5 Things Families Look For in Nannies

When searching for a nanny, what are 5 things Houston families keep top of mind?

Background Checks and Trustworthiness: Safety is a top priority for families, so many rely on local, reputable agencies that offer thorough background checks, reference verification, and comprehensive screenings. Trustworthy, well-screened candidates are essential for peace of mind. When choosing an agency, be sure to select a member of the International Nanny Association and the Association of Premier Nanny Agencies, like Morningside Nannies, that voluntarily agrees to abide by strict industry standards.

Qualifications and Specialized Skills: Parents frequently seek nannies with specific qualifications like CPR/First Aid certification, early childhood education, or a specialized approach to care. This is especially important for families with young children or those interested in a specific care approach, like Montessori or Spanish immersion. Morningside Nannies, for example, implements screening methods to help families connect with nannies who hold the desired qualifications and skill set the family is seeking.

Flexible and Customizable Schedules: Given the diverse working hours and lifestyles in Houston, families highly value flexibility. Parents often look for part-time, full-time, weekend, or evening nannies who can meet customized schedules and provide consistent, tailored care when they need it most​. When searching for a nanny, outlining what type of flexibility is needed is essential to attracting the right candidates. Morningside Nannies helps parents understand their needs and recruit candidates who meet them.

Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Houston families also focus on fair pay and benefits, typically offering $22-28 gross per hour, with additional considerations like paid vacation, sick days, and milage reimbursement. Compensation packages that reflect a nanny’s skills and experience are important to attracting and retaining the right fit​.

Attentive and Customized Childcare: One of the benefits of hiring a nanny is that as the employer, parents can set the standards of care by which their children are cared for. Attentive childcare that reflects the family’s preference for routine, structure, play, and engagement level, as well as each child’s temperament, are a few ways nannies customize care to each family. Morningside Nannies works to understand each family’s expectations and find candidates who can exceed them.

When searching for a nanny, these considerations help parents attract well-rounded, adaptable caregivers who aligns with their family’s unique needs and values. With a viable pool of candidates, families can save time and energy by interviewing only candidates who meet their hiring considerations.