I'm not sure what questions to ask outside of the usual ones, but as a former live-in-nanny myself, I can make a suggestion. Be very clear in your expectations. Families vary widely in what they expect from sitters, and it's best to avoid assumptions.....communication is the real key. Some people couldn't care less if the sitter cleans up as long as she's great with the kids, and others are appalled to come home and find a huge mess. I think you should clarify with your sitter EXACTLY what you expect PRIOR to actually hiring them, and ask them how they feel about those expectations in order to determine if this will be a good fit. Also, observe them with the kids before hiring them as well. And a couple of thoughts for people hiring a permanant caregiver, vs. the occassional sitter: ALWAYS start out on a trial basis. Let the sitter know that the first few weeks are a trial to determine if it's a good fit, and that simplifies the process if you decide that it's NOT. Also, one of the families I worked for sat down with me each week, without the children around, and we both brought forth any questions or concerns we had. I can't stress enough the importance of communication.

Thank you for your comments!