Families trust nannies and childcare workers with their most precious people. That trust is earned through reliability, kindness and good judgment, and it is supported by clear agreements and sensible safety checks. If you want to work as a nanny, or you are a parent thinking about hiring one, this guide explains what the job involves, which requirements and background checks are common, and what to know about safety, pay arrangements and scams. It is written with Arizona in mind, but most of the advice applies anywhere.
What does a nanny do?
A nanny cares for children in the family’s home, usually on a regular schedule. Duties often include preparing meals, supervising play and learning, driving children to activities, helping with homework, handling routines such as naps and bedtime and keeping the children’s areas tidy. Some nannies live in, and others live out. Some work for one family, others share care between two families. The exact tasks should be written down before you start.
Nanny versus licensed child care
It is important to understand the difference between private in-home care and regulated child care. In Arizona, child care programs such as centers and certain home providers are regulated, and the Arizona Department of Health Services publishes A Parent’s Guide to Regulated Child Care. A nanny who cares for children in the children’s own home is generally outside that regulated system, so many safety checks are decided by the family or by the agency that places the nanny. If you apply to a center or a program, the rules and checks can be stricter, so ask the employer which requirements apply.
Common requirements for nanny jobs
There is no single national rule for nannies. Families set their own standards, and these commonly include:
- Experience with children. This might be paid work, babysitting, caring for siblings, teaching, or volunteering with children.
- Age and legal work status. Most families want an adult who is legally allowed to work in the country.
- Driver’s license and clean driving record if you will transport children.
- CPR and first aid training for infants and children, which many families ask for. Check that the course is from a recognized provider.
- References. Families usually want to speak to previous employers or other people who know your work with children.
- A background check. See below.
- Reliability and communication. Families value punctuality, honest communication and respect for their parenting choices.
Background checks and fingerprint clearance
In Arizona, a Fingerprint Clearance Card from the Department of Public Safety (DPS) is required for people working in many regulated settings with children and vulnerable adults. The DPS explains on its Fingerprint Clearance Card page that the employer or sponsoring agency determines whether a card is needed. A private in-home nanny generally is not required by state regulation to hold one, but a family or placement agency may still ask you to get one or to complete another type of background check. If you volunteer to get a card, it can make you more attractive to families, as it shows you are prepared and have nothing to hide.
Families may also request:
- Identity verification and a check of work authorization.
- A criminal background check through a reputable screening company, with your written permission.
- A driving record check.
- Reference calls, and sometimes a paid trial day.
As a nanny, you have every right to ask what checks will be done, how your information will be stored and who will see the results. As a parent, remember that you should obtain the candidate’s permission before running a background check, and treat their personal information with care.
Safety essentials for nannies and families
- Emergency information. Keep a list of parents’ phone numbers, the child’s doctor, allergies, medications and nearby emergency contacts in a visible place.
- Safe sleep and feeding. Follow the family’s instructions and current guidance from the child’s pediatrician.
- Water and heat safety. In Arizona’s hot climate, never leave a child in a parked car, even for a minute, keep children hydrated, and use shade and sun protection. Always supervise children closely near pools.
- Car safety. Use the correct car seats installed properly, and agree on rules about who can drive the children.
- Online and screen rules. Follow the family’s wishes on screen time, photos and social media. Never post pictures of the family’s children without permission.
- Medication and injuries. Do not give medication unless the parents have given clear written instructions. Have a plan for accidents and know where the first aid kit is.
Employment agreements and pay
A written work agreement protects both sides. It should cover:
- Duties and expectations, including housekeeping tasks, if any.
- Hours, days and how schedule changes will be handled.
- Pay rate, how and when you will be paid, and how overtime and holidays are handled.
- Paid time off, sick days and notice for ending the job.
- Expenses, such as mileage, groceries and activity costs.
- House rules, rules about guests, phones and social media.
- Rules on emergencies and who has authority to consent to medical care.
Taxes and the “nanny tax”
The IRS explains that a nanny working in your home is generally a household employee, not an independent contractor, if the family controls what work is done and how it is done, and paying hourly, weekly or by the job does not change that. Families who employ household workers may have tax responsibilities, and the details are in IRS Publication 926, Household Employer’s Tax Guide. As a nanny, ask how you will be paid and whether taxes will be withheld, and keep your own records. Being paid “off the books” can cause problems for you later, for example with proving income or qualifying for benefits.
How to find genuine nanny jobs
- Search the Nanny and Arizona categories on SmartLinksJobs.
- Ask for referrals from friends, schools, faith communities and parent groups.
- Work with a reputable placement agency that screens both families and nannies. Ask what they charge and who pays.
- Meet a family in a public place first or bring a friend to a first home visit, and tell someone where you will be.
Scam warning for nannies and caregivers
Scammers often post fake nanny and caregiver jobs. The Federal Trade Commission warns that a fake employer may send you a check, tell you to deposit it, keep part for your services and send the rest to someone else. That is a scam, because the check will bounce and your bank will want the full amount back. No honest employer will ask you to do this. Do not pay to be considered for a job, and do not share your bank details or ID before meeting the family and verifying them. Read the FTC’s job scams guide.
Tips for a great interview
- Bring references, certificates and a copy of your resume.
- Be ready with examples of handling tantrums, picky eating or an emergency calmly.
- Discuss pay, hours and duties openly, and ask for a written agreement.
Quick checklist
- I understand whether the job is private in-home care or a regulated program.
- I know what checks and training the family or employer expects.
- We have a written agreement covering hours, pay and duties.
- Emergency contacts and safety rules are clear.
- I have verified the family or agency and have not paid any “application fee.”
Childcare is a job of trust and warmth, and when families and caregivers set clear expectations, everyone benefits. Explore the Nanny category on SmartLinksJobs to find openings, and put safety and clear communication first.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules differ by place and situation, so confirm requirements with the relevant agency or a professional.