Successful nanny candidates attend a training program which covers commitment, discipline, CPR, first aid and other relevant things that will help them perform their jobs better. When selecting an agency, consider the nanny screening process, fees and staff accessibility. Make sure the agency has a replacement policy in case a nanny doesn't work out. Also ask if the agency is affiliated with the International Nanny Association or the Alliance of Professional Nanny Agencies. Members of these organizations agree to follow a set of recommended practices, although there is no real mechanism for enforcement of these guidelines.
Families can avoid agency fees by performing self-searches.
You can place ads in local newspapers, gyms and churches. Once you find a promising candidate, perform a background check, driver's license check and credit check. Searching DMV records will ensure a safe chauffeur and point out substance-abuse problems. Credit checks reveal locations to search for criminal records, other names the nanny has used, former employers, tax liens, judgements, bankruptcies and collection accounts. Whether you decide to use an agency or not, Bowthorpe offers several questions to ask during nanny interviews.