Nanny 411

Are you expecting your first child and are worried about finding the perfect nanny to take care of your precious baby? You are not alone, many parents are pondering over how to find the perfect person to take care of their precious child when they return to work.

We spoke with Deborah Smith, a former nanny, current member of the Board of The International Nanny Association, and owner of several online nanny services including 4EverythingNanny and NannyClassifieds.com, who tells us what you need to know when searching for a nanny.

What type of research or decisions should parents make prior to looking for a nanny?

Parents should decide on whether they want a live-in or live-out nanny. Determine:

• Hours you will need childcare
• If you need light housekeeping done
• Salary you wish to pay
• Level of education you want the person to have.

Use the internet to research childcare, read books, and speak with friends and family about their experiences.

Deborah suggests reading The Nanny Handbook by Ann Merchant as it deals with the employment relationship between Mom and the nanny.

www.4everythingnanny.com is a great place to begin researching online.  Check out their discussion group, Parents with Nannies, which has been around for almost 10 years now and consists of parents, nannies and agency owners.

This group is a great way to get advice from other parents who employ nannies.

When should an expectant mom start looking for a nanny?

Deborah suggests beginning your search about 8 weeks prior to returning to work if searching on your own. That way if you have no luck on your own you still have time to contact an agency. Most moms will wait until the baby is born to begin their search.

If you decide to use an agency they will probably need 8 weeks too and be sure to visit the International Nanny Association at www.nanny.org to research the agency you select.

What should a Mom look for when interviewing a nanny?

You should look for someone with paid childcare experience who can handle the position without getting frustrated. Deborah points out that a person without childcare experience may not know how lonely it can be at home with a baby and may become frustrated with a young child. Click here for sample nanny interview questions.

Is a Nanny contract a good idea?

Yes! Deborah recommends having a nanny contract to outline the negotiated terms of employment but be aware that this contract will not hold up in court. You can find a sample work agreement here.

What is the latest pay scale for nannies?

An annual “Nanny Salary Survey” is posted on www.nanny.org. Deborah suggests checking this website for the latest pay rates.

What should I tell the prospective nanny about the position during our first conversation?

You should discuss the requirements of the job and confirm with the prospective nanny that this is the position she is applying for. Make sure she is available to work the hours that you need. Ask if she is CPR certified, if she is not Deborah suggests asking her if she would be willing to take a CPR class.

If you want someone who can drive make sure the applicant has a current driving license. Discuss the living arrangements and salary offered to make sure you are both on the same page.

What credentials should I ask for?

CPR and first aid certification is a must.

Again look for an applicant that has a few years of paid work experience as a nanny. Also, classes in child development are good signs that the prospective care provider takes her job seriously.

What references should I ask for?

Ask for a list of references from the applicant including dates of previous employment and ages of children at previous jobs. When calling on a reference, Deborah suggests asking about the strengths and weaknesses of the applicant.

If the position is for a live-out nanny ask about the punctuality of the applicant. Make sure to confirm dates of previous employment and ages of children. Click here for more tips on interviewing nanny references.

What is my next step after checking references?

Every parent must run a thorough background check on any potential care provider. Deborah recommends conducting the most comprehensive, accurate search available using records found at the best source: the county court.

The most prudent search will not limit investigation to a single county, but instead search records at the highest court at up to three counties where the individual has lived, worked or gone to school in the previous 7 years.

In addition to a criminal background check, many parents will run a Motor Vehicle record check and a national sex offender search. Do not rely on quick, database driven background screening.

These records are incomplete and unreliable. It does not pay to pinch pennies in this area.

Should I do a trial run?

Absolutely! Deborah said that a paid trial run is a great way to watch the interaction between the prospective nanny and your baby.

Have her observe your daily routines and if you feel comfortable leave her for an hour to run an errand but don’t tell her what time you will return.

Deborah Smith is the President and Founder of Parents with Nannies, Inc. Deborah is a former nanny, mother of two, and International Nanny Association Board Member.