The nanny diaries

Looking for childcare this fall? Here's what you need to know about hiring a nanny
Jul 30, 2010 | By: Sydney Loney

Whether you’re heading back to work or could simply use an extra pair of hands, here’s what you need to know to find the best nanny for your family.

The first step is to avoid some of the mistakes parents make when they hire a nanny to help them out, says Martha Scully, founder of CanadianNanny.ca. “For instance, some parents put too much focus on hiring someone they like as a friend, rather than hiring an employee who will provide the best care,” she says. “Then if problems arise, it can be difficult to approach the situation as an employer.”

Another mistake parents make is expecting a nanny to do all the little things they would do when at home with the kids. “Nannies take their jobs seriously and some may be taken aback if they’re expected to do laundry,” says Scully. “Meanwhile, others are happy to assist in household chores, but would prefer to do it when it doesn’t take their focus off the children.” This is why it’s important to be upfront and realistic about your expectations during the interview process.

How to interview a nanny

When hiring a nanny, you should always do a face-to-face interview, as well as contact all references and review her criminal record check. Scully recommends asking scenario-based, open-ended questions during the interview. Here are three things she recommends looking for, and the types of questions that will help you find the best fit for your family.

1. Common sense: “It’s important to have an idea of the level of common sense the nanny has so you can be confident she will know how to react in any situation,” says Scully.

Questions to ask:

• If two siblings were constantly fighting, what would you do to remedy the situation?
• The children get upset when separated from their parents. How would you handle this?

2. Experience: Find out if the nanny has experience working with children in the same age group as yours. “A nanny who has cared only for school-age children may not be equipped to care for a newborn,” says Scully.

Questions to ask:

• Do you have experience with potty training?
• What kinds of activities would you do with an eight-year-old? 

3. Compatibility: When interviewing potential nannies, find out if their routines, parenting style and work habits are compatible with your own.

Questions to ask:

• How would you feel if I came home unexpectedly during the day?
• When do you think it is okay for the children to be unsupervised?

Creating a contract

Most nannies charge between $10 and $16 an hour, depending on their experience, qualifications and the number of children they’re caring for.

Scully recommends creating a written contract that outlines the details of the position, signed by both nanny and parents. “The contract should include contact information, the responsibilities and duties that have been agreed upon, the days and hours of work, wage and vacation information, as well as any details about leaving the job.”