Setting Your New Nanny Up for Success: Best Practices for Smooth Transitions

Hiring a nanny is such an exciting step, and it means more support for your busy family, more consistency for your kids, and a smoother rhythm for your home. But as with any new beginning, there’s also a transition period. Think about it: when you start a new job, you don’t just walk in blind and hope for the best. You’re shown around, introduced to routines, and given time to find your groove.

Your nanny deserves that same thoughtful start. And the good news? A little preparation on the front end goes a long way in setting them (and your family) up for success.

Here are some simple, practical ways to make those first days count:

// Prep Before Day One Before your nanny arrives, take a few minutes to get the basics ready. Write out the daily schedule, jot down important contacts, and make sure things like snacks, diapers, and extra clothes are easy to find. Some families even put together a “family handbook” — a packet with things like household rules, allergies, favorite meals, and routines. As time rolls on, your new nanny will learn the intricacies of your home and child's quirks. Until then, giving them a leg up can only help.

It doesn’t need to be fancy. Even a few notes scribbled on paper and stuck to the refrigerator can help your nanny feel confident right from the start.

// Do a Little Home Orientation Instead of diving straight in, plan a short “orientation day.” Walk your nanny through the house, show them where things live, and take some time to explain your family’s routines.

This could include:

• How you handle bedtime routines

• What your boundaries around screen time look like

• How you prep bottles or limit snacks

• What helps calm your child during meltdowns

  
  

Think of it like giving them the cheat sheet to your family’s rhythm.

// Try a Shadow Day One of the best ways to help a new nanny get comfortable is with a shadow day. This is where your new nanny observes and slowly joins in while either you or your existing nanny lead the day.

• If you’re at home: Your nanny can watch how you guide transitions, handle discipline, and go through the daily flow.

• If there’s a current nanny: Even better. Your new nanny can pick up on little details directly from the person who knows your kids best.

  
  

This is great for your nanny — but it’s also reassuring for your children, who get to see consistency during the handoff. And there is something so special about seeing a child take to a new nanny when they see parents/previous nanny take the time to partner together.

// Talk About Communication Early Every nanny-family relationship runs smoother with clear communication. Decide how you want to stay in touch during the day: quick texts, photos, a written log, or even a childcare app.

Also be clear about when you’d like them to check in vs. when you trust them to make an iffy call. This clarity keeps everyone from second-guessing.

// Be Upfront About House Rules Your nanny wants to respect your family culture — but they can’t follow rules they don’t know about.

Spell things out early:

• Food rules (for kids and nanny)

• Driving policies

• Screentime/social media

• Nap/bedtime expectations

• Visitors in the home

It’s way easier to set expectations on the front end than to try and fix misunderstandings later.

// Keep Feedback Flowing Transitions are always a little bumpy. The best way to smooth them out? Regular check-ins. A quick chat at the end of the week or even a 10-minute conversation on Fridays can make a world of difference. Praise what’s working, talk through any tweaks, and give your nanny space to ask questions.

At the end of the day, bringing on a new nanny isn’t just about finding someone great — it’s about welcoming them into your home and giving them the tools to thrive. With a little orientation, a shadow day, and open communication, you’ll set the stage for a strong, supportive relationship that serves your whole family well.