Hiring the Right Nanny: Tips Every Family Should Know
Finding the right nanny for your family is about more than just checking off a list of qualifications—it’s about finding someone you can trust, who aligns with your parenting values, and who fits naturally into your home and routine. After all, a nanny becomes a huge part of your child’s world and your everyday life.
At Southern Coast Nannies, we specialize in matching families in the Wilmington area with professional, experienced nannies who are a true fit—not just on paper, but in personality and philosophy too. Whether you’re starting your search or are deep into the process, here are some tips to help ensure you’re hiring the right nanny for your family.
1. Know Your Needs Before You Start Your Search
Before reviewing any resumes or setting up interviews, take some time to clearly define what your family is looking for. Ask yourself:
Do we need full-time or part-time care?
What hours and days are we expecting coverage?
Are we looking for help with additional tasks like laundry, meal prep, or driving to activities?
Do we need someone with infant experience, special needs training, or a specific language skill?
Being specific upfront helps set realistic expectations and narrows your focus to candidates who truly fit.
2. Look Beyond the Resume
Experience and certifications are important, but they’re only part of the equation. The “right” nanny for your family should also connect with your children and share your approach to parenting.
During interviews, ask open-ended questions that get to the heart of their care giving style:
“How do you handle tantrums?”
“What does a typical day with toddlers look like for you?”
“How do you approach discipline and setting boundaries?”
Look for someone whose answers align with your values—and who shows genuine warmth and enthusiasm for working with children.
3. Trust Your Gut
You can do all the background checks, reference calls, and interviews (and we definitely recommend all three!), but at the end of the day, your instincts matter.
Ask yourself:
Do I feel comfortable leaving my child with this person?
Does this nanny feel like someone I could communicate with openly?
Can I envision a long-term relationship with them as part of our family?
If something feels off, it’s okay to keep looking. Finding the right match is worth the time and effort.
4. Work with a Trusted Agency
Partnering with a professional nanny agency like Southern Coast Nannies can save you time, stress, and uncertainty. We carefully vet every candidate, handle the screening and background checks, and only present you with nannies who align with your family’s needs and values.
We also guide you through the interview and hiring process, help you navigate contracts and expectations, and check in post-placement to ensure everything is running smoothly.
5. Set Expectations Early and Communicate Often
Once you’ve hired your nanny, start off on the right foot with clear communication. A detailed work agreement is essential to avoid misunderstandings and outline things like:
Work schedule and duties
Household rules and routines
Pay, time off, and benefits
Emergency contacts and medical info
Also, schedule regular check-ins to talk about what’s going well, what could improve, and how your child is doing. Open, ongoing communication helps build a strong, respectful working relationship.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a nanny is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. With the right person in your home, your child will benefit from personalized care, consistency, and the kind of nurturing relationship that supports their development and well-being.
At Southern Coast Nannies, we’re here to walk you through every step of the process—because finding the perfect nanny shouldn’t feel overwhelming. It should feel empowering.
Ready to start your search?
Reach out to us today and let’s find the right nanny for your family. 💙