary, benefits, etc.
Where to search for a nanny
- Local Facebook mom groups
- Care.com
- SitterCity.com
- Urbansitter.com
- Nannylane.com
- Adventurenannies.com
- Word of mouth through friends
- Local nanny placement agencies
- Au Pair in America
- Places of worship (churches, temples, mosques, etc.)
Examples of non-negotiables
Like any relationship, pick the top things that are most important to you and that you absolutely require in the person you hire.
- Non smoker
- Vaccination status – TDAP, flu, Covid
- Years of experience
- Similiar parenting philosphy and discipline methods
- Ability to drive and clean dirving ercord
- Okay with pets if you have them
- Flexible schedule
- No phone use and/or screens when with child
- CPR/First Aid Certified
- Similar religous and/or ethical values
- Follow safety – sleep and car seats, etc.
- Physically able to keep up with child
- Takes feedback well and implements changes
- Clear communication style
- Good hygiene
- Reliability – showing up on time and not frequently calling out
- Understands child development and knows how to engage with child
- Follows schedule
- Warm personality
- Okay with cameras in the house
- Communicates throughout the day with parent/before leaving home
- Solid references
- Takes initiative
- Covid precautions similar to employer
- Will help with other household tasks besides childcare
Questions to ask on an interview
- Why did you get involved in childcare work?
- What do you love most about being a nanny? What do you love least?
- Why do you want this job in particular?
- Why did you leave your last job?
- What is most important for you in a position?
- What is your past experiences? Ages of children? Length of employment?
- Tell me how you have handled a difficult experience with a child you were nannying?
- Have you ever had to handle an emergency situation with a child? How did you react?
- What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
- Tell me what household chores you are not comfortable doing?
- Do you smoke?
- Do you have your own car?
- Would you have a problem if I ran a background check?
- Are you CPR/first aid certified?
- How do you envision filling the day with my child?
- Are you comfortable preparing baby food/formula/warming breastmilk?
- What do you know about safe sleep for infants?
- Can you take care of children with (insert child’s medical condition)?
- Are you comfortable administering meds with our approval?
- Are you okay working a potential holiday?
- How do you feel about working weekends?
- What about a flexible work schedule?
- Would you be able to travel with us if needed?
- How do you feel about pets?
- No cell phones with child, but are you okay touching base with me throughout the day?
- Are you okay with cameras in the home?
- Do you have any questions about the job description and our needs?
- If we hire you, when can you start?
We have had two nannies for Ryaan. It is a special relationship and one that I think is very important as they become a part of your family. Happy searching to find the right fit for your family!
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