There are many, MANY nannies who are currently working with a nanny family, but are looking for a better fit. They can't afford to quit without another job lined up, but are still contractually obligated to give their current family 30 days notice. I always recommend starting the nanny search 8-10 weeks in advance to give ample time for multiple interviews, background checks, reference calls, contract negotiations, trial days, and time for nanny to give notice to her current employers.

Even after all that, ideally, there is still a 2-3 week buffer, just in case it doesn't work out with your top choice, to revisit one of the other candidates, hopefully with enough time to do all of the aforementioned (background check, contract negotiations, trial day) before the date which you absolutely need a nanny to start by!

Definitely put an ad up saying when you'd like them to start, this weekend.

No, not too early. Start now.

If you need care after six weeks you should start looking at once. You may have to interview several nannies to find a good fit.

Our current sitter is a friend who has been helping us while they are waiting to get vaccinated and then go back to work full time, which will likely be within the next 6 weeks. Is it too early to start the search for a nanny now?