How to Hire a Nanny

Step 1 — Write the position down

Put the schedule, responsibilities, location, rate and start date in writing before you speak to anyone. This single step prevents most later misunderstandings, and it lets candidates self-select accurately.

Step 2 — Decide how you will search

Either browse and contact Calgary caregivers directly on NannyServices.ca, or ask our team to run a Full-Service Placement. The trade-off is control and cost against time and effort: the self-service route is immediate and inexpensive but you do all the work, while placement costs a fee and removes the sourcing and first-round screening from your plate.

Step 3 — Screen before you interview

A short phone or video call filters out mismatches quickly. Confirm availability against your actual schedule, right to work in Canada, relevant experience with your children’s ages, and whether the rate you have budgeted works for them. There is no point in a full interview if the schedule or the rate does not fit.

Step 4 — Interview properly

Meet in person where possible and let the candidate spend time with your children. Ask for specific examples rather than general assurances, and pay attention to how they interact with your children rather than only to how they answer you.

Step 5 — Check references and background

Speak to at least two previous families yourself, and ask each of them directly whether they would hire the person again. Most Calgary families also ask for a police information check with a vulnerable sector search. Verify first aid and CPR certification is current rather than simply noting that it exists.

Step 6 — Consider a paid trial

A paid trial day or short trial week benefits both sides. It shows how the person handles your children’s real routine, and it lets the candidate confirm the role is what they expected. Pay for the trial at the agreed rate.

Step 7 — Put the agreement in writing

• Start date, weekly schedule and agreed rate.
• Responsibilities, stated explicitly and in full.
• Paid time off, statutory holidays and sick-day treatment.
• Notice period on both sides.
• How overtime and schedule changes will be handled.
• Confidentiality and house rules, including phone and screen use.

Step 8 — Set up payroll before the first payday

Because your family is the employer, arrange payroll and deductions before the first pay run rather than after. Review the Canada Revenue Agency guidance for hiring a caregiver and the current Alberta Employment Standards rules, or use a payroll provider.