For many young families, there are few decisions more important—and nerve-wracking—than finding a nanny. In ideal situations, these caregivers become beloved and integral parts of the households for years to come. Locally, there is perhaps no better expert than Claudia Kahn, founder and CEO of the Help Company, the premier staffing agency in Brentwood Village. For Kahn’s cohort of specialists, which range from nannies to newborn nurses to doulas to even tutors—caring for children is truly their calling, and all candidates are selected not only for their credentials, but for their compassionate nature. “We have been called the best matchmakers for families finding their help," Kahn says. Here are the Help Company’s top tips for a successful nanny search.
1. KNOW WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
If you’re clear as the employer, it will help you find the best nanny out there. Think of tangible things that the job will require, such as your desired schedule, how much experience you would like your nanny to have, necessary qualifications—do you want a swimmer, CPR certification, someone who can drive, etc.—live-in versus live-out, someone who is sporty or arty and of course your budget. Making a list will help narrow down your search and keep you much more focused.
2. THINK LONGTERM
Many families search for a nanny during the newborn phase and often only consider their baby’s immediate needs. However, great nannies are those who can grow with your children and continue to care for and challenge them along the way. Consider how nannies will approach every age and milestone, if they are ok with multiple kids and how they will eventually be able to handle discipline, temper tantrums and any other challenges that may arise.
3. TAKE NOTICE OF THE DETAILS
Did they show up on time? Park in the correct place? Ask to wash their hands before interacting with your baby? Speak one-on-one with your kids? Have a generally positive attitude? Little things that may otherwise go unnoticed can be strong signals of how they process details and will be once they are taking care of your own family.
4. DON’T RUSH
This is a huge hire. Parents, children and nannies should feel super comfortable and excited to work together. If everyone isn’t happy, it won’t be a good longtime fit. So start the search as early as possible, meet with multiple candidates, conduct thorough interviews, check references, do test trials and take your time to feel good about your final decision.
5. GET THE EXPERTS TO HELP YOU!
Just like taking care of your health and finding the best doctors, there are experts like the Help Company who can help you define what you need and want and take care of the rest. The Help Company also has a wider network of childcare providers, some of whom they have worked with for years, and all of whom are heavily vetted and checked. Making the time and investment upfront will pay off big time in the long run!
The Help Company
115 Barrington Walk
310-828-4111
thehelpcompany.com