What sort of Child Carer am I looking for?

The question is often asked "What is the right solution for me?". At Tinies, all our consultants are trained to advise on all aspects of your childcare whatever your individual needs. In addition to the traditional nanny there are a number of other possibilities of providing the right childcare for your family: Nanny A child carer who cares for your children in your home. They normally have some form of qualification or relevant experience, which equips them to provide a safe, positive and stimulating learning environment in which children can develop. Nannies can either live in your home with your family or come in daily. They can be part time, full time or on a nanny share basis with another family. Mother's Help Is usually not a qualified person or a newly qualified person and therefore duties regarding the children will vary according to their experience, the type of household and the ages of the children. Depending on the childcare responsibilities expected they will also be available to help around the house with light housework. Nanny share Where two families share a nanny, agree the terms of employment between them and split the costs. Maternity Nanny This is a nanny who specialises in the care of newborn babies in the home and who is available 24 hours a day, 6 days per week. A maternity nanny is usually booked on a short-term basis starting immediately after the birth of your baby and will help with feeding, care and hygiene and with establishing a routine for the new mother and her baby. Temporary & Emergency Care Child carers who are available at short notice to help you with short term and /or emergency childcare needs. Nanny/Housekeeper Where the job of caring for the children and managing the household are combined so that the nanny is also responsible for shopping, cooking, light housework and supervision of other household staff where necessary. Proxy Parent Is a nanny who will take full 24-hour responsibility for your house and childcare arrangements during your absence on business trips or holidays. Babysitting These are childcarers who look after your children in the evenings. This is usually in your own home for a short period of time whilst you are out for the evening. Au Pairs These are usually foreign girls who are able to assist the mother with household and childcare responsibilities but are usually not qualified to be left in sole charge of your children. They are usually young (under 20 years of age) and non-drivers. You should be aware, however, that an Au Pair should never be expected to take sole charge of children under the age of 3 years. Only a Nanny has sufficient skills and experience to take such responsibility. Tinies are not able to help you with your requirement for an au pair, however we can assist in advising you of reputable agencies who will be able to. Private Daycare This is the most common alternative to a nanny and there are an increasing number of good quality daycares around the country. Tinies will be happy to advise you whether daycare is the right solution for you, how to evaluate them and also recommend daycares in your area.