Myth #4

Your CCP must speak English.
Our friend hired a Chinese nanny who spoke no English, so that her son would be fluent in Mandarin Chinese, which he was studying at school. Many families are teaching their kids to be bilingual by virtue of hiring a non-English speaking CCP. Just be sure you speak enough of the same language to communicate with each other. And, as far as safety is concerned, your CCP should be able to dial 911 and speak English well enough to handle an emergency situation. One mother’s idea of adequate communication may differ vastly from the next. The goal is to be comfortable enough with your CCP’s communication skills to know that your child’s safety and well-being are protected.

Tip # 4

Don't be too bossy!
There is a big difference between being the boss and being too "bossy". Be sure to be polite, respectful, and compassionate towards your CCP. Especially be considerate to the CCP’s who live with you, as your home is also their home during the week.

Rule # 4

Be the Boss
Remind yourself that you are in charge, and raising your children the way you want them to be raised should be an attainable goal. If you do not want your child to play outside because she is just getting over a bad cold, then your CCP should be willing to comply with your parental wishes. Do not get too involved personally, and try to maintain a professional relationship.

Quote of the Day

“The phrase 'working mother' is redundant.”

Myth #3

The best CCP’s come from a placement agency
On the contrary, we know of several mothers who have had bad experiences with the placement agencies, but have hired excellent CCP’s via word of mouth references. The agencies do a lot of the screening in advance, but you are not guaranteed that this person will be the perfect fit for your family. A chance meeting, a referral from a friend or another CCP, and "someone who knows someone" are all good resources for finding solid, caring, and competent CCP's.

Tip #3

Have a back-up CCP.
You don’t want to be left in a pinch when your CCP cancels on you, especially when you have important meetings lined up, and you absolutely need her help on that particular day. If you do not have a back-up CCP, find out if your company has an emergency child-care program, or enlist the help of a close friend or neighbor.

Rule # 3

Choose your Child-care Provider Carefully
Do not rush into the decision to hire a CCP. Remember that whatever option you choose, and whoever you hire will be responsible for your most precious gift, so be selective.