We find our nannies by advertising online, in newspapers, church bulletins, and by word of mouth. Everyone passes a criminal background check that includes a national search as well as a county search, a civil background check (which will show things like restraining orders, evictions, custody issues, etc.) and a driving record check.
At Twinkle Toes, WE do the majority of the interviewing so that you don't have to. We spend our time weeding out the nannies that we know will not be perfect for you and only send you our top picks. Typically, for a full time position you can expect 1-3 applicants. We do not send a lot, but we only send the best. Our goal is for you to have a really tough decision after meeting the applicants. And generally, most families choose either the first or second applicant that they meet. We are THAT good!
For nannies who are going to have a regular schedule we feel it is best for you and your family to meet them as part of the interview process. We coordinate a meeting so you and the nanny can ensure you are compatible. Occasional or one-time childcare requests are filled by the same high quality, vetted, Twinkle Toes Nannies and you will be provided a picture, info sheet and verified references of your Twinkle Toes Nanny ahead of time but you likely will not meet the nanny beforehand.
If you have a set, consistent schedule then you will have the same nanny every time. The only exception is if your nanny is sick or out of town. If you only use Twinkle Toes for sporadic needs such as emergencies or date nights, we cannot guarantee the same nanny each time. We do, however, make every effort to send the same nanny as we believe consistency is best for everyone, especially the children. If a nanny you've used previously is not available we will send you another equally qualified nanny and will make sure you have their profile, photo, and references ahead of time.
Yes! Twinkle Toes nannies understand that their job includes not only caring for the children, but also caring for your home. While we are not a cleaning service, it is reasonable to ask your nanny to help with things that are a part of daily upkeep. She will gladly help with dishes, folding the kids' laundry, etc. She will also make sure you don't come home to a mess. Our general rule of thumb is to leave your house in better condition than it was when the nanny arrived.
If your regularly scheduled nanny gets sick or is otherwise unexpectedly unavailable, we've got you covered! Our policy is for the nanny to contact us first and then immediately let you know. We will contact our on-call nanny, who is another Twinkle Toes nanny just as qualified as your regular nanny, and let her know she is needed. We will then touch base with you to let you know who can be there as a substitute. If you decide to decline the on-call nanny that is totally fine. You have the final say, but we strive to have a backup option for you. While Twinkle Toes makes every effort to find a backup nanny in every situation, we cannot guarantee that one will be available.
We are always here to help with any schedule adjustments. If you have a last minute request or change please let us know as soon as possible. We will do our best to find you the help you need or make the adjustment with your already scheduled nanny. If you have an ongoing schedule with a nanny whom you have formed a relationship with and it is easier to discuss these changes with her then feel free to do so. The nanny will keep us informed of these changes.
The family contract states that you are not permitted to pay the nanny directly unless the agency is made aware. For that reason, tipping should be done through the agency. If you're especially pleased with the service you've received, just let us know and we'll be happy to add a tip to the nanny's paycheck. Feel free to give gifts for holidays, birthdays, etc. as you see fit. Just make sure you drop us a line to keep us in the loop!
Absolutely! Just ask!