1. Understand Your Family’s Needs

Before starting the search, take time to assess exactly what kind of help your household requires. Are you looking for someone to focus solely on childcare, or do you also need support with cooking, cleaning, laundry, and errands? Consider the ages of your children, your daily work schedule, any special care needs, and how much flexibility you require. For parents in cities, where workdays can be long and unpredictable, a live-in nanny often offers the most stability and convenience.

2. Choose Between Live-In and Live-Out

Not all families need a live-in nanny. Some parents prefer a live-out arrangement where the nanny comes in daily but leaves in the evening. However, if you work irregular hours, travel often, or simply want the reassurance of round-the-clock availability, a live-in nanny may be the better choice. Understanding the difference helps you narrow down your search and set realistic expectations from the beginning.

3. Find Nannies Through Trusted Sources

In Kenya, families typically find nannies through personal referrals, reputable agencies, church or community networks, or verified online platforms. Using a trusted source helps reduce the risk of hiring someone without proper vetting. At Nyarai, for example, every candidate goes through a thorough screening process including background checks, reference verification, and work history reviews to ensure they meet professional and safety standards.

4. Interview Carefully

An interview is more than just a conversation—it’s your chance to understand the nanny’s skills, personality, and values. Ask about their experience with children of specific age groups, how they handle emergencies, their approach to discipline, and their cooking or housekeeping skills if relevant. If possible, involve your children in the meeting to see how they interact naturally.

5. Set Clear Expectations

From the very beginning, outline exactly what you expect from the role. Clarify working hours, daily routines, childcare responsibilities, and any household duties. Explain your family’s rules, preferred parenting style, and boundaries regarding visitors or phone use during working hours. Clear communication early on helps avoid misunderstandings later.

6. Have a Written Agreement

Even in informal arrangements, it’s best to put everything in writing. A work agreement should include salary, working hours, overtime terms, days off, benefits, accommodation details, and notice periods. In Kenya, where domestic work is governed by labour regulations, having a signed agreement also ensures compliance with the law and protects both parties.

7. Discuss Living Arrangements

For live-in nannies, comfort and privacy matter. Ensure they have a clean, secure place to sleep, with access to basic amenities. Discuss whether they will have their own room, bathroom access, meal arrangements, and any house rules for shared spaces. Respecting their personal space encourages loyalty and professionalism.

8. Address Special Needs

If your children have medical conditions, learning differences, or specific dietary restrictions, make sure your nanny is trained or willing to learn how to provide the required care. Go over medication routines, emergency contacts, and any special equipment they may need to use. This step is critical to your child’s safety and comfort.

9. Maintain Open Communication

A successful working relationship depends on trust and ongoing dialogue. Schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress, address challenges, and give feedback. Encourage the nanny to share any concerns or suggestions they have—it shows you value their input and helps strengthen mutual respect.

10. Value and Appreciate Their Work

Domestic workers often go unnoticed, yet they play a vital role in a household’s success. Show appreciation through kind words, fair pay, and recognition of their hard work. When a nanny feels respected and valued, they are more motivated to perform their duties with care and commitment, benefiting the whole family.