• When hiring a nanny you’re looking for someone who is; trustworthy, dependable, responsible, flexible, CPR and First Aid trained, pro-active, playful, organized, experienced, must have knowledge about child development and of course, common sense.

• Red flags include;

-poor employment history. A good nanny will have long standing positions, of at least 2-3 years. A nanny that isn’t in jobs for very long isn’t very good.

-previous employers wont give a reference.

-the nanny speaks poorly of previous employers.

• Conduct an interview. Decide what’s important to you and have a list of questions ready.

-if there was one single MOST important question to ask while interviewing a nanny, I would ask:

What precautions would you take to keep my child safe? Then give different scenarios:

At home, at a park, in the car, a crowded place etc..

• An interview is only the first step. Always do a trial and trust your instinct, if you’re not 100% comfortable then keep looking. Wait for the nanny that puts your mind at ease and makes you feel comfortable about leaving your children in her care.

• Always check references and do background checks.

• Legal documents will depend from country to country, so make sure you get your Au Pair/ nanny the correct visa, work and travel permit.

• Establishing boundaries and expectations is key.

-Have a contract. Be very clear about hours, salary, pay increases (should be yearly), perks (heath benefits, car, gym) vacation time and paid holidays. This avoids any future problems as everyone is clear and in agreement from the beginning.

-Establish expectations. Make sure your nanny knows what is expected of them and that everyone is on the same page.

Time. While flexibility from a nanny is very important, a  parent needs to understand the nanny has a life as well. So be respectful of your nannies time and let them know plans and any changes as soon as possible.

-The most common issues stem from a lack of communication. Schedule a monthly meeting with your nanny. This gives both the parent and the nanny a chance to check in.

• Appreciate your nanny-Being a nanny can be a thankless job at times. The best employers acknowledge their nanny and show gratitude. They thank their nanny and assure they know they are appreciated. After all, they are helping raise their most valuable asset, ‘their children’. Remember, a happy nanny equals happy children!