The 6 Types Of Background Checks You Should Be Doing
So you are ready to move forward with a babysitter or nanny that you’ve interviewed. You are hiring a person that will be trusted with the responsibility for your child’s life. Completing a full screening of a sitter is always recommended. Here is a list of screenings you should do, based on the specific duties the sitter will be providing your family.
1. References
Do not hire a nanny or sitter if you cannot check references! Even if you were referred by a friend or family member, outside references should be completed. When a nanny does not work out, and safety was the concern, a parent will often inform past references. Try to check out at least two references related to the caregivers past experience with children.
Ask references specific questions like
- Are you related to the caregiver?
- Do you think she could handle a screaming or sick infant?
- Could she handle an emergency?
- Did your children like her?
- Did she follow the house rules?
- Was there ever been an unpleasant incident?
- Did the nanny/sitter had any attendance issues?
- Is there anything else I need to know?
- Would you hire her again?
Our sister site CanadianNanny.ca as complete guide to hiring nannies with an excellent list of sample nanny reference questions
2. First Aid / CPR Verification
When caring for children, a nanny or babysitter should be Frist Aid/CPR certified. If you plan to have a sitter on a regular basis, and they don't have this training, you could offer to pay for it. At the very least sitter's should have Emergency First Aid. These courses are offered regularly in most communities.
Training Courses Available from but not limited to: - USA: American Red Cross— offers First Aid and CPR training specifically geared to nannies, sitters, au pairs and caregivers 16 years and older - Canada: St. John Ambulance
3. Swimming Level Verification
If you have a pool, live on the water, or expect your caregiver to be taking the kids swimming do not hire a sitter that cannot swim. Verify before hiring, that their strength in the water is at a sufficient level and that they have a strong understanding of water safety. All swimming courses provide verification and certificates upon completion.
4. Education Verification
Education is often not an important consideration when hiring a babysitter. But if you are hiring a sitter based on it, you may want to verify by asking to see certificates, diplomas, or transcripts.
5. Driving Record (Driving Abstract)
Usually available at your local DMV’s (Department of Motor Vehicles). This information can provide you with a history of violations, and collisions. If a babysitter is regularly driving your children, it is recommended to conduct this search. If she is driving your children in her car, you will want to ensure that she is properly insured and that the car is completely safe for children.
For U.S. candidates: DMV.org, although not an official government website, can help you locate the nearest DMV office.
For Canadian candidates: Find hout more at Get A Driving Record.
6. Comprehensive Background Check
Alright, you have checked refrences, driving records, and asked for proof of certifications, now it's time to run a comprehensive background check. No need to go hunting through Google for a service, we have you covered with our on-site Background Check Services. Read on for more information!
What Checks Do Our Background Services Include?
For U.S. Candidates:
- Social Security Number Trace: Verifies the candidate's SSN and provides an address history.
- Sex Offender Registry Search: Checks if the candidate is listed on any state, territory, or tribal sex offender registry.
- Global Watchlist Search: Reviews various domestic and international watchlists to ensure the candidate is not a threat.
- National Search: A broad search across a compilation of criminal databases and records across the United States.
For Canadian Candidates:
- International Search (or Adverse Media Search): Look for any international records or media mentions that could indicate potential risks.
- Global Watchlist Search: Similar to the USA package, this search checks international watchlists for any matches.
How Do I Initiate A Background Check On Sitter.com?
To initiate a background check, follow these steps:
- Log into your account and navigate to the Settings section.
- Select Subscriptions and Payments.
- Scroll down to find the Background Checks' section.
- Click on Run A Check. A new window will appear.
- In the new window, enter the candidate's country, state/province, and email address.
- Before proceeding, ensure to check the box under the candidate's information to confirm the statement: “We intend to hire this candidate, dependent on the results of the background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities.”
- Click Next to continue to the payment page.
- Complete your request by finishing the payment process.
After submitting your request, we will contact the candidate to request additional information needed for the background check. Please allow 3-5 business days for the background check process to complete.
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