Summer is approaching and that cheap child care known as “school” is about to come to an end for three months. As a result, I need someone else to watch my son for part of each day while I get my work done. Sure, I could do it all early in the morning or in the evening after he goes to bed. But my husband will still be working this summer, and he would rather I spend time with him in the evenings.

I think we’ve solved the problem by recruiting my cousin to serve as nanny. My son likes her, she’s just finished her freshman year in college (so she can drive) and she insists for doing it for a little less than market rate. She’ll have another job that she can do in the evening. It seems ideal.

At any rate, I’m talking with my accountant to see how we would work a possible tax deduction.

Choosing a nanny to watch your kids while you work from home

I’m lucky in that I have a relative I can call upon. However, if you are choosing a nanny for your children, you need to pick carefully. Interviews with potential nannies are very important. Have the nanny come over for 30 to 90 minutes. He or she should meet the kids, and talk to you. Things to keep in mind when choosing a nanny should include:

* Values and methods that largely alighn with yours.

* References and background.

* How well the nanny interacts with your children.

* How well you and the nanny interact.

Start out on a trial basis originally, making it clear that you want to give it a couple of weeks to make sure it works out.