If you are a working parent, you might find it difficult to find good child care during the summer months when your child is out of school. Some parents send their children to child care centers or day camps, but others prefer to find a nanny or babysitter who will watch the children in the family home. According to the website BabyCenter, you should start early and take your time in choosing a summer nanny, so you can be confident that your child will have a safe, fun and enriching summer.
Step 1
Make a list of what is important to you, according to BabyCenter. Decide whether you prefer a mature nanny with years of experience, or a nanny who has recently graduated from an early childhood education program. Note the hours you need child care and whether you want your nanny to do light housekeeping. Determine whether you want your child care provider to drive your child to appointments and play dates, making a valid driver's license and insurance a necessity.
Step 2
Spread the word among your friends and family that you are looking for a summer nanny. Ask other parents for recommendations on individuals as well as agencies. If you have a community college with an early childhood education program, call and ask for a referral; do the same if you have a nanny training program nearby.
Step 3
Interview all potential nannies before introducing them to your child. Ask each applicant about previous experience, certification and whether she has had CPR training. According to ChildCareAware, you should ask the potential nanny whether she has attended classes or workshops recently to keep her skill up-to-date.
Step 4
Observe the candidate with your child. Take notes on how he interacts with your child well, if he speaks in a gentle manner and whether your child seems to like him. The nanny should not hesitate to engage your child in an age-appropriate way, whether that means sitting on the floor and building with blocks, or playing a board game with your child.
Step 5
Call or email several references that the nanny has provided. Ask other families who have used her services if they were satisfied, and what they would have changed about the nanny if they could. Do not be shy about asking about concerns that the parents had; this is an important step that may keep your child safe.
Step 6
Keep in close contact with the nanny. According to ChildCareAware, it is important for you to remain vigilant and involved with the relationship between your nanny and your child. Encourage the nanny to ask questions. Stop home unexpectedly a few times to check on your child. Talk to your child regularly about his experiences with the nanny.
Tips and Warnings
- Consider having the person that you plan to hire spend several days with your whole family so he can get a feel for your routine and rules. Pay him for these days. Run a few errands to leave the nanny and your child together for short periods of time to allow everyone to get acclimated to the new relationship.
