Many are concerned with the recent news regarding the economy. So concerned that parents who once were able to stay at home with the children are now electing to go back into the workplace. It has created a new dynamic within families. We are seeing many stay at home parents return to the workplace for at least part-time positions to supplement the family finances. With both parents working, there is an increased demand for finding safe and qualified childcare in the home.

Hiring a Nanny is a critical choice. Most parents are very concerned about who they bring into their home to care for their most important assets, the children.
There are some qualities each parent should be looking for when hiring a caregiver for your family. Watch out for the Red Flags!

Qualities:

Interest: Make sure the candidate shows genuine interest in the child. Does he/she try to make your child comfortable with conversation? Do they make an effort to engage the child? Do they greet and say “good-bye” to the children as well as the parents?

Money: While a salary is very important to all of us, the Nanny does not need to lead the conversation with her desired compensation. Her genuine interest should be the care of the child. The last thing a family needs is a Nanny that is taking care of their child solely for the purpose of a paycheck.

Ease with children: Your nanny should never seem uneasy or anxious around children. They should look excited and have an easy way to communicate. If your Nanny seems afraid to hold your baby..beware! This is a red flag.

Qualified experience: The candidate should have experience working with children that are similar in age to the children in your family. Be sure to ask why she left her last job. If you find the candidate has jumped from family to family each year, this should be a red flag.

Looks you straight the eye: A good deal can be learned in the first 10 minutes of an interview. Many times we make judgments based on body language as much as the content of the conversation. Maintaining good eye contact demonstrates respect and interest. If they are unable to hold a gaze it can make you wonder about self esteem and honesty issues.

Respect: Families with children live busy lives loaded with challenges. All families are different and the Nanny must respect and understand the rules of each household.
Parents create schedules and systems because they believe it is best for the children. Some caregivers who have their own children may raise their children differently and not share the same values. Make sure your Nanny is willing to follow your rules and keep her beliefs at home. After all, these are your children!


While these represent some of the qualities you should be looking for, intuition still plays a vital role. Don’t dismiss those twinges or doubts you may feel. They can be completely valid. The chemistry between your family and the Nanny can be the deciding factor!