Where can I find a nanny/babysitter?

We get asked this question by moms a lot. Finding a good caregiver can be hard if you don't know where to start. Often times, when Danielle and I are out with the children we nanny for, other parents will try to talk us into working for them. We always offer the following solutions…

• Sittercity.com - This site is wonderful for finding a caregiver. For a a small monthly fee, you can make a parent profile describing what you are looking for in a caregiver. Whether it is for a long term nanny or just an occasional weekend sitter, you can find both at Sittercity. Danielle and I both have used this site in the past while looking for jobs. It is easy to find qualified caregivers in your area and see background checks on them before even contacting them. If a caregiver you are interested in does not have a background check completed, you can either request they get one done or pay for them to get one. Just an FYI, even though they have background checks completed on this site, it is still imperative that you check references fully and carefully! 

• Nannies4hire.com - This is another great site. Danielle and I also have both had profiles on this site at one time. It is actually where I found my current nanny job from. It does cost more, but I think this is where you will find applicants looking for a more serious nanny job. Not that you can't find that on Sittercity also, but there will be less non serious people to weed through. You can also request a background check on a nanny through this site. 

• You can ask other parent friends. Other moms are great references and won't hold back sharing who they did not like using as a caregiver. They might have someone that they no longer use or are willing to share. 

• Another great source is asking a nanny you meet. A lot of times as a nanny, we bring the children to play groups and activities. If you see a nanny often and notice that she is great with the kids, ask her if she knows anyone reliable looking for a job. As a nanny, I often know of other great nannies looking for jobs or other part time work. I would never recommend someone who I didn't trust or would make me look bad. 

These are some great resources to find a caregiver. If you have any other questions about finding a great caregiver let us know. We also offer a service where we will help you interview and find a great nanny. Feel free to share any other resources or your experience finding a caregiver below!