We know that having a good nanny can surely make your life easier. But, finding a really good one is really tough, such a big challenge!
Every mother like me wants a good nanny in her household. Being the 'queens' of our own palace, we want our rules to be observed and our ways to be employed. We feel respect and obedience whenever things fall into their right places, just the way we wanted and planned.
The same thing goes with getting a nanny or a baby sitter. We struggle to find a great one as we wish to have them stay with us for several years. We all hope that as we treat her as a member of the family, she also shows compassion in everything that she does for the kids and for the family.
I understand how difficult it is to find someone who can get along with you, your husband, and of course, the kids. Like most moms out there, I have been through really tough times with several past nannies. Some just stayed for quite a short period of time, perhaps a year or two. That despite our being considerate and kind to them, there were some inevitable circumstances that made them decide to leave (i.e. going back to their own homes, wanting to spend more time with their own kids, putting up a small business, etc.).
And since we don't own them and they have a family of their own, what we can only do is to understand and support their decision. We still wish them well despite the fact that this will give us another headache in finding for a replacement.
Now, below are the incredible ways as to how I was able to find a good nanny and what makes her stay for almost four years now.
Referrals. I asked my relatives and friends if they could recommend someone who can look after our son. This is still the best way to go as this bunch of people won't definitely refer someone who can't be trusted and get along with you and the kids.
Local discussion boards. I looked for message boards in my community. I posted an ad like "Nanny Wanted", etc. Don't forget to put your name and contact details so interested applicants can ping and drop by.
Caregiver listings sites and groups. I joined online forums over the web, including those groups I found in social media sites. I met fellow mothers and established a network of moms, nannies, house helps, and baby sitters where we share thoughts and experiences. Others even give recommendations and some useful tips.
Nanny placement agency. Though getting a nanny from an agency requires you to spend more than what is expected, it is safer to settle for this as the candidates already have the requirements and have undergone strategic screening. These are the important things that we tend to miss out simply because we have become desperate, speeding up the recruitment process just to have a nanny right away.
After a series of interviews and background checking, I hired the best candidate. I felt relieved when we finally had a nanny, but the next challenge is how to keep her for years.
These are the things I normally do to make her stay. I set things clear from day one, implement house rules, and most of all, develop an open communication. I see to it that we get along well and if ever we will have conflicts or misunderstandings, we make sure that it is properly dealt with. Most of all, we take pleasure in our time together. It is either we chat over a cup of coffee, watch a movie, or pamper ourselves in a spa. We do simple things that girls like us enjoy and understand.
Remember, if being a mom is such a tough yet noble profession, being a nanny is a lot tougher for she also has to do many sacrifices just to earn for a living, giving up her chances to take good care of her own family.
Yes, I am happy and blessed to finally found a good nanny, and I hope you would also find yours soon.
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