Topics:
No-nonsense nanny guide
Hiring a nanny? We’ve got everything you need to know to make the right choice
If it’s time to wave goodbye to maternity leave and hello to a nanny, don’t stress. While hiring help around the house is a big step, we have all the tips you need to make the transition smooth for everyone involved.
Find a fit
There are many ways to kick off your nanny hunt: through word of mouth, a private agency, Canada’s Live-In Caregiver Program, or websites such as Kijiji. Whether or not you hire an agency (which, for a fee, will find and screen candidates for you), you need to get to know the person who will be sharing your house and caring for your kids.
“Hiring a nanny is like marriage without dating,” says Robyn Zeldin, owner of Wee Care Placement Agency in Toronto. It’s such an important relationship but you may have just a short time to decide if you’re a fit.
Start by scheduling an interview, asking your potential nanny to bring her CV and references. Inquire about childcare experience, carefully check references, and always use your gut instinct, Zeldin says. During the interview, watch how the nanny interacts with your kids. “Your children are the most important people in your life, so you want the best quality of care for them,” Zeldin says. In addition to the basics, like asking about their discipline approach and how the nanny handles emergencies, home in on the attributes you’re looking for — whether that’s cooking, cleaning, or a star with newborns. “No one is fantastic at everything,” Zeldin says. “But knowing what you’re looking for is key.”
Be crystal clear
Carefully list the job requirements, so the nanny knows exactly what she’s getting into. First, explain that the relationship is one of give-and-take, mutual trust and open communication. Then paint a picture of a regular day in your house, explaining how discipline issues are handled and which duties come first. “Never sugar-coat your expectations,” Zeldin says. “If Johnny needs to be walked to a program that’s five kilometres away, that may be a deal-breaker.” But be clear that should problems arise, you are there to listen and find solutions as a team.
The best way to avoid misunderstandings is to draft the terms of your agreement — including housekeeping duties, childcare, pay and vacation expectations — in a contract. Also be sure to question the nanny about training in CPR and first aid. And if the job comes with extras such as a dog or a pool, now is the time to speak up. “If she is deathly afraid of dogs or she can’t swim to the bottom and back up, that’s vital information,” Zeldin says.
How does she do it?: Hayley Wickenheiser
Mother's Day and the adoptive mom
How to approach grandparent nannies
Jennifer Garner is practically super mom
Everyday Baby - May 15, 2012
Seasonal preparation checklist
Support system for premature babies
Tween and teen issues
What do you think?
Susie Parker (not verified) says ....
Good article, especially with emphasizing that job requirements should be crystal clear. Parents looking for a nanny contract or work agreement can usually find one online, such as at http://www.mynannycontract.com, one of the various nanny tax agencies, or nanny placement agencies.