As a responsible parent, of course you wouldn't want to just hand off the responsibility of taking care of your own children to just anyone. This is precisely the reason why conducting background checks on potential nannies is a vital and necessary process. Normally, what you would do is take her Social Security Number and use this to find out where she resided for the years that have passed. This is important so that you know which counties you need to search.
Unlike what most people may think, the background checks are actually searched by county and not nationally. It may be a good idea to check the adjacent counties as well once this is done in order to ensure a foolproof nanny background check. By checking the adjacent counties as well, you are leaving less of a chance that the prospective nanny committed any misdemeanors in nearby areas from her residing area. This will help you breathe easier, knowing your leaving your kids with someone that you can trust.
Ideally, you could do a check on every county that the nanny resided in, but of course this may be expensive. Keep in mind that if money is not an issue and you wouldn't mind doing a check on all the areas which appear from utilizing her Social Security Number, these addresses may only come from her credit records. You could also opt to do an instant background check on the nanny. It will provide the necessary and significant parts of one's criminal record, as well as the impression of one's credit history.
You may also opt to check the nanny's driving records if her job will also entail taking your kids to and from school or to practice and after-school activities. A credit report can even be checked if you think that this may be a factor in your decision-making. You may also check if the nanny is in the listed Sexual Offenders also.
Some background checks on the nanny may require that she provide you with a written release. You simply fill out the form and she should acknowledge it and sign it.
Ask the nanny for references. References are quite good in helping you determine a nanny's character. It is vital that you get a nanny's previous employers and not just friends or relatives as references. It wouldn't be a bad idea to ask references if they know of any other places where she may have been employed. Make sure that when you speak to the references they are assured of the confidentiality of your discussion.
Before you conduct your nanny background checks, discuss with your partner about what factors are important to your family so that you can budget and prioritize which specific background checks to run.
Remember, even if the nanny's background checks come back spotless; do not underestimate the value of the actual interview with her. If you have a gut feeling that something just isn't right about the nanny's personality or character, do not simply let this slide by.
