A live-in nanny can be a ideal for a parent that needs help for multiple overnights or travels often. Live-in nannies can help get the children ready for school, prepare meals and drive them to play dates and other activities. Since you are entrusting this person to take care of your child on a full-time basis, take the time to screen the candidate before hiring her.
Step 1
Consider using a nanny agency. Agencies charge a nominal fee and will perform a lot of the legwork to find a live-in nanny. Candidates are typically interviewed by the agency and usually must pass a psychological and drug exam. One example of a site you can use to find a local nanny agency is nannynetwork.com.
Step 2
Set up an interview with live-in nanny candidates. You will want to find out her childcare background, safety training and any child-related degrees or certifications. Besides her experience, you need to find out how she will be to live with. Ask her if she stays up late listening to music, if she wishes to have overnight guests and if she has any pets.
Step 3
Spell out the schedule, duties and chores that you expect of the nanny if hired. Salary should be discussed prior to hiring including overtime rate and vacation days. If both parties agree on these items, a nanny contract should be drawn up with all parties signing the document.
Step 4
Arrange the nanny's living quarters. When you a hire a live-in nanny, she'll need to see where she would live to make sure she feels comfortable with the arrangement. She should have her own room, bedroom furniture, linens and bathroom.
Step 5
Check her references. She should provide you with at least three solid references that you can call, ideally past clients. A criminal background check should be done as well if she has not gone through one from the agency.
