Would you???

Question

Hire a nanny who has minimal professional experience but LOVES kids and is absolutely great with them, or would you require the professional experience?

Just to let you know I am the one looking to work as a Nanny, I LOVE kids and have applied for a job this morning , that would be perfect, I have some experience but not professionally, I just was hoping to know what my chances are, I totally believe in a child being cared for 100% even if the parents can't do it all the time.

Answer 1

this is a tough one - for years I studied whilst i worked in a nursery and gained both practically and intellectually - and was so difficult when it came to babysitting, as parents preferred the people that came in on work experience with no practical experience just a qualification that they knew the knowledge of childcare.
Personally I would hire on the basis of experience rather than qualifications - as my experience has taught me this - but obviously do all the relevant checks - police etc.. before I left them alone

Answer 2

I think it is GREAT that you are looking for a career in childcare. There are so many family's out there that need help. If it were me in the position of hiring I would say you have a terrific shot. Although there are alot of older nannys out there with the experience they are also set in their ways. As new generations come and go so do new ideas about childrearing. I think that someone fresh would benifit my family. Alos, this way I would be able to work with you in helping me raise my kids the way I want them raised, rather than having them raised differently just because that is what the nanny feels best. Good luck with this. If the people you just applied with doesn't feel you meet their needs, keep your head up. There are more people out there who need a FRESH nanny.

Answer 3

first, have you met the first potential nanny?

i would say that is the starting point in your search. never, ever, EVER judge someone solely becasue they have "experience" or a "love for kids". Bring them to your house, or meet them somewhere. Bring your child/ren with you and make a decision based on what you see. In your own mind, prepare a list of requirements you would like your nanny to have. See how they react when your child/ren has a temper tantrum. See how they prepare meals and play. Do you want them to read to your child, or will they make them do homework, if necessary? Are they going to watch t.v. or chat on the phone, or will they pay attention to your child? Do they have references? Past experience (whether professional, or recreational)? There are plenty of questions you will want to ask the potential nannies. Just give each one an equal chance, and make a decision based on a mixture of each element, not just just professional experience. You should find a good nanny if you are thorough with your search.
good luck.

Answer 4

To me it really depends on the person. You have to really like and feel that you can trust them. Experience is always nice but i personally prefer a good chemistry between the nanny and my children. Also you should get certified in CPR a one day class for a few hours but it would really help you . Good Luck I hope you get the job!!
I think some people were confused that you were the one looking for the job and not the one hiring.
momof4

Answer 5

I would -- if all else checked out. Some families need to have a nanny for things like health insurance and mortgage payments. :) I would check references, ask a lot of questions about how they would handle various situations and make sure the nanny was compatible with my kids. We had a nanny that was just out of college and looking for a job one summer and it was the best summer of my life. The kids loved her - it was the least I ever worried about them while I was at work.

Answer 6

I would definetly consider you as a candidate despite not having much experience. I would check any references you have extensively and would try to give each nanny one day with my child to see how they care for them and how my child interacts with them.

and for all those answering about how they would never hire a nanny and they would stay at home with their kids, could you just keep your judgmental comments to yourself. some of us have to work so our kids can eat and have clothes to wear. it doesn't make us bad parents

Answer 7

That is a really though decision!! My first question would be how long have you known them?? Have you seen the nanny interact with the childern?? Could you trust the nanny with your childern?? the only thing I would ask you to consider is with the professional you can get references and you know for a fact that your childern will be safe but with someone who dosent have those things can you really trust that?? My thing is I only have one chance with my children and they are to important to me to just have someone who dosent have professional experience i dont know thats risky and i dont think it is worth the risk to find out!!!!

Answer 8

well i would hire the one that is experienced but if you give the inexperienced ones a chance than they can get soem experience for somefuture positions the experienced started off inexperienced too ! i am not going for a nany i am 15! but i do babysit a lot and people at first didn't want to hire me at first(at age 12) but then they got used to the idea as me being there for them to look after their kids i make the babysitting fun for them is what i like to think

Answer 9

I would hire the one with minimal prof. experience - you have to get the experience some time. But I would do a background check and ask for personal references.

Answer 10

I would never hire a nanny. Stay home with your kids if at all possible. If it's not possible, ask a family friend or grandparent/aunt to babysit. Nannies shouldn't be needed! Kids come before all else!