The holiday season can feel magical and overwhelming at the same time. Families are juggling school breaks, travel plans, parties, gift shopping, and the usual day to day routines. Nannies are juggling these shifts too, often while caring for their own families and traditions. December brings a lot of joy, but it can also bring blurred lines and last minute changes.

If you have ever wondered what is fair to ask of your nanny this time of year, you are not alone. Many families reach out to us with the same questions. This guide is here to help you feel confident, supported, and aligned with your nanny through the busy holiday season.

Start with Open and Kind Communication

Clear communication is your best tool during the holidays. It sets expectations and keeps everyone feeling respected.

Here is a real example. A family wanted their nanny to stay later on several nights in December because of work events. They shared their schedule a few weeks early, asked if the nanny was available, and offered extra pay. Their nanny said yes because she felt respected and included in the conversation. That simple step protected the relationship and kept the month feeling smooth for everyone.

You can create the same sense of ease by:

• Sharing schedule changes early

• Asking before adding extra hours

• Talking about holiday events that impact routines

A calm and honest conversation can prevent stress later on.

Respect Personal Time and Traditions

Nannies have their own holiday plans, family commitments, and personal traditions. December is not only busy for your home. It is busy for theirs too. Asking your nanny to stay late with little notice or to cancel a personal plan can feel discouraging and even disrespectful.

Requests that are usually appropriate:

• Pre planned extra hours

• Seasonal tasks that align with childcare like wrapping gifts with the children or helping with holiday crafts

• Regular childcare routines on days your nanny already works

Requests that are usually not appropriate:

• Last minute schedule changes that disrupt evenings or weekends

• Additional household chores outside the nanny role

• Asking your nanny to cancel their planned holiday time

This season is a wonderful opportunity to show your nanny that you value them as a whole person.

Balance Extra Holiday Needs with Fair Compensation

It is normal for families to need a bit more help in December. Children are home more. Gifts need organizing. Visitors come and go. These extra needs can be handled in a way that feels thoughtful and fair.

If you ask your nanny to take on more hours or different tasks, consider:

• Overtime pay

• Holiday pay where appropriate

• Clear expectations

• Advance notice whenever possible

Many nannies tell us that the kindness families show during holiday months strengthens their sense of partnership. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way.

Avoid Last Minute Changes When You Can

Life happens. We understand. Still, last minute changes can cause stress for your nanny especially when they also have seasonal commitments.

If something unexpected comes up:

• Communicate immediately

• Ask rather than assume availability

• Offer options or solutions

• Acknowledge any inconvenience

When your nanny feels supported, they are more willing to be flexible when you truly need it.

Use the Temp Booking Platform for Support and Guidance

The holiday season does not need to feel confusing. The Temp Booking Platform offers helpful tools for families and nannies. You can explore guidelines on boundaries, scheduling, role expectations, and communication. Families using both long term and short term nanny support tell us the app gives them peace of mind. It helps everyone stay aligned and supported during busier months. Click here for more information.

 

At The Nanny Joynt, we believe great childcare is built on respect and connection. When families and nannies work together with honesty and care, the relationship grows stronger. You create a home where everyone feels valued and appreciated.

The holidays will always bring full calendars and shifting routines. Healthy boundaries help you move through the season with ease and kindness.

As you move through December, remember that you and your nanny are a team. You are both doing your best to support your home and your children. If you ever need guidance, reassurance, or resources, our team is here for you.

You can connect with us, learn more, or explore tools like The Temp Booking Platform that support clear boundaries and strong relationships. We are honored to walk alongside you on your childcare journey. 💛