Finding the best nanny for your family

Here are 12 tips to keep in mind when you’re hiring a nanny:

1. Write a job description for the position. This explains to the applicants what the job is that they’re applying for, so you’ll want to be descriptive, but fairly brief. You’ll need this description when you’re advertising for your nanny, as well as to refer to after hiring

2. Give yourself time to search for, and interview, a nanny. Try to interview more than one nanny to allow for comparison – don’t cram too many interviews into one day.

3. Personally interview the nanny. Create a relaxed atmosphere that shows you’re well-organized. Ask specific, scenario-type questions (“What would you do if…?”) and be sure to describe your position in detail. Avoid asking the nanny to provide childcare during the first interview.

4. Perform screening and reference checks. Consider asking each nanny for a Police Record check. Any nanny who is caring for an infant and/or toddler should have current First Aid and CPR training. Ask for references and call them; they can either confirm what the nanny has said, or contradict it. (You should do this even if you use a placement agency.)

5. Be honest and realistic about your expectations. Provide your nanny with the detailed job description that you have prepared. Include your child’s temperament and development.

6. Have your nanny come to your home for a paid trial day. You can observe how the nanny interacts with your children, and can ensure that she is the right match for your family. This also gives your child time to become comfortable with the nanny.

7. Sign a contract. When you choose a nanny, ensure that you both agree upon all responsibilities, duties, wages, hours and terms of employment before she starts work in your home–this should be in writing and signed by both nanny and parent.

8. On the first day, take the nanny on a tour of your home. Provide her with the location of the First Aid kit and fire extinguisher, as well as any emergency plans you have made with your children. Make her aware of any rooms that the children are not allowed to play in.

9. Prepare your child. If your child is old enough, talk to them about what to expect and encourage them to ask question and express fears.

10. Leave your nanny with all emergency information. This should include all emergency services, a phone number for where you will be and an immediate adult backup number.

11. Write out instructions–including warming bottles and food, routines, special conditions or medications.

12. Say good-bye. When it is time to leave for the first time, say good-bye to your children and the nanny and leave. Don’t sneak out–this makes your children think there is something wrong.

Remember that when you hire a nanny, you become an employer and, to ensure that you are a good employer, you need to receive regular feedback from your nanny and your children. Keep the lines of communication open and also provide your nanny with regular feedback on her performance.

Meet our expert:

Martha Scully is the owner and founder of CanadianSitter.ca and CanadianNanny.ca. When she is not helping thousands of parents across Canada find childcare, she is raising her two busy daughters in beautiful Nanaimo, BC. She has been featured on CanadaAM, Breakfast Television, and in Today’s Parent and the Globe & Mail. For more information, please visit www.canadiansitter.ca or www.canadiannanny.ca. To contact Martha, please email [email protected] or phone 1-866-221-7918.

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