Nannies – expensive or cost-effective?

Many parents share a nanny very successfully with another family. It’s important to discuss details in depth with the other parents involved, and try to match yourself with people who have a similar approach to bringing up children. Karen House and Louise Sheppard say that, in their experience, this arrangement works best between friends rather than acquaintances.

Live in or live out?

This really depends on what you can afford, the size of your house, and how highly you value your privacy. While a live-in nanny is on site and on hand when you need her, it’s important for her and for you to have a clear understanding about what time is your time, and what time is hers for herself.

Finding a nanny

Think long and hard about the qualities and duties you want a nanny to fulfil. It’s a good idea to make a list. When things go wrong, it’s often because employer and employee have different expectations, and haven’t been clear with each other from the outset. Karen House suggests trying to find someone whose skill set compliments your own; she’s eternally grateful to the nanny who turned her sons into little artists, as she has no creative tendencies whatsoever.

Agencies make the job of finding a nanny easier, but they can be expensive; some charge a small finding fee, and others ask for a percentage of the nanny’s first year’s salary. There are now quite a few websites, some of which are free, where you can advertise for nannies or search a database of candidates. See:
Nanny job or Star nannies
Otherwise, you can advertise in local newspapers or magazines like ‘The Lady’: 020 7379 4717.

Interviewing

Vet applicants over the phone before inviting a select few round for an interview. When they come, try to get them to play with your children so that you can see them in action. Pay attention to your gut feelings about people. The most important thing is to be convinced that your children will be safe with the nanny, that she’ll establish a good relationship with them, and they’ll have fun together.

You must check all references for any nanny you’re thinking of employing

Phone all previous employers and check thoroughly. Karen House unearthed information about nannies who had stolen, flirted with husbands, gossiped about the family and even tormented the children.