Which Nanny? Clicky.

NicoleWI · October 2012

It is wonderful to have options this time, but I am SOOO torn. Both have college degrees and are taking a few classes while considering next steps and/or applying to master's programs. Both have excellent references. Both are willing to get flu shot and Tdap and are first-aid certified. Both are willing to work for the same pay. Both seem very nice and fairly "normal."

The position will be to nanny until I go on leave, help most days WHILE I am on leave (so I will often be home with them), and then to continue at a PT schedule with hours dependent on what I do re: returning to work. Take older kids on outings, too. We would like a little more structure and organization at home than we currently have, but it's not like I want a military schedule.

#1: 27 years old, married. Psychology degree and working on a CNA. Definitely has more direct child care experience with small kids. Worked in a center for a few months. Has offered to do "lesson plans' and would have no trouble planning the day. Hasn't been as high-achieving/directed in the past--some starts and stops with school, moving around at different jobs, still not sure what master's program she wants to do. Quieter personality; comes across a little subservient or something?? Slightly whiny voice?? I didn't feel I clicked with her quite as well, and I will be home with her so that matters. Schedule is a little more difficult for us just b/c she happens to have 3 conflicts in November (nothing after that) but they will be hard for us to cover. Also needs to set days further in advance due to waitressing job. Is less likely to be able to cover for evening or weekend things that come up (which is a nice bonus).

#2: 22 years old, single. Biochem (or something like that) degree plus extra medical training including working as an EMT. Excellent resume--won all sorts of awards, star athlete, good grades, National Honor Society, has done international service work trips. Going to physician assistant school next fall. More of a lively, bubbly personality and presents herself very well. Loves kids and has done a lot of child care, but more like babysitting--has less direct experience. Had one nanny job and that was with older kids for a summer. Schedule is TOTALLY open b/c she can arrange online classes around whatever we need.

I have no idea which to pick and my opinion keeps changing. "Gut feeling" was originally #2--feel like I would get along better with her. Now am wavering b/c perhaps #1's experience and age would make her more able to be self-directed and manage discipline consistently/deal with melt downs.

[Poll]

1026pumpkin · October 2012

I voted for #2 assuming you won't need this nanny after next Fall. Even if she doesn't have experience in a center, I'm sure if you're looking for a loose routine, you could come up with something together even if it's not a "lesson plan." If you do, I'd go with #1 since it sounds like #2 would for sure leave to go to PA school, but #1 might stick around longer...

emilyec1 · October 2012

Go with the one you vibe with! I had a smiliar decision. Both were qualified and I am glad many times over I went with the one whose personality I liked. It will make it easier to communicate, and being home...the other one will get on your nerves. If you don't vibe with her now you don't want to end up hating her!

kacelle · October 2012

Nanny #2. Age isn't everything. I'm 22 with a degree in child development and baby #2 on the way, and I teach parent education courses at work from time to time. I know some 27 year olds (even with degrees and childcare experience) who I would not be comfortable leaving DD with, or enjoy being around much myself.

ns1 · October 2012

I also said #2. I'd trust my gut instinct. Also, age hasn't been a big deal for me in the dcs LO has been in. My favorite teachers have been the younger ones actually