A nanny's job is the children. That sounds obvious, but it is where many applications go wrong. Working in a house where children lived is not the same as being responsible for them, and an employer looking for a nanny wants to know that you have done the second.
What nannies usually do
The details depend on the family and on how old the children are. In most homes the work includes supervising the children, keeping their daily routine, preparing their meals, looking after their clothes and rooms, playing with them in ways that suit their age, and getting them ready for school or activities. Always check what a particular position involves before you accept it.
Babies and older children are different work
Caring for a school-age child and caring for an infant call for different skills. If you have looked after babies, say so and say for how long. If you have only cared for older children, say that instead. Claiming infant experience you do not have helps no one, least of all the child.
Describing your childcare experience
Four facts make a childcare history meaningful:
- How many children you cared for
- How old they were
- How long you were with them
- What you were responsible for
Put together, they sound like this: "I cared for a boy of four and a girl of seven for three years. I prepared their meals, took them to school, helped with homework and kept their rooms tidy." Anyone reading that knows what you can do.
In the interview
Expect to be asked about the ages of the children you have looked after, whether you have cared for infants, what an ordinary day looked like, what you cooked for them, and why your last job ended. Answer from what really happened.
You may also be asked what you would do in a difficult situation, for example if a child were hurt or unwell. If you do not know, do not invent an answer to impress. Say what you do know, and that you would tell the parents and get help straight away.
Childcare and housework together
Some positions are childcare only. Others combine it with household duties. Before you accept, find out which comes first, so that you and the family expect the same thing. If your background is mainly cleaning and organizing a home, the housekeeper guide is the better starting point.
If you have not worked as a nanny
When a position asks for experienced childcare and you do not have it, do not manufacture it. Apply for work that matches what you have done, and build your childcare experience over time. The overview of domestic worker roles can help you see where you fit.
Common questions
Is infant experience always needed?
No. It matters for positions with babies, and requirements differ from one family to another. Only claim it if you have it.
Can a nanny be asked to do housework as well?
Some roles combine the two. Make sure the duties are clear to you before you accept.
How do I apply?
Use the application form and choose "Nanny / Babysitter". You send no documents with it, and our team contacts you within 24 hours. The step-by-step guide explains the rest.