Selecting a nanny is a challenging task. You are essentially looking for a stranger who you can immediately trust enough to care for your children. Childcare is a difficult but necessary situation for many families, however, so finding the right nanny is something that many people will have to do at least once. Going about the selection process in a well-planned-out manner can make the process much less stressful.
Step 1
Find a source for nannies. There are many different ways to find a nanny, such as through an agency, advertising in local papers, word of mouth or online (see Resources). Employment agencies will often help you sort through the different taxes and paperwork that are necessary when employing someone to work in your home. Advertising in a local paper is an inexpensive choice but can require a great deal of effort weeding through applicants.
Step 2
Preview some choices. Take your time and read the resumes and biographies of potential nannies. This is the time to narrow down your choices so that you can engage in in-depth interviews with the best choices. While it is impossible to guarantee that the resumes and biographies will give you an accurate portrayal of each potential nanny, they are beneficial for narrowing down the choices.
Step 3
Schedule interviews once you have three to five choices. While everyone has different expectations for what he expects from a nanny, there are certain things that you should look for. The nanny should be forthcoming when discussing her experience and you should feel at ease when talking with her. While some nervousness or shyness are to be expected, someone who is evasive, defensive or painfully quiet may be difficult to communicate with on a daily basis.
Step 4
Check on references. Call each one and ask detailed questions.
Step 5
Introduce the kids to your choice. While the children shouldn't get the last word on whom you hire, it is important to see how the potential nanny relates to your children. Watching the interaction between them will give you some idea of their chemistry.
Tips and Warnings
- If a situation is not working out, it is better to part ways and try for a better match. Drop in, or ask a friend or neighbor to drop in, at different times during the first few weeks. This will give you some idea of the atmosphere in the home when you are not there.
