A Caribbean family vacation can create memories that last a lifetime, but a successful family trip requires some advance planning, especially when it comes to child care and babysitting. Sheila Marcelo, CEO of Care.com, offers some good tips on assessing hotel kids clubs and other child-care programs as well as advice on the do's and dont's of bringing a babysitter or nanny along on your vacation.
Child Care at Resorts: Do Your Homework First
When looking at child care options at a travel destination, follow the important steps that you would in screening any child care provider. It's always important to find out about training and certifications for things like CPR. Also get a feel for what the agency or resort's safety procedures are in case an incident should occur. Finally, ask to speak to the staff directly - you want to make sure you feel comfortable ahead of time.
Connect with Reputable Child Care Agencies
In the U.S., sites like Care.com (which has a database that includes Puerto Rico) allow you to find a reliable sitter based close to where you are traveling (giving parents a chance to escape out to dinner on their own). Otherwise, the hotel concierge or front desk are usually good sources of information on local child-care services, either provided directly by the resort or via a trusted contractor. Even some cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Princess, offer in-room child-care services for an hourly fee.
Traveling with the Babysitter: Be Clear about Hours and Expectations
Are you expecting your nanny to be available 24/7 or are you willing to give her the occasional night off? The needs of every family will be different, but it's important to determine your schedule expectations before leaving home. Maybe you want some time along as a family, or perhaps your schedule demands her to be available from the time the kids wake up until when they fall asleep. Either may, make sure both parties agree to a schedule instead of just winging it.It's Your Vacation, but Not Necessarily Her Vacation
If you're on a fun, tropical getaway or traveling around Europe, it's normal for your nanny to want to enjoy being away from home as well. But keep in mind; you are bringing her along to do a job. Can you trust that your nanny won't stay out late and sleep in come morning? Or do you worry that she will complain about needing to tend to the kids while you go out to dinner? If you fear that bringing your nanny along might turn out to be like having an extra child in tow, then it may be best to look at alternative options.When it Comes to Pay, it's Not Her Vacation
You've agreed to bring your nanny along, pay for her flight, hotel and meals. Sounds fair, right? Wrong. In most cases, a nanny is expected to be available and on call during your family vacation. Sure she's getting a nice tan, but she's also keeping an eye out for your kids and keeping them entertained ... it's still hard work. At the very least, pay your nanny her normal salary. In some cases (especially if your nanny isn't normally a live-in), you may want to consider paying extra since she is giving up more of her time.Plan for the Worst-Case Scenario
Even for the most experienced nanny, going on vacation with a family can be a vast difference from a normal day. It's important to sit down before leaving for your trip to discuss plans should an emergency happen. What happens if a child is hurt? Or lost? It's easy to get caught off guard when in a new place, so make sure your nanny and children know how to react should an unexpected situation arise.
