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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]First time mom, childcare arrangement just fell through, in search for a nanny to start in about 4 - 6 weeks. First time employing anyone to work in the home.

Some things I am wondering:
[b]
* Prices seem all over the map for care. I had assumed the cost for a newborn (8 weeks) would be high, but I see some people paying $17 for 2 kids, while others are paying $30 for one.  I was planning to comp between $15 and $20 an hour. Is that fair for quality care? (I live in NW, DC).[/b] I say what you are offering is a fair rate for a newborn. 
[b]
* Are there red flags besides the obvious (background check, etc)? I really just want someone with a sweet nature who is fine with physical affection (DS is easy to soothe as long as you rock/hug him).  What do you look for to see if a nanny genuinely enjoys children? I tried looking around my neighborhood during the day but most of the nannies seem surly/disinterested[/b]. Usually you will know if a nanny [i]truly[/i] enjoys children by the way she interacts with him or her. She will seem genuine..Not fake at all. It's just a gut instinct you will feel...Either you will feel it or you won't.
[b]
* Is it normal to schedule a playdate/meeting before hiring?[/b] (I would comp for this time as well, maybe 2 hours with the baby to see how they do.) Absolutely! I highly recommend doing this along w/having a trial period from about 2-4 wks. Chemistry is so [u]vital[/u] in these types of situations and since an innocent child is involved, it is very important that a good match is made between ALL parties involved for this situation to work effectively.  :D

[b]* Are laundry/meals/light housekeeping considered a normal part of a nanny's duty?[/b] I wasn't actually expecting any of that, but if it's standard, bonus! I wouldn't say these are a "normal" part of a nanny's duty per say. The normal parts of a nanny's duty and what is expected daily would be for the nanny to wash any dishes used during her stay as well as pick up any toys and clean up any messes made as well. If you want her to do any [i]extras[/i] such as the laundry, cooking and housework, there are some nannies that are willing to do this. However, be prepared to pay a higher rate for these services which would only be fair to them.

[b]* Should I give the nanny access to my car?[/b] We're metro accessible, but I may want the nanny to take the baby to doctor's occasionally. Since one of the job requirements is to take the baby to the Dr.'s, then that is a nice gesture to allow the nanny access to your vehicle OP. Just make sure you include her in your insurance plan and make sure you fill up the gas tank so she doesn't have to stop at the gas station since getting gas w/an infant in the car can be quite a pain!! Lol.

[b]*  Are nannies ok with temporary contracts?[/b] DH is changing careers and going back to school - so this would be a limited full time contract for 3 - 6 months. We may extend but it really depends. Sure, I don't see why not.

* My husband and I are on very different work schedules - we would generally need coverage from 12 - 6 pm, which would be a 30 hour week[b].  What are the considerations for part time work as opposed to full time work? [/b] Your nanny most likely will request guaranteed hours as well as some paid sick days, etc. It would be best to discuss [i]ALL[/i] of this prior to hire to make sure everyone is on the same page.

[b]* I have a very large dog (75 lbs) who is sweet natured but intimidating to people who are not dog lovers. He is also a needy goofball and constantly underfoot. Should I ask for a nanny comfortable with dogs? Or put the dog in his room during the day and hire a dog walker? [/b] I would most definitely mention the dog. Anyone who is not comfortable w/dogs would not be a good fit for your family considering the size of your pet! It would be unfair to lock up your pooch for 30 hrs./wk. in my opinion.

Any advice is appreciated!

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