As a working mother of four children, I am well aware of the concerns of providing for childcare when both parents work. In most cases, the responsibility of finding, hiring, and supervising the nanny is left to the mother. If the nanny does not come on time, or quits abruptly, or is lacking in some other way, it is usually the mother’s concern and may mean disruption in work schedules for her or both parents. As the mother I was also perpetually concerned about the quality of care given and worried that the nanny was not in any way harming my children. Concerns about stealing and improper behavior in my house while I was away were additional concerns.
As a provider of nannies and household support at Loving Care Inc., I deal with these issues with my clients as well. There are some recommendations that I give to families before and after they hire someone:
1. Check References. When calling the prospective nannies’ references, it is important to ask the right questions. Here are a sample of questions:
- How long did she work for you?
- Why is she no longer employed by you?
- Was she on time every day?
- Was she honest?
- Was there ever a time that she disappointed you?
- Do you still keep in touch with her?
- How did you initially find her?
- What were her specific duties?
- Was she required to do heavy or light housekeeping?
- What ages was your child (children) when she started and when she stopped?
- Knowing what you know now, would you hire her again?
- Did she enjoy interacting with your children?
There are times when the individuals that you are interviewing do not have previous child care references. If they worked in another capacity check those work references. If they have never worked, ask for personal references. You can ask some of the same questions as listed above, adjusting them to their situation. You may still get some very valuable information that will assist you in your decision.
2. When possible, come home unexpectedly. It is important to check on the care, environment and the activities in the home when it is unexpected. Hopefully you will find everything to your liking but if not, based on the degree of your discontent, you can take the appropriate action.
3. Take note of children’s reaction to the nanny. If you discern any negative reaction to the nanny or any changes in your children in general do not disregard these signs. Vigilance and continuous observation is of the utmost importance. If the child can speak, have open conversations about how the child feels with regards to the nanny. If the child cannot speak, look at body language and emotional signals. Take everything seriously. Of course, many infants do have separation anxiety from their mother and many older children may feel angry about their mother leaving the home, so good common sense when coming to conclusion should prevail.
3. There are those who feel that the technical approach is best such as built-in surveillance cameras or audio equipment. It is a costly option that may not be extensive enough to catch every misdeed, but it may be the solution that seems the most accurate especially when an infant is involved.
I am glad to share my expertise with my clients, and I am happy to guide them through the interviewing process. Most placements are successful from the start but sometimes a change is necessary. It always comforts my clients to know that they have the agency to provide them with new applicants immediately and help with temporary coverage if need be. They can count on a supportive relationship throughout.
In 1994, Naomi Moskowitz co-founded Loving Care Inc. located in Chicago, Illinois. Loving Care Inc. is a Home Services Placement Agency providing for Senior, Child, Newborn Care, Housekeeping, and Geriatric Consulting. The goal is to provide compassionate quality care at reasonable rates. Learn more about Loving Care Agency at http://lovingcare-agency.com