The best way to ensure the safety of children while in the care of a nanny or babysitter is to conduct a background check. The candidate should be asked to sign a Consent to Background and Reference Check. The family should be clear about what information is being sought, whether it’s character and professional references, criminal background, and/or driving records. Checking references is also a good idea, but keep in mind that federal law prevents some questions, including those about age, place of birth, religion, race or ethnicity, marital status, disability status or family planning status.
