CHILDCARE & FAMILIES
Before hiring a nanny, describe the working relationship.
Turn a family’s needs into a clear conversation about duties, schedules, communication and a respectful start.
Backed Hire editorial · September 21, 2026 · 3 min read
Practical guidance, not legal, tax, medical or compliance advice.
Start with the everyday routine
Write a realistic picture of the week: expected hours, the general care setting and the responsibilities you need help with. Separate childcare duties from housekeeping, errands or driving. Keep children’s names, photos, school details and exact routines out of public job posts. You can discuss necessary private details later through a careful hiring process.
Explain what is essential
Identify the experience and qualifications that matter for your household, then plan how to check them. If driving is involved, clarify the vehicle, trips and applicable requirements. Discuss how emergencies should be escalated and what training the role needs. Obtain appropriate local advice rather than assuming that a familiar job title answers legal or safety questions.
Agree on hours and compensation
Discuss pay, payment frequency, time off, additional hours and how schedule changes are handled. Make expectations about availability explicit. For a live-in arrangement, address accommodation and personal privacy separately from working time. Put the agreed terms in writing and check the employment requirements that apply to your circumstances.
Make it a two-way conversation
Ask candidates about relevant experience, communication and how they handle a change in routine. Give them space to ask about your expectations and working style. A nanny is evaluating the arrangement too. References can add context, but should sit alongside your interviews and appropriate independent checks, not replace them.
Prepare the first week
Provide clear instructions, emergency contacts and a way to ask questions. Agree how you will exchange updates and when you will review the arrangement together. Avoid adding new responsibilities informally without discussion. A respectful working relationship needs continuing communication, not just an encouraging first interview.
Invite a clearer introduction
Families can create an employer account on Backed Hire, and nannies can create a free worker profile. Explain the work and experience honestly, then take the next step through the platform’s contact-access process. Joining the platform is not a childcare safety clearance or a guarantee of a placement.
Your next chapter starts with an introduction.
Looking for the right person, or ready to show what you can do? Choose your starting point.