Your Nanny's First Week: How to Set Everyone Up for Success
- The Noble Nanny
- Aug 7
- 4 min read
Hiring a nanny is an exciting step for your family, but the first week can feel like an adjustment for everyone involved. Your children are getting to know someone new, your nanny is learning your routines, and you're placing your trust in someone to care for the people who matter most.
The good news? A little preparation goes a long way.
The first week isn't about perfection—it's about building a strong foundation for a successful long-term relationship.
Quick Takeaways
Prepare important information before your nanny's first day.
Clearly communicate your family's routines and expectations.
Give your children time to adjust.
Check in with your nanny throughout the week.
Remember that trust is built over time.
Prepare Before the First Day
One of the easiest ways to help your nanny feel confident is to have everything ready before they arrive.
Create a folder, binder, or digital document with important information such as:
Emergency contacts
Pediatrician and emergency care information
Allergy or medication instructions
School and activity schedules
Household rules
Wi-Fi password
Alarm or entry instructions (if applicable)
Important phone numbers
Having this information in one place allows your nanny to focus on caring for your children instead of searching for answers.
Share Your Family's Routine
Every family does things a little differently, and even the most experienced nanny won't automatically know your preferences.
Take time to explain your family's daily routine, including:
Morning schedules
School drop-off and pick-up procedures
Meal and snack preferences
Nap schedules
Homework expectations
Screen time rules
Outdoor play expectations
Bedtime routines (if applicable)
The more information you provide, the more confident your nanny will feel.
Help Your Children Feel Comfortable
Children often look to their parents for reassurance.
Talk positively about your nanny before the first day and let your children know what to expect. If possible, spend a little time together during the first day before leaving.
It's also completely normal if your child needs a few days—or even a couple of weeks—to fully adjust.
Try to keep goodbyes short, positive, and confident. Long, emotional departures can sometimes make the transition more difficult.
Communicate Expectations Early
Open communication helps prevent misunderstandings.
During the first week, discuss topics such as:
Childcare responsibilities
Child-related household duties
Driving expectations
Discipline style
Cell phone use
Daily communication preferences
Any family traditions or routines that are important to you
Don't assume your nanny knows your expectations simply because they've worked with other families before.
One of the best ways to avoid misunderstandings is to have a written nanny contract that clearly outlines responsibilities, schedules, pay, benefits, and expectations. If you haven't created one yet, read our Complete Guide to Nanny Contracts.
Adjusting During the First Week With a Nanny
The first few days may not go exactly as planned—and that's okay.
Your nanny is learning your household, your children are building a relationship with someone new, and you're adjusting as well.
Instead of expecting everything to feel perfect immediately, focus on steady progress.
Many families find that routines become much smoother after the first week.
Check In Each Day
Set aside five to ten minutes at the end of each day to talk with your nanny.
Some helpful questions include:
How did today go?
Did anything unexpected come up?
Is there anything you need from us?
Do you have any questions about our routines?
Is there anything we can do to make the transition easier?
These brief conversations help build trust and create an open line of communication from the very beginning.
Celebrate the Small Wins
Maybe your toddler smiled at the nanny for the first time. Maybe homework went smoothly, or your baby settled down more quickly than expected.
Recognizing these small moments helps everyone feel encouraged and reminds you that successful relationships are built one day at a time.
Whether you're hiring your first nanny or adding a new caregiver to your family, thoughtful preparation can make all the difference. If you're still in the hiring process, read our How to Find a Nanny for the School Year guide for additional tips. If you're ready to begin your search, explore our Nanny Placement Services or schedule a Family Consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my child cries when I leave?
This is common, especially during the first few days. Keep your goodbye calm and brief and allow your nanny to comfort your child. Most children adjust with consistency and reassurance.
How long does it take for a nanny to settle into a new position?
Every family is different, but many nannies and families begin to establish a comfortable routine within the first few weeks.
Should I check in throughout the day?
It's perfectly reasonable to ask for updates, especially during the first week. Discuss a communication plan with your nanny so everyone knows what to expect.
The Noble Nanny Tip
A successful placement isn't just about finding an experienced nanny—it's about creating a partnership built on communication, trust, and mutual respect. When families and nannies work together from the very beginning, children benefit the most.
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