Things to know before starting your new job

When you have been offered and accepted the position of babysitter or nanny for a family you may want to go through the areas below with your family before you commence your employment.

House

Would you take me on a tour of your house?

Does your house have working smoke alarms?

Is there a spare house key for me to use?

Meals

What can your children eat and drink?

Is there any food or drink they cannot have that I need to be aware of?

Are you anticipating that I will  prepare simple meals for the children?

Personal care

What are the routines for changing nappies and using the toilet?

Where are the supplies of baby wipes and cleaning materials kept?

Where do you want me to put soiled nappies and disposable gloves?

How do you want me to handle hand washing and brushing and flossing teeth?

Where do I put dirty clothing?

Is there any equipment I might be using that you want to show me?

Bedtimes / Naptimes

When is bedtime / naptime?

What are the routines for quiet time, bedtime and naps?

Do your children have a favorite bedtime story or toy?

Do they like a light on?

Do you prefer their door open or closed?

What do you want your children to wear for outdoor play?

- For naptime?

- For bedtime?

Medical

Are there any medical conditions or medications that I should be aware of?

If the child is taking medication, where is it kept?

Where is your first aid kit kept?

The basics

Should I answer the phone? If so, how should I answer it?

Are there any rules I should observe in your home?

May I use the TV, radio or computer?

May I make a short personal call?

Am I allowed to do homework when the children are napping or sleeping?

May I fix a snack?

Finally you might also want to think about nanny insurance. Babysitterdirectory recommends that all people caring for someone else's children should have appropriate nanny insurance. Find out more here. 

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