Choosing a trusted person to watch your children can feel very overwhelming. This is the person that will keep your child safe, teach them important things and walk with your family as you parent. It’s such an important choice! Fortunately, I was a nanny for over 6 years and have several tips to share with you.

How to Hire a Nanny

When hiring a nanny for your family here are a few things I suggest:

1. Make sure they live close to your home. Keeping a reliable schedule so you can get to work on time and not feel rushed in the mornings is very important. I lived only 5 minutes from the family I nannied for until they moved into another DC neighborhood. Things became increasingly harder with a 45 minute drive. We all remained gracious but it was challenging.
2. Do they share the same values as you and your spouse? This person will be teaching your children many things and it’s important they are aligned with your family. Do they raise their voice? Do they ever lie? These things are very important.
3. What does their phone use look like? This may sound silly but it’s very important. I rarely used my phone when the children were awake and it aligned with their values and kept the children safe many times. If you are distracted on the play ground or when crossing a cross walk it can be very dangerous. Many an accident could be avoided if the responsible adult is alert.
4. Be very clear when hiring on what you expect from your nanny. For example, when the children napped I would make dinner and do the laundry. I did this every day unless the children were sick. Payment, hours, pick up time, ect…all of these things will be much easier if they are spelled out clearly and on paper. This can keep your relationship from any future frustration.
5. If a child gets hurt what is the routine you want to follow? Do you get home and take care of it if possible? Do you call the parents first thing? If it’s something serious what hospital do you call?
6. Does your nanny know CPR? I didn’t have any formal training so my family signed me up for a newborn CPR class. I ended up being the only single person in class but it was very informative and I felt confident if a child were to need assistance in the future.

Where to Find a Nanny

1. Where do you find a nanny? Word of mouth is best. Typically this comes from a friend who is trustworthy and has similar family habits as you.
2. Ask your friends or local mom groups. By simply sharing your need, it can reach a lot of people in close circles to you.
3. Another great location is your neighborhood Facebook group.
4. Your local library is great if they have a community board. You can leave a few papers with your number on them.
5. Even you local school is great if you have kiddos already attending and you have access to a group email or community board.

Washington DC Family Photographer