Finding the right nanny can feel like a daunting and overwhelming task. A nanny is a person who will be an integral part of your child’s life, shaping their daily routine, assisting in their development, and in and out of your home consistently. So, how do you ensure you find the right fit? The first step is understanding your family’s wants, needs, and requirements.

Every family is unique and different, which means their childcare needs are different as well.. Determining how many hours per week and what type of schedule you need is a great starting place. Do you need full-time or part-time? What are the days and times you need assistance? You should also define the type of nanny you are looking for. Are you seeking someone with a certain educational background, specific skills, training, or qualifications? What personality traits and childcare philosophies are important to you? Do you prefer a nanny who will create structure or a more go with the flow nanny? Finding the right nanny is not just about experience, but finding someone who blends well with your family and shares your values, beliefs, and lifestyle. 

Here are some examples of traits to consider when determining the type of nanny you are looking for:

• Outgoing versus laid back
• Structured versus go with the flow
• Indoorsy versus outdoorsy
• Creativity
• Flexibility
• Adaptability 
• Passion
• Energetic
• Dependability
• Punctuality

Where To Look For A Nanny

There are a range of options nowadays for searching for a nanny. Each option has its own pros and cons, so taking time to research each option will allow you to choose the best fit for you! Nanny agencies are often reputable and do a lot of the “grunt” work for you. They are able to vet multiple candidates and personally match them to your family. A nanny agency may be a good fit for you if you are looking for a professional, convenient, and reliable way to find a nanny. Online platforms have also become more popular with families being able to scroll through a variety of candidates and reach out to many at once. These platforms may be a good fit for you if you are interested in doing the work yourself and reaching a wide variety of candidates. Local parenting groups and word of mouth are also popular ways to get a more personalized reference from other parents on nanny candidates. Social media has become a great way to network and find potential nanny candidates. 

Hiring and Onboarding A Nanny

Once you have established your basic qualifications for a nanny, it is time to be. Families can conduct initial interviews virtually or in person depending on their preference. The initial interview is a great time to discuss position expectations, go to disciplinary tactics, experience and qualifications, as well as situational questions and how they handle emergencies. These conversation topics can help determine if the candidate could be a good fit for your family. After the initial interview, it is beneficial to do a more hands-on interview where you can see how the nanny interacts with your child. This will give you the confidence on whether or not you want to move forward with a candidate. 

Once you’ve made a decision about moving forward, performing reference checks would be the next step! This crucial step gives you insight into personal experiences on qualities like qualities, work ethic, and performance. It could also be beneficial to run a background check, including a motor vehicle history if the nanny will be transporting your child. 

Once the screening is complete, it is time to make your nanny an offer! It is crucial to employ the nanny as a legal household employee as well as having a contract in place. This is a form of protection for both your family and the nanny. A contract allows you to state expectations and start with a harmonious working environment. 

Finding the right nanny is a personal and intuitive process. Taking your time, trusting your instincts, and being in depth throughout the process will help you choose the right person to add to your family!