Choosing The Right Nanny For Your Baby - November 2024

For families with young children, getting into a childcare centre can be as tricky as acceptance into college. As a matter of fact, the availability of openings especially for toddlers, can’t meet the demand. So some families turn to get a nanny. While some agree that nannies can provide safe and responsible for children, the reality is that the nanny market is unlicensed and unregulated. There’s no government ensuring that a nanny has to meet the most basic requirements such as experience, health, safety or even background checks. 1. Know your needs Before you start searching for a nanny, you have to determine the working hours and days, including potentially working additional hours. To start, check the current hourly rates for nannies in your area to ensure your budget can pay a livable wage. Besides that, you will need to determine the amount or expectation you’d like required. Hiring a nanny will require you to set a realistic expectation and responsibility. Once you establish clear conditions of employment, you might want your nanny to have TB test clearance or even clean background. 2. Create an informed hiring process You will have to write up a job description using the schedule, responsibilities and requirement for employment. And get the words out to friends, mother’s groups or even online platform. But most importantly, you have to make sure you do a thorough screening for each candidate. Then interview with the best candidates. For the candidate you most prefer, you can go through a two-week trial period to see how your family and the nanny work together. Trials are scheduled, paid and you essentially 'train' your nanny on your child's care, where child-related activities are in the home and throughout the neighbourhood. At the end of the day, review and sign the contract with your nanny if everything goes well. 3. Establish a standard care of practices However, you will have to create a house rules policy from the start. Make sure your nanny knows that your child is never left unattended, go with anyone or house unless with your permission. Your nanny should always be available to you by a phone call. Besides, you have to consider if you’re okay with them posting photos or you’re like them to avoid it. 4. Create a collaborative working relationship Last but not least, it’s important to recognise that the nanny strives to create a positive relationship between you and your child. If your relationship with them is healthy, the excellent care happens. It’s always great to look for them for ideas, opinions and advice and let them know you appreciate how they care for your child. You will have to talk openly and respectfully about your working relationship, particularly the schedule, compensation and your child's behaviour too. For all your parenting needs, visit Motherhood.com.my now to get the best for your child, with the best prices.

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