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Many parents will admit that the first time they ever had to leave their children in the hands of another person, bad thoughts began to swim through their minds. These moments are often short-lived, but there comes a time when work, school, etc, require the aid of a nanny or babysitter. Of course, as a parent you want to make sure that the person watching over your children is not only a good person, but can handle the job.
The First Meeting
The first meeting should be done after a quick phone call screening process. You should always meet somewhere neutral in order to limit the number of people you invite into your home. A coffee shop or a restaurant can be an ideal place to have such a meeting. When they arrive, take note of their ability to show up on time, how they’re dressed and how they treat others around you. It is recommended to have a list of questions ready to ask the candidate. Ask questions specific to your situation. This may include the ability to work nights or the candidate’s ability to work with children with disabilities.
What Makes a Good Nanny
It’s not always easy to see if a nanny or babysitter is working out or not. After all, you’re not there during the process. Some parents decide to secretly record the night in order to have a better understanding of their work. Be careful though! Several states require both parties to consent to being audio recorded, so if your nanny cam has audio recording make sure you either get permission or you turn it off. So, how can you find out if your nanny or babysitter is or isn’t working out? One of the telltale signs that they are not doing a good job is by the way your child reacts when they come over. Do they get anxious and withdrawn? Other red flags include tardiness and not being able to explain to you instantly what was done throughout the night. A good nanny or babysitter will always be on time, explain to you how things went while you were gone, and have an overall healthy relationship with your children.
Ask for Referrals
One of the fastest ways to find the perfect candidate is to simply ask neighbors or co-workers for a referral. Most people will be more than happy to refer you to their nanny or babysitter. However, you should not base your decision solely on a referral. Always make sure to conduct your own due diligence before hiring someone to take care of your children.
Leaving your kids for a long time with a stranger can seem like a scary thing to do. Parents should adhere to the list of tips above to begin formulating the correct approach to finding the perfect nanny or babysitter.
Here’s another article you might like: How to Child-Proof Your House
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