As many of you know, the safety of our children is always a top priority. Recent news in the Charlotte area about a nanny being abusive towards an infant has reminded us all of the importance of thoroughly screening childcare candidates. Whether you find a nanny through a Facebook group, a website like Care.com, a personal recommendation, or even an agency (yes, even I, as an agency owner, emphasize this!), doing your due diligence is crucial. It’s easy to assume that someone you trust, or who has glowing reviews, will automatically share your values and moral standards—but that’s not always the case.
Here are some essential tips on how to properly vet and screen your nanny candidates to ensure the safety and well-being of your child.
1. Start with a Resume
Before even speaking with a candidate, request a detailed resume. This should outline their childcare experience, relevant certifications (CPR, First Aid, etc.), and any other professional experience. A well-prepared resume is a good indicator that the person takes their work seriously. This also gives you an early glimpse into their background.
2. Phone Interview
Once you’ve reviewed their resume, schedule a phone interview. This is your chance to ask initial questions about their experience, availability, and why they want to be a nanny. Pay attention to their communication skills, attitude, and how they respond to your inquiries. It’s important to get a sense of their personality and whether it aligns with what you’re looking for in a caregiver.
3. Check References—At Least Three!
After your phone interview, take the time to follow up with at least three references. These should be recent references from families they have worked with, ideally within the last year or two. Ask about their experience working with the candidate, and more importantly, ask if they ever felt uncomfortable or had concerns about the nanny’s behavior.
Don’t just rely on written testimonials or LinkedIn reviews—phone calls give you a clearer picture of the nanny’s true capabilities and personality.
4. Meet in Person (Public Place First)
Once you’ve narrowed down your candidates, arrange to meet them in a neutral, public place. A coffee shop, park, or even a library can work as a safe environment for you to get a feel for their personality and professionalism before inviting them into your home. You want to make sure you feel comfortable with them in person.
5. Bring Them Home for a Trial Run
If the in-person meeting goes well, invite the candidate for a trial period with your child. This gives you a real sense of how they interact with your child in the comfort of your home. Monitor the situation closely during the trial period and be open to your child’s feedback—they can often sense if something is off.
6. Run a Comprehensive Background Check
A criminal background check is non-negotiable, and it should include a National Sex Offender Check, Motor Vehicle Report, and County Criminal Check at a minimum. This step may seem tedious, but it’s necessary to ensure the safety of your child. A background check helps identify any potential red flags that may not be immediately obvious in an interview.
7. Trust Your Gut
Even with all of these steps, the most powerful tool you have is your intuition. If something feels off about a candidate—whether it’s their demeanor, responses, or how they interact with your child—trust your instincts. It’s always better to take a step back and reassess rather than put your child in a potentially unsafe situation.
8. Ask About Their Discipline Style
It’s crucial to understand how a nanny will handle situations when your child misbehaves or needs guidance. Some parents are more lenient, while others prefer a stricter approach. Ask your candidate how they manage discipline, and consider whether their philosophy aligns with your family’s values. Additionally, check with the references about discipline: “Did they ever express concerns about how the nanny handled certain situations?”
9. Keep the Lines of Communication Open
Once you’ve hired a nanny, maintain open communication. Regular check-ins will help you stay informed on how things are going and allow you to address any concerns early on. Make sure your nanny knows how to reach you in case of an emergency or if they need guidance with your child.
Final Thoughts
While there is no foolproof method for ensuring complete safety, following these steps will help you make a more informed decision and give you peace of mind that you’ve done everything in your power to protect your family. Remember, when it comes to choosing someone to care for your child, never take shortcuts. Safety always comes first.
If you have any questions or need guidance about screening potential nannies, feel free to reach out! I’m always here to help. After all, ensuring your child’s safety is the most important job we can do.
Stay safe, and trust your instincts!
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