Hi A.,
As a former nanny who found my family through a newspaper ad (yes, in the stone ages!) and now as an LCC for Cultural Care Au pair, I can tell you that if I were looking for a nanny right now, I would post an ad on craigslist or I would use a nanny service.
Craigslist is where everyone I know goes for everything, so I'd try that first. Post it as a job, not a service. Be specific about your time needs, what you expect her to do around the house, if they can bring a child with them, and what you will pay. Ask for references, run a background check, and whoever you hire, don't treat her like the hired help, embrace her as family.
And please remember....you get what you pay for! I was paid well and brought my daughter with me every day. She became best friends with the 2 children I watched. When I left them 4 years ago, they said I was their last nanny, but their best nanny. You definitely want someone who feels like family. That happens by getting to know your potential nanny and not treating her like hired help. It is the best thing you can do. Develop a relationship with her. You want to know that she loves your children like her own.
Finding the right fit can be tricky, but it can be done as long as you take time to make the right choice. Trust your gut feelings as you interview and you'll be just fine. Your little boy is still young, so he can't tell you with his words, but he will tell you with his actions if he is happy with your choice.
Best wishes to you and your family.
~P. G.
LCC, Culture Care Au pair
Owner, Portland Preschool Directory
Author, Mrs. G.'s Kindergarten
http://www.PortlandPreschoolDirectory.com
http://www.MrsGowing.com
