How to Have the Best Nanny

Sometimes we need to have a nanny to help us in taking care of our children. Nannies are common in a family where the mother is working to earn a living. However, here are very important steps to be followed to have the best ones:

HISTORY: Nothing is better than to know her history and background. It is advisable to get from an agency rather than just someone who has been being recommended by a friend or neighbor. Though it may cost a bit, you can be sure that the nanny you got had passed the criteria a nanny must possessed. If she had past experiences, it would be better if you ask her previous employer about her performance. You can also verify her records from the police department or any other related government office. It is better that she is also a mother or has younger siblings that she took care of.

INTERVIEW: Just like any other job, you must interview her before you hire. Although she already passed the agency’s requirements, you are the parent and therefore you must know her first before you entrust your child to her. During the interview, here are some things you must observe:

Analyze how she talks and the kind of language she uses.
Know exactly where she lives, her husband’s job and types of friends she has.
Discover her hobbies and mannerisms. They can influence your child.
Ask her what to do on difficult situations like when there is fire.
Be a keen observer because she might be smart enough to fool you.

INTRODUCTION: If you already chose her, introduce her to your children and other members of the family. Tell her exactly how do you want your child to be treated, and the do’s and don’ts inside your house and be specific to her job description and obligations. Watch your child’s reaction on the first days or week.

GIVE TESTS: Test her to know if she is really trustworthy. Leave some valuable things like money where she can easily see them and observe what will happen. But do not let her notice that it is just a test. Some of them are wiser than you think. You can also surprise her by going home early without a hint. From time to time, ask your child how he was being treated. It is also advisable if you have at least one hidden camera where you can view regularly. But again, keep it a secret.

TRUST: After you have proven that she is trustworthy, start trusting. But again, you still must be careful. Trust must be given gradually. As the days go on, let her feel that you trust her so that she will be more comfortable in communicating with you. Now you can start exchanging stories about life and parenting.

SECURITY: Although you still have to draw the line, you must give her the security she needs. The most important among all is the feeling of belonging. She must feel that she now belongs to your family. Buy her a simple gift on her birthday. Visit her family if possible and lend her money if there is an emergency. Moreover, be sure that you are abiding with the law on how to secure and protect them.

Remember that nannies replace the job of a parent when they are not available. Therefore, we should thank their contribution in helping us raising our children. We should also realize that they are sacrificing themselves by taking care of our children instead of their own.