Totally doable with those ages. As a home daycare provider I look after 5. Three from the same family in their home would be easier. Just find someone with experience working with different ages at the same time.

Let's put it this way. If the nanny doesn't, you will. And of course you're going to have to since they're your kids. People do it all the time. Pay well and treat the nanny with respect because you realize this can be a challenging position.

My mother cared for 6 kids. At one point, she had 4 kids under the age of 5.

This is funny.

I’m a mom and I care for 3 kids! I didn’t realize it was an exceptional feat! My husband does too!

I nannied and homeschooled 7 (2-14 when I started). It’s doable, you just need someone who like groups better than singles.

Alice cared for 6 kids!

I am a nanny and I cared for 3 under 5. Of course it’s possible!

I’d think more about schedule - will this mean your 1yo is in the car for hours a day? Can’t nap at the times they need or for long enough? Spends a lot of time having to be contained in a stroller or car seat for the bigger kid activities? If yes I’d get a mother’s helper for the nanny part of the day so the baby can have their needs more met. If no, then it’s doable

Anonymous wrote:Assuming age 6, 3 and 1. Is this reasonable? Do nannies ever care for 3 kids under 8 or is it too much? What age splits are more doable?

Of course, but why would anyone want to unless you are paying very high hour rate and tremendous fringe benefits.

Assuming this is for a single family and not a nanny share situation, absolutely doable. If it is a nanny share, I think it would be hard to find a nanny that would want this age range of unrelated kids.

Anonymous wrote:Can a mom care for three kids? Can a dad??

Of course a nanny can care for three kids. But as PP noted, this isn’t the most attractive job because it’s more work.

+1 make sure it’s a good salary.

Salary just has to be enough to make it desireable. Consider some activities for older ones to get them out and about more than a 1 year old can manage.

Can a mom care for three kids? Can a dad??

Of course a nanny can care for three kids. But as PP noted, this isn’t the most attractive job because it’s more work.

Yes - but maybe some won't want to...

Assuming age 6, 3 and 1. Is this reasonable? Do nannies ever care for 3 kids under 8 or is it too much? What age splits are more doable?