Making the Most of Your Nanny’s Annual Review
Because of the incredible work that nannies do, it’s easy to view them as superheroes rather than professionals building long-term careers. Like any career, an essential component of growth is an annual review. Annual reviews allow employers and employees to reflect, realign, and refresh as a team—both in appreciation of the year past and in preparation for the year ahead. This intentional, shared reflection helps foster a healthy work environment and a happy home for the entire family.
Why Annual Reviews Are Important for Nannies
When it’s time for your nanny’s annual review, we recommend covering a few key areas, along with thoughtful ways to show appreciation. Start by letting your nanny know in advance which topics you’d like to discuss. This gives them the opportunity to gather their thoughts and come prepared with their own insights. Listening to your nanny’s experiences can help highlight anything your child may need in their day-to-day routine.
During the review, be sure to share the strengths your family recognizes in your nanny. This not only creates a meaningful moment of appreciation but also reinforces what has been working well. When offering constructive feedback or discussing areas for improvement, frame the conversation around how the children’s needs might be supported in a more intentional or effective way.
Key Topics to Discuss During a Nanny Annual Review
The annual review is also a perfect opportunity to reconnect and check in as a team. Ask open-ended questions such as, “What’s working well with our current system?” or “Which parts of the day feel the most challenging or tiring?” These questions help open the door to honest, productive conversations.
Discussing upcoming developmental milestones is another important part of the review. Children grow quickly, and proactive planning can make transitions—such as starting school, joining new social groups, or navigating other major changes—much smoother for all parties involved.
After reflecting on the past year, shift into the second part of the review: planning for what’s next. This is a great time to discuss future goals, evolving responsibilities, and any anticipated changes within the household. Be sure to give your nanny space to share their perspective and suggest adjustments that could improve the working relationship.
Raises, Compensation, and Benefits: What Families Should Know
When discussing compensation, families often wonder what raise percentage is appropriate. Cost-of-living adjustments typically fall in the 2–4% range, while performance- or merit-based raises are more flexible and often range from 3–7%. One of the most significant factors to consider, however, is an increase in responsibilities. Major life changes—such as welcoming a new baby or children starting school—can significantly alter a nanny’s day-to-day role and should be addressed during the annual review. In these cases, it’s not uncommon for compensation increases to fall in the 10–25% range, depending on the scope of added responsibilities.
Alongside a raise, while not required, a thoughtful gesture—such as a bonus, gift card, or a special lunch—can go a long way in showing your nanny how much their work is valued.
By prioritizing open communication, clear goal-setting, and realistic expectations, you set up not only your nanny but also your entire family for success. The nanny’s annual review serves as a natural checkpoint and refresh—one that communicates respect, appreciation, and a commitment to a healthy, supportive home and work environment.
If you are looking for a nanny, contact us at info@nannyauthority.com today or visit us at www.nannyauthority.com.