It’s no exaggeration to say that hiring a nanny is a big decision. And only you can decide when the time feels right to make it. There are a large number of variables, and a lot will depend on your individual circumstances. Some people would never leave a baby with someone else before the child’s first birthday, for example. Others are very happy to do so once the baby is a few months old.
Whatever you decide, it’s certainly not a decision to rush, so give yourself plenty of time to think and talk things through properly.
Here are some points to consider:
- Returning to work: If you’re going back to work after maternity leave, you’ll need to starting looking a few months before you’re scheduled to return to your desk. That gives you enough time to vet candidates thoroughly, and makes the transition a smooth one for your child.
- Newborn babies: If you want a nanny to be there from the point when your child is born, start looking during the pregnancy. Clearly, this is especially important if you want a childcare professional with specialist expertise in caring for newborns.
- Special situations: You may need a nanny to cover specific circumstances. Perhaps you’re moving house, for example, or require extra assistance during the long summer break. Again, plan up to three months ahead. Equally, unforeseen circumstances can crop up, and here agencies are worth their weight in gold in terms of finding qualified staff quickly. (If that’s the case, you may need to be flexible on start dates and duties.)
- Having enough room for a live-in nanny: The timing is also only right if you’re sure you have enough room for another adult to live in your home. Bear in mind that it’s not just about their bedroom, important though that is. Your nanny will also be using kitchen and bathroom space. Be realistic and consider whether living in is indeed the best solution for you at this time if you think the nanny may not be comfortable.
- Think about how the whole family feels: Assuming both parents are on the scene, the two of you need to agree. If one partner feels reluctant to hire a nanny, it may just take some time for them to adjust to the idea. Equally, if you have other children at home already, you’ll need to talk things through with them, too.
- Being financially ready: Of course, especially if your nanny is living in, their salary is an additional cost for which you need to be prepared. However, the extra time you’ll have to focus on working could well mean a higher income which offsets this expense.
- Consider the time of year: While you can of course hire a nanny at any time of year, there can be seasonal considerations. Summer is often a time when nannies are looking for new placements, or more staff may become available as children start school or nursery at the beginning of the autumn.
Nannies from Fox & Cubs
At the Fox & Cubs nanny agency, we provide a flexible, family-focused service based on high levels of trust and care. We’re all determined to help you find the best childcare solutions for your household at the right time, whether you want a live-in, live-out, temporary, after-school or multilingual nanny. Equally, we’re able to supply other specialist staff, such as nannies who also work in a housekeeping capacity and maternity nurses. Whenever the time feels right for you, get in touch – a member of the friendly team will be happy to discuss your needs.
