Let’s face it- we live in a culture that puts a lot of pressure on giving the perfect gift. Well giving your nanny the perfect gift is just as important. I’m asked often- What is an appropriate or typical gift to give? How do we give our nanny/caretaker a gift that proves how much we appreciate them? Here are a few ideas for your littles’ nanny or caregiver.

Full-Time Nannies-  Your full-time nanny is with your children a lot! They play a huge role in their lives and you want to be sure it’s recognized. It is common to give the nanny a week or two weeks’ salary as a holiday bonus.

Part-Time Nannies-  Part-time nannies usually receive one weeks’ salary. If the nanny works for you limited hours or not as long of a time, you can get the nanny a gift card or subscription to one of her favorite places. Lots of nannies enjoy reading, going out to eat, or doing activities such as yoga or Pilates.

Occasional Sitters-  Depending on how occasional your sitter is, you can show your appreciation in a few ways. A cash tip, gift card, fruit and dessert basket or a bottle of wine (if they’re old enough).

Daycare Employees-  Daycare employees work hard! Hopefully they are appreciated by many, so you don’t have to give an extravagant gift. A little gift card is always nice or a fresh baked goodie and card will do the trick!

Teachers-  Now that my daughter is in elementary school, I know exactly what teachers get and what they like! At my daughter’s school they ask the teachers at the beginning of the year where their favorite places are and what their favorite things are. If you don’t know these things, it’s always ok to ask! If you want to surprise them a super thoughtful gift would be something your child has made. A hand painted pot, mug, or plate; or a tote with your littles’ hand prints. When I had my son, I wanted to give our doula something really special. We took our infant son to Color Me Mine and put his hand print on a mug. She loved it!

Coaches-  In my experience coaches are easy to please. They’re grateful for a gift card, homemade cookies, World’s Best Coach t-shirt or just a thoughtful card.

Gifts for Everyone-  Alright if you’re still not quite sure, here are some ideas:

  • Personalized ornament or picture frame
  • Jewelry with a personalized charm
  • Starbucks gift card (you can never go wrong here!!)
  • Homemade goodies
  • Cash
  • A personalized plate or mug
  • Gym or workout class membership
  • Spa day
  • Movie tickets
  • Concert tickets
  • A bottle of nice wine (who am I kidding, this is a gift for a nanny- maybe 2 bottles of wine!)

I don’t want to sound like a corny holiday commercial but please remember, this time of year is to give thanks and show appreciation. If your bank account is hurting remember this:

  1. Buy be presents
  2. Wrap gifts someone in a hug
  3. Send gifts peace
  4. Shop for donate food
  5. Make cookies love
  6. See be the lights

I hope these ideas help! Have a safe, warm and full of loved holiday season!



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