As maternity leave draws to a close, many parents opt for a nanny to care for their baby. But how do you find the right person? Check out our suggestions to help you find that "one in a million" person who can provide almost the same level of attentive care as you!
1. Choose a nanny who lives close to home.
This sounds obvious, but it's easy to overlook under the pressure of finding a babysitter. However, being able to easily drop your child off close to home before going to work is a huge relief! Another option is to find a babysitter close to your workplace or the child's father's workplace, but be aware that this means one of the parents must be responsible for pick-up and drop-off.
2. Visiting Environment
Where will the children be cared for? Will they be free to explore the entire house, or confined to a designated room? Are there enough toys suitable for all ages? Will other people (the babysitter's spouse or children) be present at the same time? Is the house safe? Stay alert and ask questions!
3. Understand the activities offered.
All registered babysitters belong to a Babysitter Network (RAM), which typically offers multiple toddler activities per week. Does your babysitter participate in these activities? Does she take the child to the park or for a walk?
4. Inquire about the number of other children being cared for at the same time.
If your child is the only caregiver, they might get bored after a few months. On the other hand, if there are too many children, the babysitter may find it difficult to give each child enough attention. It's up to you to determine the best balance for your baby!
5. Choose a nanny whose parenting philosophy aligns with yours.
Is your babysitter strict in terms of discipline, while you are more easygoing? Do you prefer to follow the children's natural rhythm, while the babysitter wants all the children to eat and sleep at the same time? Don't fool yourself: this will cause problems! While both parties can work together, you cannot change the babysitter's lifestyle and work philosophy. Therefore, it is essential to reach a consensus on key principles from the outset.
6. Talking about money
Hourly wage, meal and cleaning fees, public holiday payments, monthly payments... the contract terms must be fully clear from the outset. Also, be aware that prices can vary significantly between different nannies.
7. Don't be afraid to ask sensitive questions.
Does the nanny agree to care for the child when they are sick? Is her working hour flexible? Will she accept it if you are slightly late due to work? Are the nanny's leave dates fixed or negotiable to find an arrangement that satisfies both parties? It's best to discuss these issues honestly from the beginning to avoid unpleasant surprises later.
8. Take your child to meet the potential nanny.
After the initial meeting between parents and the nanny, don't be afraid to arrange a second meeting to give your baby a chance to see her. Observe carefully: Does the nanny immediately approach your child? Does she know how to make the child feel safe? Is she friendly? Does the child like her?
9. Listen to your intuition
Beyond all the specific reasons to support a nanny, the most important thing is to trust your gut feeling: you are entrusting your most precious treasure to her, so you must feel at ease and have confidence in her!
