We will be looking for a nanny in a few months and I've already decided that we will be going through an agency because I want the screening they provide plus the work history so that I can confirm real references. I'm so anxious about leaving DS with a stranger as it is. I will definitely want the applicants to have experience and all their vaccinations as well as solid references. The other thing to consider is whether you want them to drive your children in which case you would want proof of a good driving record.

It sounds to me like you will probably be at home while the au pair is there which means that you will get a really good sense of how she interacts with your children - that's a great advantage in my book.