SITTER SAFETY: TOP 5 TIPS FOR PARENTS

When it comes to the safety and well-being of children, one can never be too cautious. We recognize that not all families are able or wanting to use an agency to find sitters or other childcare providers and we believe that knowledge is an incredibly important aspect to keeping your kids safe. So we want to share some expert advice that we hope will help you if you decide to hire a nanny on your own. You may also want to consider participating in one of our Sitter Safety Webinars for parents to get more in depth advice from our experts. 

Here’s What You Need to Know. 

1. Online nanny finder sites should be used with extreme caution. Anyone can create an online profile and many candidates have not undergone a thorough screening process. If you do decide to use online sites, understand that they are not agencies. So be sure to do your own extensive screening process before offering a candidate the position. Our agency has a DIY Screening and Consulting program for families that want to find a nanny on their own but still want to use our robust screening tools. 

2. Not all background checks are created equal. Many online background checks only scratch the surface and simply give you a false sense of security. In our Webinar Series we will teach you the difference between some background check services and how you can get the most accurate information on a candidate. 

3. Just because someone you know and trust referred someone, doesn’t make that sitter safe. People commonly refer nannies and sitters who go from one family to the next but no one has ever taken the time to do an actual background investigation or screening process. Referrals should be given the same careful screening as any other nanny or sitter you are considering. When a nanny or sitter you are considering is uncomfortable or impatient with this, consider it a red flag. 

4. Honesty really matters. If a sitter or nanny can lie about the small stuff they can lie about the big stuff. While it might not seem like a big deal when your nanny fibs about her age, exaggerates her experience or says she fed and watered the dog when she really forgot to, this is not something that should be taken lightly. You should consider what other untruths you have been told and how this could affect the quality of care your family is receiving.

5. Interviews and reference calls are a must. (Even for your occasional date-night sitter who lives down the street.) Anyone who is spending any length of time with your kids should undergo a formal, in-depth, in-person interview. Reference calls should also aim to dig deep into a candidate’s past performance. You should also be comparing the information the nanny gave you in the interview with the information shared by her references to look out for any inconsistencies. 

WE HELP FAMILIES THRIVE. 

Whether you need a full-time nanny, part time babysitter, or just an emergency back up childcare solution for those times when you are in a bind, we have the best nannies and sitters all in one place that can provide care you can trust when you need it the most 24/7, 365 days year, even at a moment’s notice.

Want to learn more? Don’t miss our Sitter Safety Webinars for parents.