Time off causes more friction between families and nannies than almost anything else, usually because nobody wrote the answer down at the start. Decide it before day one.
Local nanny surveys, such as those run by parent networks, are a good way to see what families near you offer. Part-time nannies usually get the same benefits, prorated to their hours.
Many states and cities require paid sick leave even for a single household employee. California is one of them. Check your state labor department's rules, and build at least that minimum into your agreement.
Pay, tax and labor rules vary by state and city. This guide explains common practice; a household payroll provider, accountant or your state labor department can confirm what applies to you.
Tammy Gold, LCSW, spent years matching families with nannies before writing Secrets of the Nanny Whisperer (Penguin). Today she works beside families, and their agencies, as a neutral expert: defining the job, interviewing candidates, checking references and setting up the first 30 days.
With guaranteed hours, you pay your nanny's regular hours when you travel without her or simply don't need her that week. She's kept her schedule open for you. This is the most searched question about nanny time off, and the most common source of hurt feelings when it's handled after the fact.
Plan for the day your nanny is sick and the day your child is. Know your backup: a partner, a relative, a sitter on call, or a backup-care benefit through work. Agree whether she cares for a mildly sick child and what's too sick.
If you've agreed to guaranteed hours, yes. Most nanny agreements include it, because she can't take other work during hours she's holding for you.
Agree a split in advance. Many families pick some of the days, often to match their own trips, and the nanny picks the rest with notice.
Prorate paid time off to her regular hours, and include any sick leave your state requires.
Settle holidays, vacation and sick days before they cause friction.
$189
Screening call, reference questions, clinical interview, and trial-day checklist.
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Tammy is not a placement agency and has no affiliation with, or financial interest in, any agency, daycare or payroll service. She provides independent expert guidance; decisions remain your family’s. Legal, tax and licensing questions belong with the appropriate professional or state agency.