How to Show Appreciation for Your Nanny
This year, September 20-26 is National Nanny Recognition Week! This international effort was created by nannies and industry leaders over 20 years ago. During National Nanny Recognition Week, people around the world celebrate the hardworking, dedicated, and loving nannies in their lives.
We love this week at All About Nannies, but we also think that you don’t need to wait for this special week to show appreciation for the nanny in your life! Let your nanny know how grateful you are for their work with some of these ideas below.
Check in on your work agreement
This may not be the flashiest way to show your nanny appreciation, but it’s something that they’ll appreciate themselves. As your nanny’s employer, it’s your job to stay up to date on their paperwork, taxes, pay, and so on. Check your work agreement and see if changes are needed.
Has your nanny’s role changed? Have you both agreed to expand their child care tasks? Have they begun taking on other tasks, like running errands or tidying the house? If so, nix those non-child care tasks from their routine. Or, sit down and talk to your nanny about updating the work agreement.
Reevaluate pay and benefits
On that note, if your nanny has taken on more duties, consider giving them a raise to match. You might also think about your nanny’s benefits, like health insurance, paid time off, annual bonuses, or reimbursements.
Offering benefits can help you retain your nanny for longer, and show that you care about their health and wellbeing.
Treat them to something special
Want to give your nanny an actual token of appreciation? Treat them to something special that falls in line with their personal interests. Put thought into their gift and show them that you care.
If your nanny loves hiking and being outdoors, pick up a gift card to a store like REI or Patagonia. If your nanny is passionate about baking, find some beautiful cookbooks or treat them to an upgraded kitchen tool. Do a little research into their hobbies, and you’ll find the perfect gift for your nanny.
Not really sure what to choose or short on time? You usually can’t go wrong with a gift card to a spa for some pampering and relaxation, or a gift card to a good local restaurant.
Get the kids involved
If you’re considering a handcrafted gift for your nanny, why not get the children involved? Maybe they can create a hand-drawn thank you card to go along with a flower arrangement. Or, they can help you prepare a special meal or bake a treat for your nanny.
If your kids are old enough, you can even ask them for ideas. They may want to put together their own gifts for their nanny.
Why showing appreciation is important
Presents are wonderful ways to show gratitude toward your nanny, but remember: how you treat your nanny all the time is even more important. Respect, clear communication, understanding, and kindness can go a long way in making your nanny feel appreciated.
When you show your nanny appreciation in these ways, you’ll strengthen your bond and set good expectations for your professional relationship. Your nanny will know that you care about them and that you’re appreciative of their hard work.
Find your perfect nanny with All About Nannies
Looking for the perfect nanny in Phoenix? All About Nannies has helped families in Arizona match with nannies since 2002. We also offer placement services for newborn specialists, night nurses, private educators, and more. Browse through our placement packages and fill out our family application online to get started!
