1)   Keep your c.v. up to date, with information that is clear and brief, one or two pages at the most ensuring that you include contact phone numbers for your most important references. If you have the technology, scan in any recent, relevant references.

2)   Always request a written reference from your employer before you leave your current position, you never know when they may move away and thereby losing you proof of placement.

3)   Most employers look for value for money, and some will pay top wages for candidates who can offer them an excellent track record and a professional, flexible and empathetic approach to the service they provide.

4)   Always be on the look out for ways of regularly updating your skills, especially Paediatric First Aid. (See link below)

5)   SAFETY must come first when you care for children. Avoid taking any risk with their welfare. (See link below)

6)   Remember your employer cannot read your mind! Ensure you have a regular meeting with your employer for you both to have an opportunity to discuss all relevant issues.

7)   Keep your private and work life completely separate and always be discreet.

8)   Be careful when you consider taking work via private ads, you will be relying totally on the sense of fair play your employer affords you.

9)   Keep a scrap book to capture milestones associated with your work.

10)  Always be clear from the start with your employers concerning your boundaries and promote the use of an employment contract (as we do).

11)  Management of the children can cause problems if the parents fail to give the Nanny a clear mandate on care and control. Clarify this with parents and make sure children understand you have authority. To really enhance your child management skills why not read TRANSFORMING A DIFFICULT CHILD (aged 2 to 16 yrs) as shown on our Client Book section. It may transform your views on discipline and 'spirited' children!

12) Whether or not you are new to Nannying, we recommend you obtain a copy of'NANNYING, a Guide to Good Practice' by Christine Hobart and Jill Frankel (see link to publisher online below), this book is well written, easy to read and contains lots of good advice for Nannies. Or if you are a Maternity Nurse starting out or a Nanny interested in or about to work with a baby, why not get a copy of  'A Practical Guide of WORKING WITH BABIES' by Angela Dare and Margaret O'Donovan.