Many parents (including yours truly) need someone else to help take care of their children at times...when they go to work, plan an evening out, or cannot use their regular provider because of closure or illness. In fact, just last week, I stayed home 4 days because my girls took turns running a fever - nothing else, just "mommy can we do this and that and this" kind of fever. It can be difficult to find someone that you trust with your angels.
A great guide for making your decision - Morningside Nannies, a placement agency for nannies. They offer live-in or live-out nannies to fit your needs, already screened and interviewed. I was surprised that they also provide temporary services - baby nurses for newborns (who couldn't use a little help then!), care for ill children who cannot attend school on the same day that you absolutely cannot miss work, group care for events, and baby sitting for that night out on the town.
Of course a placement agency should have credentials too, right? Pat Cascio, owner, has been placing nannies for 23 years and is the president of the International Nanny Association. But you should check them out yourself!
***If you know of any other great resources for moms in Houston/The Woodlands, email me and I will do a little research! debi@lifesimages.com ***