Help from those who have a live out nanny

mamatotwins0812

Hi all. I'm currently a stay at home mom to my twin boys but am starting to look to go back to work and with that need to research daycare options. I am leaning heavily towards a live out nanny but don't even know where to start in terms of pay, expectations etc. I'm hoping you ladies can help. I'm specifically looking for a (general) idea of how much/how to pay (weekly, hourly etc, understanding the amount varies by region. I live in a high COL area, suburbs of NY.) Do I offer sick/vacation days? Other than caring for my child, what are other realistic expectations? Tiding up the house etc? Do I provide her food? The person who was referred to me comes from another local family so I don't want to sound like an idiot when talking to her since clearly she knows better than I do. Lastly, logistically I am struggling. Right now I'm in the very early stages of submitting resumes etc. No interviews or anything yet. Obviously the process can take weeks to months. When is the best time to hire her?? If I do it now I could potentially pay her for months for doing nothing, or if I wait I risk losing her and needing to find someone last minute. This is all so confusing!! TIA for your help!!

TheBorg7of9

Hi, I don't have much time to post, but I posted a similar question below about switching to a nanny and what details to work out.  

Regarding pay, you'll have to see what is offered in your area.  Why don't you ask what she was being paid already.

But with your job situation, I would probably find a job first and then start looking for a nanny.  You could get a temporary person at first and then find someone more permanent.

mamatotwins0812

Great tips, thanks everyone! The whole process just feels very overwhelming. I appreciate the help!!

DallasHorn

I'm in a MCOL area and here nannies go $8 - $15 per hour depending on a variety of things - experience, English proficiency, duties, etc. I agree its important to be explicit up front about your expectations - what cleaning is expected, kids laundry and if so how often, what activities are ok vs not (e.g. you might say 30 minutes of baby einstein or seasam street is ok, but nothing more per day), can nanny take your kids anywhere, if so what are the limits, what are your mobile phone expectations (e.g. particularly with younger nannies, I've had to say...your phone should be up and put away unless kids are napping), can they use your wireless internet, can they nap, what are acceptable foods/snacks. I personally like the online nanny sites - gonannies.com, sittercity.com and care.com. They are not as pricey as a private nanny placement, but allow for background checks, etc.