The Top 5 Key Qualities You Need To Look For In A Nanny

Finding the right nanny for your family can be a difficult process. A Nanny becomes an extended part of your family and spends many hours with your children, so it is critically important that you make the right choice. In this post, we will discuss the top 5 qualities to look for when choosing a nanny.

1. Reliability

We have spoken to many families here at Blossom, and the number one complaint we hear about past experiences with nannies is lack of reliability. An unreliable nanny can make things very difficult for your family, especially if you have a demanding job or run a business. Having to frequently reschedule meetings, take days off to care for your children at late notice, cancel appointments or rush to find last minute fill ins gets very frustrating. We can hear the struggle in our clients voices when they tell us about it.

This is why reliability is one of the key qualities we look for in our nannies. Not just for you, but your children too! Having consistency and a nanny that will show up for them when they need them will definitely have a positive impact on a child's sense of security.

2. Communication

You want to know how your child went over the course of the day. A nanny should be able to clearly communicate to you your child's progress or activities completed during the day. You also need them to raise any concerns they may have about your child, such as behavioural issues or health concerns. This will help you stay on top of your child's development and stay in the loop of your child's daily life.

3. Experience

For us, experience working with children is a must. This doesn't necessarily mean experience as a nanny, however that would be a bonus. Many of our nannies come from a background of nursing, teaching, childcare and other related fields. When choosing a nanny, make sure they have worked with children in the past. This could also include an individual who is a mother themselves.

4. Personality fit

The right nanny will mesh well with your family and form a strong bond with your children. You need to choose a nanny that you can trust and get along with. You want to find a nanny that isn't just perfect on paper, but perfectly aligned with your families values and morals. Having a nanny who is aligned with your families principles becomes desirable when as your children begin to notice the consistency. Children are impressionable and shaped heavily by morals and values and having a nanny who mimics the things their own parents stand by is important for consistency and shaping their moral compass.

5. Love of Children

This is another non-negotiable. A nanny who loves what they do will be much more effective than someone that just shows up for the pay check. Watch how your nanny interacts with your children and ask them about their past experiences working with children. You will be able to tell if they love kids by the way they answer your questions. Watch how your little ones react to them also, your nanny needs to bring out the best in them and you will know they have by that cheeky, glowing little grin.

A Nanny is an indispensable part of your family. Young children often become very attached to their primary caregivers and it is important that you have peace of mind in knowing the decision you have made is the right one. Reliability, communication, experience, personality and love of children are all important factors to consider on this journey.