Need care from now to September - would you do a nanny, nanny agency, or babysitter?

[Anonymous]

Our child care situation of several years (family child care provider) has unexpectedly unraveled. We now need full-time care for DC from now to September when pre-K begins where we have a guaranteed slot. I think a short term stint at a new daycare would be very disruptive given the transition to a new pre-k program coming in September so am leaning to hiring a nanny, but have never done this before. I am willing to pay whatever I need to pay to ensure DC is well cared for. Would a nanny agency be the best route to go for something like this? Or trying to find a regular nanny through ordinary means, i.e. DCUM posting, websites, listservs etc.? Or should I try and find a responsible college student or grad student looking for a summer job? I am super stressed and this could not have come at a worse time. WWYD?

[Anonymous]

College students are never your best bet. Be upfront about the position being short term and offer a bonus if she stays. But definitely look for a good nanny to keep your child engaged and learning - not a babysitter.

[Anonymous]

Call a good agency and be upfront about end date. I like the bonus idea if she stays.

[Anonymous]

You’ll likely have better luck through an agency.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:You’ll likely have better luck through an agency.

I agree. For a short term assignment, an agency is the best bet.

[Anonymous]

You can likely find a responsible grad student looking for a summer only job.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:You can likely find a responsible grad student looking for a summer only job.

You won't find a grad student who can do a full time schedule now. Summer, sure. But she needs this now.

Agency. Tell them there will be a bonus, but tell them it's only 1 week of pay. If nanny sticks it out, pay 3 weeks.

[Anonymous]

I had a similar situation (right down to the timing) and ended up getting lucky finding a nanny through a friend. I was able to interview several candidates on short notice just by putting the word out at church and also posting on our neighborhood listserve. I would cast a wide net and see what sticks.

[Anonymous]

I would try to get in a nanny share. Otherwise if you can cobble together a month of childcare, you may still be able to get a summer au pair at the beginning of June.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I would try to get in a nanny share. Otherwise if you can cobble together a month of childcare, you may still be able to get a summer au pair at the beginning of June.

Summer au pairs don’t exist. Summer nanny, sure. But if OP finds a share, just stick with it through September.

[Anonymous]

Do you know anyone who has a Nanny now that might be willing to do a share as its only short term?

[Anonymous]

We have a nannyshare opening in Takoma Park starting in June but could start earlier potentially. (Our share partner got into preschool faster than expected!). If you want to post an email or way to contact you, I’m happy to provide more details.