Tips on Choosing a Nanny for your Children

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There have been videos in news reports about nannies, or “ayis”, mistreating the children they were entrusted to care for.  There have been too many videos and news about this issue that parents all over the world, including in Shenzhen, are becoming scared of hiring one for their children.  Instead of developing fear, we should develop our skill in choosing a nanny that would be worth our time, money, and trust. 

First, plan in advance. Do not decide to hire a nanny in an instant.  You should consider all the factors needed to make sure that everything goes smoothly. You should plan your budget to have enough money to pay nannies without compromising your regular expenses.  You should also talk to your child to prepare him to be left alone with a stranger. 

Ask around.  If you have friends who have nannies, ask them where they hired them and if they know someone they could recommend to you.  If you know someone who had a great nanny, ask for their contact number and their experience with that particular nanny.  It is a better choice to choose someone whose skills and trustworthiness has already been tested by someone you know.

Take time to interview nannies who are applying for the job.  Talk to them casually while asking them about personal information and past experiences.  Ask them questions that are situation-based to gauge their knowledge about handling certain situations where your child is involved.  Have them meet your children as well.  Kids would know which one they feel at ease with.  If you notice that they do not like the nanny, find another one.  You would not want your child to be with someone they are uncomfortable with.

Check a nanny’s background. This would not be spying or going behind someone’s back.  Just like any job, applicant’s references and backgrounds should be checked. Take time to call their previous employers and ask about their experience with the nanny. Check their personal information to make sure that it is true and applicable to your preferences.  Ask them about their age as well.  If you are hiring someone who is under 18 years old, remember that you will be held responsible for anything that would happen to the nanny and your child.

Ask if they have taken first aid training before. This is highly important in case your child is injured.  If they have not but you are already decided on hiring them, have them go through first aid courses like those offered by the International SOS.

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For further reading:

Orienting a Nanny or Babysitter: What to Teach Your Ayi

Other Related Topics:

Nanny

Phone # Ayi-(Nanny-Maid)-Agency?

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