Household Checklist for a Nanny

When your nanny steps in, it's important that she knows the basics of your home and childcare routines before you step out. Creating a nanny checklist before heading out is a great way to ensure all of these vital pieces of information are covered, creating a handy reference for her and peace of mind for yourself.

  1. The House

    • Walk through the house with the nanny, giving her a tour of the basic layout and pointing out any off-limits areas for her or the children. Point out the location of the telephone, alarm system, circuit breakers, first aid supplies, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and fire exits. Demonstrate how any locks on doors work and how they can be opened. Make sure that she is familiar with the location of any spare key in the event that she is locked out, or introduce her to a neighbor that can help in the event of this type of emergency.

    The Children

    • Discuss the child's daily routines: when to wake, how to dress, when to go to school or nursery, when to be picked up. Also include any particulars about homework routines if necessary. Describe the child's eating habits and schedule, including when should meals be presented, what should they contain and whether or not there are any food allergies to be considered. Go over any rules to be followed in detail and leave them in writing, along with your contact and emergency information.

    Additional Duties

    • Outline any additional chores and how they are to be performed, such as housekeeping duties or tutoring. Also make sure you clearly outline any additional privileges and their limits such as having guests over, use of a car, using the phone or eating food. For live-in help, this also extends to making sure the curfew and working hours are clearly outlined and understood by both parties.

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