How to Find Live-In Child Care

Parents may sometimes need extra help caring for their little one. Finding someone you trust and have great references may be the perfect solution. If you have extra space in your home having a person to live-in and help care for your child will definitely help. It is important to find your help the right way; you do not want to just open your doors to just any stranger.

• Outline the duties, hours, pay rate and benefits that you intend to give your choice of live-in child care. Being very clear on all these points is important before you invite someone into your home to care for your baby or child. An extra room in the house should be set up as a private space for the nanny or babysitter you intend to hire.


• Make an outline of the duties you need for your live-in child care provider to give your child. Make sure you are clear and precise on the duties. Have an extra room in your house set up as your caregiver's room. Depending upon whether you are hiring a man or woman, you may want to make it comfortable for either gender.


• Search different nanny or live-in child care organizations. There are many organizations such as the International Nanny Association or the Association of Premier Nanny Agencies where you can find the ideal person for your child. Learn the information about all nannies that may qualify for the position in your area.


• Learn what to do about employer taxes and insurance liabilities while having a live-in child caregiver. Seek out legal help in this matter. Have special contracts legally drawn up between your nanny and you.


• Search child care databases for qualified individuals that are seeking a live-in child care position. Post advertisements in your community or online in these databases. Make sure you include the hours, pay and ages of your children. If you need for your caregiver to be able to drive or have special certifications such as CPR or first aid include this in your posting.


• Interview prospective live-in caregivers. The first interview should be a general meeting to get to know the nanny and have a look at their qualifications. Request they bring along their references prior to the interview. Make sure to contact each reference.


• Once you find a caregiver you like have the caregiver come back over to interact with your child. Watch carefully how they interact and whether or not they are a natural caregiver and how your child responds to them.


• Prepare your home for the arrival of the live-in child caregiver. Make sure a lock is installed on their door for their privacy. If possible make sure they have access to a fridge and stove.