Choosing a nanny

With more and more of us needing to work, we often require the services of childcare experts to help care for our children.

For those looking for flexible childcare in their own home, hiring a nanny could be the answer.

It’s often more affordable than you think and their work hours can fit in to suit you and your family.
 

Choosing a nanny

When choosing a nanny it is essential that you feel confident that your children will feel safe, stimulated and happy whilst you’re not there.

You want to be able to concentrate on your work and be out of the house knowing that they are well taken care of.

There are a number of professional, well established nanny agencies in New Zealand who can help you with the selection process and find a nanny that suits you.

They can also help with background checks, the financial side of things and any other questions you may have around hiring a nanny.

Talk to other families who have hired nannies for their tips and advice too.
 

Key considerations

Here are some key things you might want to think about when choosing your nanny:
 

• Are they loving and caring towards your children and others?

 

• How much experience do they have as a nanny and with children at a similar age to your own?

 

• Are they easy and pleasant to deal with?

 

• Are they reliable and trustworthy?

 

• Do they have good references?

 

• Are they flexible and able to work hours to suit you and your family?

 

• Can they drive?

 

• Do they have a criminal record?

 

• Do they have up to date life saving and first aid certificates?

 

• Do they have childcare qualifications?

 

• Will they live with you?

 

• Will they need a car?

 

• If they drive their own car, is it road-worthy and safe enough? How much will you need to pay them in mileage?

 

• Will they provide a caring, structured environment for your children to develop?

 

• Do they put together a plan for each day which includes ideas for fun, learning and relaxation?

 

Trial period

Once you have found a nanny that you think will be suitable, it’s worthwhile setting up a trial period with them to ensure that your children are happy.

Try and ascertain from your children if they are happy with the nanny by asking them to talk about the day, what they did, did they have fun, were they ever upset? What happened when they were upset etc.

It is also important to set aside time to talk to the nanny too, to ensure they are happy and can talk freely with you about any concerns they may have before they are employed on a permanent basis.

Check out our other Hot Topics on:

• Choosing a babysitter or nanny while on holiday
• Nanny Agencies in New Zealand
• 8 common pitfalls to avoid when hiring a nanny

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