The end of summer sneaks up faster and faster each year. Transitioning from long warm days in the sun to a shorter, more structured schedule can be tricky, but having the right support can make it a breeze. Planning some of these details in advance, such as the change in routine for your child and responsibilities for your nanny, can ease stress during one of the busiest times of the year!
Here are some of the big tasks to keep in mind for the upcoming transition period:
BACK TO SCHOOL TRANSITION FOR YOUR CHILDREN
During the summer months, your nanny likely managed long, adventurous days filled with outings and creative projects. Now that school is approaching, those activities will naturally shift to an academic focus. Change can be stressful, especially for children, but a good nanny can help, not only during anxious moments but also in creating a smoother transition.
A couple of weeks before the school year begins, we recommend setting aside time to create an action plan with your nanny. Some of the biggest shifts to prepare for include morning prep and school drop-off, afternoon pick-up and activities, homework time, and winding down for relaxation to prepare for the next school day.
CHANGES IN SCHEDULE AND JOB RESPONSIBILITIES FOR YOUR NANNY
Children aren’t the only ones affected by a schedule change—caretakers are also impacted. Often, for full-time nannies, the time that children are at school can be used for personal time or handling work-related chores (i.e., family assistant work or tackling children’s laundry). Take advantage of childcare by focusing on household or personal needs that require more of your attention. Be sure to review any changes in schedule or job responsibilities when you connect with your nanny. This is also a great time to reflect on salary and other benefits your family may offer.
SHOULD MY SUMMER NANNY BECOME A YEAR-ROUND NANNY?
A great option for after-school or weekend childcare is to ask your summer nanny if they’d like to continue year-round. This can provide stability during the back-to-school transition and help keep things running smoothly when your family is at its busiest.
Consider the following when discussing this change:
- Is your summer nanny available and interested in part-time or adjusted hours?
- Are they willing and able to assist with homework?
- Can they help with school pick-up and drop-off?
Have this conversation early, as many nannies may have their own educational commitments or other seasonal work opportunities.
Though back-to-school time can be stressful, clear communication and established support make it much easier. At The Nanny Authority, we understand that your family’s needs may not always remain the same year-round. Our team is dedicated to finding the best match for every household, working tirelessly to exceed expectations. For more information on hiring a nanny, visit our website today! Parents and guardians can also contact a placement specialist at 973-466-2669 or via email info@nannyauthority.com so we can help you find the best candidate for your home.