Parent Observation

Parent Observation will be offering classes for Nannies and children 2- 3 year olds. The child and the Nanny spend one session a week together in a nursery school with the parent observing and participating. There will be a class discussion at the end of each session. Parent Observation classes are part of the Parent Education Department of the MV-LA Adult School. For more information or to be added to their application mailing list, please call 650 968-9950.

DayOne

DayOne is a welcoming home away from home for expectant and new families. Providing support, education and essential products, DayOne makes navigating childbirth and parenting easier, less stressful and more fun! Make DayOne your place for pregnancy and parenting at one of our centers and online.

http://dayonecenter.com/

What Services Does A Baby Nurse Provide?

A baby nurse educates and supports parents, troubleshoots potential issues of concern and offers professional options to resolve them. She also:

1.  Understands the “postpartum phase” and supports the mother during this phase 2.  Promotes a smooth transition from pregnancy to ‘new family' lifestyle 3.  Educates and teaches parents to understand their newborn in terms of his or her      development and idiosyncrasies 4.  Understands the newborn's needs and care routines 5.  Facilitates newborn breastfeeding 6. Anticipates issues of concern and poses solutions 7.  Is attentive, focused and alert in caring for the baby 8.  Communicates about the baby's daily or nightly routines including feeding, sleep and behavior patterns. 9. She will specialize in : mulitples, preemies, scheduling, breastfeeding, sleep training, reflux, colic, bottle feeding, medical needs, consultations and much more.

Is a Baby Nurse Worth the Cost?

I had a conversation with someone the other day about whether we were happy with using a baby nurse. When we first returned home from the hospital, we used a baby nurse for the next 10 days. They are expensive - most cost over $200 per day...but, we were fortunate to get it as a gift from our family (something expecting parents might want to ask for). The advantages of having one significantly outweighed the disadvantages for us.

Some benefits of having a baby nurse:

• Getting us on a schedule for feeding, napping, bath, and bed time - #1 benefit


• Demonstrating different techniques for holding, swaddling, and comforting


• Great sounding board for the trillion questions you have during this steep learning curve


• They are not your family - gives you some breathing room


• Enables you take some naps during the day and sleep late in the morning in the middle of a sleep deprived and stressful time


• Use them as a babysitter at night if you want to break away for a quiet dinner or catch a flick

The downside:

• Very costly (daily cost + food expenses)


• You are not alone & it gets crowded (apartments in NYC are small enough...even smaller with another adult staying over)


• You may become too reliant on baby nurse which makes it harder when they leave

Our baby nurse was amazing - She was professional, knowledgeable, and was very loving to our son. It was tight in the apartment at times, especially when we had visitors. You have an additional stranger sleeping over, eating with you at dinner and breakfast, and watching tv. It was a strange experience! As first time parents, I would recommend looking into hiring a baby nurse or at least having a family member on hand for the first few weeks.
Curious to hear some stories on how you got through the first two weeks...

Domestic Couple Job Description

The role of the domestic couple is to provide domestic services to another individual or family in that family’s home.  Like many couples jobs, the duties would typically be split between the indoor and outdoor duties.

Typical household duties:

• Cooking
• Cleaning
• Ironing/Laundry
• Childcare/Nanny

Typical exterior duties:

• Gardening/Lawn Care
• Driving
• Home Maintenance

In more formal or affluent settings, the couple might also be called upon to perform serving functions during meals or social events. There is also the possibility of traveling between different households that the employing couple or individual may own, in completely different parts of the country (or even internationally).

While a couple with the basic aptitude for this work has more than adequate experience to handle this type of work, obviously a formally trained butler/chef couple would command more salary.

Besides the technical skills required to perform as a domestic couple, the psychological aspects of the job need to be considered.  The domestic couple normally resides in the home of another family, in a service capacity.  This job is not for everyone.  That being said, when there is a good fit between the employer and the domestic couple, this can be an extraordinarily satisfying arrangement lasting many years.

Because of the very close working dynamic of this field, it is important that both parties make sure that there is a good understanding of expectations on both parts.  The duties, hours, compensation, etc. need to be very clearly outlined and understood by both sides prior to the commencement of employment.  This will avert any misunderstandings after the fact.

This field typically pays very well, with a nice salary, sometimes fantastic benefits, housing, meals, utilities, and occasionally even transportation being provided.  When the family travels, many times the domestic couple would be required to travel with the family, thus affording them the opportunity to squeeze in some sight-seeing of their own at the employer’s expense.

When applying or interviewing for a position as a domestic couple, be prepared for a thorough background, employment and reference check.  This is a field where longevity with one employer is especially important, as you are basically becoming a member of the household.  Job-hoppers need not apply.

The Duties and Responsibilities of a Head Houseman Read more: The Duties and Responsibilities of a Head Houseman | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_7621340_duties-responsibilities-head-houseman.html#ixzz2ALZV08YC

1. Management

   • The position of head houseman generally implies that he is in charge of other housemen in the household or hotel. As a head houseman, he is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day chores assigned to the other housemen are completed. He is the person responsible for communicating with the employer regarding what work needs to be done.Generally, the head houseman will also communicate with other staff such as housekeepers, cook staff or personal assistants, regarding work matters.
     

   Cleaning

   • If a designated housekeeper is not kept on staff, a houseman may be responsible for general cleaning such as dusting, vacuuming and more. If a housekeeper is on staff, either in a home or hotel, the houseman may be required to assist her in cleaning duties should the need arise. Typically, a houseman is responsible for heavy cleaning to the exterior of the home for chores like cleaning exterior windows, concrete walkways and jobs of that nature.
     
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   Food Services

   • If cook staff is not kept on staff, the houseman may be required to cook and serve meals. He may be responsible for purchasing groceries and ensuring the food pantry is stocked at all times. In a home where cook staff normally completes these tasks, the houseman may be asked to assist the staff as needed. As a head houseman, he will be responsible for completing these tasks himself or assigning the duty to another qualified houseman.
     

   Maintenance and Repair

   • A houseman may be required to perform general maintenance duties such as cleaning appliance filters, landscaping duties and more. Many housemen will also be responsible for completing minor repairs that do not require the use of a professional contractor. The head houseman will be responsible for knowing which houseman on staff is qualified to complete these repairs and assign the duty accordingly.
     

   Bookkeeping and Inventory

   • Depending on the employer, the houseman may be responsible for taking inventory of certain household supplies and general bookkeeping of such inventories. It is not uncommon for a houseman to be responsible for maintaining home or auto maintenance records or logs of household inventory for his employer.
     

Read more: The Duties and Responsibilities of a Head Houseman | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_7621340_duties-responsibilities-head-houseman.html#ixzz2ALZSnOBK

The Advantages & Disadvantages of Housekeeping

By Kimberli Nalven, eHow Contributor

Residential housekeeping employees can come daily, weekly or live on site.

The idea of having a housekeeping service sounds like a time-saving dream. The reality of having a housekeeping service is that there are advantages and disadvantages. The bottom line is that housekeeping services are only as good as the effort you personally put in to finding, securing and maintaining that relationship. It starts with knowing your expectations, doing your research and staying involved with the housingkeeping service you select. Does this Spark an idea?

Read more: The Advantages & Disadvantages of Housekeeping | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/info_8207720_advantages-disadvantages-housekeeping.html#ixzz29h3ZyG8I

1. Time Advantages

   • 

     Unquestionably, maintaining a household requires a significant amount of time and energy. Depending upon the size of the home and number of people living there, some living spaces can take a lot of time to keep clean. Since housekeeping is more than just tiding up, having a service to regularly mop, vacuum, dust and scrub is a great way to reduce the household time demands you may face. In addition, when there are special events or unusual messes to deal with, a housekeeping service can be available to save preparation and cleanup time.
     

   Organizational Advantages

   • 

     A housekeeping service can be a tremendous advantage if you have trouble with organization or if you have high expectations for wanting to maintain it. A regular housekeeper will be tasked with keeping things orderly, putting stray items where they belong and organizing items that lack a designated spot. If your service comes just periodically, you'll find you have to pay more for the service if you don't pick up and put away before the housekeeping service comes. If they are simply tasked with cleaning, the job will take less time and typically will cost less.
     
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   Privacy Disadvantages

   • Whether your housekeeping service comes bi-monthly, weekly, daily or lives on the property, having a housekeeper that is not a family member in your private home on a regular basis can feel like a disruption to your privacy. Conversations are open to another individual and disagreements can be witnessed by someone you may not want to see or hear them. In addition, your private possessions are accessible and even maintained by someone who may be little more than an acquaintance.
     

   Technique Disadvantages

   • 

     Everyone has different ideas of how and to what extent things should be cleaned. Leaving your household cleaning to a housekeeper, in some senses, mean relinquishing a portion of your control of how things will be done. A detailed list of what needs to be done and on what time schedule will help reduce the disappointment you may have when a housekeeper does not tend house in the same way you would. It also requires preparation on your part, ahead of time, to make sure the housekeeper uses the products you prefer and that you have a means for communicating any unacceptable results.
     

Read more: The Advantages & Disadvantages of Housekeeping | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/info_8207720_advantages-disadvantages-housekeeping.html#ixzz29h3WwAnN

Nanny Vs. Daycare: Advantages and Disadvantages of Both

Whether you already have kids, or are planning to have them, you may be thinking about who is going to care for them when you have to go to work. Nowadays, most parents are both working; therefore, they are not able to stay home to care for their children. When this situation comes up, what will you do? I worked in a daycare center for 3 years, and a few months ago, I decided that I wanted to become a nanny. I love working with kids, and I wanted to work in a more personal environment, with only 1-3 kids at a time, instead of a large group of six 2 year olds. There are many things I dislike about daycares, and many things I do like about being a nanny.
Is hiring a nanny something you are thinking about? Does putting your child in a daycare center seem like a good idea? The choice is yours. From my experience, I will share with you the advantages and disadvantages of both.
Advantages of Hiring a Nanny: Trust and Cost-Effective
Hiring a nanny can be a difficult process for you as a parent. However, the advantages of having a nanny in your home far outnumber the advantages of a daycare. First of all, you have the opportunity to get to know the nanny as a person, so that you are able to build a trust with this person. If you find someone through a nanny agency, you won't have to worry about checking their background or obtaining clearances and records, as the agency will have already done this for you. Most nannies that are found through agencies are required to have a minimum number of years of child care experience, along with current CPR and First Aid certifications. Just as you sign a contract for a daycare, you'll have to write up and sign a contract for your nanny as well, including pay, hours, responsibilities and benefits.
Having a nanny in your home allows you to keep an eye on her, as well as your child, at any time you wish. A lot of families even have a "nanny cam" for the times they are at work or away from the home, and they wish to check in on the house. This gives you, as a parent, a sense of security when leaving someone alone with your child. Eventually, you may start to feel as if the nanny is part of your family.
Another good advantage of hiring a nanny is the cost. The popular myth is that only wealthy families can afford nannies. However, nannies can actually be cheaper than daycare. Although many nannies charge between $10-15 per hour, you are paying a flat hourly rate, and not per child. Enrolling 4 kids in daycare can really hurt your wallet; however, hiring a nanny to care for your 4 children may save you money in the long run.
Advantages of Daycare: Learning Programs
The only time I ever see daycare as an advantage is when your child is older. Infants and 1-2 year olds are just there for the "babysitting" aspect of daycare. 3 and 4 year olds can benefit from the preschool programs offered at a lot of daycare centers. 4 and 5 year olds can learn a lot from the pre-kindergarten programs as well. Also, school-aged children under 12 years of age are offered a place to do homework and play with friends before and after school. Most of the time, daycare is a great way for your child to do art projects, participate in field trips, and make friends. It's a good way for them to become social before entering elementary school. Just be sure that the center is accredited and licensed by the state before enrolling your child in preschool, pre-k or a before/after school program.
Disadvantages of Hiring a Nanny: Reliability
If you are relying on one person to care for your kids, then you run the risk of having nobody if your nanny calls off sick or is unable to work for any reason. In a daycare, there will always be a backup, or substitute teacher to take the sick teacher's place. You won't have to worry about who is going to care for your child.
A nanny may decide that they don't want to work for you anymore, and they may quit without notice, leaving you without anyone to care for your kids. This is why it's important to come up with an agreement in your contract, such as a 1 year commitment between you and the nanny. This way, she must put in a minimum of 1 year with the family before deciding to quit.
Disadvantages of Daycare: Cost, Care and Sicknesses
Enrolling your child, or children, in a daycare center can be costly, especially if you have more than one child. I knew a family who took their 3 kids to a KinderCare, and was paying around $2500 per month for care, for a 4 year old, a 2 year old and a 1 year old. The younger your child is, the more expensive it is going to be.
Another disadvantage of putting your kids in daycare is that you really cannot trust who is taking care of your kids. Just because a teacher has their background clearances and CPR certification, doesn't mean they are trustworthy and caring. You really don't know what happens once you leave your child, unless of course, the center has cameras where you can monitor your child throughout the day at work. But remember, not all centers have this feature. The popular daycare centers like KinderCare don't have them in most of them across the country. Also, how can you put your infant in the care of someone else, when they have 3 other babies to take care of in the same room? State ratio for most infant rooms is 4 to 1, meaning 1 teacher can have 4 babies in their care. Obviously, your child isn't going to get the love and care that they truly deserve if 3 other kids are constantly in need of something.
Illnesses in daycare are a given, and your child is most likely going to get sick a few times while they are in daycare. But think about it, the more your child is sick, the more you may have to miss work, and then you risk losing your job. Illnesses and germs spread around daycare centers like wildfire, and even worse if the classrooms and toys are not properly cleaned and sanitized. Colds, strep throat, pink eye, the flu and chicken pox are only some of the illnesses that your child is susceptible to.

Temporary Personal Assistant FAQs

Do I pay the temporary employee directly?

Yes, you will pay the candidate their wages directly upon completion of the assignment. There is a four-hour minimum each time a candidate comes to your home. Please note that the candidate’s wages are separate from the agency fees that are due when we book a temporary employee for you.

What agency fees can I expect?

There is a one-time Agency registration fee of $150. This registration allows you lifetime access to our qualified candidate pool. Payment of the registration fee does not guarantee that the agency will be able to fill every assignment.
For client requests during normal business hours, there is a referral fee of 35% of the total gross wages for each temporary employee placement. The minimum fee is $25 per day for each temporary placement. The referral fee is due when a candidate is confirmed for your assignment and is payable via credit card. Temporary fees are charged based on the anticipated total gross compensation for the entire period of employment. Supplemental fees will be due if the assignment is extended. The referral fee is separate from the wages you pay directly to the temporary candidate at the end of the assignment.
Our temporary department counselors are also available to take requests during after hours, Fridays from 5:00 to 8:00 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. Agency fees and nanny wages for requests made after hours are identical to fees and wages for Hotel Nanny placements. Click here for our after hours contact information.
Please note that fees for Hotel Nannies are structured differently.

What are your fees for Hotel Nannies?

For each Hotel Nanny booking, there is a referral fee of $10 per hour if the booking is made more than 24 hours in advance, or $15 per hour if made less than 24 hours in advance. Placements must be at least four hours. The referral fee is due when a Hotel Nanny is confirmed for your assignment and is payable via credit card, and the amount is  based on the anticipated total number of hours of the assignment. Supplemental fees will be due if the assignment is extended.
The referral fee is separate from the wages you pay directly to the temporary candidate at the end of the assignment.
Agency fees for any requests for on-call nannies made during after hours are the same as the agency fees for Hotel Nanny placements. Our temporary department counselors are available to speak with you during after hours, Fridays from 5:00 to 8:00 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.
There is no Agency registration fee necessary for Hotel Nanny placements. Town & Country clients who have already paid the registration fee may book Hotel Nannies during regular business hours at the regular Temporary Nanny rate.

What is your cancellation policy?

If the assignment is changed or cancelled after a candidate is confirmed, the full temporary referral fee is due.

How do you screen your temporary candidates?

Our temporary candidates go through the same thorough screening process that all of our candidates go through. For our temporary candidates, we take additional steps to ensure that our information remains current as long as they are continuing to work with us for temporary assignments. In particular, after each temporary assignment for a client who is new for that candidate, we follow up with the client to get their feedback. We also rerun certain background checks, including the criminal records and driving records checks, every six months.

Is it possible to hire the same candidate for each assignment?

Our most qualified temporary employees are popular and get booked in advance, so we cannot always guarantee the availability of a specific person.  Of course, we are always happy to check availability of any candidate for you. As with any service professional, the earlier you plan, the more likely it will be that you can book the employee you want at the time you need.

What if I want to hire a temporary candidate on a permanent basis?

If you and your temporary candidate agree to do so, you may hire your temporary candidate on a permanent basis. The Town & Country referral agreement details fees that are due when you hire any candidate that you have met through us. The Referral Agreement covers fees that are due for both temporary and permanent hires.  Your Placement Counselor will be happy to review the Referral Agreement and fee structures with you.  You can also read our fee policy for permanent employees in our Frequently Asked Questions section. Temporary fees do not apply toward a permanent referral fee.

Can a temporary employee drive my children?

We suggest that temporary employees do not drive your children.  However, we understand that sometimes having a temporary employee drive your children is unavoidable. If the employee must drive your children, please contact your insurance provider to ensure that your children and property are covered by your policy. If the temporary employee is using his or her own vehicle we suggest you confirm their insurance coverage. We also suggest that you personally inspect the vehicle in which your children will be driven to ensure it is safe. If you have young children, also ensure that they will be seated in appropriate car seats.

Do I need to be concerned about payroll taxes?

When you hire an employee through Town & Country, according to the IRS, the candidate is considered your household employee, not an independent contractor or an employee of the Agency. Whether the employee is hired on a temporary or permanent basis, you may be required to withhold and report payroll taxes to the state and the IRS.
California law states that if you pay any number of employees (temporary or permanent) more than $750 in a calendar quarter, you are required to file for a tax ID number and pay certain employer taxes required by the state. In addition, when you pay any individual candidate more that $1,700 in a year, you are required to file for a federal tax ID and withhold and pay both state and federal taxes.
While Town & Country is not directly involved in any tax filings or reporting, we are knowledgeable about the subject and happy to answer any questions you may have.
We also suggest that you contact our partner Breedlove & Associates at 1-888-273-3356 or at http://www.breedlove-online.com. Breedlove & Associates specializes in helping household employers handle household payroll taxes.  They provide excellent information and can help you make the best tax-related decisions for you and your family.

What else do I need to know about temporary placements?

By signing an agreement with Town & Country, you agree to not share the name or contact information of any candidates referred by the agency with your friends or associates. If you contact a candidate referred by Town & Country for future assignments, you are required to report the hours and pay the appropriate placement fee.

Temporary Personal Assistant

The benefits of a Temporary Personal Assistant

Do you have a big project to accomplish? Paper work piling up? A home office that needs to be organized? Imagine how much could you accomplish with a skilled Personal Assistant for just the amount of time you need.
Whether you need help addressing holiday cards, purchasing and returning gifts, making travel arrangements, planning a party or simply running errands, you can hire our qualified, experienced Personal Assistants on an on-call basis for as little as four hours at a time. Just tell us what you need, and we’ll make sure you find the right one for your needs.

Responsibilities

The duties of a full-time or part-time Personal Assistant may include:

• Managing the household calendar
• Making travel arrangements
• Booking appointments
• Managing household bill payments
• Organizing the home office and other areas of the home
• Assisting in planning and organization of parties and other events
• Running errands
• Handling special projects – such as helping an employer with a renovations or researching major purchases

Compensation

Temporary Personal Assistants generally earn between $32 and $45 per hour. For Temporary Personal Assistants, there is a minimum engagement of four hours. There is also an Agency fee of 35% of the gross compensation, payable by credit card at the time of booking.

What clients and staff are saying

“A really great Personal Assistant is a god-send.  PA’s can help to manage all the details of your life from bill paying to running errands to planning a dinner party to keeping your home immaculately organized. We offer experienced Temporary Personal Assistants ready to jump in to help you for just the amount of time you need. I have been matching PA’s with employers for many years and know what it takes to find the right one for you.” —Nancy McIlvaine, Town & Country Resources

Party Helpers and Event Nannies FAQ

What if I want to hire a temporary candidate on a permanent basis?

If you and your temporary candidate agree to do so, you may hire your temporary candidate on a permanent basis. The Town & Country referral agreement details fees that are due when you hire any candidate that you have met through us. The Referral Agreement covers fees that are due for both temporary and permanent hires.  Your Placement Counselor will be happy to review the Referral Agreement and fee structures with you.  You can also read our fee policy for permanent employees in our Frequently Asked Questions section. Temporary fees do not apply toward a permanent referral fee.

Can a temporary employee drive my children?

We suggest that temporary employees do not drive your children.  However, we understand that sometimes having a temporary employee drive your children is unavoidable. If the employee must drive your children, please contact your insurance provider to ensure that your children and property are covered by your policy. If the temporary employee is using his or her own vehicle we suggest you confirm their insurance coverage. We also suggest that you personally inspect the vehicle in which your children will be driven to ensure it is safe. If you have young children, also ensure that they will be seated in appropriate car seats.

Do I need to be concerned about payroll taxes?

When you hire an employee through Town & Country, according to the IRS, the candidate is considered your household employee, not an independent contractor or an employee of the Agency. Whether the employee is hired on a temporary or permanent basis, you may be required to withhold and report payroll taxes to the state and the IRS.
California law states that if you pay any number of employees (temporary or permanent) more than $750 in a calendar quarter, you are required to file for a tax ID number and pay certain employer taxes required by the state. In addition, when you pay any individual candidate more that $1,700 in a year, you are required to file for a federal tax ID and withhold and pay both state and federal taxes.
While Town & Country is not directly involved in any tax filings or reporting, we are knowledgeable about the subject and happy to answer any questions you may have.
We also suggest that you contact our partner Breedlove & Associates at 1-888-273-3356 or at http://www.breedlove-online.com. Breedlove & Associates specializes in helping household employers handle household payroll taxes.  They provide excellent information and can help you make the best tax-related decisions for you and your family.

What else do I need to know about temporary placements?

By signing an agreement with Town & Country, you agree to not share the name or contact information of any candidates referred by the agency with your friends or associates. If you contact a candidate referred by Town & Country for future assignments, you are required to report the hours and pay the appropriate placement fee.

Do I pay the temporary employee directly?

Yes, you will pay the candidate their wages directly upon completion of the assignment. There is a four-hour minimum each time a candidate comes to your home. Please note that the candidate’s wages are separate from the agency fees that are due when we book a temporary employee for you.

What agency fees can I expect?

There is a one-time Agency registration fee of $150. This registration allows you lifetime access to our qualified candidate pool. Payment of the registration fee does not guarantee that the agency will be able to fill every assignment.
For client requests during normal business hours, there is a referral fee of 35% of the total gross wages for each temporary employee placement. The minimum fee is $25 per day for each temporary placement. The referral fee is due when a candidate is confirmed for your assignment and is payable via credit card. Temporary fees are charged based on the anticipated total gross compensation for the entire period of employment. Supplemental fees will be due if the assignment is extended. The referral fee is separate from the wages you pay directly to the temporary candidate at the end of the assignment.
Our temporary department counselors are also available to take requests during after hours, Fridays from 5:00 to 8:00 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. Agency fees and nanny wages for requests made after hours are identical to fees and wages for Hotel Nanny placements. Click here for our after hours contact information.
Please note that fees for Hotel Nannies are structured differently.

What are your fees for Hotel Nannies?

For each Hotel Nanny booking, there is a referral fee of $10 per hour if the booking is made more than 24 hours in advance, or $15 per hour if made less than 24 hours in advance. Placements must be at least four hours. The referral fee is due when a Hotel Nanny is confirmed for your assignment and is payable via credit card, and the amount is  based on the anticipated total number of hours of the assignment. Supplemental fees will be due if the assignment is extended.
The referral fee is separate from the wages you pay directly to the temporary candidate at the end of the assignment.
Agency fees for any requests for on-call nannies made during after hours are the same as the agency fees for Hotel Nanny placements. Our temporary department counselors are available to speak with you during after hours, Fridays from 5:00 to 8:00 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.
There is no Agency registration fee necessary for Hotel Nanny placements. Town & Country clients who have already paid the registration fee may book Hotel Nannies during regular business hours at the regular Temporary Nanny rate.

What is your cancellation policy?

If the assignment is changed or cancelled after a candidate is confirmed, the full temporary referral fee is due.

How do you screen your temporary candidates?

Our temporary candidates go through the same thorough screening process that all of our candidates go through. For our temporary candidates, we take additional steps to ensure that our information remains current as long as they are continuing to work with us for temporary assignments. In particular, after each temporary assignment for a client who is new for that candidate, we follow up with the client to get their feedback. We also rerun certain background checks, including the criminal records and driving records checks, every six months.

Is it possible to hire the same candidate for each assignment?

Our most qualified temporary employees are popular and get booked in advance, so we cannot always guarantee the availability of a specific person.  Of course, we are always happy to check availability of any candidate for you. As with any service professional, the earlier you plan, the more likely it will be that you can book the employee you want at the time you need.

Party Helpers and Event Nannies

The benefits of Town & Country Party Helpers and Event Nannies

Are you planning a party, birthday celebration or holiday gathering? Rely on our terrific pool of experienced party helpers to assist with party setup, food and beverage service and clean up.
You might also consider bringing in one of our Event Nannies who can help to make your event a success by providing an extra hand for child-related activities and help in the overall supervision of children.
Why not enjoy your guests and your party and leave the rest to our party helpers and event services candidates?

Responsibilities

Party helpers can help before, during and after your event:

• Set up and preparation, including arranging furniture, setting up party supplies, plates, glasses, utensils, etc.
• Serving food and beverages during your party
• Clean up during and after the party

Event Nannies can help before, during and after your event:

• Set up and organize children’s activities or coordinate with other entertainment activities.
• Supervise and care for your and your guests’ children during your event.
• Work individually or as part of a team with other Town & Country Nannies, depending on the size of your event.

Compensation

Party Helpers and Event Nannies both typically charge $25 per hour for most events. All wages are payable directly to the Party Helper or Event Nanny at the completion of the assignment. There is a four hour minimum for any assignment.
There is also an Agency fee of 35% of the total wages paid that will be billed to your credit card. This referral fee is due when your Party Helper or Event Nanny is confirmed for your assignment.

What clients and staff are saying

“Town & Country service is incredibly helpful to us!  I particularly value: (1) the high quality of the employees and the careful screening you do of your employees (2) the flexibility of being able to schedule for any times (3) the fact that you are always so nice and so professional!” —Amy
“When you need a Party Helper for a special event, finding the right match is important.  Town & Country Resources has the largest pool of Party Helpers in the Bay Area.  We know these Party Helpers very well and can find someone who will be the right fit for you.” —Melissa Browne, Town & Country Resources

Which positions are similar to a Butler?

Butlers may perform similar tasks as Household and Estate Managers when it comes to running a demanding home or estate. Typically, Butlers are responsible for a variety of duties related to serving employers and guests which fall outside the scope of responsibilities for most Household or Estate Managers. Some Butlers may also be responsible for overseeing the maintenance and cleaning of a household as would an Executive Housekeeper or Housekeeper

Butler

Responsibilities

If your lifestyle has significant demands and complexities, an efficient Butler can oversee the smooth management of your household and also provide formal service for you and your guests. Usually, Butlers have professional or formal training, and they typically work in households with other staff members.
We know how important the safety of your family and your home is. We work hard to screen all of our Butlers and check every reference.  We practice "full disclosure" which means that we share all pertinent information about candidates with our clients so that you can make a fully informed hiring decision. We’ll never withhold information from you just to push a candidate through. We will keep you informed of our progress screening your chosen candidates throughout your search.
It is important to us that you feel confident that the Butler you hire through Town & Country will maintain the safety and security of your home as well as your personal belongings and private information.  Just as important, we work closely with you to understand your household’s unique needs so that we can match you with a Butler who will be a great fit.
The duties of a Butler may include:

• Receiving guests
• Overseeing household management
• Creating budgets
• Managing provisions
• Hiring and overseeing other household staff
• Helping maintain household security
• Scheduling the maintenance for miscellaneous items in the estate (stables, boats, planes, etc.)
• Managing service vendors
• Performing general valet duties
• Running household and personal errands for the employer
• Making travel arrangements for the employer and other household guests
• Assisting with entertaining
• Light cooking
• Serving drinks
• Setting the table
• Maintaining the wine cellars and being knowledgeable about fine wines
• Performing light housekeeping

Compensation

Compensation for a Butler is usually based on two factors: the amount of experience the candidate brings to the position and the duties included in the Butler job description.

Salary
On average, full-time Butlers earn from $50K - $80K annually.

Benefits
Many families also choose to provide additional benefits to a full-time Butler such as:

Paid sick days
Paid vacation
Paid holidays
Medical insurance

What clients and staff are saying

“I wanted to tell you how impressed I was with your process.  You and your team offered a remarkably high caliber group of candidates that were perfectly matched for our homes.  And you managed it in an extremely short time period.” —Dianne, San Francisco
"Town & Country has an excellent pool of experienced Butlers who have worked in the finest homes. If you need a seasoned professional in your home to keep it impeccably maintained and provide exceptional service, I would welcome a conversation to speak about your specific needs." —Nancy McIlvaine, Town & Country Resources

Which positions are similar to a Chef?

Some housekeepers may also be responsible for food preparation and may also be very good cooks. Some Nannies also have some cooking responsibilities and may assist with meal preparation for children or the whole family.

Chef

Responsibilities

Chefs, also called Private Chefs, can provide a variety of meals requested by an employer, from a casual dinner for the family to gourmet meals prepared for formal entertaining. Many chefs have formal training and degrees from well-known culinary schools.
We know how important the safety of your family and your home is. We work hard to screen all of our Chefs and check every reference. We practice "full disclosure" which means that we share all pertinent information about candidates with our clients so that you can make a fully informed hiring decision. We’ll never withhold information from you just to push a candidate through. We will keep you informed of our progress screening your chosen candidates throughout your search.
It is important to us that you feel confident that the Chef you hire through Town & Country will maintain the safety and security of your home as well as your personal belongings and private information. Just as important, we work closely with you to understand your family’s unique needs so that we can match you with a Chef who will be a great fit.
The duties of a Chef may include:

• Managing the operation of the kitchen
• Planning and presenting menus
• Accommodating special dietary needs
• Grocery and market shopping
• Preparing a variety of meals
• Preparing, overseeing or assisting with food for special functions and events
• Serving meals or overseeing other staff members who serve meals
• Keeping your kitchen stocked and organized

Compensation

Compensation for a Chef is usually based on two factors: the amount of experience the candidate brings to the position and the duties included in the Chef job description.
Salary
Full-time Chefs typically earn $30 to $50 per hour.

Benefits
For Full-Time Chefs, some families provide benefits that may include:

Paid sick days
Paid vacation
Paid holidays
Medical insurance

What clients and staff are saying

"Walter is amazing! Guests are raving about him. Our last menu was unique, carefully thought out and just delicious. We are foodies so have high standards yet the dinner was among the very best I've ever had.” —Jocelyn, San Francisco
“A Chef from Town & Country will make your life better! Whether it's healthy food when you need it or indulgent food when you want it, we can find you a Chef who is expert in whatever kinds of cuisines you prefer. You can have food just the way you want it for family meals, formal dinners or large parties. Let's discuss who will be right for you." —Nancy McIlvaine, Town & Country Resources

Which positions are similar to a Housekeeper?

Housekeepers are responsible for cleaning a home. Executive Housekeepers are also responsible for keeping a home clean, but an Executive Housekeeper typically oversees  other staff who may be responsible for heavy cleaning. Executive Housekeepers may also be responsible for managing other household staff and administrative duties such as scheduling and supervising trades people and repairs, purchasing household supplies, keeping household budgets and paying bills. Depending on your specific needs, you may also wish to consider a Butler or Domestic couple as alternatives to a housekeeper in caring for your home.

Do you offer temporary Housekeepers for short-term needs?

Yes. Town & County has a qualified pool of temporary Housekeepers who can provide housekeeping services for the amount of time you need – whether it’s for a one-time event or for a longer period of time such as when your regular housekeeper is away.  You can learn more here or contact us for more information.

Which positions are similar to a Family Assistant?

A Nanny is most similar to a Family Assistant. Nannies focus primarily on childcare while Family Assistants help run the home as well as caring for children. Some Housekeepers and Executive Housekeepers may be able to assist families with running and maintaining their home as well as keeping it clean. Some Housekeepers may also be able to assist with childcare. We can help you choose household professional who will be the right fit for your family.

Housekeepers

Responsibilities

A Housekeeper’s primary responsibility is to keep your home clean. Most Housekeepers are responsible for heavy cleaning as well as the daily or weekly tasks required to keep a home presentable. Housekeepers work in a variety of home environments ranging from full-time Housekeepers who work as part of a multi-staff home to a Housekeeper who maintains a home once or twice per week.
We know how important the safety of your family and your home is. We work hard to screen all of our Housekeepers and check every reference.
We practice "full disclosure" which means that we share all pertinent information about candidates with our clients so that you can make a fully informed hiring decision. We’ll never withhold information from you just to push a candidate through. We will keep you informed of our progress screening your chosen candidates throughout your search.
Just as important as keeping your home safe, we work closely with you to understand your family’s unique needs so that we can match you with a Housekeeper who will be a great fit.
The duties of a Housekeeper may include:

• Cleaning
• Upkeep of the interior of the home and the immediate areas
• Polishing furniture, vacuuming washing floors, cleaning kitchen and baths
• Laundering clothes and household items
• Changing sheets and maintaining household linens
• Polishing the silver
• Upkeep of outside patios, porches and walks

• Cooking
• Assisting with the cooking and serving for special events

• Possible Additional duties
• Ironing
• Managing household supplies
• Occasional or backup childcare
• Preparing and serving simple meals
• Caring for household pets
• Running Errands, such as grocery shopping
• Mending clothes

Compensation

Compensation for a Housekeeper is usually based on two factors: the amount of experience the candidate brings to the position and the duties included in the Housekeeper job description.
Salary
Housekeepers typically earn between $20 and $25 per hour.

Benefits
For full-time Housekeepers, some families provide benefits that may include:

Paid sick days
Paid vacation
Paid holidays
Medical insurance

What clients and staff are saying

“I am committed to making lasting matches.  Many of our housekeepers have worked with the same clients for many years. By taking the time upfront to fully understand clients’ needs and personalities – visiting their homes when possible – I get an excellent sense of how to find the housekeeper who will be the best fit.” —Kristine Lange, Town & Country Resources

What is the difference between a Family Assistant and an au pair?

An au pair is treated as a member of the family, not an employee like a Nanny, and comes from a foreign country as a part of a cultural exchange program administered by the U.S. Department of State working with approved agencies placing candidates under a so-called “J-1” visa. Au pairs have limited duties that encompass care of children but most may not perform household tasks like laundry or managing the household in the parents' absence. Unlike Nannies, au pairs are limited to a 45-hour work week and are limited to a one to two-year stay in the United States. Also, while Nannies vary in age, au pairs must be aged 18 to 26 years old. There are additional requirements imposed by the terms of the au pair’s visa, including that the au pair has been hired through a special agency approved by the U.S. Department of State.

What agency fees can I expect?

There is a one-time $150 registration fee that will allow you lifetime access to our qualified candidate pool. This registration fee is processed upon receipt of your Referral Agreement. In addition to the registration fee, there is a referral fee equal to 25 percent of the anticipated total compensation to be paid to your Baby Nurse for the entire assignment. The referral fee is due when a Baby Nurse is confirmed for the assignment. Fees are paid based on the anticipated total gross compensation for the entire period of employment. Supplemental fees will be due if the assignment is extended.

What is the typical work schedule for a Baby Nurse?

Baby Nurses usually work eight- to twelve-hour shifts, most commonly at night. We also have Baby Nurses who work 24-hour shifts with a scheduled break.

When should I begin a Baby Nurse search?

To ensure time to find the Baby Nurse who will be just the right fit for you and your baby, allow up to six months prior to your anticipated delivery date to begin the selection process. However, don't hesitate to call us if you have an immediate need. We have worked with many families on short notice to find a great Baby Nurse.

How does Town & Country Resources screen Baby Nurses?

We know that the safety of your family and home is your top priority, so we take security very seriously. Each Baby Nurse completes a rigorous screening and application process with our trained Placement Counselors, then we conduct background checks.  We have extensive conversations with each reference to confirm work experience and qualifications. Qualified Baby Nurses often work with us for years, and we follow-up after each completed assignment to get our client’s feedback to add to our Baby Nurse’s reference file.

Which positions are similar to a Baby Nurse?

A Baby Nurse is a unique candidate. While they do not usually have a nursing background, they are newborn experts with extensive skills and experience caring for babies from just a few days old to about four months of age. Baby Nurses know all about the unique issues relevant to newborns and can also provide guidance to new Moms and Dads on feeding, sleeping and breastfeeding. A Baby Nurse may sometimes be called a Night Nanny, Post-partum Doula or Newborn Specialist.

Do you offer temporary Nannies for short-term needs?

Yes. Town & County has a qualified pool of temporary Nannies who can care for your children for the amount of time you need – whether it’s an evening, a vacation or several months.  You can learn more here or contact us for more information.

Which positions are similar to a Nanny?

A Family Assistant is most similar to a Nanny. Family Assistants take care of children while also helping to run the home. We often place highly qualified candidates who work as a combined Nanny & Family Assistant. Housekeepers primarily focus on keeping a home clean, but some Housekeepers might be able to help with childcare as well, typically on a back-up basis. Baby Nurses are similar to Nannies; the major difference is the age of the child being cared for. Some Nannies have experience caring for newborns and very young babies, while other Nannies have more experience caring for older children. Baby Nurses focus only on newborns, and typically only during the nighttime hours. Baby Nurses can also provide guidance to new Moms and Dads on feeding, sleeping and breastfeeding. We can help you choose household professional who will be the right fit for your family.

What is Share Care?

When two or more families hire one Nanny to care for all the children, it's called a “share care” arrangement. For a share care arrangement to work effectively, the participating families need to have a compatible geography, budget, values and preferences for how their children will be cared for. Typically, a Nanny will require a somewhat higher wage to care for more children. For tax purposes, each family participating in the share care is considered to be a separate employer. We encourage you to consult with us to evaluate whether share care is the right option for your family. We can help you make the right decision.

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What is the difference between a Nanny and an au pair?

An au pair is treated as a member of the family, not an employee like a Nanny, and comes from a foreign country as a part of a cultural exchange program administered by the U.S. Department of State working with approved agencies placing candidates under a so-called “J-1” visa. Au pairs have limited duties that encompass care of children but most may not perform household tasks like laundry or managing the household in the parents' absence. Unlike Nannies, au pairs are limited to a 45-hour work week and are limited to a one to two-year stay in the United States. Also, while Nannies vary in age, au pairs must be aged 18 to 26 years old. There are additional requirements imposed by the terms of the au pair’s visa, including that the au pair has been hired through a special agency approved by the U.S. Department of State.

Party Helpers and Event Nannies

The benefits of Town & Country Party Helpers and Event Nannies

Are you planning a party, birthday celebration or holiday gathering? Rely on our terrific pool of experienced party helpers to assist with party setup, food and beverage service and clean up.
You might also consider bringing in one of our Event Nannies who can help to make your event a success by providing an extra hand for child-related activities and help in the overall supervision of children.
Why not enjoy your guests and your party and leave the rest to our party helpers and event services candidates?

Responsibilities

Party helpers can help before, during and after your event:

• Set up and preparation, including arranging furniture, setting up party supplies, plates, glasses, utensils, etc.
• Serving food and beverages during your party
• Clean up during and after the party

Event Nannies can help before, during and after your event:

• Set up and organize children’s activities or coordinate with other entertainment activities.
• Supervise and care for your and your guests’ children during your event.
• Work individually or as part of a team with other Town & Country Nannies, depending on the size of your event.

Compensation

Party Helpers and Event Nannies both typically charge $25 per hour for most events. All wages are payable directly to the Party Helper or Event Nanny at the completion of the assignment. There is a four hour minimum for any assignment.
There is also an Agency fee of 35% of the total wages paid that will be billed to your credit card. This referral fee is due when your Party Helper or Event Nanny is confirmed for your assignment.

What clients and staff are saying

“Town & Country service is incredibly helpful to us!  I particularly value: (1) the high quality of the employees and the careful screening you do of your employees (2) the flexibility of being able to schedule for any times (3) the fact that you are always so nice and so professional!” —Amy
“When you need a Party Helper for a special event, finding the right match is important.  Town & Country Resources has the largest pool of Party Helpers in the Bay Area.  We know these Party Helpers very well and can find someone who will be the right fit for you.” —Melissa Browne, Town & Country Resources

Hotel Nanny: Job Description

The benefits of a Town & Country Hotel Nanny

Are you staying in the Bay Area, or planning a trip here, and in need of childcare? You can depend on Town & Country’s roster of experienced Hotel Nannies. We have a great pool of experienced, professional Nannies located throughout the Bay Area who are able to meet your requirements.
A major advantage of hiring a Hotel, Temporary or On-Call Nanny from Town & Country is that you are getting a real childcare professional. We have verified all previous employers and have also conducted a thorough background check including driving and criminal records. We only send Nannies with excellent records and completely clean background checks on temporary assignments.
While it’s always great to schedule your temporary help in advance, we realize it is not always possible and we are ready to help you find the help you need, even with short notice. Placement Counselors are available to help you schedule a Hotel Nanny during our regular hours and also during extended hours on Friday evenings and all day on Saturdays and Sundays. Please give us a call to arrange for your short term or last minute requirement. Feel secure knowing you have the best care from our thoroughly screened childcare professionals.

Responsibilities

Town & Country On-Call Nannies excel at:

• Planning and sharing fun activities with new youngsters of all ages.
• Working with a range of families and children with different needs and personalities.
• Always putting safety and health first. You can feel secure knowing you have the best care from our thoroughly screened, childcare professionals.

Compensation

Hotel Nannies charge $20 per hour for a minimum of four hours. You pay the Nanny directly when she is finished working. There is also an Agency fee for Hotel Nannies of $10 per hour which is payable by credit card and is non-refundable. For Hotel Nanny bookings with less than 24 hours notice, the agency fee is $15 per hour.
If you need to make a change to the schedule we will do our best to accommodate you. But please keep in mind that for any cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice, the scheduled fee still needs to be paid to the Nanny as she has reserved time especially for you.

What clients and staff are saying

“Kristy was great. The kids loved her and I would hire her again any time. She had them both playing with her within minutes of her arrival, they hardly could find the time to wave us goodbye! I was impressed by how she could coordinate playing with a 5 year old and a 17 month old at the same time.  We visit SF often so I will be contacting you again.  We were extremely happy with the service.  It was great for us to rely on your agency to provide us with a trusted sitter.” —Maryanne
“Even when you need a temporary Nanny, finding the right match is important.  Town & Country Resources has the largest pool of temporary, on-call Nannies in the Bay Area.  We know these Nannies very well and can find someone who will be the right fit for you.”  —Melissa Browne, Town & Country Resources

On-call Nanny: Job Description

The benefits of a Town & Country On-call Nanny

Is your regular Nanny away? Are you planning a date night or weekend getaway? Have a last-minute need to care for a sick child or to cover a school vacation?  You can depend on Town & Country’s roster of experienced on-call Nannies.
A major advantage of hiring a Temporary or On-call Nanny from Town & Country is that you are getting a real childcare professional. We have verified all previous employers and have also conducted a thorough background check including driving and criminal records.  We only send Nannies with excellent records and completely clean background checks on temporary assignments.
As part of their job description, they are ready to jump right in and help you out  – exactly how you need it.
While it’s always great to schedule your temporary help in advance, we realize that’s not always possible and we are ready to help you find the help you need, even with short notice or after hours. Please give us a call to arrange for your short term, last minute or even emergency backup requirements. Click here for our regular and after hours contact information.

Responsibilities

Town & Country On-call Nannies excel at:

• Planning and sharing fun activities with new youngsters of all ages
• Working with a range of families and children with different needs and personalities
• Always putting safety and health first.

You can feel secure knowing you have the best care from our thoroughly screened, childcare professionals.

Compensation

Temporary Nannies typically charge between $18 and $ 20 per hour. For Temporary and On-call Assignments, there is a four hour minimum. There is an Agency fee equal to 35% of the nanny’s wages (additional fees may apply for after hours requests), payable by credit card at the time of booking.

What clients and staff are saying

“I was also really happy with my entire “temporary nanny” experience with Town & Country.  You guys made it really easy for me to request a Nanny, and it allowed me to concentrate on the rest of my hectic life with one less thing to worry about.  Many, many thanks!”  —Rachel
“I will always remember how your company came to my rescue 2 days before my September 1999 wedding.  We needed childcare for 5 or 6 guests’ children, and the Mountain View agency we had made arrangements with suddenly fell through. Someone at Stanford Park Hotel told us to give you a call and we were amazed at how seamlessly and efficiently you handled it.  Just like you do now:)“ —Jane
“Even when you need a temporary Nanny, finding the right match is important.  Town & Country Resources has the largest pool of temporary, on-call Nannies in the Bay Area.  We know these Nannies very well and can find someone who will be the right fit for you.”  —Melissa Browne, Town & Country Resources

Family Assistant: Job Description

Responsibilities

Families want a nurturing, safe and stimulating environment so their children can thrive. Some families also need help running the household to help out busy parents. Working with a Town & Country Family Assistant is like having two great employees in one - they take care of your children and while helping to keep your home running smoothly.
We know how important the safety of your family and your home is. We work hard to screen all of our Nanny and Family Assistants and check every reference. We practice "full disclosure,” which means that we share all pertinent information about candidates with our clients so that you can make a fully informed hiring decision. We’ll never withhold information from you just to push a candidate through. We will keep you informed of our progress screening your chosen candidates throughout your search.
It is important to us that you feel confident that the Nanny and Family Assistant you hire through Town & Country will keep your children and home safe. Just as important, we work closely with you to understand your family’s unique needs so that we can match you with a Nanny and Family Assistant who will be a great fit.
The duties of a full-time or part-time Nanny and Family Assistant can include:

• Childcare: The Nuts and Bolts
  Helping busy parents ensure that essential childcare tasks are done right.
• Preparing children for their day; dressing, grooming, breakfast and getting them organized
• Preparing meals for the kids
• Driving children to school, appointments and activities
• Laundering clothes
• Tidying up after children

• Childcare: Developmental
  Enriching children’s intellectual, emotional and physical development.
• Tutoring and helping with homework
• Initiating and participating in enriching activities
• Playing sports and exercising
• Story time and reading
• Connecting during “just hanging out” time

• Managing and maintaining the household.
  • Light housekeeping
  • Loading and emptying dishwasher and keeping kitchen tidy
  • Taking out garbage and recycling
  • Taking care of pets
  • Managing the family calendar
  • Scheduling repairs and service
  • Planning birthdays, play dates and other activities
  • Assisting with travel plans

• Doing household errands.
  • Grocery shopping
  • Personal shopping for family
  • Picking up and dropping off dry cleaning
  • Interfacing with vendors

Compensation

Compensation for a Family Assistant is usually based on two factors: the amount of experience your Family Assistant brings to the position and the duties included in the Family Assistant’s job description. We can help you determine the appropriate compensation that will work for your family and your Family Assistant.
Salary
Full-time, live-in Family Assistants earn $2,950 to $4,200 per month on average. Family Assistants who live outside the home typically earn $17 to $25 per hour. This range includes both full-time and part-time Family Assistants.
Benefits
Many families provide benefits that may include:

Paid sick days
Paid vacation
Paid holidays
Medical insurance
Reimbursement for automobile expenses

Part-time benefits may include:

Paid sick days
Paid vacation
Paid holidays
Reimbursement for automobile expenses

What clients and staff are saying

“I wanted to let you know that Allie is fantastic!  She takes great care of the kids, the house is in great shape when I get home from work and many of the errands and chores I had to do myself are now done for me – it’s really wonderful! Going back to work was stressful and I knew I needed all the help I could get. I thought that finding the right person to take care of my kids and my house would add to the stress, but I was really impressed with your process.  The pool of candidates you sent was of the highest quality and well screened ahead of time. You assured me we would find the right fit – and we did! ” —Sally, Mom and Sales Executive
“Nanny and Family Assistant is a position we created here at Town & Country.  As parents got busier, we found they needed help with a variety of tasks to keep their household running smoothly – not just childcare.  We helped to guide our best Nannies to step up to the plate and take on more responsibilities.  Our Nanny and Family Assistant position is a win for everyone.” —Sarah Thigpen, Town & Country Resources