Important Checklist
Safety instructions
Essential Information
Emergency Number: 112. Use the 112 Suomi app. It sends your exact location to the emergency services even elsewhere in Europe! The emergency number 112 is used in all EU countries and connects to the local emergency response center.
Parents' Phone Numbers: Names and numbers
Local Emergency Contact: Ask the family for the contact details of a local trusted person (neighbor, relative, or friend). They can assist you if the parents are not reachable.
Allergies: Ask for detailed information regarding the children's allergies.
Dining & kitchen
Sitting Down: Eating only takes place at the table, never while running or playing.
Hot Drinks: Keep coffee and tea out of children's reach. Never drink hot beverages while holding a child in your lap.
Allergies: Confirm all of the children's allergies with the parents! Always check every ingredient label. If you are even slightly unsure, take a photo of the label and send it to the parents. Confirm the product's safety—never assume!
EpiPen (Adrenaline auto-injector): Always know exactly where the child's EpiPen is stored. Always take it with you when going outdoors, to the park, or on trips. It is a lifesaver that must be immediately accessible.
Stove & Appliances: Always ensure the stove is turned off after use. Turn pot handles inward (away from the edge) and unplug small electrical appliances when not in use.
Sharp Kitchen Tools: Keep scissors and sharp knives far from the edge of the counter and out of the child's reach—including when they are in the sink.
Home & environment
Small Objects: Be extremely vigilant with small objects and toy parts. A good rule of thumb: If an object fits through an empty toilet paper roll, it is a choking hazard for a small child who puts everything in their mouth.
Button Batteries: Ensure that spare batteries are stored away and that toys containing them are not broken or easily opened.
Cleaning Supplies: Make sure cabinet child locks are engaged or that all cleaning agents are stored high up and out of reach.
Medication: Parents are responsible for the child's medication. If a caregiver administers any medicine, it must be agreed upon in advance, and a confirmation (e.g., via text message) must be sent to the parents immediately after. Always store medication in a high place or behind locks.
Outlets & Stairs: Check child locks, outlet covers, and safety gates daily to ensure they are functioning correctly.
NOTE: Get down on your knees and look at the world from a child's perspective. What hazards do you see from there? Fix them im
Outdoors & Traffic
Communication: Always inform the parents where you are going (e.g., which playground or walking route). This ensures they always know your location.
Daypack: Always carry water, a small snack, a fully charged phone, Band-Aids, and a change of clothes for the child.
Location: Download the 112 Suomi app on your phone. It sends your exact location to the emergency services even elsewhere in Europe!
Water Safety: Always stay within arm's reach of a non-swimming child whenever you are near water.
Traffic: Always hold the child's hand when near roads, crossings, or in parking lots.
NOTE: Before heading out, check that hoodies and jackets do not have any dangerous drawstrings that could get caught.
Privacy & Boundaries
Privacy & Personal Space: You have the right to your own boundaries and privacy. Camera surveillance in the caregiver's bedroom or in bathrooms is strictly prohibited. You must always be informed in advance about any security cameras in common areas.
Social Media: Do not post photos of the children or share your location on social media.
Rest & Recovery: Remember to take care of your own well-being. A well-rested caregiver is a safe caregiver.
Insurance: Ensure that your travel insurance is valid and that you know what to do in case of illness. Remember to bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
SOS - In Case of Emergency
Stay Calm: Take a deep breath. Remaining calm helps you think clearly.
Address Immediate Danger: Provide first aid or call 112 immediately!
Inform the Parents: Tell them honestly what happened and how the situation was handled.
Emergency Contact in Finland: Provide your employer family with the name and phone number of a contact person living in Finland (e.g., a relative or friend). Choose someone who speaks English so the family can reach them if something happens to you personally.
FAQ for Job seekers
FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
FOR JOB SEEKERS
1. Why must I commit to a contract of at least 6 months?
Answer: We value your professionalism and want to offer you stability. A longer contract allows for a true international life experience, full immersion into the language and culture, and the opportunity to build lasting friendships. Most importantly, it is in the best interest of the child's well-being.
2. What if I'm nervous about speaking English?
Answer: That is completely normal! The most important thing is a genuine desire to connect with children and the courage to communicate. Language skills grow incredibly fast in everyday situations—while playing with the kids or meeting other nannies. Families value your warmth and professionalism far more than perfect grammar. With children, body language, facial expressions, and doing things together often communicate more than words ever could. Don't be afraid to make mistakes—that's how you learn best, and children are the most wonderful and forgiving teachers in the world.
3. How are my working hours and holidays determined?
Answer: Working hours and holidays are always agreed upon individually in the employment contract with the family. Amelie Care recommends responsible working hours (max 48 h/week) and regular holidays so you can visit your home country and recharge. Your well-being is a prerequisite for a successful and long-term placement.
4. What are the living arrangements, and will I have my own privacy?
Answer: Accommodation depends on whether the position is Live-in or Live-out:
Live-in: You will live within the family home. This always includes your own private, lockable bedroom, a bathroom/WC, and meals. We explicitly advise all families to respect your privacy and treat your room as your own personal space.
Live-out: You will live in your own private accommodation outside the family home and arrive at the workplace according to the agreed working hours.
5. What support will I receive if I experience homesickness or challenges in a new country?
Answer: You can contact us at any time if you have concerns or need advice on settling into your new daily life. We encourage you to be proactive and can suggest common channels to help you find local hobbies or other international professionals.
Amelie Care acts as a link to help our caregivers connect with one another. We moderate a WhatsApp group for those working in Europe. Participation is completely voluntary, and the group is an excellent way to find peer support and network with others in similar situations.
Should challenges arise in everyday situations that require external support, we are happy to refer you to an expert in our network. The employee can arrange a potential remote consultation (in Finnish or English) directly with the expert at their own expense.