Tips on Choosing a Provider

TrustLine is an essential step in finding the right nanny or baby-sitter. But TrustLine is just one important tool to help you choose the best in-home caregiver for your child. Here are some other TrustLine tips:

1. Check each candidate’s references and work histories, and then make sure they’re registered with TrustLine by calling 1-800-822-8490.
2. Interview potential caregivers and observe how they interact with and respond to your child.

Ask all candidates open-ended questions to understand how they care for children:

• Tell me about your previous experiences working with children.
• What activities do you like to do with children?
• What are your feelings about discipline?
• How would you handle naps, eating, toilet training or emergencies?
• Are you comfortable following directions even if you would do things differently with your own children?

Ask practical questions:

• Are you certified in child/infant CPR or first aid?
• What if my child cries all day or refuses to eat or to nap?
• Are you wiling to care for my child if he/she is sick?
• What hours are you available? Could you work extra hours occasionally and how much notice would you need?

Trust your instincts.

• Hire someone both you and your children like and then agree to a trial period. Spend some time watching your children and the caregiver interact before leaving them alone.

Once you have found a good caregiver:

• Set up clear job responsibilities.
• Communicate regularly about how the arrangement is working.
• Periodically drop in unannounced to observe your child.
• Always leave emergency contact information.
• TrustLine is continually updated. Caregivers who have committed a disqualifying crime subsequent to their clearance are removed. So, you should call TrustLine periodically to make sure your caregiver is still registered.
• For information on choosing child care and for referrals to licensed child care, contact your local child care resource and referral agency. For the one nearest you, call TrustLine at 1-800-822-8490 or see the Child Care Resource and Referral Network web site.