How to Hire a Nanny: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents

Hiring a nanny is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your family. The right caregiver provides safety, support, and peace of mind—but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. Here’s a simple, clear guide to help you understand the process, what to look for, and how to find a nanny who truly fits your family.

1. Start With Your Family’s Needs

Before searching, take time to define what you need. Ask yourself:

• What schedule do we need—full-time, part-time, after-school, or occasional?
• What ages are our children, and what type of experience should the nanny have?
• For what length of time do you anticipate needing a nanny? 
• Do we need help with additional tasks such as light housekeeping, meal prep, or driving?
• Are there special requirements—newborn care, multiples, allergies, pets, or behavioral needs?
• Will you need your nanny to travel with you on family trips?

This clarity will guide every step of your search and help you identify the right candidates.

2. Decide Where to Search

You have options for finding a nanny. Most families choose one of the following:

Use a Local Nanny Agency (Recommended)

A reputable agency handles recruiting, screening, background checks, interviews, and ongoing support. Families save time and reduce risk by working with professionals who know the industry and understand what families need in a caregiver. Learn more.

Search On Your Own

Some families look for nannies through online job boards, social media groups, or personal referrals. If you go this route, be prepared to manage screening, interviews, reference checks, and payroll compliance yourself.

3. Review Qualified Candidates

Once you begin receiving applications or profiles, review them with your family’s needs in mind. Look for:

• Experience with children the same age as yours
• CPR/first aid certifications
• Relevant training (newborn care, special needs, early childhood education)
• Work history, reliability, and longevity with past families
• Positive references and strong communication skills

If you’re working with an agency, much of this initial vetting is already done for you.

4. Interview Your Top Choices

Interviews help you understand each nanny’s personality, style, and approach to childcare. Prepare questions about:

• Daily routines
• Discipline and communication philosophies
• Activity planning and educational engagement
• Safety, emergency responses, and past experiences
• Expectations around household tasks and transportation

It’s also helpful to include your children in a second interview so you can see how they interact.

5. Check References and Backgrounds

If you’re hiring on your own, you’ll need to:

• Contact previous employers
• Verify work history
• Run a comprehensive background check
• Confirm driving records if transportation is required

Agencies typically handle all of this for you—including identity checks, driving records, and multi-state background screenings.

6. Make an Offer and Define the Details

Once you find a candidate you like, you may want to consider having a trial day or two to see if it is a good fit before making an offer. Then when you’re confident you’ve found the right nanny, extend a written offer covering:

• Pay rate and overtime
• Schedule and duties
• Paid time off, holidays, and sick time
• Benefits (e.g., health stipend, transportation reimbursement)
• Start date
• Confidentiality expectations

Clear expectations help create a long-lasting, positive relationship. 

7. Set Up Household Employment Legally

Nannies are employees—not independent contractors—so families must follow federal and state household employment laws. This includes:

• Obtaining an employer identification number (EIN)
• Verifying employment eligibility (Form I-9)
• Withholding and remitting taxes
• Providing a year-end W-2
• Carrying workers’ compensation insurance (required in many states)

Using a reputable household payroll service makes this easy and ensures you stay compliant. See more about the actual costs of hiring and paying a nanny.

8. Create a Successful First Day—and Beyond

Help your new nanny feel welcome and prepared by providing:

• Emergency contacts
• Daily routine information
• House rules and expectations
• A written work agreement (strongly recommended)
• A warm introduction to your children

Consistent communication and regular check-ins help build trust and create a long-term, successful partnership. 

Need Help Hiring a Nanny?

Working with a professional nanny agency ensures a smoother, safer, and more efficient hiring experience. A New England Nanny handles recruiting, screening, background checks, scheduling, and support—so you can focus on finding the perfect fit for your family.

Contact us today to get started.

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