This week, a CBS Texas report described a terrifying afternoon: a live-in nanny was learning to drive when she accidentally hit the accelerator instead of the brake, sending the car into Lake Ray Hubbard. Thankfully, deputies were able to pull all the passengers (the nanny, the mother, and three children) out, and no one was hurt.

While it might be easy to point a finger, stories like this aren’t about blame. They are reminders that safe driving is an absolutely critical skill when it comes to childcare. At Westside Nannies, we’ve long required our licensed nannies to be confident, safe, experienced drivers. It’s not about elitism or car ownership. In fact, many of our clients provide nanny cars for on-the-job use. It’s about preparedness and safety when caring for children.

Why Driving Competence Matters (Even If “We Don’t Ask Our Nanny to Drive”)

“But my nanny isn’t responsible for driving my children.” We get it. Why should this be a priority to you if driving isn’t even in your nanny’s job description? While your nanny might not drive your child on an average day, emergencies happen. If a child spikes a fever, has an allergic reaction, or needs urgent care, or an emergency outside of the house arises, like a wildfire or power outage, you want to rest assured knowing the adult in charge can handle the situation.
Plus, every day logistics become safer & simpler when you know your nanny is a safe, experienced driver. Doctor visits, school pickups, activities, and playdates all benefit from a caregiver who can operate a vehicle safely and independently.

“But Our Baby Never Leaves the House” (And Other Common Questions)

It’s a common misconception that infant care doesn’t involve driving. Things like pediatric appointments, pharmacy runs, and emergency restocks come up all the time. And when plans change or something urgent happens, you’ll be glad that your caregiver is a safe, experienced driver.

Let’s say you live in a walkable transit-rich neighborhood. Amazing! While this is great for day-to-day routines, it’s not the most reliable when it comes to emergencies. Public transit can have gaps, emergencies of its own, and less-than-ideal delays. A car is often still the fastest, safest option.

How to Identify a Safe, Experienced Driver

A safe, experienced driver should have the following:

1. A valid driver’s license, current and in good standing.
   2. Multiple years of licensed driving with regular seat time (rather than a brand-new license).
   3. A clean driving record.
   4. A strict no-distraction policy while driving (phone away, eyes up, etc.).
   6. Confidence driving with children (installing seats, managing car sickness stops, staying calm under pressure, etc.).

Another way to ensure your caregiver is set up for success? Ensure they have access to the child-passenger safety basics, including the correct car seat/booster seat and proper harnessing.

Pathways and Compromises If You Adore a Non-Driving Candidate

Let’s say you fall in love with a caregiver who doesn’t drive. Can you make it work? Here are some tips for moving forward with a candidate who isn’t a safe, experienced driver:

– Add a licensing timeline in the offer. Hire with a clear, written timeline to obtain/renew a license and complete professional lessons within a set timeline.
– Utilize an interim safety plan. Until licensed and approved, there should be no solo driving of children. This could be effective if a parent works from home and is available for emergencies.
– Schedule a final driving check-off. After training, have a practical road test with a parent before the nanny drives solo with the children. Include car seat installation, too!

The Westside Nannies Standard

At Westside Nannies, we work with the best in the industry, and our standards reflect that. We require Westside Nannies candidates to have a valid driver’s license, strong references (preferably that speak to driving with children), and familiarity with local and federal driving laws surrounding car seats and child safety. We expect candidates to have a proven track record of reliability and exceptional common sense surrounding safety. That means no avoidable distractions, like phone usage or loud music.

This is not about perfection. It’s about risk reduction. Families can’t control everything on the road, but they can choose a caregiver who’s properly licensed, trained, and experienced.

A Final Word on the CBS Texas Story

We’re grateful everyone walked away from the Lake Ray Hubbard incident largely unharmed. But this situation is a powerful reminder that there is a real risk when it comes to childcare and learning such a crucial skill. When kids are in the car, you want the person behind the wheel to be as safe, experienced, and distraction-free as possible.

A Hiring Checklist

□ License verified (name matches, not expired)
□ DMV record reviewed and acceptable for your comfort level
□ Proof of insurance (if driving a personal vehicle) or added to family policy
□ Car-seat basics reviewed and practiced
□ No-distraction policy signed and discussed
□ Successful drive-along with a parent before solo trips

Bringing a nanny into your home is meant to bring you peace of mind and the confidence that comes with knowing that your children are in good hands. While you can’t control every experience that your kids encounter, you can control some things. Westside Nannies is proud to help our clients connect with the most reliable, professional caregivers in the industry. Because when it comes to safe, experienced drivers for your children, it matters who is behind the wheel.