Checking Nanny References

Even though the GNAG  Recommended Nanny Agencies you registered with will have already checked each candidate’s references, we recommend that you do so as well.  Checking references yourself will give you a peace of mind and allow you to ask specific questions important to your family: 

What sort of presence did Nanny X maintain while living in your home?

 Do you think Nanny X is suitable to be a live-in a nanny?

How would your children describe Nanny X?

If Nanny X showed up at your door one afternoon would they be excited?

How well did your baby respond to Nanny X's attempts to develop a sleeping and eating routine?  Was it met with much resistance?

Did you take Nanny X on holiday with your family?  Was Nanny X flexible and responsive to you and your partner’s need to have evenings out?

My children’s school is 30 minutes from the house.  Did you require Nanny X to drive your child(ren) around/to and from school?  If so, would you recommend him/her as a driver?

Why did Nanny X’s employment with your family come to an end?  Do you still keep in touch?

Did Nanny X know your neighbourhood well before working for you?  If not, was (s)he resourceful in finding fun and creative activities for the child(ren)?

I work extremely long hours and have 8:30am meetings every day -  is Nanny X always punctual?

You will find that even though a family has written a nice reference letter, they are often able to provide a great deal more insight into the nanny’s disposition and childcare capabilities over the telephone.  The privacy of a telephone conversation grants both you and the family the freedom to speak openly and honestly. 

If you are torn between two nanny candidates, and think them both wonderful, calling their references might help you make the right decision for you and your loved ones.  You may find out that a nanny is amazing with children, but was frequently ill, which caused many problems for the parents and their work life.  You, too, may have a demanding career that cannot be compromised and made difficult by a nanny always falling ill, so you might consider another candidate.   Or you may discover your first choice nanny is exactly the right choice and the previous employers could not speak more highly of him/her.  Regardless of whether you learn any major decision-altering information or not, checking the nanny references will always put you more at ease and help you to feel secure in the nanny you hire.

Click here for details on recommended nanny agencies in your area. All our recommended nanny agencies have confirmed that they conform to our  strict nanny welfare and child welfare Code of Practise.

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