The Official Blog of Morningside Nannies
We’ve all seen the horror stories on the news that depict when nanny care has gone wrong.
The nanny who would not leave her employer’s home.
The nanny who wasn’t who she said she was.
And the nanny who had a criminal record, that an online website didn’t find.
The list goes on.
While choosing a nanny to provide care in your home doesn’t come without risk, there are certainly ways to significantly reduce them.
This starts with avoiding shortcuts during the nanny hiring process to ensure the safety and well-being of your children, as well as the reliability and suitability of the caregiver.
Here are some shortcuts to avoid:
- Skipping Background Checks:Conducting thorough background checks is crucial to verify the nanny’s criminal history, driving record, and any past incidents that may affect their suitability for the role. Skipping this step can put your children at risk. And remember all background checks are not created equally. Knowing what reports you are purchasing, what their limitations are, and how to properly interpret the results are essential.
- Neglecting Reference Checks:Contacting previous employers who can vouch for the nanny’s character and caregiving abilities is essential. Neglecting reference checks can prevent you from obtaining valuable insights into the nanny’s past performance and reliability. While outsourcing reference checks or accepting written letters of recommendation can be tempting, don’t. The tone a reference uses and what a prior employer says, as well as what they don’t, is important.
- Rushing the Interview Process:Taking the time to conduct comprehensive interviews allows you to assess the nanny’s qualifications, experience, and compatibility with your family’s needs. Rushing through the interview process may result in overlooking important red flags or missing out on crucial information. Consider doing a phone interview, in person interview and longer in person interview before making a hiring decision.
- Failing to Verify Information:Ensure that the nanny possesses the necessary qualifications, such as CPR and first aid certification, as well as relevant childcare training and experience. Failing to verify qualifications can compromise the quality of care your children receive. You’ll also want to be sure that the nanny’s application or resume and what her past employers say match up before accepting the information as accurate.
- Not Assessing Compatibility:It’s essential to evaluate how well the nanny fits with your family’s values, routines, and parenting style. Skipping this assessment can lead to conflicts or misunderstandings down the line, impacting the quality of care and overall family dynamics. While many things can be trained on with a new hire, you are either a good fit or you are not.
In addition to avoiding what you should not do, there are some things you want to be sure to do, too. These include familiarizing yourself with any legal requirements and regulations regarding hiring a nanny in your area, having a written work agreement, and making sure all the pieces of information you gather align so that you can make an educated and informed hiring decision.
By avoiding these shortcuts and investing time and effort into a thorough hiring process, you will likely find a trustworthy and reliable nanny who provides the best possible care for your children.
Morningside Nannies accepts 2-3% of applicants and each applicant represented by our agency must:
- Have verifiable, professional childcare references.
- Be able to legally accept employment in the United States.
- Be able to read, write and speak English fluently.
- Have a valid U.S. driver’s license with a good driving record and current auto insurance.
- Have access to a vehicle to be used for the transportation of children.
- Submit to a background check.
- Be a non-smoker.
- Be at least 19 years old.
- Have a high school diploma, GED or formal education in child related studies.
- Have current CPR/First Aid certification or be willing to obtain it prior to starting a position (offered to qualified applicants at no cost).
- Submit to a personality assessment and child development and safety assessment.
Call our team today to learn more about our nanny screening process and how we can help you find the right nanny for your family.
Posted in
Advice for Parents,
All About Nannies,
Houston |
Comments Off on 5 Shortcuts to Avoid When Hiring a Nanny
The IRS has announced the standard mileage rate for 2024: 67 cents per mile, up 1.5 cents from 65.5 cents in 2023.
The Social Security Administration recently released next year’s Employment Coverage Threshold for household employees. The 2024 nanny tax threshold increases by $100 to $2,700.
Tax Responsibilities for Texas Household Employers
Taxes required to withhold, file, and pay:
• Social Security
• Medicare
Other taxes GTM Payroll Services strongly recommends withholding (but are not
required):
• Federal Income Tax
• State Income Tax
• Local Taxes, if applicable
In Texas, household employers are responsible for the following four taxes, to be
added on top of the employee’s gross wage:
• Social Security Tax Rate of 6.2%
• Medicare Tax Rate of 1.45%
• Federal Unemployment Tax Rate of 0.6%
• State Unemployment Tax Rate of 2.7%
Posted in
Advice for Nannies,
Advice for Parents |
Comments Off on 2024 Updates for IRS Mileage and More
Providing a holiday gift and/or holiday bonus for your nanny is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for her hard work and dedication to your family.
While parents are under no obligation to provide a gift or bonus to their nanny, doing so has become industry standard.
In fact, many nanny employers factor providing a year-end bonus or holiday gift into their childcare budget and even include reference to an annual bonus in their written work agreement with their nanny as a performance incentive.
How Much to Give?
Typically speaking, nannies receive a holiday bonus equivalent to one to two week’s wages.
Things like experience, how long a nanny has been with the family, geographical location, and what a family can truly afford may influence how much a bonus is.
This amount typically increases the longer a nanny has been with a family, with long-term nannies receiving as much as what is equivalent to one month’s of wages.
For nannies who are new to a family, calculating one day’s pay for each month of employment is a standard approach to determining how much to give.
Tax Implications
While parents and nannies may be familiar with the idea of year end bonuses, many are not aware that the annual bonus counts as taxable income, so be sure to consider your tax and payroll responsibilities when providing a bonus.
Alternative Ways to Show Appreciation
For families who are seeking a non-cash way to show appreciation to their nannies or wish to provide a gift in addition to a bonus, here are some nanny centric ideas:
- Something handmade by the children. A photo frame with a photo of the nanny and children included.
- A subscription to Nanny Magazine at NannyMag.com.
- Membership in the International Nanny Association at Nanny.org.
- Nanny Training at NannyTraining.com.
- Nanny merch from NannyTees.com.
- A day at a local spa for self care with a paid day off.
- A monthly subscription box that suits her interests or a monthly floral delivery.
Looking to start a nanny search for the New Year? Call (713) 526-3989 or email info@MorningsideNannies.com.
Posted in
Advice for Parents,
News |
Comments Off on Nanny Employer Gift and Holiday Bonus Guide
There are many ways to find a nanny.
Regardless of how you find applicants, it is essential that you hire SMART. 
Hire SMART!
- Screen Candidates
- Meet in Person
- Assess Qualifications
- Reference and Background Check
- Trust your gut
You must know who you are hiring and making an informed and educated hiring decision is the first step in doing so.
Screening candidates, conducting in-person interviews, accessing qualifications and the appropriate supporting documentation, conducting reference and background checks, and trusting your gut are some of the best steps you can take to gather the information needed to make an informed and educated hiring decision.
Morningside Nannies only accepts 2-3% of applicants and only presents vetted and screened candidates to parents who are seeking a qualified and experienced nanny, allowing parents to focus on fit.
If you are seeking a Houston-based qualified nanny for your family, call Morningside Nannies for a complimentary consultation at (713) 526-3989.
Posted in
Advice for Parents,
Houston |
Comments Off on Hire Smart
For many parents, finding the best nanny is a crucial decision in ensuring the well-being and happiness of their children. 
Before you start your search, it’s essential to clearly define your childcare needs and expectations.
Consider factors such as:
Hours and schedule: Will you need a full-time, part-time, or occasional nanny? Consider your typical schedule and be sure to factor in buffer time for work emergencies and commutes.
Specific skills or qualifications: Are there any specific skills, qualifications, or certifications you require from a nanny, such as a background in early childhood education or experience with special needs children?
Household duties: Do you expect your nanny to perform additional household tasks or to have any non-childcare responsibilities, such as family meal preparation or running errands?
Childcare philosophy: Are there specific parenting styles or philosophies you’d like your nanny to align with?
Role in family: Are you seeking to have a formal relationship with your nanny or are you expecting her to become an extended member of your family?
Having a clear understanding of your requirements will help you draft an accurate job description that will focus your search on nannies who truly meet your hiring criteria.
When choosing a nanny, finding someone you trust and feel comfortable with is key. Trust your instincts and consider how well the candidate fits into your family dynamics. Remember that a strong personal connection and a shared childcare philosophy can be just as important as qualifications and experience.
At Morningside Nannies we conduct objective screening for our families, ensuring that parents are only interviewing candidates who meet their hiring criteria, allowing them to focus on family fit and connection.
To learn more about our candidate screening and family matching process, call us today for a complimentary consultation at (713) 526-3989.
Posted in
Advice for Parents,
Houston |
Comments Off on Finding Your Fit
Since 1998, National Nanny Recognition Week has been observed the last week of September to recognize and celebrate nannies across the United States. National Nanny Recognition Week was started by individuals within the in-home childcare industry to recognize the valuable role nannies play in the lives of families.
National Nanny Recognition Week is a time to celebrate the wonderful work nannies do and the difference they make in the lives of the children in their care and the families whom they serve.
If you employ nanny, consider recognizing her during National Nanny Recognition Week this year.
Here are 10 ways that you can show your nanny that you appreciate the valuable care she provides your children and the work she does for your family.
1. Gift your nanny a Caregiver membership to the International Nanny Association
For $55 a year, your nanny will have the resources and support of a professional organization. The International Nanny Association (www.nanny.org) is a non-profit educational association that serves as the umbrella association for the in-home child care industry.
2. Send her to the spa
Your nanny spends so much time taking care of others she could use a little time to take care of herself. A day of beauty can provide the pampering she needs to be rejuvenated and reenergized!
3. Have the children make her a special gift
A mug with their handprints that says “World’s Best Nanny” or a framed drawing your child made or photo of them all together will touch your nanny’s heart and provide a gift she’ll treasure forever.
4. Share a meal
Consider taking your nanny out to dinner to celebrate National Nanny Recognition Week. If you prefer to stay home, prepare the nanny a homemade meal or order take-out from her favorite place.
5. Meet a need
Has your nanny expressed interest in going to the gym or attending a nanny event like Nannypalooza? Consider giving her some money to put towards something she’s wanted to do but perhaps isn’t in her current budget.
6. Give a gift card
A gift certificate to your nanny’s favorite store, restaurant, or even a prepaid gift card is the perfect gift to give when you’re not sure what to get.
7. Pay for professional development
Enroll your nanny in training that will benefit her and your family. GlobalNannyTraining.com offers CACHE | NCFE accredited training especially for nannies. The course was developed by Morningside Nannies own Michelle LaRowe who has educated nannies in over 30 countries.
8. A surprise paid day off
Let your nanny know you appreciate her by giving her a surprise paid day off. Many nannies work long hours and often don’t get off work until the bank, the doctor’s office and other important venues until after closing. Consider giving your nanny the day to celebrate and to take care of herself and her personal business, on you!
9. Give her a gift subscription to Nanny Magazine
At NannyMag.com, you can purchase a gift subscription for $21 a year. This gets your nanny access to tips, articles and advice to help her be the best nanny she can be in four digital issues a year.
10. Nanny Swag
Industry insiders have created tons of swag designed especially for nannies. NannyTees.com and TheNannyCards.com are just two websites that offer nanny specific merch.
As any parent who has one knows, having a great nanny makes life easier. If you are fortunate enough to have a quality nanny, be sure to recognize her during National Nanny Recognition Week. In the business of life, you may only see each other in passing, which can make it easy to forget to say thanks. During National Nanny Recognition Week take a time-out to say thanks. You’ll be glad you did – and your nanny will be too!
Posted in
Advice for Parents,
All About Nannies,
News |
Comments Off on National Nanny Recognition Week
Personalized and Trusted Care: Morningside Nannies prides itself on matching families with experienced, compassionate, and background-checked caregivers who provide personalized care tailored to each child’s unique needs. With a rigorous screening process and a commitment to excellence, parents can trust that their little ones are in experienced hands.
Peace of Mind and Flexibility: As a parent, peace of mind is invaluable. Morningside Nannies offers the flexibility of customizable childcare solutions, whether it’s full-time, or part-time, live-in or live-out. Parents can focus on their work or personal commitments with confidence, knowing their children are well taken care of in a nurturing environment.
Unparalleled Support and Expertise: Morningside Nannies goes beyond just matching caregivers with families. We provide ongoing support, resources, and access to industry experts. From paying your nanny legally to establishing a written work agreement, our team is dedicated to helping parents navigate household employment with ease and ensure their children receive the best care possible.
Start Your Nanny Search Now: MorningsideNannies.com
Posted in
Advice for Parents |
Comments Off on Discover Brighter Mornings with Morningside Nannies
The results of the 2022 INA Nanny Salary and Benefits Survey are in.
The key takeaways for the Houston market include:
The national nanny median hourly rate continues to increase. In 2012, it was $16, in 2017 it was $19, and in 2022, it was $25 per hour.
The national average nanny rate is $27 per hour. This is a 42% increase over the past five years. In Texas it is $25 per hour.
Higher wages and more benefits indicate that the pandemic has brought to light the value of child care.
Posted in
Advice for Nannies,
Advice for Parents,
News |
Comments Off on Houston Nanny Wage Trends
Posted in
Advice for Parents |
Comments Off on 2023 Tax Responsibilities for Nanny Employers
Wondering what 2023 has in store for the Houston nanny market?
Here’s a few trends to look for as you conduct your nanny search.
1. Increased Federal Tax Thresholds
The earnings threshold that triggers the requirement to remit FICA taxes on a household employee’s wages will increase to $2,600 in 2023, up from from $2,400 in 2022. If the annual FICA wage threshold is reached, the household employer becomes responsible for remitting both the employee and employer portions of FICA on all the wages they paid to the employee during the tax year. When wages paid to a household employee do not reach the annual FICA threshold, the household employer is not required to issue a W-2.
2. An IRS Mileage Rate Increase
Beginning on January 1, 2023, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be 65.5 cents per mile driven for business use, up 3 cents from the midyear increase setting the rate for the second half of 2022.
3. Nanny Wage Increases
“Last year was one of the tightest nanny job markets in recent memory, or, maybe ever. With daycare centers closed or offering limited availability, the demand for in-home childcare skyrocketed. While that demand may have slowed a little bit, hourly rates for nannies increased by up to $4/hour.”
4. Higher Nanny Wage Expectations
We are seeing accepted full-time job offers at gross wage rates between $22-26 per hour, and have seen jobs place as high as $32 per hour in Q4 of 2022. Part-time hourly wage rate expectations continue to be more than full-time hourly wage rate expectations, with the fewer the hours guaranteed, the higher the wage expectation.
5. Industry Standard Benefits
Nannies continue to expect fair and legal pay, and a minimum of guaranteed wages, paid vacation, paid major holidays, sick days, and the IRS mileage reimbursement rate of on the job driving when using their own personal vehicle.
6. Nanny Shortages
The pandemic nanny shortage that we saw in 2021 continues with there being more jobs than there are nannies. We are seeking search windows of 2-8 weeks for full-time searches and 6-12 weeks or more for part-time searches and double the amount of jobs than available nannies.
7. Guaranteed Hours
Nannies continue to expect to be paid for the minimum schedule they agreed to when accepting the job offer, regardless of if the hours are worked. If family comes into town and the nanny is given the day off so that the children can enjoy time with family, the nanny would still expect to be paid.
8. New Rules Surrounding Venmo or App Payments
The IRS has delayed the implementation of this new tax reporting rule. Receiving payment for services via a mobile app won’t generate a Form 1099-K if these payments totaled more than $600 in 2022. The rule will now apply to 2023 payments.
9. A Competitive Nanny Market
Nannies have their choice of jobs, so they are less likely to take on dual roles, like nanny/housekeeper, or take on tasks not related to the children. They can afford to be choosy in the jobs they interview for and don’t have to make the concessions that were typical to land their perfect job, prior to the pandemic.
10. In Person Interviews
During 2021 and 2022, many parents were hiring nannies directly from Zoom interviews. We are starting to see a trend of returning to the in-person interviews and shadow interviews, that disappeared during the height of the pandemic.
Posted in
Advice for Nannies,
Advice for Parents |
Comments Off on 10 Houston Nanny Trends for 2023
← Older posts Newer posts →
