We are always asking each other for caregiver agency recommendations for those times when word-of-mouth doesn't do the trick. Here is word on some agencies that parents in this network have used, hope it helps some other families.  And remember that such services are like mutual funds: past performance is no guarantee of future results.


In terms of a baby nurse service, we had great luck with Precious Infants, 718-727-1123.

We had great luck using Frances Stewart Agency for a baby nurse when our b/b twins were born. We had originally planned on using a baby nurse for 2 weeks… which then turned into 4 weeks, then 3 mos! Frances Stewart was professional and delivered on everything they promised. Our baby nurse was Jean Assing, a very mature, competent woman who made the first months of our boys' lives much smoother than we could have hoped.

I used Frances Stewart for my nurse (as I’m sure many others have). Didn’t love my nurse, but that is her fault not the agency's.  Of the nanny agencies available, I used two:
The London Agency – found their rates and guarantee to be fair
All Home Services – this woman runs a great agency, doesn’t overcharge and will guarantee her nannies for more than most agencies, or find a replacement.
I also looked at the job market on http://www.maplewoodonline.com, which is not far from the city, and has many nannies willing to work in NY.

I used the Austin Agency in Forest Hills for baby nurses, 718-268-2700, and I could not recommend them more highly.

My good friend Doug Kozinn owns Absolute Best Care. He is a wonderful person and they are a great full-service agency. l told Doug about this email and he offered to take 10% off baby nurse fees and $200 off full time nanny placements for anyone from this twins list that calls him. He can be reached at 212.481.5705. (From twin mom Allison Schlanger)

We used Maternity and Homemaking Service, Inc. and lucked out with a great baby nurse; they offer other services as well, and were less expensive than some of the other agencies. 516 485 2553

I used Frances Stewart for my baby nurse and they were great - $250/day. I also lucked out and used them for my nanny, for which I had to pay a fee (can't remember how much).

We used the Austin Agency for our baby nurse and were extremely happy.

I found Pavilion to be very good, London Agency was so-so and Frances Stewart for baby nurses was awful. The Irish Agency is ok for nannies and Helperswest.com sends hardworking women, often Midwestern and Mormon, who are pretty good, very good work ethic.