5 Things to Look for When Hiring a Nanny

Your children are your most precious legacy and so when you decide you’re going to have them taken care of by a complete stranger, you need to make sure that you do it right. We’ve all read horror stories of when things go wrong, but the truth is with a little research and concern, you can find yourself a wonderful nanny who becomes like an extended part of your family. Here are some suggestions for finding a good nanny and things to look for before you make a decision:

1) Consider an Agency

Yes, nannies hired through an agency might be slightly more expensive, but that’s because the agency does a lot of the ground work for you. They consider your needs, your parenting style and interview a bunch of nannies and send some suggestions your way. Whether you’re considering a nanny agency based in London or somewhere else, it’s important that you ensure your nanny is screened properly. This includes a criminal check, which is something you’ll want for peace of mind.

2) Ask for References

Don’t be shy to ask for references, and it’s better to give them a call if possible as you’ll be able to tell the sincerity in their voice much more easily. These are your children and nothing is too much to ensure a safe, friendly and kind nanny.

3) Trust Your Gut

Meet with a few nannies and see which one ‘feels’ like a better fit for your family. You might even be able to get the nanny to interact with the children for a few hours and then ask how much the children like each specific nanny. It’s important that it’s someone that works well for your family.

4) Don’t Be Afraid to Say No

If none of the nannies feel like a good fit for your family, don’t accept them just because. These are your children and it’s important to find the right person. If your gut feeling says no, trust it and keep looking. Eventually the right nanny will come into your lives.

5) Start the Hiring Process Early

Finding a good nanny takes longer than you think, so start the process earlier than when you actually need the nanny to start. Many people leave this too late and then wind up desperate, accepting the first “OK” fit that comes along. Start early and you’ll have the time to be selective.

Good luck on your nanny search!