Preparing your family for a new Nanny.

Welcoming a new nanny into your home is an exciting step, but it can also feel like a big change. A nanny isn’t just there to look after your children, they become part of your household and your daily routine, often spending many hours with your family each week.

While parents naturally focus on preparing their child, it’s just as important to prepare the whole family. Taking time to do this can make the transition smoother, calmer and far more positive for everyone involved.

Talk About the Change as a Family.

Before your nanny starts, have open and age-appropriate conversations with your children about what’s going to happen.

For younger children, reassurance is key:

• “We’ve chosen someone kind and fun to help look after you.”

• “Mummy and Daddy will still be here , and your nanny is here to help us.”

Older children may have more questions or concerns. Encourage them to talk openly about how they feel and involve them where possible, for example by asking what activities they enjoy or what they’d like help with after school.

Helping children feel informed and included can ease anxieties and build trust from the start.

Make Sure Parents Are Aligned.

Children are incredibly perceptive, so it’s important that parents are on the same page before a nanny arrives.

Take time to agree on:

• House rules and boundaries

• Daily routines (mealtimes, naps, homework, screen time)

• Parenting approaches and expectations

• How you’ll communicate with your nanny day to day

A clear and consistent approach gives your nanny confidence and helps children feel secure and settled.

Prepare Your Home Practically.

A few simple preparations can make a big difference to how comfortable your nanny feels in your home.

You might want to:

• Clear space for coats, bags or personal items

• Write down routines, emergency contacts and key information

• Set up a nanny diary or shared app for updates

• Explain how things work around the house

These small but thoughtful steps help your nanny settle in quickly and show that they are a valued part of the household.

Introduce Your Nanny Gently.

If possible, arrange a relaxed introduction before the nanny officially starts. Even a short meet-and-greet can help children feel more at ease.

In the early days:

• Be present for handovers where you can

• Keep goodbyes calm and confident

• Allow time for your nanny and children to get to know each other naturally

Children often take cues from their parents, if you’re calm and positive, they’re more likely to feel the same.

Expect an Adjustment Period.

Even with good preparation, it’s completely normal for there to be a settling-in period.

Children may:

• Become clingy

• Test boundaries

• Show changes in behaviour

This doesn’t mean something is wrong. Try to keep routines consistent, offer plenty of reassurance and avoid introducing too many changes at once. Trust takes time, and every child adjusts at their own pace.

Keep Communication Open.

Good communication is essential for a successful nanny-family relationship.

• Encourage regular updates and honest conversations

• Share feedback kindly and constructively

• Let your children know it’s okay to talk about how they’re feeling

A respectful, open approach creates a positive working relationship and helps everyone feel supported.

Remember, a Nanny Is a Partnership.

A nanny works best when they feel trusted, respected and part of the team. Preparing your family, emotionally and practically, sets the tone for a strong, long-term relationship that benefits everyone, especially your children.

How Cheshire Nannies Can Support You.

At Cheshire Nannies, I understand that welcoming a nanny into your home is a big step. That’s why I take care to match families with experienced, fully vetted nannies who understand family life and the importance of a smooth transition.

If you’re considering a nanny or preparing to welcome one into your family, I am always happy to offer advice and support.