That’s a considerable improvement on the last survey, in 1992, when 90 percent of nanny agencies were flouting the rules. But the best part is a detailed comparison chart — with agency names — that outlines the surveyed agencies’ fee structures, licensing status, and policies on background checks, references, and refunds. It’s invaluable information for parents looking for child care, of course, but even families who’ve settled in with a nanny will want to see what comes next: a few voyeuristic gems from researcher interviews, tucked neatly into the comment section. One nanny, for example, told researchers she was forced to give foot massages and sleep in a basement with an active sewage leak. And an agency seemed to be particularly attentive to customers’ needs. “We’ve got Philippines, Africans, Indians, African-Americans,” one rep said to a researcher posing as a parent. “Whatever you want.” And you thought it was hard to find good, casually racist help these days. —Tracie McMillan
Council Investigation Reveals Bad Practices at Nanny Agencies [NYCCouncil.info]