The right caregiver becomes a trusted partner in your parenting journey, someone who brings comfort, consistency, and care to your home. But in the rush to fill a childcare need, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to stress, mismatches, or even unsafe situations.

1) Why thorough vetting matters

A nanny doesn’t just care for your child; they become part of your daily life. A nanny placement is so much more than reviewing a resume or holding a friendly interview. A thorough vetting process helps ensure that the person you bring into your home is:

• Qualified
• Trustworthy
• Aligned with your family’s values
• Prepared to provide safe, high-quality care

At Westside Nannies, we do the heavy lifting for you through our tried-and-true staffing process. But whether you’re working with an agency or hiring on your own, it’s important to understand where many families go wrong—and how to avoid the most common hiring mistakes.

2) The most common mistakes families make during the hiring process

a) Skipping background checks

It’s tempting to trust your gut, especially if you click with a candidate in person. But no matter how friendly or experienced someone seems, a formal background check is essential. This includes criminal history, driving records, and sex offender registry checks. Because safety should never rely on first impressions alone.

b) Failing to check references (or not asking the right questions)

Many families collect references but don’t follow through on calling them, or they rush the conversation. A reference check should go beyond “Did they work for you?” and dive into:

• How they handled discipline
• Their communication style
• Why the position ended
• Whether the family would hire them again
• Their strengths
• Any areas for improvement
• And beyond!

c) Not doing a basic internet or social media search

In today’s world, a quick Google search or scan of public social media profiles can reveal red flags you might otherwise miss. It’s not about prying; it’s about giving you another glimpse into who they are and whether they align with your family’s values.

d) Moving too fast

We get it—when you need childcare, you need it now. But rushing the process often leads to hiring the wrong person. Skipping steps, shortening trials, or ignoring gut feelings to fill the role quickly can create more stress down the line. What’s that old saying about doing things right the first time?

e) Overlooking a trial period

Even with stellar references and a great interview, nothing replaces seeing your nanny in action with your children. Skipping a trial can mean missing out on crucial insights about chemistry, style, and fit.

3) How to avoid these pitfalls and hire with confidence

The good news? Every one of these mistakes is avoidable with a little extra care and intention.

a) Work with a professional agency

Agencies like Westside Nannies handle the vetting for you, including reference checks, background checks, and matching based on personality and values. Our household employee integration process ensures every placement is safe, legal, and positioned for success.

b) Take your time (where possible)

Give yourself space to move thoughtfully through interviews, checks, and trials. Even if your need is urgent, a few extra days can save you heartache later.

c) Be thorough with checks

Always run a formal background check, call multiple references, and do that quick online search. A little extra effort up front provides priceless peace of mind.

d) Trust your instincts—but verify

Your gut is a great starting point. But back up that instinct with data: verified experience, references, and background checks.

Hiring a nanny is about more than filling a position. It’s about inviting someone into your family’s world. By avoiding these common mistakes and taking the time to vet candidates thoroughly, you set the stage for a trusting, successful, and long-lasting partnership.