Parents have several options for child care, including daycare centers, in-home daycare, a relative or a nanny. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. Many parents choose a nanny because the child stays at home in familiar surroundings, meaning less rushing in the morning to get the child ready for daycare. Using a nanny also reduces exposure to germs, allows more scheduling flexibility and gives your child a high degree of attention from his caregiver. Finding a nanny you trust is an essential step in the process.
Step 1
Define your expectations for the nanny position before conducting interviews. Include the responsibilities of the nanny, hours, pay, vacation and other relevant details. Offer this information to the nanny during the interview so she is aware of them.
Step 2
Prepare a list of questions to ask each candidate for your nanny position. Asking the same set of questions allows you to accurately compare each potential nanny you interview. Make multiple copies of the question list so you have a separate one to use with each applicant. Include questions about her nanny experience, formal training, CPR and first aid training, how she would handle certain situations and what she would do with your child each day.
Step 3
Write notes on the question sheet to summarize the candidate's answer for each question. This allows you to go back later and compare answers if you interview multiple nanny candidates. Consider not only the answers to the questions, but also her body language and her comfort level with you.
Step 4
Ask the applicant for her personal information, including full name, address, telephone number and social security number. Make a copy of her ID for your records. This information is necessary for employment purposes and to further investigate her background before hiring her.
Step 5
Involve your child in part of the interview to see how the nanny and child interact. Note how she talks to your child and whether or not she feels comfortable with him.
Step 6
Call the nanny's references right after the interview. Dr. Phil McGraw's website recommends visiting the references to confirm that they do have children and had the nanny working for them in the past.
Step 7
Conduct a background check after the interview. Look for a criminal record, particularly involving child abuse.
Step 8
Call the nanny candidate to follow up if you have further questions.
