Frequently asked questions

1. About MJ’s Care Crew

Q: What does MJ’s Care Crew do? A: We connect Bloemfontein families with trustworthy caregivers - babysitters, au pairs, tutors, after-school drivers, and child-care helpers.

Q: Who are your caregivers? A: Our caregivers are reliable students and young adults with childcare experience. Every applicant is screened, interviewed, reference-checked, and background-checked.

2. How to Apply

Q: How do families apply? A: Parents apply through our Parent Application Form on the website. Once placement is confirmed, a R750 placement fee applies.

Q: How do caregivers apply? A: Caregivers apply via our Caregiver Application Form on the website. You’ll need your ID and driver’s license to apply. A R250 joining fee applies only if your application is successful.

Q: What about house/pet sitting, once-off babysitting, event babysitters, or emergency care? A: For these once-off or short-notice services, families complete our Quick Request Form on the website.

3. Services & Expectations

Q: What can caregivers help with? A: School pick-ups, transport, homework help, tutoring, meal prep, playtime, and after-school care.

Q: What hours do caregivers usually work? A: Most roles are part-time - mainly weekday afternoons. Caregivers can work weekends, holidays, or stay overnight if specially arranged in advance.

Q: What is not included? A: Deep cleaning, heavy lifting, and tasks not related to childcare.

4. Placement Process

Q: How does matching work? A: After receiving your application, we shortlist suitable caregivers, arrange interviews, and help finalise schedules and rates.

Q: How long does placement take? A: Usually 3–14 days, depending on your needs and caregiver availability. 

Q: Can families meet caregivers beforehand? A: Yes, we arrange an online or in-person interview before anything is confirmed.

5. Safety & Screening

Q: What checks do caregivers go through? A: Caregivers are background-checked to ensure a clean criminal record and a valid driver’s license, and we verify references and interview each applicant.

Q: Do you support ongoing communication? A: Yes - after placement, we check in with both families and caregivers to make sure everything runs smoothly.

6. Policies, Fees & Support

Q: What if the match isn’t working? A: We offer a 5-day trial period at the start of every placement. If the match is not successful, we provide one free replacement. After that, we’re still available for support whenever needed.

Q: What if a caregiver becomes sick or unavailable? A: We offer stand-in caregivers where possible, even on short notice.

Q: How are payments handled? A: Caregivers log their hours and kilometres driven. The agency invoices parents monthly on behalf of the caregivers.

7. Contact Us

Q: How do I get in touch? A: You can contact us via WhatsApp, email, or the website’s contact form. We’re always happy to help!