Creating a Happy Nanny–Family Relationship: Tips for Long-Term Success
Finding the right nanny is just the beginning, the real magic happens when your family and your nanny build a strong, lasting relationship. Whether you’re welcoming a new nanny into your home or you’ve worked together for years, a happy nanny–family partnership is built on communication, trust and mutual respect.
Here are some simple but powerful tips from our team at Evelyn and Bloom to help both families and nannies create a relationship that truly works.
1. Communicate Early and Often
Clear communication is the foundation of any great relationship. Start with an open conversation about expectations, from daily routines to discipline styles.
For families:
Share your family’s values, parenting style and household rules.
Be honest about what’s most important to you (screen time, nutrition, learning activities, etc.).
Check in regularly. A five minute chat at the end of the day can make a big difference.
For nannies:
Don’t be afraid to ask questions if something feels unclear.
Keep a daily or weekly update on the children’s routines, moods and milestones.
Be proactive about suggesting ideas that support the family’s goals.
Pro Tip: Try setting up a shared digital journal or WhatsApp group to keep communication easy and consistent.
2. Build Mutual Trust and Respect
The best nanny–family relationships feel like a partnership. Families trust their nanny to care for what’s most precious to them and nannies trust the family to treat them fairly and respectfully.
For families:
Show appreciation regularly. A simple “thank you” goes a long way.
Respect working hours, agreed responsibilities and personal time.
Encourage professional development. A happy nanny is one who feels valued.
For nannies:
Arrive on time, be dependable and uphold confidentiality.
Treat the children and the home with care as if they were your own.
Keep professionalism high, even when you feel part of the family.
3. Create Consistency for the Children
Children thrive on routine and consistency between parents and nannies makes them feel secure. When everyone is on the same page, transitions become smoother and conflicts are rare.
Tips for consistency:
Align on nap times, meals and bedtime routines.
Use the same words for rules and praise to avoid confusion.
Share updates on developmental milestones, new skills, or behavioural changes.
Consistency helps children feel safe and helps parents and nannies feel like true teammates.
4. Handle Challenges with Kindness
Even the best relationships face bumps along the way. For example: schedule changes, misunderstandings or differing opinions. What matters most is how they’re handled.
When issues arise:
Talk in private, never in front of the children.
Focus on the issue, not the person.
Listen to understand before responding.
Find a solution together rather than assigning blame.
Pro Tip: Schedule a “check-in meeting” every few months to review what’s working and what could be improved.
5. Celebrate Wins — Big and Small
A happy working relationship grows stronger through gratitude and shared joy. Celebrate milestones, whether it’s a child learning to read, a nanny’s work anniversary, or just making it through a busy week.
Ideas to celebrate:
Leave a thank you card or small gift.
Treat the nanny to lunch or a coffee.
Acknowledge achievements in front of the children (“We’re so lucky to have you!”)
These small gestures make everyone feel appreciated and connected.
6. Working With a Nanny Agency for Support
At Evelyn and Bloom, we know that both families and nannies sometimes need guidance to maintain a positive relationship. That’s where a supportive agency can help
We assist with:
Contracts and expectations- making sure everything is clear from the start.
Conflict resolution - helping both sides communicate effectively.
Ongoing check-ins - ensuring both family and nanny feel happy and supported.
If you ever need advice or want to find a nanny who fits your family perfectly in London or anywhere in the world, our friendly team is here to help.
Contact us today to find your perfect nanny match or join our global nanny network.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you build trust with your nanny?
Start with open communication, clear expectations, and consistency. Trust builds naturally when both sides feel heard and respected.
How often should we have check-ins?
A short daily update and a longer review every month or two keeps everyone aligned.
What if there’s a disagreement?
Discuss issues calmly, in private and focus on solutions. Agencies like ours can mediate if needed.
Final Thoughts
A happy nanny–family relationship doesn’t just make life easier, it creates a nurturing environment where children thrive, parents relax and nannies feel fulfilled. With good communication, trust and a touch of appreciation, you can turn a working arrangement into a partnership that lasts for years.
Ready to hire a trusted nanny in and around London? Get in touch with our team today to find the perfect long-term match for your family.
