Child-Care Searching Saga
Turning your baby over to a child care provider such as a daycare provider or nanny can be one of the most stressful experiences of early motherhood. Almost inevitably, you’ll have concerns about whether or not the provider will comfort your crying baby, shower your child with love and attention and respond appropriately in an emergency.
Confidence in the person caring for your child will go a long way toward easing your anxiety. Whether you’re hiring a short-term baby sitter or a full-time nanny, it’s important to find a reliable caregiver. What follows are the first steps: deciding what kind of nanny you want, the pros and cons of working with an agency and how to find candidates.
If possible, allow yourself plenty of time to make this decision. After all, no hiring decision is more crucial to the well-being of your child. Many women begin to search for a nanny while they’re pregnant, particularly if they’re returning to work in the early months of their baby’s life.
Here’s how to begin your daycare provider or nanny search:
1. Mums and nannies will be your greatest source of referrals. If a friend has a babysitter you like, ask that sitter for a referral. If you’re a member of a moms’ group, post your request on the online message board. Children’s stores are another place to post your ad. Be specific about what you require: Non-smoking? English speaking? Driver’s license?
2. Use your community non-profit childcare referral agency. These agencies have listings of caregivers, bulletin boards for job listings and handouts to guide you through the process.
3. If your community has a parenting network, check for listings of babysitters and nannies.
