Hi Nannyof3,

I would definitely recommend having a nanny contract to establish boundaries, expectations and responsibilities for both the nanny and the parent. Caring for children is serious business and whether I were a parent or a nanny, I would definitely want to be explicit about the job. I assume nanny agencies take care of this, but for independent nannies not associated with an agency, I would recommend reading the following articles and using them as a guide if you choose to create your own contract.

http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_Nannies/

http://www.4nannytaxes.com/NEWS/nanny-contract-agreement.cfm

http://www.absolutelynannies.com/NannyContract.html

http://www.ehow.com/how_13089_write-contract-nanny.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_5088527_create-nanny-contract.html

In addition, I sent a note out to a friend who's currently on vacation, but has had a lot of recent experience with nannies. If I hear back from her, I will share her experience with you.

Thanks for submitting your question and best of luck!
Lori

Here's another link I found about nanny and parent expectations and recommendations, when traveling that you might find helpful. It's from the New York Times.

http://travel2.nytimes.com/2005/09/18/business/yourmoney/18nanny.html?_r=1&pagewanted=1

It's definitely a good idea to have a written contract -- it can prevent problems down the road, and it can also make sure that you and your nanny address issues that you might not have thought of (e.g., confidentiality, travel reimbursement, etc.).  Another good resource is:

http://www.mynannycontract.com/nanny-contract/

I would also pay attention to the health of your nanny and make the contract state that they be immunized, healthy, tuberculosis free.  As part of the contract, require a medical statement from their agency or physician.

Wayne Yankus, MD, FAAP
expert panelist: pediatrics