The Official Blog of Morningside Nannies
Due to the increase in demand for nannies, Morningside Nannies is currently only accepting positions that meet the following criteria, updated 4/9/2025 and originally effective 1/28/2022.
We will only accept split shift positions that guarantee 40 hours per week. To ensure families have the flexibility they need and to ensure nannies are not being asked for full-time availability for part-time pay, we have found this parameter to be essential for a successful long-term placement.
We will only accept part-time positions with consistent schedules. Because we only represent experienced caregivers and do not have entry level providers, those who are seeking part-time positions are most often seeking positions to complement their other commitments. For this reason, we will only accept part-time jobs that are set days and hours and jobs that offer only morning hours or only afternoon hours.
We will only accept part-time positions that have a four-hour minimum shift per day. While after school nannies are in demand, the jobs that successfully place offer 4 hours per day, 5 days per week for a 20 hour per week minimum guarantee.
We will only accept full-time positions that offer industry standard benefits. While you are not legally required to offer benefits, to attract and retain quality nannies and to remain competitive, standard benefits must be offered. Full-time nannies that we successfully place typically expect their offer package to include two weeks of paid vacation, guaranteed hours, paid vacation days, paid holidays, paid sick days and mileage reimbursement for on the job driving when the nanny is using her own vehicle. We are unable to accept positions that do not offer these minimums.
We will only accept positions that do not include deep cleaning or pet care. Our candidates are childcare providers. They take on all tasks related to the children including cleaning and organizing the children’s rooms, preparing the children’s meals and cleaning up afterwards, and doing the children’s laundry. The general rule of thumb for general areas of the home is the nanny will leave the home in the same or better condition as when she arrived. Our clients and nannies are most satisfied when a housekeeper comes into the home once a week or once every two weeks to deep clean, and a dog walker to provide services for families whose pets require more than being let in and out of the home daily.
We will only accept legally paying jobs that offer a minimum of $22 gross per hour. We educate both our nannies and families on the importance of fair and legal pay. Our jobs typically place between $22-24 gross per hour. Part-time jobs tend to have a higher hourly wage expectation than full-time jobs.
We will only accept jobs in our immediate service area. This extends from Conroe to Sienna Plantation and from Katy to the 610.
Posted in
Uncategorized |
Leave a comment
Driving children who are not yours is a common part of being a nanny, but there are a few important things to keep in mind before you agree to do so. Safety, of course, is paramount to ensure you, your little passengers, and other road users can enjoy their journeys—but what else should you consider?
Here, we run through ten tips for nannies driving with children, either in their own vehicles or those of their employer.
1. Ensure the Car Is Safe to Drive
Before setting off in any vehicle, always do your own external and internal checks to ensure all the lights are working, the tires are undamaged, and the engine is correctly filled with coolant, oil, and wiper fluid. Regular services and sufficient tread on the tires are essential for driving safely on the road. Make sure any official inspections are carried out as scheduled and the registration is up to date. It’s also important to check the requirements of each state you will be driving through, as road-worthiness requirements for vehicles vary depending on location.
If the vehicle is your own, be sure to keep it clean both inside and out. Not only does this showcase your professionalism, but it also ensures a healthy environment for the children to travel in. Remember, it’s perfectly reasonable to expect your employer’s car to be clean before you drive it too.
2. Make Sure You Have the Right Car Insurance
Car insurance is a legal requirement in most of the United States, regardless of whether you’re using your own car or driving someone else’s. However, requirements on the type of insurance you need vary state by state, so it’s always best to check before you travel.
If you’re driving someone else’s vehicle, it’s important to check whether your insurance covers you while driving it—the owner will need to have their own valid insurance too. Additionally, it’s a good idea to clarify with your employer who will be responsible for deductibles should an accident happen. It’s much easier to sort this out beforehand, rather than trying to agree in the emotional time after an incident has occurred.
3. Ensure Your Driving License Is Valid
Similarly, the validity of driving licenses can vary across the US depending on the state. If you’re relocating for a new position in a different state, you may find your license is only valid for a set period of time before you need to apply for a new, state-specific one.
4. Use the Right Car Seats
To ensure the safety of each child in your car, you must ensure they travel in a correctly fitted, suitable car seat. A child passenger safety technician can verify installation for you. The type of car seat needed depends on the individual child’s weight, height, and age, but laws around suitability also depend on where you’re traveling.
Especially if you’re using your own vehicle, it’s best to have new car seats for each child to ensure they are in good condition. Car seats should not be reused after they have been in an accident, even if they appear undamaged.
Whenever driving with children, using taxis, taking public transportation, or flying, be sure to check the local laws on car seats to ensure compliance and keep everyone safe.
5. Stop Frequently
If you’re embarking on a long journey, it’s important to stop frequently for a number of reasons:
- Children Don’t Need to Eat in the Car. Though it can seem an easy way to keep kids happy, snacking in the car poses a significant choking risk that is best avoided. Instead, stop regularly on longer journeys to allow everyone to enjoy some refreshments outside of the car in a safe place.
- Babies Get a Break from Their Car Seat. Remember, it’s widely recommended that infants under a year old should not be in a car seat for more than two hours. This is known as the two-hour rule.
- It gives you a chance to refresh yourself: Tiredness and fatigue are extremely dangerous when driving. Stopping allows you to return to the road with increased focus, reaction time, and concentration.
6. Minimize Distractions
Whether they’re excited or upset, children can often be quite distracting passengers. To minimize distractions while you’re driving, have a few tricks up your sleeve in case they become bored, restless, or loud throughout your journey.
Having some sing-along albums or songs loaded onto your phone can help keep them pacified, or you could provide them with a book or tablet to watch a movie if that’s appropriate. Games such as I spy can also be lifesavers when traveling with multiple children, but be sure to keep your attention on the road and encourage them to lead the game themselves.
If the children are old enough to understand, be sure to establish some car safety rules before you set off, and explain the importance of staying calm and quiet.
Remember, you should also model good behavior. Avoid using your phone unless you’re using it for navigation (if you are, make sure this is hands-free and safe). Calls can wait—even from your employer. They’ll know you’re driving and will respect your choice to prioritize their children’s safety.
7. Negotiate Finances
When it comes to paying for fuel, it’s always best to discuss the details with your employer before agreeing to drive their children. Be sure to add information about who will be covering the cost of gasoline and whether your employer will be reimbursing the mileage in your contract. The IRS mileage reimbursement rate is a good benchmark for ensuring that wear and tear is also included in compensation if you’re using your own car.
8. Plan Your Route
Most people have navigation apps on their smartphones, but it doesn’t hurt to have a paper map or standalone satellite navigation as a backup. Be sure to check your route before you set off and make yourself aware of possible alternative routes in case any key roads are closed or any traffic incidents occur.
9. Regularly Check In with Your Employer
Though your employer has agreed for you to drive their children, it’s natural for them to worry and want confirmation that everyone has arrived safely to their destination. Taking a moment to send a quick text or make a brief call to reassure parents and caregivers when you arrive can make a huge impact and will further reassure them that their children are safe in your care.
10. Prepare for Emergencies
Finally, it’s a sad truth that sometimes emergencies happen through no fault of our own. You should always be prepared for your vehicle breaking down or an accident when traveling with children.
Make sure you are covered with roadside assistance, and stock the trunk of your car with blankets, coats, lights, nonperishable snacks, and water—help can sometimes take a few hours to reach you. In the event of a collision, you’ll need to have emergency contact details and medical information for the children in your care.
Posted in
Advice for Nannies,
Advice for Parents |
Tagged
nanny |
Leave a comment
Finding the right nanny job is more than just landing a position—it’s about ensuring a good fit for both you and the family. Here are key factors to consider before applying:
Assess Your Strengths and Preferences
Identify your childcare strengths, preferred age group, and the type of environment where you thrive. Do you love newborns, toddlers, or school-age kids? Are you comfortable with pets, housework, or travel requirements? Do you wish to work in a home with pets?
Understand the Family’s Expectations
Read the job description carefully and review the expectations regarding duties, schedule, and candidate preferences. Make sure their parenting philosophy aligns with your childcare approach. Consider the information carefully provided to determine if you can meet the expectations outlined.
Consider the Location and Schedule
Ensure the commute is reasonable and the working hours fit your lifestyle. Consider traffic and the cost of any tolls involved with the commute.
Evaluate Compensation and Benefits
Competitive pay, benefits like paid time off, and job perks matter. Morningside Nannies only accepts positions that offer fair and legal page, competitive market wages, and industry standard benefits. If you know that your wage expectations far exceed local standards, be sure to communicate that up front.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off during the interview, trust your gut. A positive, respectful relationship with the family is essential for job satisfaction.
Taking the time to choose the right nanny job ensures a fulfilling and successful experience. Only apply to jobs that meet your expectations. Consider what your non-negotiables are and avoid applying for positions that include them.
Posted in
Advice for Nannies |
Comments Off on 5 Tips for Choosing the Right Nanny Job
Morningside Nannies is pleased to sponsor the 2025 Houston Nanny Training Day.
To learn more or to register, click here.
Posted in
Advice for Nannies,
Houston,
Nanny Training,
News |
Comments Off on Houston Nanny Training Day 2025
In today’s digital world, many reputable nanny placement agency conduct initial interviews for nannies and household managers over Zoom. Virtual interviews can be just as impactful as face-to-face conversations—if you prepare properly. Here’s how to present yourself as the best candidate and make a lasting impression.
Dress Professionally but Appropriately
Reputable nanny placement agencies value professionalism, and your attire should reflect that. Wear business casual or professional clothing that is clean, well-fitted, and neutral in color. Avoid overly casual attire, graphic tee shirts, or flashy accessories. Consider the role you’re applying for—nannies should opt for warm, approachable outfits, while household managers may lean toward more structured attire. Remember, your appearance matters, so take the time to get ready as you would if you were leaving the house for an in-person interview at an office.
Set Up a Professional Background
Your environment should reflect the level of professionalism and organization required for the role. Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background. A simple bookshelf, a tidy room, or a blank wall are ideal choices. Avoid distractions like clutter, pets, or background noise. If you are using a phone or tablet, you may wish to use a tripod to ensure a steady and well-placed viewing area. If you are using a computer, be sure you are aware of where the camera is how you are positioned in front of it.
Ensure a Strong Internet Connection & Test Your Tech
Reputable nanny placement agencies expect seamless communication and a level of tech competency. Before the interview, test your internet connection, camera, and microphone. Make sure Zoom is updated, and log in a few minutes early to troubleshoot any last-minute issues.
Maintain Good Eye Contact and Body Language
Since you aren’t in the same room, strong virtual presence is essential. Look into the camera to simulate eye contact and sit up straight with an open, engaged posture. Smile naturally and nod occasionally to show you are attentive.
Prepare for Common Questions
Expect questions about your experience, childcare philosophy, and childcare or household management style. Be ready to discuss:
- Your experience working with families
- How you handle confidentiality and discretion
- Your problem-solving abilities in high-pressure situations
- Your ability to manage schedules, staff, and household operations (for household managers)
- How you engage and care for children
Emphasize Soft Skills & Adaptability
Beyond technical skills, reputable nanny placement agencies seek candidates who are adaptable, proactive, and discreet. We are looking for team players that understand their role and the flexibility required for long-term placement success. Highlight instances where you demonstrated flexibility, quick problem-solving, and the ability to maintain privacy – and how you’ve set boundaries when you’ve experienced job creep.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
Demonstrate genuine interest in the role by preparing thoughtful questions such as:
- What are the family’s expectations regarding discretion and confidentiality?
- How does the family prefer updates on household or child-related matters?
- What are the key qualities they value in a nanny or household manager?
Follow Up with a Thank-You Email
After the interview, send a polite and professional thank-you email to your agency representative. Express gratitude for the opportunity, reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, and highlight a key takeaway from the conversation.
Final Thoughts
Remember, reputable nanny referral agencies only accept a small percentage of applicants. To stand out from other candidates, you’ll want to present your best self. A successful Zoom interview for a nanny or household manager position with a selective agency requires professionalism, preparation, and a polished virtual presence. By following these steps, you’ll position yourself as the ideal candidate who is competent, trustworthy, and well-suited for the role.
Looking for your next nanny job in Houston? Check out MorningsideNannies.com/jobs for our current list of open nanny positions. A list of reputable agencies like Morningside Nannies can be found on the Association for Premier Nanny Agencies website.
Posted in
Advice for Nannies,
News |
Comments Off on Zoom Interview Tips for Nannies
When severe weather strikes, ensuring everyone’s safety is paramount. For nannies and families, bad weather can disrupt routines and create uncertainty. Preparing ahead of time can minimize stress and keep both parties safe. Here’s a guide on how nannies and families can handle bad weather that impacts a nanny’s ability to safely drive to work.
Establish a Weather Policy in Advance
Both nannies and families should agree on a weather policy as part of their employment agreement. This policy can include:
- Weather thresholds: Define what constitutes “bad weather” (e.g., heavy snow, icy roads, flooding, or severe storms or when emergency stay off the road orders are issued).
- Notification procedures: Specify how and when the nanny should inform the family if they’re unable to make it.
- Alternative arrangements: Discuss backup care plans or expectations for remote tasks during inclement weather.
Monitor Weather Forecasts
Encourage proactive communication by monitoring weather forecasts. Both parties can:
- Use reliable weather apps or local news stations.
- Share updates if severe weather is predicted, especially the night before or early in the morning.
- Agree to consider or follow recommendations by local government with regards to travel advisories.
This ensures everyone has ample time to adjust plans.
Prioritize Safety
If the weather creates unsafe driving conditions, the nanny should not feel pressured to risk their safety. Families should:
- Understand and respect the nanny’s decision if they choose not to drive.
- Focus on alternative solutions (see below) instead of penalizing the nanny.
Nannies, in turn, should communicate promptly and offer solutions if possible.
Explore Alternative Solutions
In cases where the nanny can’t drive to work, consider the following:
- Remote tasks: If the job allows, the nanny can assist with meal planning, activity preparation, or virtual storytelling from home.
- Public transport or ride services: If safe and feasible, discuss whether using public transport or a ride-share service is an option.
- Staying overnight: For families in areas prone to severe weather, consider offering the nanny to stay overnight in advance of predicted storms.
- Backup care: Families can identify backup care providers or enlist the help of friends or relatives for emergency situations.
Compensation for Missed Work
Discuss how missed work due to bad weather will be handled. Options include:
- Paid time off: Treating weather-related absences as paid time off.
- Unpaid leave: If mutually agreed upon.
Clear communication ensures fairness and prevents misunderstandings.
Practice Flexibility and Understanding
Bad weather is unpredictable and stressful for everyone. Families and nannies should:
- Be flexible with expectations.
- Show understanding and empathy for each other’s concerns and limitations.
Preparing for bad weather is a shared responsibility that fosters trust and cooperation between nannies and families. By establishing clear policies, maintaining open communication, and prioritizing safety, both parties can navigate severe weather conditions with minimal disruption. Planning ahead ensures that everyone remains safe, cared for, and supported, no matter the forecast.
Posted in
Advice for Nannies,
Advice for Parents,
All About Nannies,
Houston |
Comments Off on Having a Bad Weather Plan
In 2025, the nanny tax threshold will increase to $2,800, up from $2,700 in 2024. This means families who employ a nanny and pay them $2,800 or more in a calendar year are required to comply with household employment tax obligations, including paying Social Security and Medicare taxes, as well as potentially state unemployment insurance.
For nannies, this ensures contributions toward their future benefits and safeguards their rights as employees. Employers should update payroll systems and consult a tax professional if necessary to ensure compliance with federal and state laws. Both parties benefit from maintaining a transparent, legal employment relationship.
he IRS has announced the standard mileage rates for 2025, effective January 1. The rate for business use of a personal vehicle will increase to 70 cents per mile, up from 67 cents in 2024. Nanny employers often use the business mileage rate to reimburse employees for work-related vehicle use.
Posted in
Advice for Nannies,
Advice for Parents,
All About Nannies,
News |
Comments Off on 2025 Updates for Nannies and Nanny Employers
Navigating holiday celebrations between nannies and families with differing traditions can be both enriching and challenging. There are several strategies for ensuring mutual respect and minimizing stress during such times.
Key Strategies:
- Communicate Early: Open conversations before the holiday season are vital. Both nannies and families should discuss expectations and preferences to avoid misunderstandings.
- Focus on Common Ground: Emphasize neutral activities like winter crafts or non-denominational festivities that everyone can enjoy.
- Respect Differences: While differences may arise, mutual respect ensures these are handled constructively rather than divisively.
- Ask Questions: For example, if you’re unsure about giving a Christmas gift to a family celebrating Hanukkah, seek guidance to avoid unintended offense.
- Provide Learning Opportunities: Celebrating diverse holidays can be an educational experience for children, teaching them about inclusivity and cultural variety.
Long-standing relationships between nannies and families tend to make navigating holidays easier, as familiarity fosters comfort and understanding. By approaching differences with respect and curiosity, both parties can create a warm, inclusive holiday atmosphere.
Posted in
Advice for Nannies,
Advice for Parents,
Houston |
Comments Off on 5 Strategies for Navigating the Holidays
The holiday season is a time to show appreciation and gratitude, and as a nanny, finding a thoughtful gift for your employers can strengthen your bond and show how much you value your working relationship. The best gifts are heartfelt, personal, and sometimes even practical. Here’s a list of ten thoughtful gift ideas for the family you work with:
1. A Custom Family Portrait
Commission a local artist or use an online service to create a custom portrait of the family. It could be a hand-drawn illustration, watercolor painting, or even a digital rendering. This personalized gift will be a cherished keepsake.
2. Memory Photo Book
Compile photos of the family and their children from the past year into a photo book. Highlight milestones, fun outings, or candid moments that you’ve captured. Many online services like Shutterfly to make it easy to create a professional-looking album.
3. A Handmade Ornament
Craft a custom holiday ornament featuring the children’s handprints, a favorite family photo, or a small personal message. This simple yet sentimental gift can become a treasured addition to their holiday decorations.
4. A Thoughtful Subscription Box
Consider a subscription box tailored to the family’s interests, such as a meal kit, a wine club, or a kid-friendly box filled with crafts and activities. This is a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year.
5. A “Night In” Kit
Create a cozy evening package with items like a plush blanket, gourmet hot chocolate, popcorn, and a family-friendly movie or game. It’s a practical and thoughtful gift to encourage quality time together.
6. Personalized Stationery or Notepads
Design custom stationery featuring the family name or a unique monogram. This gift is practical for everyday use and adds a personal touch to their correspondence.
7. A Framed Quote or Artwork
Choose a meaningful quote or piece of artwork that resonates with the family. It could be something related to parenting, family values, or a shared memory.
8. A Basket of Homemade Treats
For working parents, mornings can be stressful. Put together a holiday themed basket with some of your favorite breakfast treats. Homemade muffins or granola, specialty coffees and teas, and other goodies the family likes is a practical and purposeful gift that can be personalized to the family’s likings.
9. A Journal of Milestones and Memories
Create a journal documenting funny, sweet, or memorable moments you’ve shared with the children over the past year. This can include drawings, quotes, or milestones that parents may not have been around to see firsthand.
10. A Gift Card for a Shared Interest
If you know of a specific store, restaurant, or experience your employers love, a gift card to that place can be a simple yet appreciated gesture. Bonus points if it’s for something they can enjoy as a family!
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Gift:
- Keep it personal: The more thought you put into tailoring the gift to their interests, the more meaningful it will feel.
- Consider the children: Including the kids in some way—either through their artwork or as part of the gift—adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness.
- Set a budget: Thoughtfulness doesn’t have to be expensive. Homemade gifts or inexpensive but personalized items can mean just as much as pricier options.
With a little creativity and thought, you can give your employers a holiday gift that reflects your appreciation and thoughtfulness. These ideas are a great way to make the holiday season even more special!
Posted in
Advice for Nannies |
Tagged
Holidays,
nannies |
Comments Off on 10 Gifts Nannies Can Give Their Employers for the Holidays
Choosing a nanny is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. While searching on your own may seem like a quick solution, it often leads to hidden risks and overwhelming hours of vetting. When you partner with a trusted agency, you get access to thoroughly vetted, trained, and background-checked professionals who have the experience and qualifications your family deserves. Agencies offer personalized support, saving you time, reducing stress, and ensuring that only the best matches are considered.
- We Do Rigorous Screening
We only accept 3-4% of applicants into our pool of candidates. Every nanny a family meets through our agency goes through a thorough screening process, including an interview, background checks, reference verification, and knowledge, safety, and personality assessments. We ensure that only the most qualified candidates with a solid work history are presented to you for hiring consideration.
- We Prioritize Minimizing Risk
Loving children and loving caring for children are two different things. We represent candidates who have a track record of providing high-quality child care, who have recent, childcare work experience, who understand the role and responsibilities of a nanny, and who have a history of being reliable, dependable and invested in their work.
- Finding the Right Fit Takes Time and Expertise
The right nanny for your neighbor may not be the right nanny for you. Matching families with nannies isn’t just about availability; it’s about finding someone whose values, personality, and approach align with your family’s needs. We take the time to ensure the right fit and do the objective screening so that you can focus on if a nanny is the right match.
- We Provide Ongoing Support
We educate both nannies and families on the importance of having a written work agreement, following industry standards, offering fair and legal pay and establishing and maintaining a professional working relationship. Our work doesn’t stop after placement. Agencies are here to support you and your nanny throughout the employment relationship, offering resources and guidance as needs change over time.
- We Understand the Emotional Side of This Decision
Choosing someone to care for your child is deeply personal. We ensure all candidates that you meet are viable for your role and provide as much information as possible so parents can make an educated and informed hiring decision. We’re here to make the process smoother, taking on the logistical and practical steps so that you can feel confident and at ease in your decision. You can focus on how the candidate fits in your family, as we’ve already done the rest.
If you are wondering if nanny care would work for you or how Morningside Nannies can help, give us a call at (713) 526-3989. Morningside Nannies is a member of the International Nanny Association and the Association of Premier Nanny Agencies.
Posted in
Advice for Parents,
All About Nannies,
Houston |
Tagged
nannies,
nannies and families,
nannies and parents |
Comments Off on 5 Things Nanny Agencies Want Parents to Know
← Older posts
