NannyPalooza 2008 Re-cap

I just returned from 3 days in Philadelphia attending the annual NannyPalooza conference, sponsored by the National Association for Nanny Care, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising the professionalism of nanny care. As always, the program was outstanding.

Melanie Nesbit, The Nanny on the Move and Clelie Bourne, the Temporary Nanny were among the many specialty nannies in attendance. There was a special visit from the Today Show, who interviewed traveling nannies, newborn care specialists, temporary nannies, and nannies who specialize in multiples, children with developmental disorders, and even teen-agers! What a diverse spectrum of talents.

I had dinner with several nanny agency owners from across the country, where we discussed the state of the industry, as well as the impact the current financial crisis was having on the nanny referral industry. Kimberly Tellus, from New York's Nanny Care Connections reports more inquiries about live in nannies in Manhattan, their agency's specialty. A live-in nanny typically earns 10% - 20% less than their "come-and-go" counterparts in New York City, primarily because they receive room and board in addition to their weekly wage. Kim's business partner, Amanda Marsh, serves as their primary recruiter from her base in Nebraska.

Anie Tandler of McLean VA based Special Care Nannies provides specialized placements for children with special needs, especially autism spectrum disorders. She is one of two agencies nationwide with that specialty (Anie's long career teaching special needs children and coaching/counseling their families in public and private school settings makes her uniquely qualified for this endeavor). She actually will meet with the family to determine their needs before placement, then will provide the selected nanny candidate with specialized training related to the child's disability.

Nettie Weber, Perfect Match Nannies, reported back on her highly successful annual Nanny Retreat, sponsored by her Wisconsin agency. Nannies this year worked on advanced safety/CPR techniques as well as nanny portfolios.

Agencies are increasingly stepping up and educating their clients about nanny tax, insurance, and overtime issues. Many refer their clients to 4nannytaxes.com's website for detailed information and our online nanny payroll tax calculator and family budget tool.

The nanny industry is definitely NOT about babysitting! Infant care specialists provide families with sleep training. Nannies specializing in multiples often bring their wealth of "been there, done that" experience to enrich the experiences of often overwhelmed and bewildered new parents. Nannies who specialize in the teen years help with college placement, and provide important supervision and guidance to their charges. (One such nanny, tongue in cheek, professed to be on "pregnancy prevention patrol"!)

Families, please consider sponsoring your nanny for this conference next year. The educational opportunity is invaluable, and sends the message to your nanny that you truly value the contribution she makes to your family as well as validating her career choice!