10 ways to find a really great nanny

When you are a nanny people like to talk to you. They ask you where you came from. I of course came from the planet Poppins but people rarely believe it. Seriously- everyone is looking for fabulous, loving, reliable child care. And when they see you in public providing that care they ask- where can I get someone like you? Again I must resist the urge to say that you can "get" one at the NANNYS-R-Us on the corner. However, to help those of you in cyberland really looking for a nanny here are my top ten answers to that question.
1. Find a good nanny agency. Don't just call the one in the phone book with the biggest ad! Ask your friends, co- workers or nannies you know which agency in your area is great. Then interview the agency like you would interview your nanny. Bad agencies rarely place fabulous nannies. NANC has a great list of agencies on thier website.
2. Tell everyone you are looking for a great nanny. EVERYONE. Your kids teachers, your friends, at your church, and anyone you can think of. Word of mouth can work wonders and it is cost effective.
3. Look online- but carefully. Be specific about what you are willing to pay, your hours and honest about the nannies duties. Weed out candidates by email first- then over the phone and only then in a face to face interview.
4. If you need part time help and you are on a budget- check out the local college. Place an ad in the college paper or through the education department. But know that the schedules for this type of nanny are flexible- both your way and thiers.
5. Don't be afraid to contact local nanny support groups. Most of them do not place nannies- but some will circulate the job to see if anyone is interested. Know that this is not the same as using an agency. There are no reference checks or anything- you have to do the work.
6. BE HONEST about what you want a nanny to do. If you need help with the housework feel free to ask, however, the best nannies I know- the ones who are a cross between Maria Von Trapp and Mary Poppins do not do housework. Picking up after the kids- ok. Picking up after the adults- no way!
7. Interview at least 2 times. Once with no kids around. Once with the kids for part of the time. Ask a zillion and one questions. Then ask more. Check references even if the agency has done this.
8. Go with your gut. Eliminate anyone who rubs you the wrong way. Whether it is a real concern or jsut a personality thing- if you don't get along with your nanny for some reason it will end badly. Every time. Every single time.
9. Use a work agreement (contract) and be specific.
10. Treat your nanny as you would want to be treated. I know sounds like silly "everyone knows this advice" but it doesn't always work that way. Nannies are insanely loyal to employers who treat them fairly and with kindness and respect.

This is just my advice. But I think it holds true. Of course you can always just travel to the planet Poppins.

-Sue Downey