When Nanny Agencies Forget the Nannies: Why Families Must Provide References

The Hard Truth About Nanny Agencies Forgetting Nannies

Far too many nanny agencies forget the nannies who make their business possible. Whether it's to avoid legal risk, collect placement fees, or simply keep a "good paying" family happy, the caregiver is often treated as disposable. The result? Nannies end up working for families who are a nightmare behind doors-- chaotic schedules, no respect for contracts, late pay, or worse.

This is unacceptable.

What Tried & True Does Differently

At Tried and True - Nannies & Sitters, we refuse to sacrifice our nannies to keep a client happy. Here's how we back that up:

• Family References Are Mandatory: Just as we require nannies to provide professional references, families must also provide references i.e. other caregivers, house managers, or teachers who may know how they treat the people working in their home. If no one is willing to vouch for them, we will not represent them.

• We Contact Prior Nannies-- Directly: If a family has had a nanny (or multiple nannies), we reach out to those caregivers ourselves. We don't rely on a polished story; we want the truth.

• Zero-Tolerance for Disrespect or Unpaid Labor: Late payments, moving goalposts, or "just one more task" attitudes aren't minor issues. They're deal breakers.

Why Families Providing References Matters

Families often expect nannies to hand over their full work history, multiple glowing references, background checks, and even personality tests. Meanwhile, the nanny is expected to trust that a total stranger's home will be safe, respectful, and professional. That double standard ends here.

When families know they'll be vetted too:

• They show up honestly about pay, schedules, and expectations.

• Toxic or abusive homes are filtered out before anyone wastes time.

• Nannies know their agency truly protects them.

The Industry Must Change

Every agency that claims to "support nannies" should start with three simple commitments:

1. References checks on families, not just caregivers.

2. Direct contact with previous nannies or household staff

3. Transparent pay and schedule agreements-- no hidden extras

If you're running an agency and not doing these things, you are part of the problem.

Our Standard is Simple

If you're a family seeking a nanny through Tried and True - Nannies & Sitters, be prepared to:

• Provide contact info for prior nannies, babysitters, or housekeepers.

• Be honest about schedules, expectations, and pay.

• Treat your nanny as a professional equal.

This isn't red tape. It's the bare minimum for a healthy, safe, and professional working relationship.