Finding a nanny that is RIE-trained or has a lot of knowledge about connection-based approaches like The Whole Brain Child, Positive Discipline, Waldorf, etc can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. And even if you find them, sometimes they cost way above your childcare budget. But as someone who has hired and training over 50 teachers in my years as a program director, I know that knowledge is power and these approaches can be learned. I think the most important qualities to look for are: 1) kindness, 2) calm/being able to be present, 3) an interest in learning and reflecting, and 4) reliability.
With a kind heart and open mind, nannies and parents can join together in their journey to raise the children in their lives with intention and love. Both parties, being open to learn, grow and problem solve together will help everyone feel accepted, respected and valued. Many parents ask me for interview questions to help them find nannies that share their values. But parents aren't usually early childhood experts, so it's hard to tell what to ask and what answered are good. STEP 1: Screening Interview: I like to do this on a video call or over coffee without children. Intro: Parent tells nanny about their family, why they are hiring, how long they hope to employ a nanny, a bit about their parenting dreams/philosophy, what role/schedule they are hoping for.
If you're unsure or don't think you want to move forward with this nanny: Thank them for their time. I typically say, “I am meeting with lots of people on the phone. I’m trying to limit the amount of people who I invite to do a working interview. I’ll get back to you by the end of the week if we can move to the working interview.” STEP 2: WORKING INTERVIEW + IN PERSON INTERVIEW If you like them, move fast. Set up an in-person interview working. The working interview is in three parts:
The rest are questions you can ask if you have time.
If you find a kind, present/attentive, like-minded, reliable nanny, but she or you feels like she could benefit from a learning community to explore, learn and integrate brain-building, connection-based caregiving - definitely check out our Mighty Bambinis, Mindful Nanny training. We will be launching soon, so get added to the list today. Our training is designed to be practical, transformative and doable. It is designed to fit into your nanny and your busy schedule and efficiently help you understand and implement best practices into your caregiving right away. Because there are trainings for parents and nannies - trust and a common compass are forged!
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