FT nanny for limited regular hours + occasional overnight?

[Anonymous]

Single parent. For about the next 10-11 months, my job will require regular travel a couple of times a month. I am trying to figure out the best way to have childcare for a young elementary school aged child squared away for overnight trips. When I am in town (I.e. the vast majority of the time), I’d only need 10-15 hours a week of regular childcare, basically, aftercare pickup and a few hours on weekends. But I’m trying to figure out the best way to have someone reliable that I could depend on for overnight care if I have to travel out of town for a couple of days on short notice. Anyone employ a nanny/babysitter on such terms? If so, how did you locate them? Other suggestions/recommendations?

[Anonymous]

Is the afternoon care for only the next 10-11 months, or just the traveling?

You might not be able to find someone for both, or either tbh. For the afternoon care, can you utilize an after school program? Most people wouldn't be excited by only 10-15 hours. That isn't enough to pay bills and it's very hard to find a morning only shift.

Travel: how much notice do you get? Do you have family or close friends who could help out?

[Anonymous]

I do have family or close friends who could help out sometimes, but I need a backup. I agree that a nanny would t be interested in 10-15 hrs a week, which is why I am wondering whether the solution is to pay for 30 hours… My biggest concern is the regular overnight travel and having a backup. Is it just a matter of establishing a relationship with several babysitters who would be willing to do occasional overnights? If so, suggestions for finding people? (Until now, I have just utilized daycare and aftercare and occasional non-overnight babysitters, with family helping for 2-3x year work travel, but I’m just not sure that will be sufficient with upcoming demands.)

[Anonymous]

Yes, having several available babysitters that you trust would be the ideal.

You used to use daycare and aftercare. Would any of the teachers there be able to sit? Do you know any other families with nannies or sitters?

I'm sure you would have mentioned this if it was an option, but why not the child's other parent? Are they an option?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Yes, having several available babysitters that you trust would be the ideal.

You used to use daycare and aftercare. Would any of the teachers there be able to sit? Do you know any other families with nannies or sitters?

I'm sure you would have mentioned this if it was an option, but why not the child's other parent? Are they an option?

OP. There is no other parent. Will be on the babysitter hunt!

[Anonymous]

I would also ask around….

I.e., close family members, friends, co-workers, neighbors, etc. for a referral.

I am a Nanny who gets all her job positions through word of mouth.