Hiring a nanny isn’t just about finding the right fit for your children. It’s also about the role you play as an employer. The way you set expectations, communicate, and support your nanny will determine whether the relationship thrives or struggles. In this article, we’ll walk through practical steps every family can take to become the kind of employer that great nannies want to work with.

1. Pay on time, without exception

Best practice: Every other Friday, by 5:00 PM.
Reliability shows your nanny that you value their work and builds trust.

2. Keep a shared hours log

Best practice: A simple notebook in the home where the nanny records daily start/end times, which families can review anytime.
How to frame it: “This is to make sure we’re aligned and nothing gets lost at the end of the week. It protects both of us from mistakes.”

3. Be clear about expectations

Best practice: Put duties, breaks, and responsibilities in writing in a contract. Clarity prevents misunderstandings and supports smoother care.

4. Encourage daily updates

Best practice: 1-2 photos and a quick note on meals, naps, or milestones. Over time this becomes both a communication tool and a keepsake of your child’s development.
How to explain it: “We love feeling connected to his/her day. Our aim is not to be checking up on you. It's about building a memory book of our child’s growth.”

5. Respect time

Best practice: Be punctual at hand-offs; if late, pay for extra time. Respecting boundaries keeps your nanny rested and able to give their best.

6. Provide the right tools

Best practice: Attach an Apple Tag or phone to the child’s stroller/bag if tracking is desired.
How to frame it: “This is for our peace of mind about our child, not about monitoring you. We want you to have everything you need to focus on care.”

7. Share your parenting philosophy

Best practice: Capture key family rules (discipline, screen time, routines) in your contract with the nanny.
How to frame it: “We want you to feel confident that what you do at home matches what we do. Consistency is what helps our child feel secure.”

8. Plan the week together

Best practice: Review a short activity plan once a week to build on the child’s skills. This makes every week build on your child’s skills and growth.
How to frame it: “We want to be intentional about our children’s development. This way we’re a team helping our children grow step by step.”

9. Prioritize nap-time tasks

Best practice: Share a short list (laundry, tidying, meal prep) with weekly priorities. Nap times vary. Clear priorities ensure the most important tasks get done without stress.
How to frame it: “We know nap times aren’t always predictable. This way, you don’t have to guess. If you only have 30 minutes, you’ll know what matters most.”

10. Show appreciation

Best practice: Verbal thanks, small gestures, or notes of recognition. Families who show consistent appreciation retain great nannies far longer. When families share pictures or notes from their children around the time they missed their nanny or accomplished something the nanny has been working with them towards, those moments mean the world to the nannies.

How to Be a Great Employer to Your Nanny: Essential Tips for Families