Frequently Asked Questions by Families

All of the important questions a family needs to know

Q: How long does it take to find a Nanny?

A: Well, that really depends on the pool of quality nannies available at any given time. We have done placements as quickly as two days, or it can take up to six weeks. We pride ourselves on meeting the individual criteria of our families and the nannies. We encourage our families not to rush into selecting a permanent nanny, and we offer a pool of high-quality temporary nannies to assist you during your search for “Mary Poppins”.

Q: Do you place part-time Nannies?

A: Absolutely! We are happy to assist you whether you are looking for two full days a week or every morning. These placements require patience as the caregivers have specific scheduling requirements. It can be challenging to coordinate both the families and the nannies schedules. Keeping this in mind, we are happy to offer retroactive registration. (Ask us about retroactive registration for families with unique needs.)

Q: Are All full-time Nannies live-in?

A: No. Actually, in the St. Louis metropolitan area, most full-time nannies are NOT Live-In nannies. However, we would be happy to assist you with finding a live-in nanny if that is what you prefer. These placements are typically less frequent as the pool of quality nannies is lower. Please ask us about our article on The Difference Between Nannies and Au Pairs that we wrote for the Expectant Mother’s Guide of St. Louis. We can also provide you with names of agencies that specialize in Live-In placements.

Q: I’ve never had a Nanny before. What are a Nanny's typical responsibilities.

A: The most important responsibility for a nanny is to care for your child/children’s health and safety at all times. Qualified nannies will provide a warm, loving and nurturing environment that is filled with developmentally appropriate activities. They have excellent communication skills with children and parents and they truly understand the difference between a nanny and a babysitter. A nanny is an extension of the beliefs and philosophies of the parents. Please ask us about our sample Job Descriptions, Work Agreements, and Interview Questions.

Q: What do Temporary Nannies do?

A: Just about everything! Temporary nannies are there whether your child has the chicken pox, you want to get away for a long weekend, or you have just been put on bed rest for six months.

And, yes, you may interview your temporary nanny before she begins her assignment (time allowing, of course!). Our nannies are professionals who are comfortable in last- minute placements. Please ask about our article, “Who’s going to Watch the Kids? Temporary Childcare That Works.”

Q: How do I choose an agency?

A: Ask A LOT of questions! For example, what is the background and experience of the owner of the agency? Can you visit the office? Will a staff member come to your home and meet with you? Can they provide telephone numbers of previous clients and nannies that they have worked with? Do they offer post placement support? Are they a member of the Better Business Bureau? Is the agency insured?

It is very important to find an agency you are comfortable with. After all, your child/children’s health and well-being are your primary concern! Be sure to pick an agency that thoroughly answers all your questions and even offers information you may not have thought to ask about.

You must feel confidence in all members of the agency. This ensures that your needs – and those of your family – will be met.

Q: What determines the appropriate salary for a nanny?

A: The most influential factor in determining a nanny's salary is their experience. Since every potential nanny candidate has such varying educational background and hands-on experience, we suggest families keep a salary range in mind.

In the St. Louis metropolitan area, as well as the Metro East (IL), Full-Time Nannies typically negotiate a salary on a weekly basis. In contrast, Part-Time Nannies typically negotiate a salary on a hourly wage. Childcare Solutions, Inc. will be happy to inform you on current industry salary standards, as well as the most appropriate salary range based on your family's unique needs.

When considering the salary range for which your family's childcare budget allows, we recommend you visit the tax excerpts at www.breedlove-online.com for pertinent information you may want to keep in mind.

Q: What are some additional benefits we could consider offering our nanny?

A:

• Paid vacation/sick days
• Paid holidays
• Earned time-off
• Mileage reimbursement, car allowance, or use of a family car
• Travel opportunities
• Room & board
• Bonuses & incentives
• Health insurance (there are affordable group and individual plans available to nannies. Please consult your placement coordinator)
• Paid attendance for conference, workshops, and continuining education