You’re busy, BUT don’t make mistakes when it comes to childcare!

with Lindsay Heller, Psy.D. Professional Nanny Consultant

As busy working parents, we’re often times faced with a schedule that’s completely overflowing with both work and family responsibilities. It can be hard to set aside time for extremely important tasks like finding the perfect person to take care of your children. However, not focusing the required time and attention to finding a nanny can lead to these common mistakes:

1) Skipping the background check: can be a big “no-no”. How do you know if your candidate has had any brushes with the law without one?

2) Hiring in a hurry: if you hire a nanny without a face-to-face interview and without interviewing multiple candidates, you could be headed towards a nanny nightmare.

3) Not identifying your needs beforehand: could leave everyone in a state of confusion. Did you want your nanny to have cooking abilities? How about a car with a valid license? Without this step, the nanny you hired may not even be up to snuff for all of the things you need her to do.

4) Not using a reputable agency: finding someone through internet sites like Craigslist can be a crap shoot. Better to consult someone familiar with the industry before hiring.

If the thought of hiring a nanny while balancing your work schedule leaves you reeling, then we have a class for you: “Find the Right Nanny for your Family” with Lindsay Heller -  The Nanny Doctor (www.TheNannyDoctor.com) ! Join us THIS SATURDAY at 2PM at The Pump Station Santa Monica for “The Nanny Class” – whether you are thinking about hiring a nanny or just have questions, drop in! You will receive essential handouts and all of your questions will be answered. Cost: $25/person. Call 310-998-1981 to register!