Just like any parent, you probably have certain qualities that you want in a prospective nanny for your children. They can be anything from living in the same community or being thoroughly clean around the house. You might even want somebody who is older and more experienced, just like the books say. But then again, an older nanny may not be able to keep up with an overactive child. So you probably want someone who is younger; but then there is the problem of ability and experience. At the end of the day, you want to go with what your instincts tell you and base your decision on your opinion of the candidate. Here are the top five qualities of a great nanny that you should look for.
She shows genuine interest in childcare
A good nanny will express interest in getting to know her potential ward. She will be concerned with making sure that your child or children will be comfortable with her and around her. You want a nanny who is more excited about meeting your children and finding out more about them than about how big your flat screen TV is or how extensive your CD collection happens to be.
She is comfortable around children
Take note that you are going to hire a nanny to see to the needs of your children while you are away. A nanny will, first and foremost, be working with your kids. She will report to you, of course, but she will be in the company of your children more often. As such, you want to make sure that your potential candidate is at ease around children.
A good nanny respects your parenting philosophies
Different parents will have different styles of rearing their children. A good nanny will want to find out what your parenting philosophies are and make sure that she at least understands and respects them. Ideally, you want a nanny who shares you beliefs. At the very least, she should not do anything that will go against the set of values or the house rules that you have already instilled upon your children. If anything, a great nanny will help you in making sure that naptime, for instance, is followed and that all the kids still follow your rules even when you