FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE ADVANTAGE OF USING WEE CARE TO HIRE MY NANNY VERSUS AN ONLINE LISTING BOARD LIKE CARE.COM, CRAIGSLIST OR SITTERCITY?
Three words: Time, Security & Service. Unlike online listing services that have no barriers to entry, we enforce strict standards. We focus on finding the right fit for your family for the long term, not on displaying how many job seekers reside within a specified radius of your home.
Our Placement Managers literally go through scores of candidates to whittle the pool down to a select few experienced and dedicated child care providers (we reject over 93% of those that apply). As a brick and mortar agency, we personally meet and vet all candidates. We speak with and authenticate their past child care references. Additionally, we conduct some of the most stringent background checks in the industry.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS?
We have been in business since 2001. Our offices are located in Stamford, New Haven, CT and Manhattan, NY.
WHAT AREAS DO YOU SERVICE?
Mainly the Tri-State region–New York, New Jersey and Connecticut–but we have successfully conducted searches throughout the US and for families traveling or relocating abroad.
WHY SHOULD I HIRE A NANNY INSTEAD OF USING A CHILDCARE CENTER?
There are many reasons. For starters, They will receive much more individual attention from a dedicated and nurturing caregiver of your choosing, allowing them to build relationship skills and form close bonds.
They will have a more secure and safe environment in a home setting. Your nanny can provide a lot of intellectual stimulation that overburdened, understaffed childcare centers may not be able to do.
The nanny can teach your children another language, engage them in art projects, and even create a “daycare” environment by inviting over other children to play and learn.
Children cared for at home tend to get sick less often than those placed in childcare centers.
On the practical side, having a nanny come to you is far easier than packing up your children every morning and driving to a center, and you get the added benefit of having someone to help with the household.
Finally, if you have two or more children, a nanny is less expensive than even a moderately priced childcare center.
ARE ALL OF YOUR CANDIDATES LEGALLY CLEARED TO WORK?
Yes. They are either citizens or are legally authorized to work in the US.
WHERE DO YOUR NANNIES COME FROM?
We do not recruit internationally. All of our candidates are already working locally and have a history of making long-term commitments to families. Many of our referrals come from families and nannies we have worked with in the past.
They range in age from early twenties to empty nesters. Each one brings her own unique perspectives and qualifications to child care, along with excellent recommendations from previous employers. Besides being compassionate and nurturing, our experienced candidates have varying degrees of training in such areas as first aid, CPR, swimming and child care/education.
DO YOU CHARGE AN APPLICATION FEE?
No. We do not believe any family should have to pay an up front fee to secure exceptional long-term household help.
WHAT IS THE AGENCY FEE?
It is a one-time fee based on a percentage of your employee’s gross annual compensation. The fee amount will depend on the type of candidate (part-time, full-time, baby nurse etc.). The agency fee becomes due upon the candidate’s satisfactory completion of a one-week trial period.
DO YOU GUARANTEE ALL YOUR PLACEMENTS?
Yes. Wee Care provides a 180-day guarantee period on all placements. We do everything possible to help make certain this will be a long-term placement. If, however, for any reason the situation is not working out, we begin the search all over again and find the right fit for you and your family at no additional charge.
HOW LONG DOES THE PROCESS TAKE?
It varies from family to family. Some families hire the first candidate they meet, and others meet with several candidates before making a decision. The average search ranges from one to six weeks. Therefore, we suggest giving yourself at least four weeks so you are under no pressure to make a quick decision.
WHAT SHOULD I PAY MY NANNY?
As an agency, we do not set the salaries. Salaries are based on professional experience, educational background, requirements of the position and current market rates. Therefore, salaries are subject to variability. Wee Care will work with you and the nanny to determine an appropriate compensation.
WHAT ABOUT PAYROLL AND TAXES?
Wee Care does not offer tax advice but is partnered with HomeWork Solutions Payroll Services. Founded in 1993, HomeWork Solutions is a nationwide leader in domestic payroll and tax services.
Our direct representative at HomeWork Solutions will be happy to discuss the tax obligations and benefits that may apply in connection with the employment of a domestic. Call us 203-359-8410 to set up a complimentary consultation.
DO YOU PROVIDE EMERGENCY BACK-UP CARE IF THE NANNY I HIRE HAS TO MISS WORK?
Yes. Any family that hires a domestic on a permanent basis through Wee Care receives a complimentary membership in our emergency back-up/sitting service for the duration of their employment with your family. And your first booking fee is with our compliments. Wee Care uses only our experienced nannies to fill any temporary positions. The philosophy behind this is simple- our professional nannies make the best baby sitters. Moreover, members also have access to experienced temporary companions, party helpers and housekeepers.