When to start Nanny search?

[Anonymous]

I am a FTM due in January 2015. I would like to get a nanny to care for my child sometime around Feb/ March of next year (so there is some overlap before I go back to work). I was wondering when I should start looking for nannies (and setting up interviews) - any advice? Would it be too early for me to start my search now?

[Anonymous]

4-6 weeks before you need someone, at the most. Most nannies do not know much further in advance if they will be available. Plan for someone to start a week before you return to work so that you can have at least a few days together for orientation/to see if you mesh well (or if you need to make a last minute switch).

[Anonymous]

I'd start making a list on your expectations. Things that are deal breakers, things that would be nice, etc.
Also, think about how many hours per week you want, what benefits you'll offer, etc.

It's very early to start now. I'd say 6-8 weeks.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the advice! I figured it was too early - but with all the advice I heard about "you can't start the child care search early enough" I was concerned. But I guess that advice is more for daycare services than nanny services.

[Anonymous]

I'd say right after the holidays. So once Chrsitmas and New Years settles down, then is start the search.

[Anonymous]

I'm a mom and it took me MONTHS to find someone reliable. We had people agree to the job, then text saying "took a different position, sorry!" at the last minute.

Do your research. I ended up taking WAY more time off than I had originally planned because I stopped trusting people. However, I finally found someone (on DCUM actually) who is beyond amazing and we love her - and my son loves her. We've also added a part time share to it to reduce our cost, give her more money, and add some needed regular social interaction for both kiddos and it's currently working great.

So not to discourage you, but definitely have a plan if it doesn't work out! Go through local list serves if you have them in your area to see if people are recommending their nanny, stuff like that.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:4-6 weeks before you need someone, at the most. Most nannies do not know much further in advance if they will be available. Plan for someone to start a week before you return to work so that you can have at least a few days together for orientation/to see if you mesh well (or if you need to make a last minute switch).

I agree with this. I didn't start looking until after I'd had my kids (twins). I started when they were a couple of weeks old, knowing that I'd need/want someone in about 6-8 weeks. I had plenty of options in that time frame (but this was definitely for a nanny, daycare takes longer!)

Good luck!