Nannies

A nanny is employed to look after your child in your own home. Nannies do not need to have formal childcare qualifications, but many do have nursery nurse or other qualifications in childcare. There is no national nanny register at present.

Unless they are looking after more than two families, nannies won't be inspected by Ofsted like other carers, so it's up to you to do the checking and interviewing. A nanny can either 'live in' or come to your home on set days or hours. Some families choose to have a 'nanny share' arrangement as a way of making this choice more affordable.

Kent Children and Families Information Service hold a list of nanny agencies and some information on home child carers (nannies) on Ofsted's voluntary register. Nannies can choose to register on the voluntary register so that parents can apply for the childcare element of working tax credit.

Ideal If

• the convenience of someone fitting round your working hours by coming into your home is a top priority
• you want more control over your child's routine - what they do, what they eat, etc
• you have more than one child and a mixed age range to arrange care for
• you have the time to invest in setting up a nanny share.

Not so suitable if

• you don't want the added responsibility of employing someone, and sorting out detailed contracts concerning hours, holidays, sick pay etc
• you think your child would be happier and more stimulated with a lot of children
• continuity of care is important to you - a great nanny will inevitably move on one day
• you could claim help with childcare costs through childcare tax credit. This does not cover unregistered childcare like nannies.

Always check

• references thoroughly, even if you use an agency which says it's already done this.  Contact, by phone, at least two former employers and don't be afraid to quiz them about the smallest details
• that the nanny has an up-to-date first aid certificate. Find out about any other qualifications - passed and failed. If they are looking after more than two family's children, they should be registered with Ofsted
• that the nanny is absolutely clear about what you expect in terms of hours, job description and length of employment. They should agree to stay for a minimum of one year.

Questions to ask

• what qualifications do they have? What experience do they have and how is it relevant to your child?
• why do they enjoy working with children and why do they want to do the job you are offering?
• how will they organise their day? What kind of age-relevant activities will they plan into the day? Make sure to discuss off-duty time too if they are living in your home
• what are their attitudes on key issues like sleep, potty-training and setting boundaries for behaviour? You need to agree and feel comfortable with the approach they take.

How to find out more

Professional Association of Nursery Nurses
Telephone 01332 372 337
They will supply an information pack on how to employ a nanny.

National Childbirth Trust
Telephone 0870 444 8707 for details of local branches with a nanny share register.

Parents at Work
Telephone 020 7628 3578 for a fact sheet or visit the website at www.workingfamilies.org.uk.