I recently came across the term “wounded healer,” and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. Not because I’m a psychologist. I’m not. And I’m certainly not here to diagnose an entire profession. But I’ve been in the nanny industry for a very long time. I started The Nanny League in 2010, but long before I owned a nanny agency, I was a nanny myself. I’ve interviewed thousands of women over the years. I’ve listened to their stories. I’ve watched some of them become extraordinary caregivers. I’ve also watched some burn themselves completely out trying to take care of everybody around them. And when I started reading about the wounded healer, something about it felt incredibly familiar. It made me wonder: How many of us became caregivers because, somewhere along the way, we learned how to take care of other people before we learned how to take care of ourselves?

What Is a Wounded Healer?

The term is associated with Carl Jung and, in the simplest possible terms, describes the idea that sometimes our own wounds are part of what draws us toward helping other people heal. Not because trauma automatically makes someone compassionate. It doesn’t. Not because suffering is somehow a prerequisite for being good at caregiving. It absolutely isn’t. But there is research suggesting that people drawn to caregiving professions report surprisingly high rates of difficult childhood experiences.

One study of more than 1,000 nursing students found that 83.7% reported at least one Adverse Childhood Experience, or ACE, and more than 40% reported four or more. For comparison, CDC data has found that roughly two-thirds of U.S. adults report at least one ACE, with a much smaller percentage reporting four or more. That stopped me. Because I immediately started thinking about nannies.

The Kids Who Learned to Read the Room

ACEs can include things like abuse or neglect, but also growing up around addiction, mental illness, domestic violence, incarceration, divorce or other instability in the home. And here’s the part that really got me. Sometimes children growing up in unpredictable environments become incredibly good at reading people. They notice everything. Is Mom okay? Is Dad angry? Is somebody drinking? What’s the mood in the house today? Do I need to be quiet? Does my little brother need something? What can I do to make everything okay?

A child might become incredibly attuned to tone of voice, facial expressions and tiny shifts in someone’s mood because, at one point, noticing those things helped her feel safe. Sometimes she becomes the helper. The peacemaker. The responsible one. The kid who doesn’t need anything because everybody else already needs too much. And then she grows up. What happens to all of those skills? That’s the question I’ve been sitting with. Because some of those same qualities can look an awful lot like the qualities we celebrate in exceptional caregivers: empathy, intuition, patience, the ability to anticipate a child’s needs before the child can articulate them, and the ability to walk into a room and immediately sense that something isn’t right. I have interviewed nannies who seem to possess that instinct almost innately. And now I wonder where some of them learned it.

When Taking Care of People Feels Like Breathing

There is another concept that comes up in this research: parentification. That’s when a child takes on responsibilities—practical or emotional—that really belonged to the adults around them. Maybe she helped raise younger siblings. Maybe she became her mother’s emotional support system. Maybe she was the one keeping everyone calm. Maybe she learned very early that being helpful, easy, responsible or needed was the safest role to occupy. And sometimes that child grows into an adult for whom caregiving feels completely natural. Not easy, necessarily. Natural. Taking care of people is what she knows.

I have met so many women like this during my years in the nanny industry. And again, I want to be careful here. I’m not saying every incredible nanny had a difficult childhood. I’m not saying trauma creates great caregivers. And I’m definitely not suggesting we should start asking candidates to unpack their childhoods during interviews. I’m simply saying that once I learned about this concept, I started seeing certain patterns differently. Including some of my own.

Maybe We Give What We Needed

I’ve always believed that the very best nannies understand that what they’re doing is much bigger than keeping children safe and getting everybody where they need to go. They’re creating childhood. They’re the person on the floor during the tantrum. The person who notices the child who suddenly got quiet. The person saying, I’m here. You’re safe. Tell me what happened. And I can’t help wondering whether some caregivers are exceptionally good at giving children those things because they understand, somewhere very deep inside themselves, what it feels like to need them.

Maybe sometimes we become the adult we needed when we were little. There’s something incredibly beautiful about that. But I also think there’s another side to it.

When the Gift Starts Costing You

The same qualities that can make someone an extraordinary caregiver can also make it very difficult for them to have boundaries. If your identity has always been wrapped up in being helpful, what happens when somebody asks you for more? You give it. If being needed makes you feel valuable, what happens when a ��ݮ����Ƶapp desperately needs you? You stay. You stay late. You take the extra trip. You answer the text on your day off. You say, It’s fine, when it isn’t fine. You take care of the kids. Then the parents. Then the household. Then everybody’s feelings about everything happening inside the household. And eventually you’re exhausted and resentful and can’t quite figure out how you got there.

That’s where I think this conversation becomes really important for our industry. Because we spend so much time teaching caregivers how to care for children. We talk about child development, sleep, nutrition, safety, discipline, emotional regulation and attachment. But how much time do we spend teaching the caregiver how to care for herself?

That’s What I Want to Talk ��ݮ����Ƶapp

I don’t want The Wounded Healer to be about diagnosing nannies or turning every difficult childhood into some beautiful story about resilience. Some things that happen to people are simply painful. And healing doesn’t require us to be grateful they happened. What interests me is what we do with those experiences afterward.

How do our childhoods show up in the work we choose? Why are some of us so comfortable being needed? Why do caregivers struggle with boundaries? Why can saying no feel so uncomfortable? Why do nanny-��ݮ����Ƶapp relationships become so incredibly intimate? Why does leaving a ��ݮ����Ƶapp sometimes feel more like a breakup than leaving a job? Why can a nanny advocate fiercely for a child’s needs and struggle to advocate for her own? And how do we protect the people whose entire profession is built around taking care of everybody else?

Those are the conversations I want to have here. Not as a therapist. Not as a trauma expert. But as someone who started as a nanny, built a career in this industry, and has spent the last 16 years listening to the women who do this work.

Because the more I think about the wounded healer, the more I come back to one question: If you have spent your life becoming exceptionally good at taking care of other people, have you ever stopped to ask who taught you to take care of yourself?

And if the answer is no… maybe that’s where we begin.

Trying to find a nanny can be overwhelming. It isn’t just about hiring help; it’s about finding someone you trust with your child, your home, and your daily rhythm.

The challenge is that there are many places to look, but not all of them offer the same level of care, professionalism, or reliability.

If you’ve been searching for where to find a nanny, this guide will walk you through your options and help you decide what feels right for your ��ݮ����Ƶapp.

Professional Nanny Agencies

The most supported and reliable option is working with a professional agency like The Nanny League. A nanny agency offers a more thoughtful and professional experience from start to finish.

Instead of doing it all yourself, you’ll have a trusted professional with a structured process designed to guide you through the entire process.

With an agency, your role as a parent is to clearly communicate your needs, preferences, and expectations. This includes your schedule, your child’s routine, your parenting style, and what kind of personality you’re hoping to bring into your home.

From there, the agency takes on the responsibility of sourcing, vetting, and narrowing down candidates. This means conducting interviews, verifying experiences, running background checks, and evaluating professionalism before you ever meet a candidate.

You are then introduced to a small selection of highly aligned nannies, rather than sorting through dozens (or sometimes hundreds) of unknown applicants.

Pros

• Thorough vetting process including background checks and verified experience

• Personalized matching based on your ��ݮ����Ƶapp’s needs

• Significant time saved during the search process

• Guidance through interviews, trials, and hiring decisions

• Ongoing support after placement

Cons

• Higher upfront investment

• May take longer to find someone since the agency thoroughly screens for alignment

Instead of sorting through tons of unknown profiles, you’re only meeting qualified professionals who are truly prepared for this role. For families who want clarity, confidence, and a long-term fit, this is often the best answer to where to find a nanny.

Online Platforms

Another common answer to where to find a nanny is using online platforms like Care.com.

These platforms give you access to a large pool of candidates, but they also place the full responsibility of the hiring process on you.

If you choose this route, you are responsible for creating a job post that clearly outlines your expectations, schedule, and requirements. You will then receive applications and messages from candidates, which you’ll need to review and sort through.

From there, you’ll need to conduct interviews, check references, schedule trial days and assess whether each candidate is truly qualified and trustworthy. You are also responsible for coordinating trial days, discussing pay, and handling the hiring process from start to finish.

Pros

• Access to a large number of candidates quickly

• Lower upfront cost

• Candidates are typically background-checked

Cons

• No guaranteed vetting or verification

• Time-intensive to review and manage applicants

• Inconsistent quality of candidates

• Family is responsible for all communication with every candidate who applies

This option can work, but it requires a significant amount of time and discernment. You are managing the entire process on your own and there is no support from the platform itself.

Facebook Groups and Community Boards

Many families exploring where to find a nanny turn to Facebook groups or local community boards because they are fast and accessible.

If you go this route, you’ll typically create a post describing your needs and hope to receive recommendations or direct messages from available caregivers.

From there, the responsibility again falls entirely on you.

You’ll need to review responses, initiate conversations, ask the right questions, and determine whether each individual has the experience and professionalism you’re looking for.

There is no built-in system for vetting, so you’ll need to verify references, run background checks, conduct interviews, and make judgment calls based on limited information.

Pros

• Quick responses from local candidates

• Free to use

• Community-based recommendations

Cons

• No formal screening or vetting

• Difficult to verify experience

• Higher risk of inconsistency and unreliability

• Less professionalism in many cases

• Higher risk of a candidate ghosting you
• Family covers costs of background checks
• Family is responsible for entire vetting process

This is often one of the fastest options to find a nanny, but it can feel uncertain and unpredictable. Families may find someone quickly, but there is often a high turnover, less professionalism and the chance that whoever you finally hire will ghost you.

Family and Friend Referrals

For some families, the answer to where to find a nanny starts with people they already trust.

This might look like hiring a nanny who previously worked for a friend or asking your network for recommendations.

While this option can feel more personal, it still requires a thoughtful approach.

You’ll want to have clear conversations about expectations, responsibilities, schedule, and pay. Even with a trusted referral, it’s important to treat the process professionally. You are still responsible for ensuring the individual is the right fit for your home, your child, and your long-term needs. Just because the candidate was wonderful for your neighbor, doesn’t mean they are the best option for you.

Pros

• Hiring process may happen quickly

• Comfort in hiring someone recommended

Cons

• Limited pool of candidates

• May not align with your specific needs

• Potential for blurred personal boundaries

• Less structure in the hiring process

• Family covers costs of background checks
• Family is responsible for entire vetting process

Referrals can be a great starting point, but they don’t always provide the same level of preparation and support as more structured options. This also will only give you access to a limited pool of who your friends and ��ݮ����Ƶapp have used and they might not be the best fit for your ��ݮ����Ƶapp.

So, Where Should You Find a Nanny?

If you’re still deciding where to find a nanny, it comes down to how much responsibility you want to take on and how confident you want to feel in your final decision.

Some options prioritize speed. Others prioritize cost.

But if you’re looking for a thoughtful process, carefully vetted candidates, and guidance every step of the way, working with an agency like The Nanny League offers a level of support that other options simply do not.

Start your search for the perfect nanny with The Nanny League today!

Hiring a nanny is one of the most personal decisions a ��ݮ����Ƶapp can make. You are welcoming someone into your home, your routines, and your child’s daily life. And yet many families begin the process without a clear understanding of what nannies do and where the role should reasonably begin and end.

That lack of clarity is one of the biggest reasons nanny ��ݮ����Ƶapp relationships struggle. Understanding what nannies do and what they don’t do creates a healthier, more respectful partnership for everyone involved.

What Nannies Do

A professional nanny’s primary responsibility is the care and wellbeing of your child. This goes far beyond supervision (what you would typically associate with a babysitter’s primary task).

In most households, a nanny supports:

• Daily care and routines – This includes feeding, naps, diapering, hygiene, school drop offs and pick ups, and maintaining consistency throughout the day.
• Child development and engagement – Professional nannies actively engage children through play, reading, age appropriate activities, and routines that support emotional and social growth.
• Safety and structure – Nannies help create predictable days that allow children to feel secure, safe, and supported.
• Communication with parents– Most nannies provide updates about the child’s day, milestones, challenges, and any concerns that arise.

While every ��ݮ����Ƶapp is different, the focus of a nanny’s role is always centered on the child.

What Nannies Don’t Automatically Do

One of the most common sources of tension between families and nannies comes from assumptions. Many families assume certain tasks are part of the role without discussing them clearly.

Tasks that are not automatically included unless discussed and agreed upon may include:

• Heavy household cleaning
• Family laundry unrelated to the child
• Running personal errands for parents
• Pet care beyond basic awareness
• Overtime or schedule changes without notice

This does not mean these tasks can never be included. It simply means they should be discussed openly and agreed upon in advance.

Why Clear Expectations Matter for Everyone

Clear expectations protect both families and nannies.

For families, clarity ensures:

• Your needs are met consistently
• Your household runs smoothly
• You are not relying on guesswork or unspoken assumptions

For nannies, clarity ensures:

• They understand their responsibilities
• They can do their job well without feeling stretched or unclear
• They feel respected and supported

When expectations are clear, trust grows naturally.

Setting Boundaries Is Healthy Not Rigid

Boundaries are not about being strict. They are about creating a working relationship that feels fair, respectful, and sustainable.

Healthy boundaries might include:

• Defined work hours and duties
• Clear communication about changes or concerns
• Respect for personal time and days off
• Mutual professionalism

Families sometimes worry that boundaries will make the relationship feel cold. In reality, the opposite is true. Boundaries create stability and reduce resentment.

Respect Goes Both Ways

A strong nanny ��ݮ����Ƶapp relationship is built on mutual respect.

Families show respect by:

• Honoring agreed upon duties
• Communicating changes in advance
• Trusting the nanny’s professional experience
• Providing feedback kindly and directly

Nannies show respect by:

• Following household guidelines
• Communicating openly
• Maintaining professionalism
• Respecting ��ݮ����Ƶapp values and routines

When both sides feel respected, the relationship becomes a partnership rather than a transaction.

Why This Matters for Your Child

Children thrive in environments where the adults around them feel calm, clear, and supported. When expectations are unclear, children often feel the tension even if it is never spoken aloud.

When caregivers and parents are aligned, children benefit from:

• Consistency
• Emotional safety
• Clear routines
• Stronger attachment

This alignment is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child.

Building the Right Match From the Start

At The Nanny League, we believe the best placements happen when families understand what nannies do to support their ��ݮ����Ƶapp, set clear expectations early, and respect boundaries on both sides. When this happens, everyone benefits.

A nanny is not just extra help. A nanny is a professional caregiver, a trusted presence, and an important part of your child’s daily world. When families and nannies start on the same page, everyone wins.

Start your search for the perfect nanny with The Nanny League today!

The Nanny League recognizes that childhood is shaped not just by joyful milestones but also by the ways we help children through life’s inevitable disruptions, both big and small.

From Catastrophic to Mundane: Why All Transitions Matter

Grief doesn’t always show up in obvious ways. For some children, it can show up as quiet withdrawal. For others, it may be sudden emotional outbursts or trouble sleeping. And while returning to school after summer break may seem routine to adults, for a child, it can bring feelings of anxiety, sadness, or overwhelm.

Transitions, whether catastrophic or everyday, can leave children feeling nervous. But with the right emotional environment, we can help them regain a sense of safety and stability.

What Caregivers Can Do: Supporting Children Through Life’s Ups and Downs

Here are a few tools to help you create a supportive, emotionally secure space for the children in your care:

1. Prioritize Predictability

In times of stress or grief, even the smallest routine can provide comfort. Keeping wake-up and bedtime routines consistent, building in quiet moments, and maintaining shared mealtimes can go a long way in helping children feel safe.

Tip: If your existing routines have been disrupted, consider introducing gentle structure like a morning “check-in” or after-school walk to reestablish a sense of normalcy.

2. Take Breaks

Not every moment needs to be productive. Children and their caregivers need a balance of activity, rest, and connection. When transitioning into the school year or recovering from a traumatic event, it’s helpful to notice energy shifts throughout the day and adjust accordingly. While routines are helppful, slowing down is just as important.

Tip: Allow extra time during transitions, and notice what moments seem to drain or energize your child.

3. Create or Reinforce Family Habits

Whether it’s singing a song at bedtime, sharing daily gratitude, or having a special goodbye phrase before school, these little habits offer emotional security and continuity, even when the world around them feels uncertain.

Tip: Ask your child to help choose a new ��ݮ����Ƶapp habit to empower them with a voice in their changing environment.

4. Make Room for Emotion Without Needing to “Fix” It

Children experiencing grief or anxiety may not always verbalize what they’re feeling. Let them know that it’s okay to feel sad, scared, or confused. Sometimes, the most supportive response is simply being present and listening.

Tip: Instead of saying “don’t cry,” try “I’m here with you.” Your calm presence is more powerful than your solution.

5. Be Gentle With Yourself Too

Children look to the adults in their lives for cues on how to navigate the world. Just like how nervous plane passengers look to the Flight Attendants to see if they’re calm during turbulence, children look to their caregivers.��

Offering them support doesn’t require perfection, it just requires presence. When you take time to regulate your own emotions, you’re modeling self-care and resilience for the little ones you love.

In Partnership With Families

The Nanny League is committed to supporting families through every chapter, especially the hard ones. Whether you’re navigating grief, back-to-school nerves, or something in between, know that you’re not alone.

We encourage you to explore this resource on and for more tools and inspiration. It’s full of practical ideas for bringing calm, connection, and care to your daily rhythm.

Let’s keep showing up for the children in our lives with grace, patience, and love.

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In a rapidly evolving world, fostering a child’s enthusiasm for learning is more crucial than ever. As parents, we have the unique opportunity to shape our children’s educational experiences, encouraging them to explore, question, and grow. This guide provides actionable strategies to inspire your child’s curiosity and creativity, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. From engaging in artistic endeavors to exploring the wonders of science, each activity is a stepping stone towards a brighter future.

Nurture Creativity With Artistic Activities

Engaging in artistic activities with your children is a wonderful way to foster their creativity and strengthen your bond. Whether you’re painting, drawing, or crafting, these moments can become cherished memories. To preserve these artistic treasures without cluttering your home, consider digitizing their artwork. With the��, you can quickly and easily capture any image from your device’s camera and convert it into a PDF. This digital approach not only saves space but also allows you to revisit and share your child’s artistic journey for years to come.

Create a Dynamic Learning Routine

Routines help us all feel more comfortable because they help to prevent anxiety about the unknown��. However, it’s essential to develop a learning routine for your child that balances structured activities with ample breaks. Tailor the schedule to fit your child’s age and developmental stage, ensuring younger children have more frequent breaks, while older ones can engage in longer periods of focused activity. Involving your child in creating their schedule can foster independence and a sense of ownership over their learning journey.

Get Busy In The Kitchen

Engaging your children in cooking activities is a fantastic way to nurture their love for learning while��. When kids measure ingredients, they practice math concepts like addition and fractions. By following a recipe, they learn the importance of sequencing and precision. Cooking also offers a hands-on opportunity to explore scientific concepts, such as how heat transforms solids into liquids or gasses. This approach not only makes learning enjoyable but also instills a sense of independence and accomplishment in your children.

Take Field Trips

Regular visits to museums, libraries, or science centers can greatly enrich your child’s understanding of the world by exposing them to a variety of ideas and knowledge. These outings provide an immersive learning experience that goes beyond what books can offer, engaging the imagination through interactive displays and large installations. By exploring exhibits that connect with their school subjects or personal interests, children can enhance their critical and creative thinking skills. If you can’t find a local museum that offers kid-friendly exhibits, try��.

Transform Reading into an Interactive Adventure

To nurture a lifelong love of learning in your child, consider integrating interactive e-books and audiobooks into their reading routine. These����make reading more engaging and accessible, catering to children of various reading abilities. Some platforms offer tools to create personalized e-books featuring your child’s favorite characters and stories, making reading both fun and educational.

Let Them Choose

Encouraging children to choose their own books is a powerful way to nurture their love for reading and learning. When kids have the autonomy to select stories that resonate with their interests, they are����deeply with the material. This choice not only enhances their enjoyment but also supports their emotional development by allowing them to explore themes and characters that reflect their own experiences.

Find Life Lessons Through Community Service

Engaging your children in community service projects can be a powerful way to nurture their love for learning and personal growth. By participating in activities that resonate with their interests, they not only develop new skills but also gain valuable real-world experiences. Encouraging involvement in such projects helps build a����as children witness the positive impact of their efforts on the community.

Lead By Example

Your enthusiasm for learning can significantly impact your children, demonstrating the importance of education and personal growth. If you’ve been postponing your educational goals, consider the flexibility of an online degree to pursue your dreams while managing daily responsibilities. For example, if you’ve always wanted to help people, you can gain insights into human behavior by exploring��, equipping yourself to support others. This not only fulfills your aspirations but also sets a powerful example for your children, showing them that learning is a lifelong journey.

By embracing these strategies, you can empower your child to explore the world with curiosity and confidence. As they navigate this path, they will be equipped with the tools and mindset needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Discover the perfect match for your ��ݮ����Ƶapp’s unique needs with��The Nanny League, where you can find the right caregiver for your child through a trusted and personalized placement process.

When kids gain weight too quickly, it can feel awkward bringing it up. But here’s a thought: instead of focusing on their weight or size, let’s talk about how food helps them feel awesome inside and out. One big concept to introduce is inflammation—it sound serious, but kids can totally get it when you break it down. Some foods can make their
bodies feel like there’s a tiny, invisible fire going on all the time, which isn’t good for their long-term health.

So, how do we make this relatable? Think of healthy foods like sunscreen. Just as sunscreen protects their skin on a sunny day, anti-inflammatory foods (like veggies, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins) help protect them from feeling run-down or getting sick more easily. Meanwhile, too many sugary drinks, fried treats, and processed snacks can leave their bodies working overtime and feeling blah. This isn’t about telling kids what they can’t have, but explaining why certain choices help them feel strong, energetic, and ready for anything. That’s where Worthy, created by JoAnn Stevelos, comes in. Worthy is all about guiding families to make healthier, inflammation-fighting choices—without turning it into a stressful “weight talk.” Instead, it’s a fun, positive way to show kids that what they eat matters, and that they’re worth feeling their best, every single day.

The more we learn how to take better care of our bodies and understand how our mind and body are connected, our bodies will better care for ourselves. Our bodies and our children’s bodies are worthy of good, healthy foods that help us grow and perform at our best. We deserve foods that nourish us and help us feel good about ourselves, making our thoughts feel welcome about what we ate, not guilt or shame.

If you want to learn more about using the power of kindness to raise body positive children, check out Worthy: Raising Body Positive Children—it shows families how
to use the power of kindness to create body-positive environments at home, school, and the doctor’s office. Healing our sense of worthiness and our children’s worthiness is emotional work that requires open, loving hearts to dissolve the shame and set productive boundaries. Worthy uses the best research and tools to help families build body-positive, loving homes filled with kindness and joy.

Worthy gives parents of children who have gained too much weight too fast hope, practical advice, and real-life solutions. JoAnn has over 20 years of experience
researching childhood obesity prevention programs. Her education includes a Master’s in Science (Bioethics) from Albany Medical College, a Master’s in Public Health from the State University of New York, and a BA in Liberal Arts from Columbia University.

Whether you have already found the perfect nanny for your ��ݮ����Ƶapp and need to make them an offer or you’re just researching the cost of a nanny to plan financially, here’s how much to pay a nanny and what all should be considered.��

There is not a set rate across the board since many factors go into your offer; this includes the number of children, duties required, the amount of travel expected. But it doesn’t stop there, you also need to consider benefits such as a 401k, PTO, bonuses, gas/mileage reimbursements or providing a car while on the job, health insurance or a health stipend, and more.

So let’s dive in and figure out how much you should pay a nanny.

What’s the starting rate to pay a nanny?

Legally, nannies are classified as household employees rather than independent contractors, which means you must pay a nanny based on an hourly basis. While it’s perfectly fine to have a specific salary in mind (e.g. $85,000 per year), you should then work backward to determine the appropriate hourly rate. Remember to factor in overtime and other considerations when calculating this rate as well.

If you don’t have a salary in mind, we recommend a starting rate of $25/hour. However, just because this is the starting rate, it may not be the best rate for you to offer. You need to take into account if the position is live-in or live-out. You also need to research the cost of living in your city and state and ensure your nanny can comfortably afford to live in your area. A rate of $25/hour may work in Florida but it won’t in New York.

You will need to ensure you pay your nanny a livable wage (preferably more than just the minimum) and be aware that nannies are non-exempt household employees. Meaning if they work over 40 hours each week, they should be paid an overtime rate of 1.5 x their hourly rate.

While $25/hour is our suggested starting hourly rate, the vast majority of our nannies, nationwide, start at a minimum of $30-35/hr and up. If you need help finding the right nanny for your ��ݮ����Ƶapp, start here.

How many children do you have?

Again, taking into consideration that the starting rate is $25/hour, you will need to pay a nanny more per hour if you have multiple children. We recommend at least $1/hour for each additional child. It is more cooking, cleaning, homework help, after-school activities and sibling feuds with each additional sibling.

What duties are required?

Are you only expecting a nanny to care for and help raise your child(ren)? Are you expecting them to also get groceries and clean the home? Are you expecting your nanny to take care of any pets you have? Everything above and beyond childcare should result in an increased rate.

This also means reimbursing gas expenses if your nanny will drive your children somewhere or providing a car for your nanny to use while working.

Are you offering benefits?

Because most nannies are working for families full time, we highly recommend offering benefits just like you would expect to receive from your full-time job.��

The industry standard for nanny benefits:

• Pay overtime for hours over 40 hours each week
• Two weeks (10 days) PTO
• 5 sick days

Other benefits you can offer your nanny are:

• Performance-based bonuses
• Relocation assistance
• Cell phone reimbursement
• Health insurance stipend
• 401k contributions

When deciding what to pay a nanny, ensure that the offer is just the beginning of a positive, lasting relationship between your ��ݮ����Ƶapp and your new nanny. By considering not only the hourly rate but also benefits, bonuses, and other perks, you can create a competitive offer that reflects the level of care and dedication you’re looking for. Remember, a well-compensated nanny is more likely to feel valued and stay committed long-term, which means stability and peace of mind for you and your ��ݮ����Ƶapp.

Take your time, evaluate what you’re able to offer, and don’t hesitate to discuss these details openly with your nanny to ensure everyone is on the same page. If you need help recruiting a nanny, we would love to be your agency!

This post contains affiliate links. We may receive a small commission at no cost to you if you buy something linked below

The Flintstones

Yabba Dabba Doo! Channel your inner prehistoric ��ݮ����Ƶapp with costumes straight out of Bedrock. From Fred and Wilma to Pebbles and Bam Bam, this throwback idea will have your whole crew looking like they just rolled in from the Stone Age!

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The Incredibles

Suit up as the ultimate superhero ��ݮ����Ƶapp! The Incredibles costumes are not only fun but super easy to pull together—everyone from mom and dad to the littlest ��ݮ����Ƶapp member can feel ready to save the day (or at least the candy). Don’t forget Jack-Jack’s special powers!

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Beetlejuice

With these iconic Beetlejuice-themed ��ݮ����Ƶapp costume, you can go full spooky and quirky. From Beetlejuice’s signature striped suit to Lydia’s gothic glam and even a tiny sandworm, this costume idea will have your ��ݮ����Ƶapp looking hauntingly cool while turning heads all night long!

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Monsters Inc

Step into the world of Mike, Sulley, and Boo with this colorful and beloved movie theme! Whether you’re going for laugh power or scare power, these fun monster costumes will have everyone in the ��ݮ����Ƶapp ready for a monstrously good time—and perfect for those who love a pop of color!

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The Addams Family

They’re creepy, kooky, mysterious, and spooky—perfect for Halloween! Dress up as the iconic Addams Family for a sophisticated yet spooky ��ݮ����Ƶapp look. With Morticia, Gomez, Wednesday, Pugsley, and even Uncle Fester, this is a stylishly spooky way to celebrate the season.

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Harry Potter

Turn your ��ݮ����Ƶapp into a magical crew from Hogwarts! Whether you’re repping Gryffindor, Slytherin, or another house, these Harry Potter costumes will make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into the wizarding world. Don’t forget wands, capes, and maybe a stuffed Hedwig for good measure!

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The Lion King

Get ready to rule the Pride Lands with The Lion King costumes! From Simba and Nala to Timon, Pumbaa, and even Rafiki, this beloved movie offers plenty of fun characters to bring to life. Bonus: these costumes are perfect for both big and small ��ݮ����Ƶapp members!

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Scooby Doo

Grab the Mystery Machine and solve some Halloween mysteries! Whether you’re dressing as Scooby, Shaggy, Velma, or Daphne, this classic cartoon crew makes for a playful and recognizable ��ݮ����Ƶapp costume idea. Plus, your dog can even get in on the fun!

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Star Wars

The Force will be strong with your ��ݮ����Ƶapp this Halloween! Whether you want to go classic with Luke, Leia, and Darth Vader, or mix it up with Grogu and The Mandalorian, Star Wars costumes offer endless possibilities for every ��ݮ����Ƶapp member—including pets! May the treats be with you.

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The Barbie Movie

Get ready to step into the world of Barbie with this glamorous and fun ��ݮ����Ƶapp costume idea! Whether you want to go full “Barbiecore” with bright pink outfits or mix in some of Ken’s iconic looks, this theme is perfect for families who love a little sparkle and flair. The perfect choice for families who want to be both fashionable and fabulous!

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Now that you’ve got your ��ݮ����Ƶapp costume ideas lined up, it’s time to make this Halloween your most memorable yet! We can’t wait to see your little superheroes, princesses, and magical creatures all dressed up. Don’t forget to and tag us in your ��ݮ����Ƶapp costume photo!��

Here’s to a fun, festive, and photo-worthy Halloween!