Anyone use a nanny?

wifey26 · August 2010

looking for recommendations on where to even get started finding a nanny, if you'd had a good experience with a service, etc, and if you don't mind, what's the going rate for a nanny...

thanks much!

macaroon45 · August 2010

I would try Craigslist, it's a really great resource for finding nannies (which I would def. recommend vs. any kind of day care!). Agencies are another option though you'll surely pay much more and often have to deal with their red tape and you not have as much flexibility as working with a "self-employed" nanny. As long as you meet she or he in a safe place, check references, and have plenty of "get to know you time" there's no reason to avoid the free lance type.

Rates vary depending on hours, duties, number of kids, etc. but typically look at paying anywhere from $8-$15 an hour.

Also I would encourage the consideration of nannies with their own child(ren). A lot of times those are the ones that are more engaged with what children or infants are doing, will be more attentive and much more in tune with milestones, development, etc. Plus they charge less!

Janell's Nest · August 2010

I'd try Care.com thats a great place to find childcare, or pet care or any care you may need. Nothing against craigslist but I think I'd trust a site that does its own background checks over babysitters who consider themselves "nannies"

Payne2B2008 · August 2010

I just found out about this site https://www.sittercity.com/ I would give it a shot but like I said I have never used it.

bakemecakes · August 2010

I worked as a nanny several years ago and used Nannies of the Heartland and Above and Beyond Nannies to place me. They are both reputable agencies that do thorough background checks on their nannies and have very high standards when it comes to who they will place.

Craigslist would be my LAST resort for childcare as would any website. Anyone can put their info up on a website and claim to be a nanny.

For rates, you can expect to pay a nanny $15/hr plus benefits (which include paid holidays, vacation time, and potentially a contribution to health insurance). Maybe more, depending on what you want them to do. Plus an agency placement fee.

If you're looking for a babysitter, you could probably find someone for $10/hr. But then background checks are your responsibility.