How to Select a Nanny
Having a nanny on staff can be a way to ensure that you are providing the best care for your children when you are unable to care for them yourself. The nanny̵7;s role is to follow your lead in child-rearing practices, promote your family values, and maintain a safe and supportive environment in which your child can flourish. Nannies act as parents in your absence, according to Sullivan University̵7;s Professional Nanny Program. You have a full range of choices when selecting a nanny. Some hold degrees or certificates in childhood development, including nutrition, age-appropriate activities and educational literature. Others may not be educated in the field but have experience in day care and working with children.
Things You'll Need
- Paper
- Pen or pencil
- Local salary ranges
- State and federal tax sheets
- Required employee benefits sheets
- List of by-law requirements for live-in nannies, if relevant
Instructions
Meeting Your Family Needs
Make a list of what your family needs in the way of child care. Look at your work schedules. The International Nanny Association suggests making notes about the types of hours you expect your nanny to keep. Consider any special needs your children have and the education your nanny may need to address them. Establish if you need someone full time or part time and what household chores will be part of the duties. Use your notes to make a list of daily, weekly and monthly duties. Decide whether it's best for the nanny to be a live-in caregiver. If you decide on a live-in nanny, make sure you have the space, living quarters and privacy your nanny will need. Base salary for the potential candidate on whether the job is part time or full time and live in or live out. The number of children and their ages, family pets, the need for a valid driver's license, education and experience may also demand a higher salary. Check with state law to see what health benefits you are required to pay and if there is a minimum salary requirement. Nannies are also entitled to days off, holidays and vacation time. As an employer, you are also responsible for federal and state taxes, advises Sullivan University. Hire your nanny through an agency, online or from a trusted reference or post an advertisement in the local classified. However you do it, make sure the person you consider is what you need and is of good character. Interview and Hire
Interview more than one candidate. Have your needs list in front of you when you interview and check off the pluses and minuses you have listed. Select two or three candidates for a second interview. This is called short-listing. Ask the questions you forgot to ask the first time. You may want to include a family member, such as grandma or one of the older children. If you don't feel comfortable selecting and hiring, you can always work with an agency. Decide on a potential candidate and check the references thoroughly. Remember, this person is in charge of your most valuable possessions -- your children. If references don't check out, move to the next person on your short list. Once you feel you have the right person, offer her the job.
