FIVE TIPS TO HELP TRANSITION FROM NANNY TO HOUSE MANAGER

~ Kristen DeCamp

Sweat the small stuff. Notice the details.  

Check that all light bulbs are working. Dust for cobwebs. Clean behind the appliances. And if you do nothing else, make sure that there is plenty of toilet paper! You may be in charge of a multi-million dollar estate with monumental responsibilities, but nobody cares how busy you are when your boss is left with an empty roll of toilet paper. When he has to choose between using his very expensive organic towel or his hand to finish the job, someone is getting fired!

Prepare to have rich hobbies. 

Your employers may enjoy exotic travel, expensive wine and whiskey, art, high-end vehicles, or may have an agrarian bent.  You need to make these passions your own in order to serve your employers tastes. Find online enthusiasts, forums, and advice from experts.  Passionate people love to share their successes and failures. Their expertise will make you look like a rock star!!

                  Read what your employer’s read. Watch what they watch. 

When you immerse yourself in someone’s home, you need to see the world through their eyes in order to best serve them.  This principle applies to everyone you know. This insight will make you far more intuitive to your employer’s tastes, likes and dislikes.

Never go to your employer with a problem without having at least one or two solutions.

Nobody likes drama or chaos.  Your job is to solve problems.  Save your employer time by doing the research and developing a plan of action. They did not hire you to complain, they hired you to save them time and bring a sense of calm to their home.

There is going to come a time where you could see your employer naked. 

This is not something in the formal job description, but how you handle the three seconds afterwards can greatly impact your Christmas Bonus! The only acceptable response to this embarrassing situation is to say, “Hey, you’ve been working out haven’t you?”

Kristen DeCamp is a leading expert in the domestic staffing industry. Her knowledge base and skill set are unmatched. Kristen began her career as a nanny many years ago and gracefully morphed into a full-time house manager. Currently, she serves as Chief of Staff for her principal, overseeing multiple estates and their staff.

APNA Approved Agencies Blog

Whether it be purchasing a new television or hiring a new Nanny, you want to make sure you’re getting the best. Searching for a Nanny on your own can be a rigorous and stressful process, so using a company like Seaside Staffing Company can help alleviate a lot of the hassle.

APNA stands for the Association of Premiere Nanny Agencies. This association’s mission is to ensure that you will be working with the best of the best in the Nanny industry. In order for a nanny agency to get the stamp of APNA approval, they must go through arduous background searches. APNA even goes to the lengths of creating a personal relationship with the nanny agencies in order to get a better understanding of their company and establish a lasting connection.

When choosing a nanny agency to correspond with, it’s always a good idea to double-check that they are APNA certified. This should give you peace of mind, and allow you to find the nanny of your dreams with ease! 

~ Sara Luckham

Seaside Staffing Company 

Social Media Specialist

Quitting Your Nanny Job

We have all been there....  Looking for a way to leave our family but cannot come up with the best way to go~  From Seaside's perspective, we would never want our candidates to blow off work for fear of confrontation especially if its a new job as it makes EVERYONE in the process look unprofessional.  We prefer a notice delivered with kindness.  I found this great new "Nanny Magazine" online and thought I would share it with you as it also seems to have great content for our field of expertise!

I also thought that the history was important to share as well, you can read about this Nanny Magazine here.

25 Outdoor Water Play Ideas!

Hope everyone had a relaxing Labor Day weekend! Found these great water play ideas from our friends over at Happy Hooligans :) Take a look! 

READ HERE! 

The Legal Review by Breedlove and Associates - Employment Taxes

A Complimentary Resource from © 2014 Breedlove & Associates, LLC. Breedlove & Associates

When it comes to taxes, the tiniest of details can be the difference between smooth sailing and a giant headache. With the back-to-school hiring rush in full swing, now is a great time to familiarize yourself with a few household employment details (also known as the "nanny taxes," although the payroll, tax and labor laws apply to all types of domestic workers employed by a family). This particular household employment case highlights how a family's personal income tax return became much more complicated after the wrong tax returns were filed.

The Mistake

The Richmond family hired a nanny last year and utilized a local CPA to handle their tax return filings. The CPA made all the family's quarterly state tax payments on their behalf and prepared their year-end documents, but also made quarterly federal tax payments for the family using Form 941.

The Law

The use of Form 941 is for remitting federal quarterly tax payments for commercial businesses. But household employers are not commercial businesses, and according to IRS Publication 926, they should make estimated tax payments using the federal 1040 Estimated Payment schedule. The only exceptions to this rule are if the family already owns a business as a sole proprietor or if they operate a for-profit farm. These estimated payments cover the Social Security & Medicare (FICA) and federal income taxes withheld from an employee as well as the employer's share of FICA and federal unemployment insurance taxes. The taxes are remitted to the IRS in mid-April, mid-June, mid-September and mid-January using Form 1040-ES.

The Mess

When the Richmond's CPA filed their personal income tax return and Schedule H this year, the IRS showed the family owed additional taxes coincidentally equaling the amount of the taxes they sent in on their 941 returns. The family contacted the IRS and an agent informed them of their error in using Form 941. Unfortunately, the Richmonds were already past the 1st quarter of 2014 when they spoke to the agent and their CPA had filed another Form 941 on their behalf. 

The Outcome

The family ultimately had to file amended 941 returns for all of 2013 and the 1st quarter of 2014 with instructions to transfer those tax payments to their personal taxes using their Social Security number. This allowed the Richmonds to amend their 2013 personal income tax return and get on the 1040 Estimated Payment schedule for the rest of the 2014. While ultimately the family's CPA had all the family's payroll and tax information correct from the beginning, the mistake of filing a Form 941 instead of Form 1040-ES resulted in hours of additional work and a frustrated client. 

Household employment is a highly-nuanced section of the tax code with numerous exceptions and exemptions that don't apply to commercial enterprises. The state and federal complexities, combined with the unique labor law obligations, can create risk for families and liability for their advisors. That's why we were created as a comprehensive "nanny tax" specialist. Founded in 1992, we provide families in all 50 states with an affordable, "no-work, no-worry" solution to household employment payroll, tax and HR obligations.

Quick Tax Facts:

$1,900: Annual wage threshold for Social Security & Medicare (FICA) reporting in 2014

$1,000: Quarterly wage threshold for Unemployment reporting (some state thresholds are lower)

$2,500: Total childcare tax breaks available for families

1.5: Overtime rate of pay when work exceeds 40 hours

$0.56: Federal mileage reimbursement rate in 2014

$7.25: Federal minimum wage (some state rates are higher)

$2: Approximate daily cost to have HomePay by Breedlove handle all payroll and tax compliance duties with no work and no worry.

COOL Summer Project!

HOW COOL IS THIS?!  What an awesome summer activity to do with the kiddos!  Thanks to "Shared & Remembered".  And it's so easy...

Just add water to ice cube trays and mix in some fun food coloring colors.  Freeze overnight and VOILA!

Take those goodies outside with some butcher paper, or even better, fabric, and you have created a cheap, easy, cool and engaging activity for your kids!

Let us know any ideas you have to keep the kids cool for summer! 

Helicopter Parenting: Not A Pretty View

A nanny used the term "Helicopter Parenting" to describe one of the mothers she worked with. (She was letting me know the "types of personalities" that she is comfortable working with.) So I just thought the term was so "well coined" I decided I would look it up. 

Turns out, this style of parenting is more common than we think! Unfortunately, it tends to lead to some serious social issues for the child in the future.

I found this on Parents.com and I thought it was worth posting. The video at the end is also great, as defines the 4 different types of parenting styles that we bring our children up with.

What type of parenting style are you??

http://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/what-is-helicopter-parenting/

10 Things Your Nanny Wont Tell You

Thought this was an interesting article I found on 

Marketwatch, 

very interesting!  

Some of it I agree with and some of the things, I don't, but curious, what your thoughts are?  Send us a note and let us know!

info@seasidestaffingcompany.com

Don't Forget to Visit Us Online!

www.seasidestaffingcompany.com

Passover Holiday Fun!

The Passover Holiday is right around the corner! We thought this was a fantastic way to get children into telling
the story of the Exodus by interacting with puppets they made themselves! The kids love being part of the Seder by acting out the story at the Seder table when the 10 plagues are mentioned! Check it out! Adorable!

http://www.creativejewishmom.com/2011/04/ten-plagues-passover-craft-fun-placards-for-the-seder.html%20

www.seasidestaffingcompany.com

OUR BEAUTIFUL NEW WEBSITE IS UP AND LIVE!

www.seasidestaffingcompany.com

Seaside Staffing Company specializes in placing only proficient candidates of the highest caliber in private households. We are a boutique domestic staffing agency that has been taking care of Southern California's families for over 10 years. As experts in the field, we are known for our philosophy of service, knowledge and accessibility. We focus on the security and privacy of our clients' most valuable assets.

Fun St. Patrick's Day Shamrocks!

Not only does this make such wonderful decorations but it's such a great way to celebrate the luck of the Irish with your children! Found this wonderful idea on We Know Stuff blog with  a step by step tutorial on how to involve your little one's in the creative process. Don't be afraid to get dirty, It's part of all the fun!  For more information go to their awesome page:

http://www.weknowstuff.us.com/we-know-stuff/2013/02/kids-craft-coffee-filter-shamrocks.html

My Opinion Of What New Mom's Need For Their New Baby!

NEWBIE CHECK LIST

Crib
 Fitted Crib Sheets

4)
 Kids Pottery Barn makes soft yummy ones and they are great quality

Newborn Car Seat
:

Graco for newbie because the care seat can usually clip from stroller frame into back facing car seat once the baby can sit face forward, BRITTAX!

Stroller (s)


NEWBIE STROLLER: 

Anything she is lying down in.  There are many, many strollers to chose from, I just think it is a personal choice as well as a financial one.  Strollers can get very pricey!  I think the Mc Claren for umbrella stroller (throw in the trunk, fold up and take to Seaworld) However, you will need a BOB single stroller for daily walks in the neighborhood.  Then you might have to buy various other ones for other things…  you will see!

Sling or Baby Carrier:


Baby Bjorn for sure!!    www.babybjorn.com

Wraps are also awesome!

Diaper Bag:

You will get one if not three from your shower, however, I never use a diaper bag because they are incredibly cumbersome and not that important.  Just use your favorite backpack and make sure its stocked with these essential items:

Diapers

Diaper crème

Empty and clean bottle

Enough powder formula to make up 8 0z of formula (if needed)

Wipes in a plastic bag

Paper Changing Pad liner for changing in a restroom or the car

Extra swaddle

Extra bib

Extra pair of socks

Extra outfit/onesie

Snacks

Pacifier

Toys and some cardboard books

Newborn
 Diapers:

PAMPERS Swaddlers (yellow packaging) they fit the best and they DO NOT LEAK.  (Huggies leak in a horrible way, especially if the baby has a soft BM or a very loose one!) You will rapidly go through these and be onto size 2 and then to size three in roughly 6 months, however from size three, it usually remains that size for a LONG time, most likely until they are out of diapers.  You can never have enough.

Diaper Disposal:

DAKOR and make sure you buy the boxes of liners also.  They should be on the same shelf.  Also buy several boxes of the blue diaper disposable bags for the stinky ones!

Baby Wipes
:

Sensitive Wipes (white packaging with green writing)

Baby Facecloths:

(12-15)
 Baby cloth diapers and bibs are really all you need, but you know someone will get you a huge supply for the shower as well!  These are tiny little wash cloths that I have always found to take up space in the drawer, because I never used them…  again, the thin “cloth diapers or Burp rags” are the best, I believe you can find at target in a  package of 3.

Baby Sleepers/PJ’s:

(8)
 They can sleep in the rompers that you buy, just buy more of them…  Also when the baby gets older (3-6 months) the GAP has the BEST PJ’s!

SLEEP SACKS!  Get two that are light-weight for summer and two that are fleecy for the colder months

Onsies or Rompers:

I prefer at least (10), however my favorites are from PETITE BATEAU.  However, they are very expensive.  You can get them at Sweet Pea in the Flower Hill Mall on Via de la Valle. 

Baby Outfits: (2-4) for photos or special occasions the first few weeks.  :)

You will get plenty from your friends, half of which will never make it onto the baby!  These are not really necessary, but you will want some…  The gap had AWESOME stuff for the baby…  just make sure its cotton and washed before you put it on the baby with DREFT!

Baby Socks 
Gap

Scratch Mittens:

(1-2)
 these are fine and you should have a pair or two, however, if you trim her nails from the beginning, you will not need these.  However its important she has no sharp edges on her nails, I can show you how to trim her nails…  many people are nervous about cutting their skin, but you won’t if you do it with confidence!  

Swaddling Blankets: (10) NORDSTROMS


Receiving Blankets: (6)  NORDSTROMS


Newborn Cap: (1-2)


Hooded Bath Towel

Baby Formula: (Even if planning to breastfeed)


YES!  Enfamil Lipil pink label, liquid in can, NOT THE POWDER!! Its better because the baby will not ingest any extra air bubbles by swallowing the foam the powder creates. Besides I am a stickler for measuring out and having bottle already made up in advance!  It is always a good thing to have a packet of powder in your baby bag, at all times.  Make sure you always pay attention to dates on the packaging.

Bibs:  (10 tiny ones) Get the ones that have VELCRO!!  The snaps can be tricky when you can only get it on with one hand!  Remember that you become awesome at doing things ONE HANDED!  You also what to be as quick and effective when the baby is SCREAMING because she is hungry and its ripping your heart out while you are trying to get her bottle ready to feed her!

Baby Shampoo
 and Soap:

Johnson and Johnson or Mustella…

Baby Wash


Johnson and Johnson are great for when the baby is older (6 months) but believe it or not, a regular Dove Bar is what the doctor recommended when they are teeny tiny. Mustella is also a great product, but the smell used to get to me after a while.  Again, it’s a preference thing and also see what the Dr. recommends.

Baby Lotion/Oil:


Aquaphor on hand at all times!  Great for extremely dry skin! Aveeno is fine, but make sure she has no allergies!  Johnson and Johnson CORN STARCH

Diaper cream
 DESITIN (original)

Tiny Nail Clipper and an emory board

Baby Brush and Comb


Pacifier
(s):  I do not recommend them, unless they are having a problem with their sucking reflex, they are an outside source for soothing, and babies should be able to self soothe, if needed. 

Baby Tub:  Basic little blue one that they have at Babies R Us, it has the “sit up” option for when the baby sit up on her own.

Baby Swing:


This is a personal preference and usually you will get one for your shower as well.  I like the newer ones that allows you to swing the baby both horizontal and vertical and had the little birdies and butterflies above.  You can get these anywhere, however, Kidsland is also a great place to get all types of baby products. 

Baby Bouncing Chair
:

Start with the vibrating bouncy chair that she will use until she starts moving (3 months) and gets too big.  Then she spends time in her swing and her upright walker that you can prop her into at around 6 months, when she is sturdy enough.  Lastly,  a “bouncy” apparatus that she can jump up and down with.  While it is a lot of fun, it is really good for muscle building and coordination.

Changing Pad:


Yes, it’s always nice to have a changing table, however if you do not, then the floor always works and its safe.

Changing Pad Cover

(4) Babies R’ Us, They make Terry cloth ones that wash well and have a plastic under liner.

Breast Pump:
  You can also rent them~

Pump storage bags


Breast pads


Breast Feeding Pillow
:  Yes, even if you are not breastfeeding!

Having a Boppy is so handy!!  BOPPY this is a GREAT shower gift have someone buy it for you!!

Nipple cream


Nursing bras


Bottles

(8-10)
  ADVENT (keep it uniform with bottles) you will also se her transition easier sippy cup with staying consistent.  Make sure to get different sizes (both small and larger bottles) as well as all three sizes of nipples size 1, 2, and 3.

Bottle liners
 NOT NECESSARY.

Baby Monitor


BEBE Sounds Monitor  detects motion with a pad under the crib mattress.  It can me a little annoying at first, but you get used to the clicking and it becomes part of your environment when the baby is sleeping.  YOU DO NOT NEED A VIDEO MONITOR, it will not alert you if the baby stops breathing and you will NOT be able to see it while you are look at your sleeping baby through the monitor.  If you need to see the baby while she sleeps, that is one thing, however, not effective for detecting her breathing and preventing SIDS.

Digital Thermometer


2 kinds I would have in the changing table top drawer: Head Scan thermometer, and Rectal thermometer

Mild laundry detergent DREFT!

WORKSHOP FOR SLEEP TRAINING WITH DAVIS EHRLER

WORKSHOP WITH DAVIS EHRLER!!

RELIEF FOR THE EXHAUSTED PARENT

This is an INCREDIBLE workshop, lead by an expert, whom has been taking care of San Diego parents and their children for years. It will be in held in Pacific Beach, see below for details!

I have known Davis since I started Seaside, as she came to my clients houses for a consultation on how to get the baby into a proper sleeping and eating routine.  Davis took the mom and I through a 3-hour, hands on teaching session with the baby and showed us how to be effective in creating the perfect schedule. She explained to us how sleep nourishes the BRAIN and food nourishes the BODY.  Within 3 days, my little charge at 4 months old was on a PERFECT schedule.  

Hearts in Nature

How many hearts can you find in nature this weekend with your children? Check out Slow Family Online and go out and enjoy the weather today!