Do You Want to be a Nanny?
Are you considering becoming a nanny or au pair as a career or temporary job? Before you book your first job find out what important steps you should take to protect and prepare yourself for this rewarding, yet demanding, position.
What are My Responsibilities?
Although child care is your first responsibility you will most likely be requested to take on other day-to-day chores and assignments. Each family will have their own requirements so make sure you are aware of their expectations.
Aside from entertaining and feeding the children you may be required to tutor children, take them to play dates or other activities, cook, clean the house, bathe and put the children to bed.
If you are a live-in nanny or au pair the family may require you to care for the children even when the parents are home. You may be depended on to care for the children when the parents work late or when they go out for an evening.
Since the responsibilities differ vastly depending on the family it is very important to have a clear contract that lays out what your responsibilities are and what will be expected of you. If you feel you are being asked to do more than is reasonable you need to discuss this before accepting the position.
Will I Live-In or Live Out?
This situation will also depend on the family and your own preference. Are you working for someone locally or are you hoping to move to another area or country?
Another consideration is travel. How will you get to the home and will you be responsible for providing for the transportation needs of the children? If you do not have a license will public transportation be provided for?
If you are considering an out-of-country position it is very important to prepare for the cost of living elsewhere if the position you seek does not work out.
What Do I Need to Do to Become a Nanny?
If you work for an agency you will have to accommodate their requirements for hire. Some of the typical requirements are: driver's license, references, First Aid or CPR, criminal check, and experience. Other agencies may even require Childcare Education, no smoking or specified language abilities.
Whether you work through an agency or make private arrangements you should meet the family before committing to the position. Set out a clear contract and be sure to take your responsibilities seriously.