Nanny Hiring help

[wlillie]

What questions should I ask? What qualifications should I look for? What would you expect to see in a contract?

[babylove921]

I was a nanny for quite awhile. I'd ask about food. Are you gonna provide food for her, or does she need to provide her own lunches. If you are gonna provide, ask her some simple things she likes to eat.

[babylove921]

I am also CPR, First Aid certified. I'd want those as qualifications. Maybe some college background. Talk about what you would like her to do during nap time/quiet time. Go over internet, can she use it or no?

[ammcmaho]

I had a really long response here!

Okay first:
Know what hours you need and the pay. We went the au pair route when we had #2 because the cost was better AND i was sick of nannies wanting either more/more consistent hours (i work early mornings and sometimes needed someone at 7 am, many didn't like that)/more pay

Ask:
Experience
Discipline philosophy (ask specifics on how they'd handle a situation. know your philosophy. require they follow yours so it is consistent)
Reasons they would turn down an offer from a family (this will tell you about their needs and if they wouldn't ever, I'd question that too!)

Contract:
Include:
Dates of start and end
# of vacation days allowed and when she can use them/notification policy
Sick day policy (is she paid these and how many per year (are they earned after 90 days for example) and how many hours in advance you need to know
Petty cash (i prefer to reimburse them and only for approved expenses, ie, 1 chick fil a per month)
Play date policy

We host au pairs because for us it is easier, more flexible, and cost effective. We have what is called a "family handbook" and it spells out a lot of what we're looking for and what we need and what is required to be a "paid" family member, so to speak. Most agencies work with you on this, which is another benefit of having an au pair, IMO

[MyLovely]

The others have laid out all the important questions, but the most important thing to do is make sure your nanny meshes really well with your family. If you are choosing between two girls, if one looks better on paper but doesn't click as well as the other, choose the latter. Your nanny will become part of your family, so make sure to be extremely picky.

Also, make sure to inquire about their driving record!