Anonymous wrote:OP here - thanks for the advice. I hadn't considered hiring someone full time (since the point behind accepting the part time job was to be able to be with my kids on the off days) but if we can find a full time nanny/housekeeper that sounds like it would be a good option. I'm wondering, however, if we'll be able to find a great nanny who is also willing to clean our house - seems like that would be difficult. Assuming we can find this, any opinions on an appropriate hourly rate? We like in the Annandale/Burke/Springfield area. Thanks!
I think you will have to approach it from the other direction--instead of looking for a nanny who is willing to clean, you have to look for a housekeeper who is willing to babysit. And she probably won't be a "great nanny" as in having a degree in child development, plans tons of enriching activities, etc. You will want to look for someone who is responsible enough to keep your kids safe and willing to do basic activities like reading books and going to the playground.