As a psychologist, one of my specialties is personality screening. Having worked with companies in helping them to evaluate prospective employees, I drew upon that experience in finding my own nanny. I interviewed each candidate in person, checked her references, and watched how she interacted with Avery. I know that a person can interview well, but still not possess the qualities that are needed in a good nanny. I gave each candidate a 200 question personality screen. Although all 4 nannies I interviewed seemed competent, the screen revealed much more about their personalities than I could have learned from an interview. Some scored well on certain traits, but not as well on others. One nanny scored highly on every characteristic related to being a good caregiver. She became our daughter’s nanny.

I am often asked if someone can outsmart the screen and come up with a good score that is false. This is very difficult to do. The screen has built-in validity scales that measure whether someone is attempting to appear different than they truly are. The screen simply measures the candidate on different work-related traits which helps us know if they are well suited for a particular job. I knew how a good nanny should score on the screen. The screen is not guaranteed to predict a nanny’s behavior. It is a scientifically valid tool that provides additional, valuable information to guide us in making better, more informed decisions.

Michelle became Avery’s nanny for the first 24 months of her life. Avery is 18 years old now, and I still attribute my smooth transition back to work and Avery’s happy temperament to Michelle’s competence, love, and dependability. I was at peace when I left Avery in the morning, knowing that she was receiving the same quality of care that I would give her. Michelle worked with me to establish a loving, secure and stimulating environment for Avery’s developing personality. She also initiated tasks and ran errands that helped our household run smoothly while I was working. I knew I could count on her. In return, I treated her with respect and consideration, knowing that she was a vital part of my family’s well-being, and over time, a valued friend.

I realized that other moms would benefit from my screening process, and I asked Michelle if she would assist me in providing a service to help moms find the best nannies for their children. We named the service Safe and Sound Nannies.

Our goal is to find your family the most experienced, reliable, and loving nannies that are available. A nanny must be good enough for our family if she’s going to be good enough for yours!